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The 17 Best Modern Beds
- Thompson Modern Upholstered Bed
- Haru Mid Century Modern Bed Frame
- Azara Wood Platform Bed
- Jane Low Profile Bed
- Calvin Modern Bedframe
- Akita Low Platform Bed
- Cybil Upholstered Platform Bedframe
- Prince Modern Bed Frame
- Monroe Bed with Nightstands
- Park Avenue Modern Wood Bed Frame
- Mercury Mid Century Modern Bed
- Ludlow Tufted Platform Bed
- Lucio Modern Platform Bed with Storage
- Monterey Wooden Platform Bed
- Etta Queen Upholstered Platform Bed
- Rosalie Canopy Bed Frame
- Trenton Modern Storage Bed
After downsizing and remodeling our mid-century modern ranch in 2016, my husband and I have been slowly curating the pieces in our home to give it just the right look and feel. We've been carefully choosing what we love, what fits the space, and items that make sense in terms of functionality with kid-pet-circus. So far, we're pretty pleased with our selections.
We've finally made our way back to the master bedroom, which always seems to be a bit neglected because, well... it's never on display. But, we want our room to feel like a retreat, so we've begun the task of negotiating which of our modern platforms should be the focal point of our bedroom. We decided to go with a platform bed for several reasons, which we'll get to!
In case you're ready to make your bedroom your own personal refuge, here's an outline of the contemporary beds and frames we're talking about below. Whether you're looking for a Queen or King platform bed, you're bound to find a design you love below. Feel free to click and skip ahead!
- What Kind of Mattress Works on a Platform Bed?
- Types of Modern Platform Beds
What is a Platform Bed?
Before we get in too deep, let's set our ground rules for what qualifies as a "platform bed." Maybe you're picturing a low profile King bed frame that rests on the floor without a headboard like something you'd see in an urban loft, or even something a bit more retro that would be found in a swanky hotel room during the 60's.
Actually, you're right on both accounts! But the best platform beds are so much more versatile these days, even more so than you probably realize.
A platform bed is simply a bed frame that includes a built-in slat system so you don't need a boxspring. This simplicity usually means that platform beds skew towards a minimalist or modern design aesthetic.
If it's not obvious, that gives you a sleeker design, without compromising on comfort and functionality. And because you don't need to buy a boxspring, you end up with less bulk and more money to spend on decor (hint: Bohemian Rugs!).
As it turns out, all of the best modern bedframes we carry are platform beds, which goes to show you just how much we appreciate them, and how popular they've become.
What Kind of Mattress Works on a Platform Bed?
There's a common misconception that you need a special mattress for a platform bed frame. In fact, the slat systems that rest atop the bed platform replicate the utility and functionality of a traditional boxspring. In other words, any standard innerspring, foam or memory foam mattress is perfect for a platform bed.
What Types of Platform Beds Are Out There?
Now that you know what a platform bed is and what we loved about them going into this, let's discuss the different styles and finishes they come in. You may have seen some platforms that simply rest on the floor and have nothing more to them, but we're searching for the best platform bed with headboard. And while hunting we found four genres:
- Wood
- Upholstered
- Lacquered
- Designs with Attached Nightstands
Wood Platform Beds
As is common in most types of furniture, wood is the most popular material for construction because of its durability, versatility and overall beauty. Our selection ranges from planked Acacia solid wood to muted gray oak veneer to a Tiger accent Bamboo design. We've also included sprinkling of our favorite bamboo beds (even though they're not technically "wood").
All of these wood bed platforms offer their own unique personalities, grains and textures to give each one a different feel to fit your tastes. Whether you choose a wooden platform bed that has a cool mid-century vibe or a modern low profile bed to fit your minimalist lifestyle, there is bound to be one that is perfect for you and your bedroom.
Upholstered Platform Beds
Second to modern wood beds - in terms of popularity - are the upholstered styles. Particularly over the past five years, they've been gaining in popularity for two reasons:
- Modern upholstered beds offer an inherent softness perfect for the bedroom
- The array of colors and fabrics you can choose from far surpass woods
We carry a selection of upholstered platform designs in luxurious blue velvet, soft gray linen and even chic white eco-leather to fit a wide range of tastes and preferences. Plus, these designs have various detailing that gives them each their own feel, from weaving and channel tufting, to intricate stitching or even a button accented headboard for a vintage vibe.
Even though veneers and solid wood has been more prominent in years past, we're seeing these upholstered styles more and more in modern decor because of the endless options that really allow you to personalize and soften your bedroom.
Platform Beds with Storage
Pairing functionality and modern style, it’s hard not to love these designs!
If you live in a large metro area, picture New York or Los Angeles, you know every square foot comes at a cost. Do you know what a King sized bed works out to? Nearly 40 square feet!
You know what would make more sense than a regular King bed? A modern King bed frame with storage!
Our favorite designs below both include high-end features, Italian upholstery and upscale gas lift mechanisms that make it a cinch to raise your mattress and platform up to access underneath. We’ve chosen two of the best. Obviously, these only work without a boxspring!
While we didn’t rule this category out from our search, we’re good on storage space with plenty of closets, so it wasn’t a requirement either.
Platforms with Attached Nightstands
Another option for a larger bedroom is a modern bed with attached nightstands. These generous designs have a large footprint and presence that is just what you need if you're looking to fill the space of a larger bedroom. In fact, our favorite Japanese bed includes attached nightstands.
Because of their grounded and wide appearance, they can help to ground existing furnishings. If you have high ceilings they can make your room feel more cozy and less overwhelming.
The variety of finishes from rich espresso, classic walnut or cool gray oak and optional comfy back rests or upholstered headboards give you plenty of choices to match your preferences and decor. Our bedroom is on the smaller side so unfortunately, these designs don't work in our space. Nevertheless, they're a lovely option for someone with more square footage. (And, of course, we've included the best in this guide!)
Our Favorite 17 Modern Platform Beds
And here are our picks for the Best Modern Bed Designs with a short description, and each of our takes on the designs themselves:
Thompson Modern Upholstered Bed
If you've ever dreamed of sleeping on a cloud, then the Thompson Bed might be perfect for you. Thompson's hardwood construction is completely encased in dense foam padding and finished off with plush square tufted basket-weave upholstery. For a light and ethereal look, choose the Luna color or go dark and moody with the Carbon shade. Whatever you choose, the Thompson Bed will surely put you on cloud nine.
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She Digs: The Thompson Bed is so bold and interesting. I appreciate that it really makes a statement and it looks so cozy. However, it doesn't have the look I'm going for when it comes to our bedroom. I prefer calming to dramatic, but that's just me.
He Digs: Thompson is probably our most dramatic modern bedframes. I agree it's not quite the look we're going for in our home, but the high-impact design and presence of this bed would be just right for so many. (Insider info: Thompson has been one of our best-selling Queen or King platform bed designs on our website three years in a row!)
Haru Mid Century Modern Bed Frame
If you're into hugs (and let's face it, who isn't?), you'll love our Haru Bed. Like being embraced, Haru's headboard gently wraps around the frame to create a soft curve that is complemented by its solid wood frame and angled conical legs. Haru marries Mid-century modern styling with classic elements and the result is a perfect blend. Choose between a Queen or King size platform bed frame and make Haru yours!
Haru would pair perfectly with a mid Century modern dresser!
She Digs: I love the Haru Bed because it feels fresh and modern, but also cozy and comfy. That's no easy task and Haru seems to do it with ease. It would be a perfect focal point. Not fussy, but so sophisticated, I think this bed would go perfectly in our home. To put it simply, there's nothing I don't love about it!
He Digs: Haru is my favorite platform design to come along in a long time. It's the perfect mid Century platform bed! I love the blend of elements, clean wines, wood frame and upholstery. It's still modern but not too modern. It reminds me of our Salk Solid Oak Platform Bed, minus the nightstands. We're in total agreement - it’s one of our best beds and there's nothing to dislike here!
Azara Wood Platform Bed
If you're into the natural wood grain look but appreciate an planet-friendly option, the Azara Bed might be just what you need in your life. This 100% solid bamboo headboard shows off an eye-catching Tiger accent on the slatted design, an element that evokes the natural feel of solid wood. And a choice of caramelized or sable finishes allows you to choose the best contemporary bed frame color for your space. Even the typical wooden slats are bamboo!
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She Digs: This bed is like a piece of art and because each Azara is a little bit different due to the Tiger accent, it's like having your very own unique bed frames. The bamboo Tiger accent appeals to me and I think with a Bohemian rug and a macrame wall hanging, I could make this slatted design work for me.
He Digs: Azara is the quintessential contemporary bed. It’s like they turned up the dial on each design element, making the entire motif really “pop.” The blend of modern styling with the Tiger accent headboard is amazing.
Honestly, years ago I sort of considered Azara a “pricey” option, but the pandemic has really turned everything upside down. It has to be our best solid wood platform bed, especially in terms of value. And, yeah, yeah… I know it’s not wood. But it’s better.
Jane Low Profile Platform Bed
Low profile, high style is just how we'd describe our Jane Bed. A steel frame that is cushioned and then upholstered makes Jane sturdy and soft at the same time. Clean lines and minimalism at its best, Jane offers a straightforward design that will give you a calming place to rest your head. Would you make this simple platform bed frame Queen or King of your bedroom?
She Digs: The Jane Bed is exactly what I would picture finding in a luxury beach hotel with wispy curtains that blow in the wind. And because of that, I dig it a lot. Although I would LOVE for my home to feel that way, I'm not sure the style is quite right for us. But, I look forward to that vacation!
He Digs: Jane is a favorite for me! In queen or king size, it's just a stunning low profile bed frame. The minimalist bed frame design is really cool, and the neutral colors make it easy to blend into any bedroom. I'd put the carbon gray near the top of my favorites for sure!
Calvin Modern Bedframe
A piece of art, Calvin's styling is bold and architectural in nature. At its core, Calvin is simply a Queen platform bed with headboard. But, that really ignores the mid Century flair offered by Calvin. The expansive headboard is broken up visually with raised Walnut wood veneer panels accented by the matte black background. A brand new design in our collection for 2021, Calvin strikes an ideal balance between style and value.
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She Digs: I appreciate the simplicity of the Calvin bed and although this one is quite modern, it feels a bit softer than some. This bed would certainly make a statement, but might be out of place in our more eclectic feeling home. That being said, I think I could make it work with the right accessories.
He Digs: If you're looking for classic mid Century modern, it's hard to go wrong with Calvin. The Walnut and black combination are authentic to that design era. While I agree that it's probably too... large scale for what we're going for in our home. I bet it turns out to be one of the best MCM beds we carry.
Akita Japanese Bed
An homage to Japanese tatami, our Akita Low Profile Bed Frame boasts everything you could want in the best platform. Akita features a super low profile bed frame design: your mattress sits 3.5-inches from the floor. Akita's slab-inspired frame seems to float gracefully above the floor, nestling you and your mattress in for the perfect night's rest. Two attached nightstands complete the design.
She Digs: I know the Akita is a super popular bed, and I get why. To me, it's hard to even consider it though - I just think its scale is all off for our bedroom. Our room isn’t big, and this would take up the entire space!
He Digs: I love that Akita really leans into what it does well. I mean, it's a low profile platform bed with an upholstered headboard, and it's still only 26-inches tall. That's commitment to a modern design aesthetic! And you're right: Akita has been one of our most popular designs for years, so leaving it off this list would have been a crime. But you're also right about scale. Our bedroom is too cube shaped. I think Akita does better in a large room, and/or rooms with a low ceiling.
Cybil Upholstered Platform Bedframe
Our favorite sleigh bed, Cybil blends classic design elements into a sturdy bed frame perfect for your bedroom! The classic styling feels inviting and stylish, and, of course, it includes a built-in slat support system. But Cybil's headboard and footboard is where it's really at! This Queen platform bed is a modern take on the wingback design, showcasing a bold headboard in your choice of Gray, Beige, White or Blue.
She digs: For me the Cybil Bed is the ultimate blend of modern and traditional styling, giving it a classic feel that won't go out of style. It's eye-catching, yet approachable and just begging to be cuddled upon. Plus, the price is right too!
He digs: I think Cybil is a perfect blend of masculine and feminine. The stately design is definitely modern, but the fact that it's still an upholstered bed softens it. Another one of my favorite things about upholstered beds, including Cybil, is that it leaves the rest of the room open to different pieces. It would contrast really well with an antique nightstand, or pair perfectly with something more modern - think a white lacquer dresser!
Prince Modern Bed Frame
Designed by ModLoft, Prince is one of our staple mod beds. A striking 5-foot tall tufted headboard gives Prince a presence more closely associated with a King! Tapered Eco-leather side rails, footboard and solid pine-slat base complete the bed. Prince's slim lines and profile enable you to make the most of your space.
She Digs: I like the simplicity of this bed and the monochromatic motif because it feels chic and a little bit sexy. It can be placed against a white or colored accent wall (which I'm pushing for!) or surrounded by a gallery wall of pictures to make it stand out a bit more.
He Digs: I get why ModLoft named it "Prince" instead of "King" - to avoid confusion with the size of the bed itself. But I really feel the King fits it better, from its scale to the more masculine lines. I'm feeling your idea of putting a white Prince against a dark wall - it would certainly be dramatic!
Monroe Bed with Nightstands
The Monroe Bed is the quintessential platform with its low profile hardwood veneer frame and individual upholstered backrests to give you both form and function. With a platform height of 14-inches and the addition of two attached nightstands, the Monroe Bed will make a statement in any bedroom. And since Monroe is available in a myriad of colors and finishes, it is sure to complement your decor and lifestyle, too.
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She digs: Surprisingly (since it's not MCM), I really like the Monroe Bed for its minimalist appeal and the presence that it has. I'm not sure it is the right choice for our space, but I think it would be amazing in a larger bedroom where it can truly shine. If you love the Monroe Bed, chances are the Worth Bed might appeal to you as well, especially if you prefer a low platform bed.
He digs: Well, the Monroe Bed is on this list because it's one of the most popular contemporary platform beds we've ever carried! This super low profile platform bed really appeals to a modern aesthetic, and the blending of materials gives it a classic appeal. Something about the wood veneer frame and clean lines,e paired with the upholstered headrests makes it look and feel high-end.
Park Avenue Modern Wood Bed Frame
Another green product made of planet-friendly 100% solid Ruby bamboo, the Park Avenue Bed offers a stylish and modern take on a modern wooden bed frame. The Park Avenue's angled headboard has removable back cushions that give you all the support you need as you read yourself to sleep. The design offers a twist by combining black steel legs and footboard with Ruby bamboo side rails and trim for a refined and sophisticated feel.
She Digs: An eco-friendly bamboo bed, the Park Avenue would be great and fits with our green preferences since we already have bamboo flooring. The cushions give this bed a more casual feel than a solid headboard and I appreciate the modern red-ish coloring that makes for a relaxed vibe.
He Digs: Similar to the Mercury, the Park Avenue definitely has the sustainability aspect of bamboo furniture that I'm looking for. The upholstered headboard and black steel legs give it a subtle but modern vibe. I saw it at LVFM in 2020 (before pandemic madness), and it was my favorite new design at Market.
Even now, I really, really think this could be the one! It’s one of the best mid Century beds I’ve seen in a really long time... a classic design that would fit into any home.
Mercury Mid Century Modern Bed
With a combination of eco-friendly bamboo and soft grey upholstery, the Mercury Mid Century Modern platform bed is an example of classic styling at its best. A more modern choice of bamboo, versus a more traditional wood frame material brings the Mercury Bed into the 21st century and gives you a sustainable product that you can feel good about. The sophisticated feel of this bed will take the look of your bedroom up a notch. Mercury leans all the way into bamboo - even the "wooden slats" are actually bamboo!
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She Digs: Another mid century modern bed frame that adds the element of bamboo, which I appreciate. I am loving the look of the Mercury Bed and can even picture it with a lucite side table or maybe something more practical with a little storage. You get the best of both worlds, the beauty of bamboo and the softness of upholstery.
He Digs: This is definitely one of my favorite platforms. Everything about the design: from the bamboo construction to the tufted headboard and curved legs, is perfect. It's a great mid Century bed frame... easily my favorite bamboo bed before Park Avenue came along. The sustainability aspect is another notch in its cap. The more I look at it, the more I want it!
Ludlow Tufted Platform Bed
Masculine and striking, our Ludlow Bed will sweep you off your feet. With an ultra modern style and a soaring 5-foot headboard, the Ludlow is a man among men. The classic button-tufted headboard is wrapped in eco-leather, and framed by a walnut, wenge or gray oak veneer and the pine-slat base with matching wood trim gives this tall platform bed its solid appearance.
She Digs: I can get on board with a dramatic headboard, so Ludlow's stature is impressive to me. I also appreciate that it is a high-end vegan platform bed, leather upholstery and all. Which makes it durable and easy to care for. Ludlow’s scale is substantial, which is not what I would choose personally for our midsize bedroom. I think the Ludlow Bed would be just right for someone with a large space.
He Digs: It's definitely more modern than some of our other designs, but that's probably what makes it one of our best-sellers on the website. I particularly appreciate the white eco-leather - it would look great against a dark wall.
With that said, it’s a gigantic modern King bed! We’ve had to turn some back around because they literally didn’t fit up the stairs/elevator, etc. Even a Queen would be too large for our room.
Lucio Upholstered Platform Bed with Storage
Lucio is the compilation of high-end European design elements, solidified in an upscale upholstered bed frame. The headboard and footboard, plus the side rails, are all wrapped in textured Italian upholstery. Inside, Lucio's slat system boasts high-resistance steel actuators and gas springs - making storage a cinch! Now it's easy to utilize the storage space under your bed, and simplify the look of your room.
She Digs: You know I'm a sucker for a modern bed frame with storage. Lucio is cool, functional and plush - it's a great addition to a modern bedroom. I just don't know if we could fit the King size, which I really want to upgrade to!
He Digs: So, Lucio would be at the top of my list if we were set on a bed with storage. I appreciate almost every facet of it, except one - Lucio's fabric. I know we could make it work, but it's almost... I don't know, too Italian Modern. It's overall tone is neutral; I just wish our manufacturer offered variations with a more subdued, less patterned upholstery.
Monterey Wooden Platform Bed
The Monterey Platform Bed is a breath of fresh air and when placed in your bedroom will feel cozy and inviting. Monterey's solid wood Queen or King platform bed frame and angled headboard are perfectly balanced and give it a modern sleigh bed feel. A newer model recently introduced, Monterey's bold “Amber” finish makes it our most striking solid wood platform bed on the list.
She Digs: I really appreciate how the Monterey Bed is really eco-friendly, again 100% bamboo. And that new Amber finish is certainly unique. The classic shape combined with the interesting coloring is exactly what I want. It's unexpected!
He Digs: This is a surprising design for me, too. I also love the bamboo aspect of it (still!), but we still count it as a solid wood platform bed frame. It reminds me a bit of a four post bed, the way the legs are set up. And I'm really into the angled solid headboard. I interpret it more as contemporary, and I really dig the design.
Etta Queen Upholstered Platform Bed
Velvet is big right now, in fashion and home decor and the Etta Bed will help you to keep your bedroom looking current. Etta has a classic style with its square tufting and angled black legs. With roughly a half dozen color choices, you can't go wrong.
She Digs: I've never owned a velvet piece of furniture and I think this Etta Bed might be a fun first. The navy color is my favorite, but I'm not sure it will be as easy to coordinate with as the grey or white. This bed would definitely make a statement and add some softness to our bedroom!
He Digs: I totally agree, actually. I don't know why, but I think the navy blue color is awesome. It's bold, and would make the bed a true statement piece in the room. I've never owned a piece of furniture that bright, so pulling the trigger on that one would make me nervous. I think if we chose this bed, I would want to go bold and blue.
Rosalie Canopy Bed Frame
Rosalie is a simple solution to any modern or contemporary bedroom. Crafted with powder coated steel, Rosalie features a subdued silhouette - ideal if you're not looking for a bedroom that feels relaxed. The included slat system supports more than 1,300 pounds! From materials to lines to value, it's easy to see why Rosalie is one of our favorite new contemporary bed frames!
She Digs: I wasn't sure what I thought about this bed when I first saw it because the brown felt a bit too rustic for my taste. I wish it came in black, but the white is chic! But, I keep coming back to it because I really like the style and who doesn't love the feel of a pretty canopy bed?
He Digs: Rosalie is a new look for Modern Digs. I think I'm more naturally drawn to low profile beds. With that said, Rosalie definitely has a clean modern motif, at a price point that's hard to complain about!
Trenton Modern Storage Bed
By looking at our Trenton Storage Bed, you'd never know the secrets lying beneath. On the surface, Trenton's high-end European-design, with upscale upholstery and style scores in the looks department. You'd never expect to find a slat system that boasts high-resistance steel actuators and gas springs to allow for easy access to storage space beneath. A platform bed with storage? Sneaky! Like all our platforms, Trenton especially, only works without boxspring.
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She Digs: You had me at bed frame with storage! With a smaller home, you must be mindful of storage space and Trenton certainly has that in its corner. Plus it looks great too. I like the simplicity and softness in appearance and could see it being a top contender for me.
He Digs: I like almost everything about Trenton: quality, shape, functionality, the fact that it's a platform bed with storage. The hydraulics to lift the innerspring or memory foam mattress are super cool and durable. The scale is a little off for me -- the headboard adjustments are nice, but I think they make it too deep for our space.
Conclusion
Well, there you have it! As you can see we have similar tastes in furniture, with a mid-century modern leaning and a fondness for clean and classic pieces. His style is decidedly masculine with a preference for dark, rich woods and edgier touches. And I like a more soft and feminine feel that combines my love of modern and bohemian designs.
Now we're left with the difficult choice of which one of these beautiful beds to bring home. But you can rest assured (pun intended), we've chosen the best modern platform bed that will be the perfect blend of both our styles... "We would like the Haru Platform Bed, Queen please!"
I can't wait to get started on our bedroom now that we have the most important decision made. And with just a few more touches like paint, a rug, nightstands and a few modern accent chairs, our bedroom will be complete and ready for relaxation!
Other Common Questions
How do I keep my mattress from sliding on a platform bed? A vast majority of our collection features bed frames with an inset that wrap around the mattress to keep it in place. The two best methods to keep your mattress secure on a platform are:
- Placing an inexpensive rug pad between your platform and mattress
- Installing strips of velcro to the underside of your mattress and the top of your platform. Note that this method only works on non-flip mattresses!
Post written by Meagan Sykes with contributions from Kevin Sykes. Meagan is the Creative Director, and Kevin is a Co-Owner and Co-Founder of Modern Digs. Meagan and Kevin live in Austin, TX and love all things mid-Century modern.
posted on 8/4/2022
