Solid Custom Heirlooms

The Best Walnut Nightstands for Your Bedroom

mattmcowen — Mon, 29 Jul 2024 23:58:15 +0000

Choosing the Right Walnut Nightstand

Is Walnut a good choice for your bedroom?

The History of Your Walnut Nightstand

For thousands of years the walnut tree has been chosen as a premium hardwood for furniture and high-quality woodworking. Genetic traces of the common walnut tree (Juglan Regia) Has been found between western Europe and the Balkans, and has been traced back to the stone age. In this period, cultures have used the properties of this wood in tools, doors, and as they advanced, in furniture. While there are many differing types of walnut wood, the general characteristic is the same. It is one of the best woods for when beauty has to meet strength, density and durability. Walnut is very solid, with a tight grain structure. This gives it a unique patina when worn over time, adding a classy luster to the already rich colored wood. The colors vary in the grain of the wood itself. Walnut is often characterized as having a creamy sapwood, that changes in a gradient to dark chocolate in the outer layer. These colors fade and get darker as the years go on, with any extremes in the color becoming more muted. This makes walnut furniture a good choice for stately, refined craftsmanship, matching differing environments depending on finish.

Qualities of Walnut Wood

These qualities confirm that walnut is ideal for a durable bedside tables. And, by extension, walnut nightstands. Properly cured walnut wood is resistant to moisture, making it ideal for a surface where liquid could spill. In addition, the piece will deepen with age, becoming tighter, denser and richer, increasing the heft of a given piece of furniture. On top of this, the density of the grain structure has a propensity to absorb more force. Impacts will sound a little softer with good walnut hardwood. While it is true that this is partly due to the wood’s softness, and that extreme impacts will mark the surface, this is only for excessive blows. In reality, it takes more than expected to truly ruin walnut furniture. Some would even argue that dents and scrapes show that the furniture is useful, and this in turn adds character.

So, in a nutshell, walnut wood is special because of its unique collection of properties. These combinations make up for some of the downsides of a dense, softer hardwood. While it is structurally strong and dense, it is not a very hard wood. Part of why it is so popular to craftsmen is that it is easy to shape and carve. For this reason it does not have good scratch resistance. There are only a few things a craftsman can do to make the impact resistance of walnut higher. You cannot heat treat it like metal, nor is putting a protective coating on it god for longevity. Thick coatings tend to yellow and streak over time, and in the worst cases they crack if exposed to too much sunlight. The secret to a durable walnut piece is proper heat treating and a good tongue oil finish. These steps are usually enough to mitigate the softness of fresh walnut.

However, walnut makes up for this drawback by its strength, durability, ease of crafting, and looks. No other wood looks quite like walnut, nor ages like it. It is a wood that is flexible, not brittle, with remarkable staying properties. For this reason it is a great choice in a nightstand for your bedroom. For these reasons we stock walnut wood to make many pieces of our furniture. If you wish to order any of our pieces, contact us to make almost any change that you would like to an existing design, or to order something truly custom.

Consider Your Space

Fitting Walnut Pieces to Your Room

Part of finding out if a piece will work for you includes measuring your space to make sure that your dresser is sized correctly. Take a page out of the designer’s book and check if the piece will fit between your bed frame and the wall. Don’t make the mistake of calculating the space you have from the mattress. Many bed frames are wider than the mattress, so clearance could be an issue if you are not careful. Another step in checking on whether your choice will work is to think about what features you need, including the amount of storage you would like. This includes thinking about the number of drawers, including how big they are. With a little planning, we can make the perfect piece for your bedroom. Contact us to request almost any change to our designs that you would like.

American made walnut dresser

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American made walnut dresser

Style and Design Preferences

To build off the previous section, match the style of the dresser to your room. This cannot be stated enough; check sample images of your nightstand against the pieces in your room, matching modern contemporary to modern contemporary, rustic to rustic, etc. If you feel that the style matches, also consider that the grain and stain of the wood matching helps to keep the room cohesive. Make sure to check that the unique features of each piece do not clash with each other. To create a stylish furniture setup, the options for every piece in the room should be similar, or at least should complement each other. For example, having a piece with round edges and a piece with straight ones will not clash with each other so long as the edges are not too acute, and the arcs of the round pieces are not to dramatic. In a similar way check your drawers so that they can get a similar drawer width and height. Looking for unique features, like custom drawer pulls and custom chamfering, can show your personality and taste. Too much customization, however, will look forced and eclectic. Do not forget that many times, less is more.

Mid Century Walnut Nightstands

Mid century modern nightstands have recently seen a rise in popularity. These pieces combine modern Scandinavian designs with mid-century modern elements. Designs also draw from classic pieces from the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries. Here is an 18th century lowboy that was recently valued at $20,000 dollars. Note the bold architectural lines that suited the times, and elements that were forward-thinking enough to not look dated. Elements that we do not usually see include the hyper curved lines and ornamental wood fixtures below the door, as well as a really wide overhang on the dresser top. We do not have many designs that offer this style because it is really hard to match this piece with modern furniture. What continues on to this day is the main cabinet body. This piece features a design that is commonplace now, but did not always exist. The drawer face alignment is set in a modern way. While the styling is not modern, the idea of it was enduring. To match a variety of tastes, we can attempt to match some elements to the customer’s wishes. Mid century modern nightstands were often painted white. While this style is not particularly popular today, there are still many who request this design element for their home. Talk to us to see if we can modify your design to incorporate this.

In conclusion, walnut is the perfect wood for your nightstand. It is soft enough to shape into any design that one may wish, while being dense and strong enough to face all the things that a bedside table could face. A properly made walnut nigh stand will last for generations. Who knows, when people talk of our time as we would the stone ages, maybe they will be discussing it next to the nightstand we made for you.

The post The Best Walnut Nightstands for Your Bedroom appeared first on Solid Custom Heirlooms.

The surprising benefits of White Oak

mattmcowen — Thu, 20 Jun 2024 18:54:04 +0000

Fun facts about White Oak

White Oak is quickly becoming one of our most popular wood choices, and it is easy to see why: from its durability to its elegant aesthetic, White Oak is an exceptional species of wood. In this blog we will cover the key benefits of White Oak wood and discover why it is gaining so much popularity.

3 benefits of White Oak

The 3 benefits of White Oak are Health, Style and Strength.

Health benefits of White Oak

While most people think of White Oak for use in fine furniture, this hardwood species is also known to have excellent health benefits, whether applied topically or orally. It has antibacterial properties which can help to heal burns, the liver, stomach issues and is even effective against forms of drug resistant bacteria. Due to its high ellagitannin content it can help to protect from free radicals, and can even cure skin ailments.

But even though White Oak can have such great health benefits, it is not advised that you go to your local park and start gnawing on the nearest member of the Fagaceae family. It is recommended to consume wood under the care of a qualified health professional, which usually involves pre-made supplements.

Style

White Oak has tremendous style: with its sleek appearance and varied colors, a White Oak furniture piece can add great style to any room. Its tight cellular structure allows it to be sanded to an immaculately smooth surface, making it one of the smoothest hardwoods. This surface can then be more effectively stained with a myriad of stain choices.

White Oak has colors ranging from grey to muted tones. One of the reasons why people like White Oak so much is its cool tone color palette. Its colors vary from grey brown to a golden color, and it has an understated yet classy aesthetic.

Strength

White Oak has a particularly dense cellular structure which makes it very strong, perfect for high use furniture such as beds, cabinets and dressers. This dense construction gives White Oak a very moisture resistant quality, making it highly favored for wine barrels and also furniture. It is one of the hardest hardwoods, and that is saying something!

White Oak Tree Pros and Cons

But why is Oak used for furniture? What are the pros and cons of a White Oak tree? Here are the pros and cons:

Pros:

1. White Oak is a long-lasting wood species.
2. It is very durable and strong.
3. White Oak is very dense.
4. This type of wood is quite water-resistant.
5. White Oak looks amazing!

Cons:

White Oak is particularly dense and heavy.
It will probably rot within the next couple thousand years.

Red Oak vs White Oak for Furniture

There are two varieties of Oak commonly used in hardwood furniture: Red Oak and White Oak. Red Oak and White Oak are two very different but related wood species. While they may both be called Oak, they vary greatly in constitution: White Oak is dense and heavy, while Red Oak is porous and light(er).

Now to be clear, Red Oak’s pores are not large and are only visible to the naked eye at very close range, but they do have an impact on the wood. The porousness of Red Oak has three major effects: firstly, it creates a surface that cannot ever be sanded to a perfect smoothness. No matter how hard you sand it, Red Oak will always be slightly rough, while White oak can be sanded down to buttery smoothness.

Second, Red Oak is much harder to stain than White Oak. White Oak can be stained with many different bright and vibrant colors, but Red Oak cannot because of its pores.

Finally, because it is porous Red Oak is not nearly as water resistant as White Oak. Wine is often stored in barrels made from White Oak, because this wood’s dense nature allows it to make an effective container that will not spill liquid. However, if you were to construct a wine barrel out of Red Oak, all the wine would seep out through the pores!

Therefore, we can reasonably conclude that Bilbo and the drawrves escaped the halls of the Woodland King in barrels made of White Oak. If the barrels had been made of Red Oak then the whole company would have certainly drowned in the river, and Tolkien would have probably never bothered writing The Hobbit. But as it is the barrels were White Oak, and therefore we have this gem of western literature.

The colors and looks of these two types of woods also differ from each other: White Oak tends to have more muted tones such as grey, brown and, you guessed it, white. But Red Oak tends to have more vibrant tones like Red and Yellow.

Red Oak has a very distinctive look and can bring back memories for many people, as it was reasonably popular in the 1980s. If you were to venture into an office constructed in the 80s, you would probably find that most of the cabinets and desks were made out of Red Oak (or at least imitation Red Oak).

So, if you want an extremely sturdy piece of furniture with a very smooth finish, choose White Oak. But if you want a lighter but still strong furniture piece with a more rustic surface, go for Red Oak.

Fun Facts about the White and Red Oak Trees

White Oak furniture sounds alright, but we need some fun facts! So you may be wondering: what are some fun facts about the White Oak tree? We got you: here are 3 fun facts:

White Oak Trees can live a very, very long time: the average lifespan of a White Oak tree is about 200-300ish years old, with some specimens being even older! Wow, that’s old! That means that the oak tree you grew up climbing on as a kid could be the same one that George Washington climbed on when he was a kid! Or more likely the tree you grew up with could have been used to hang a bandit back in the wild west of the 1870s! Cool!
The Wine barrels that Bilbo and the 13 dwarves used to escape from the halls of the Elvin Woodland King were almost definitely White Oak. Bilbo probably even checked to make sure that they were White Oak before stuffing his companions into them, because as an avid arborist and devoted disciple of horticulture he was likely well aware of White Oak’s exceptional waterproof properties.
Red Oak was popular in the 1980s. The kids these days seem to be obsessed with the retro fad, including everything from original game consoles to neon clothes. But they probably are not aware that Red Oak was also big back in the 80s. All you need to see this is to go to your grandma’s house, and you will quickly discover that the kitchen cabinetry is Red Oak, or at least imitation Red Oak.

Solid Custom Heirlooms is a custom furniture builder based in Appalachia USA. We use American hardwood to craft a wide variety of beds and dressers & chests from simple to elaborate. If you don’t see what you are looking for, or want to talk more about achieving a specific look or type of furniture, please contact us and we would love to help you make your dreams a reality.

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What is a bookcase headboard?

mattmcowen — Thu, 23 May 2024 18:21:24 +0000

What is a bookcase headboard?

All about headboards with shelves

When thinking about what bed to purchase, a key consideration is space. How will the bed fit into the room and interact with other furniture pieces? Will it compromise the storage capacity of the room by not leaving enough space for other furniture? Is there a way to have a gorgeous bed and enough storage at the same time? Enter the bookcase headboard: the solution that incorporates your shelving needs with the comfort of a bed.

But what is a bookcase headboard? A bookcase headboard is a set of shelves, with or without cabinet doors, built into the headboard of a bed. While they come in many shapes and sizes, all bookcase headboards provide storage space built directly into the bed.

Is a headboard with shelves a bookcase headboard? Yes, because any headboard with storage space is a bookcase headboard.

Are headboards out of style?

Now you may be asking yourself: “are headboards out of style? After all, they were invented in Egypt about three thousand years ago, which makes them pretty outdated!” So is there a place for a headboard in this modern world? Yes, there is! Not all old inventions are out of style: for instance, the Egyptians also invented the wheel, which is still used every day. Similar to the wheel, the headboard is not just in style, its practical! We all still enjoy the refined and elegant look of a headboard, and a good headboard will add style to any room.

What is the purpose of headboards and footboards?

But what is the purpose of a headboard and footboard? Where does the headboard come from and why was it made? The headboard was invented in ancient Egypt and was later adopted by the Greeks. In ancient times people got really annoyed when their pillow (or rock) fell down the crack between the head of their bed and the wall. This was unacceptable: how could a self respecting Egyptian farmer expect to get a solid eight hours with his rock escaping from under his head all night? So they decided to invent a device that would contain the items on their bed: and thus the headboard was invented.

The same happened with the footboard: have you ever had your sheets come un-tucked at the end of your bed, causing you to experience the un-wholesome sensation of cold toes? As it turns out, the ancients had an equal dislike for this phenomena, and so they invented a piece of furniture to protect the foot of the bed: and thus the footboard was invented.

King Bookcase Headboard

But what about a bookcase headboard in a king bed? The larger the bed, the larger the bookcase headboard can be, so a bookcase headboard in a king bed offers a larger storage space built right into the bed. A king size bookcase headboard with sliding doors offers this same functionality but with the added benefit of doors to protect and close the bookshelves. A king bed with a headboard shelf or bookcase provides shelves to store items on right in the headboard.

Queen Bookcase Headboard

A headboard bookcase in a queen bed can be a great option for those looking for more space in their room but who also do not need the larger size of a king bed. There are many options: a tall bookcase headboard queen, a freestanding bookcase headboard queen, or a bookcase headboard queen with storage.

Full Headboard

A full bookcase bed frame allows you to have a full size bed with a bookcase headboard and storage, all in one bed! It is also possible to have a full size bed with bookcase headboard and trundle. This configuration allows you to have the functionality of two beds and a bookshelf all in the space of one bed!

Bed frame with no headboard

While headboards are a feature on almost every bed, there are some beds that feature a headboard-less design. For instance, some of our platform beds have no headboard. This allows for a lighter and more portable design, and it also has a more sleek aesthetic. However, most people still prefer a design with a headboard, but there are different options for different tastes.

What is the difference between a bookcase headboard and a Captain’s bed?

A Captain’s bed will generally include more storage under the bed in addition to a storage headboard, such as drawers or cubbies, while a bed with storage headboard may not necessarily include other storage features. However, beds with storage headboards will generally be Captain’s beds, as those interested in a storage headboard also usually prefer more storage underneath the bed.

Common questions about bookcase headboards

Q: Is it OK not to have a headboard?

A: Yes, it is OK to not have a headboard. In fact some bed designs, like platform beds, often feature a headboard-less design. Without a headboard it is possible to save some space in a room, and some people prefer the look. However, by losing the headboard you also lose the functionality of a headboard, and the possibility of having a storage headboard.

Q: Is it OK to put a bookcase in a bedroom?

A: Yes, it is OK to put a bookcase in a bedroom! A bookcase in a bedroom provides additional storage in an otherwise space constrained place, and can be a great idea for those looking to store books in their home.

Q: Is it OK to have a bookshelf in a bedroom?

A: Yes, it is OK to have a bookshelf in a bedroom! A bookshelf in a bedroom gives you access to all of you book needs right in your own room!

Q: Can you have storage on the back of the headboard?

A: Yes you can. Some beds offer bookshelves on the back of the headboard, which provides extra storage space in the rear of a bed.

Bookcase headboards for a small apartment

Many people may wonder where to put a bookshelf in a small apartment. Look no further then a bookcase headboard, because it is one of the best storage beds for small spaces. This piece of furniture is perfect for a small apartment because it saves space. How does it save space? It combines the functionality of a bed and a bookcase into one smaller footprint.

The final word on storage headboards

At Solid Custom Heirlooms we believe that any bedroom – large or small – can be improved with thoughtfully designed custom furniture. We invite you to browse our website, think about what will work best in your bedroom and contact us if you have any questions or a custom request.

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Why is it called a Tallboy dresser?

mattmcowen — Fri, 03 May 2024 20:52:16 +0000

How to maximize storage in a small space!

The Tallboy, as the story goes, gets it’s name from the Old English word tallboi, which means “chest-on-chest” or one chest of drawers on top of another. In fact, many early examples of Tallboy dressers look just like that – two dressers stacked on top of each other.

Over the course of history as the concept evolved and furniture craftsmanship became more refined, the shape of the Tallboy dresser got increasingly more smart and elegant. In modern times it’s narrow drawers stack themselves high and rest not on the floor but upon four legs. This gives the whole piece a slim, up-off-the-ground feel, and packs a punch of storage space in minimal square feet – a real boon for the small room.

What is Tallboy furniture?

A Tallboy is a tall, narrow dresser with a single column of four or more drawers. In essence, with the Tallboy, you’re getting two sets of drawers on one four-legged stand. The two “sets” can be all the same width, or the top “set” can be slightly narrower than the bottom, giving the piece some interest and movement of shape.

Historically, the Tallboy has always been made of high-quality hardwoods (Walnut or Oak, for example) which means it can be a hardworking piece of furniture that lasts generations. The Tallboy may also have lovely little finishing touches like turned legs, carved details, intricate hardware, or keyholes.

The Tallboy (related to the Highboy – also a tall, slender stack of drawers on legs) gently morphed its way through the 17th and 18th centuries and into Colonial America, beginning as a legged or standing chest of drawers with a wardrobe cupboard on top and evolving into the drawers-only piece we know today.

What is the standard height of a Tallboy dresser?

Experts say a Tallboy should be no taller that 6 feet so that the top drawer can be accessed by a person of average height. Taller versions can fit more drawers, but typically are best only for taller people who can reach the top drawers!

What is the difference between a Tallboy and a Highboy dresser?

The terms “Tallboy” and “Highboy dresser” are often used interchangeably but depending on exactly where you are in the world, and what era and age of furniture you are looking at, there may be key design differences. In general:

Tallboy dresser refers to a narrow, tall chest of drawers with four or more drawers stacked vertically. A Tallboy is designed to make the most of vertical space while consuming minimal floor space. A tallboy is a great fit for smaller rooms or tight spaces.

Highboy dresser most often refers to tall chests with a distinct base and a separate, more narrow upper section, typically with a set of smaller drawers or a cabinet doors and or shelves. The lower section may feature larger drawers or a cupboard. Highboy dressers often have a more traditional or ornate appearance compared to Tallboys.

Where to use a Tallboy dresser in your home

Looking for a piece of furniture that can meet your needs in a stylish way? Because it goes high instead of wide, the Tallboy can serve almost any need in any space! Consider the options a tallboy can give you:

- in the kitchen (baking station!)
- in the dining room (table linens, candles, serving dishes)
- in the bathroom (towels, toiletries, first aid)
- in the office (office supplies, filming gear, inventory)
- in the craft room (yarn, fabric, unfinished projects)
- in the bedroom (clothes, bed linens)

The Tallboy lives up to its name – it’s a tall, slim stack of dressers on four legs, and its smart design provides ample storage while taking up very little footprint. At Solid Custom Heirlooms we build a wide variety of dresser types in a wide range of American hardwood choices. We love custom requests, feel free to call, chat or email and we will be happy to work with you to create furniture that build specifically for your needs. For more inspiration on incorporating tallboy dressers into different rooms of your home, visit our inspiration page.

Styling tips for a Tallboy dresser with drawers

A Tallboy not only provides practical storage but can be a striking focal point for your room. Here are some ideas on how to style your tallboy:

Choose a statement Tallboy dresser: Choose a piece with unique design elements, bold wood grain or color and/or a distinctive hardware. A dresser with decorative drawer pulls, unique woodwork, or intricate wood grain can become a focal point in the room. Even if your room is small, a tall narrow Tallboy can become the highlight of the room.

Consider a mirror: While a Tallboy typically does not have space above it like a traditional low dresser, there is still a place for a mirror elsewhere in the room. This not only serves a functional purpose but also creates the illusion of more space and reflects light, making your bedroom appear brighter and more spacious.

Balance the visual weight: If your dresser has a tall and narrow design, balance the visual weight by adding a tall floor lamp or a tall potted plant on the opposite side of the room. This will create a sense of symmetry and harmony in the space.

The post Why is it called a Tallboy dresser? appeared first on Solid Custom Heirlooms.

Best storage beds for small spaces

mattmcowen — Tue, 12 Dec 2023 18:15:34 +0000

What kind of bed should I get if I have a small room?

If you follow Solid Custom Heirlooms on Instagram or Facebook, you know that we specialize in custom storage beds – from our super popular king and queen bed with storage underneath, to our massive Captains Bed, all the way down to smaller twin beds with drawers.

But what if you have a small bedroom and are looking for the best way to maximize your space? Are there options other than a traditional bed, nightstand and dresser combination? After more than 10 years building custom furniture, we have helped many customers come up with creative solutions for this common dilemma.

We think the best storage beds for small spaces not only keep your bedroom organized but eliminate the need for other storage pieces such as a dresser or chest of drawers. To maximize your bed space in a small room, make sure that your bed frame includes drawers, shelves or cubbies. A well thought out storage bed not only makes a small room feel larger, but can keep your belongings clean, organized and easy to access.

The key to best utilizing a storage bed in a small space is to understand that the bed becomes a replacement for traditional storage furniture such as a dresser or wardrobe. This frees up space and gives you a larger sleeping area.

In addition to providing lots of storage bed options, we are happy to make any customizations you need to make your bed a perfect fit for your smaller room. If you’re ready to stop loosing your shoes under the your bed or stubbing your toe on the corner of that dresser, lets explore some options to improve your small bedroom.

Types of beds for small rooms

Two sided storage beds

The most common type of small-space storage bed features drawers that slide out from the side of the bed. Depending on your nightstand preferences, the drawers underneath the mattress can go all the way to the headboard or leave space for a nightstand or bedside table. We also offer beds with built in nightstands that allow the storage drawers to open underneath.

One sided storage beds

If you don’t have space in your bedroom for a King or Queen bed, a Full size or Twin size storage bed maybe be a better fit. These sizes typically have 3-4 drawers only on one side which makes them a natural fit to push up against a wall or tuck into a corner. We also make beds with multiple rows of drawers, which increase the height of the bed platform but also increase the storage! As you can see here, the sky is the limit!

Footboard drawer beds

If you have a long, narrow room that does not have adequate space for platform bed with drawers that slide out from the side of the bed, take a look at beds with storage compartments at the foot of the bed. Customers tell us the long, deep drawers are a perfect place for extra bedding, out of season clothes, and can be a great place to organize pairs of shoes.

Corner storage beds

We built out first storage bed designed specifically to be used in a bedroom corner at the request of an interior designer client, and quickly realized the incredible functionality of this type of bed. As you can see here, this bed has two drawers on the side and two at the foot, making it a perfect fit for a corner. In this case, eliminating the headboard allows the bed to have the smallest possible footprint. The wall behind the bed will be used as a backdrop for pillows.

Loft storage bed

Is it a loft bed with drawers? A tall storage bed? Or a chest of drawers with a bed on top? Whatever you call it, this bed is designed to get your bedroom organized! Can also be built with 3, 6 or 9 drawers.

Headboards in small bedrooms

Does a headboard fit in a small bedroom?

A low profile headboard typically adds 4 to 8 inches of length to a bed frame. If you have this space available in your room, a headboard can be a beautiful addition and provide clean definition to your sleeping area. If you have a small bedroom with a short ceiling, a low headboard is best. If you have a small room with a tall ceiling, a high headboard can be a dramatic statement.

Don’t worry if you don’t have space in your bedroom to include a headboard! Pushing your bed against the wall or in a corner not only saves space but lets the wall support your pillows. Many customers also add a small ledge style shelf attached to the wall above to bed to add storage for small items and décor.

Here we show two storage beds with headboards that consume a minimal amount of space in the bedroom.

Storage or bookcase headboards

A storage headboard is a great option that can make the most of unused space above the bed by adding shelves, drawers and cubbies. A storage headboard can even replace bedside tables as a good place for books, an alarm clock or as a place to charge a smartphone at night.

Keep in mind that a storage headboard typically adds 10 to 14 inches in depth to a bed. In a small space that may be too much, or just about right! Make sure to plan ahead for the total bed frame and headboard to fit comfortably in your bedroom.

Loft beds for small rooms

A Loft bed opens up a small bedroom by raising the sleeping area above the room, creating extra space for a desk, sitting area or storage. Some of our loft beds are designed with built in shelves, desks and even a wardrobe. Wondering if this type of loft bed also will work in your main bedroom? Take a look at our “loft beds for adults” blog to explore this topic in more depth.

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The disadvantages of Pine wood furniture

mattmcowen — Mon, 30 Oct 2023 03:46:28 +0000

Is Pine a good choice for wood furniture?

Pine wood has been used for centuries for everything from building homes, fencing livestock to building furniture. And while there are plenty of good reasons to consider Pine bedroom furniture, in our experience Pine, and all softwoods for that matter, have some significant disadvantages, especially when building heirloom quality pieces that are intended last be passed down from generation to generation. This blog will discuss the qualities of modern pine wood and dive into the pros and cons of pine wood furniture.

What is Pine wood?

Pine is a softwood lumber most commonly used in general construction applications such has residential framing and fencing. Pine trees grow quickly throughout many regions of the world and for that reason are considered to be one of the most sustainable types of general purpose lumber.

Pine wood is creamy white to yellow in color with brown and black streaks throughout. Pine is high in pitch content and usually has a large number of knots, either solid to the wood or observed as small to medium sized holes in the wood. Because it is a softwood, Pine can can warp significantly when aging and has a wide, wavy grain pattern. When handled, pine is noticeably soft, with most specimens denting or scratching with a fingernail.

Is Pine wood good for furniture?

Most modern Pine bedroom furniture is oriented toward the lower-cost end of the furniture market. Because the lumber itself is inexpensive and soft and easy to work with, lower cost pine furniture can be found at many big box and home improvement stores. If you are looking for furniture for kids rooms, dorm rooms or other places where low cost is the priority, Pine may be a great choice.

But when it comes to crafting long lasting, durable furniture, our experience at Solid Custom Heirlooms is that Pine is simply too soft to remain durable and good looking over time. For example, suppose that you want a dresser with drawers for a child’s room. A piece like this will receive lots of abuse over time, from spills and impacts to the top, to accidental kicks around the legs and enthusiastic drawer pulling and slamming. This author can say from my own experience that a Pine dresser did not hold up to this heavy use in my own home!

Because of its soft surface, Pine will chip and dent easily, no matter the finish used. Furthermore because of its soft wood structure Pine does not retain fastening hardware in the same way as hardwood. This means that over time, screws, nails, and even dovetail drawer joints will gradually loosen making the furniture less strong and stable.

We believe high quality dressers and beds should be made from hardwood such as Oak, Cherry or Maple. Because of their inherent strength, with a hardwood, these many of the problems of Pine do not exist. With the exception of outright mistreatment, a good solid hardwood dresser will last decades longer then any Pine wood one. And not only does hardwood resist scrapes and impacts, it can be sanded and repaired over time.

Is Pine wood furniture durable?

Pine bedroom furniture, or any other softwood furniture for that matter, is simply not as durable as furniture made from hardwood.

Pine wood is not a weak wood by any means. In fact its most popular use is in residential wood construction where it shows tremendous strength under loads. But the same strength that is good for building a roof or concrete form is not necessarily the best for furniture. This is because for furniture while strength is important, it is equally important that the wood surface be hard. All surfaces of wood furniture needs to withstand daily wear and tear as well as occasional accidental impacts to stay looking good. Because of its wide, soft grain, over time the surface of Pine wood will splinter and split, making your furniture unusable. So while Pine wood is strong, it is not as durable as hardwood when used for furniture.

Is Plywood stronger than Pine wood?

Plywood is made from layers of thin wood strips compressed together with glue and other binders. As a result plywood is very stable and can be very strong in certain applications and in specific orientations. For example, plywood used to sheath the wood frame of a home adds a tremendous amount of lateral stability or “sheer support” to a home. However the same plywood, when not attached to wood framing would not be able to support a wall.

For most furniture applications, solid wood is a better choice than plywood because it is strong in ALL directions -up, down and side to side. In addition, the glues, binders and formaldehyde that is often used in plywood and particle board can emit fumes for years after being manufactured. For most furniture applications Pine wood – and all solid wood- is stronger and a better choice than plywood.

More information can be found in our “Solid wood vs Plywood“ blog.

Is Pine wood better than hardwood?

Pine wood is not better than hardwood, especially for furniture. Pine wood is a softwood, and it has all the characteristics of one. It usually looks very plain. Any nice looking patterns it has are from irregularities in the wood. For example, a common weakness is a loose knot. A loose knot is formed when a branch intersects the wood, leading to a hole surrounding a stick. The problem comes when the less dense tree trunk wood shrinks away from the denser branch. This creates a hole where the branch falls out of. This leads to structural issues, as well as cosmetic ones.

Furthermore, even the best Pine wood is easy to dent. The fibers of the wood are loose and large, and even aged pine is soft enough to nick. Hardwood usually does not have this problem. It has tight grain that does not shrink much over time, and it does not have nearly as many knots as pine wood. It is better.

Hardwood is stronger than Pine. Hard wood grain characteristics lead to a stronger piece of wood. It is stronger in every direction and in every direction. The only thing that softwoods are better at is weight. Softwoods, having less density, have less material per piece of wood then dense hardwoods. So they are lighter because they are less strong.

What is the best wood for furniture?

Hardwood such as White Oak, Maple and Cherry have long been the best choice for high quality, long lasting furniture. Hardwood is not only beautiful but stays strong over time and is highly dent and scratch resistant because of its highly dense wood fibers.

Hardwood such as Walnut, Ash and Wormy Maple is prized not only for its strength but for the incredible beauty of its color and grain patterns. Each piece of hardwood is truly one of a kind and depending on your preferences can be subtle to downright bold.

The cost of Pine wood

Pine wood is great for cheap strength. However, it is terrible for durability. Pine wood is low in dollars, but expensive in the long run. Pine wood and plywood furniture will fall apart faster then with hardwood. That means that you will have to replace them sooner than with solid hardwood furniture. Therefore, it is harder to make quality furniture with low quality wood. Would you rather have four dressers in 4 years, or one for a century? That is the difference.

Pros and Cons of pine wood furniture

Pros:

- Pine wood is strong for a softwood
- Pine wood is low in initial cost
- Pine trees grow quickly
- Pine takes paint well

Cons:

Pine wood scratches easily
Pine wood dents easily
Pine wood is not as strong as hardwood
Pine does not take stain well

Conclusion: the disadvantages of pine wood furniture

So, the results are clear; pine wood is not great for furniture, because it is soft and does not last long. It is also a rather boring wood to look at, with straight grain and a bland color. It is better, for the past and for the future, to use solid hardwood for your furniture. Your wallet and your eyes will thank you!

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Why I love Cherry wood

mattmcowen — Wed, 23 Aug 2023 20:12:21 +0000

Building solid Cherry wood furniture

I recently took a break from my regular job here at Solid Custom Heirlooms running our website and social media accounts to step back into a job that I truly love – working with hardwood. My teenage sons and I spent about a week sanding and preparing all the wood for a custom Cherry wood cabinetry project that is destined for my own home. And when I say sanding, I mean a LOT of sanding. We sanded every surface to a fine texture with a progressive regimen of course to fine grit sandpaper. It was a fun and occasionally grueling job, especially in the summer heat of my driveway.

After we were all done I thought I might be sick and tired of Cherry wood! But instead I found myself all the more enthusiastic about this amazing American-grown lumber. And while I was sanding… and sanding… and sanding… I got the idea to share with our website visitors some of the up close and personal reasons why I love Cherry wood and why if you ask me, I’ll almost always recommend Cherry for use in the fine furniture that we build for our customers.

And in case you are wondering, the cabinet project is waiting for me to take another week off to be finished. When complete, it will be natural Cherry (no stain) finished with Tung Oil. This is my personal favorite choice that we offer, and I’ll share more about why below.

Why we love Cherry wood

Cherry is very smooth when finished!

Like all hardwood, Cherry wood in dimensional lumber form comes from the mill with a rough surface. As it is progressively finished with machine tools and then by hand via sanding with increasingly finer grades of abrasives, it slowly reveals a very smooth, almost mirror like finish. Unlike other hardwoods such as Red Oak and Ash, when properly sanded Cherry wood is completely smooth the touch and does not reveal any grain texture.

When working with and finishing Cherry wood, I find that there is a certain “ah-hah” moment during the final stages of standing when the wood reaches what I like to think of as “peak smoothness.” While it’s hard to say exactly when this happens – when you feel it, you know it! Putting in the work to get to this point makes Cherry a genuine joy to work with and why it is first choice for many woodworkers when they craft their own furniture.

This smooth texture adds an extra bit of elegance to any project that is both seen and felt. For example many customers with Cherry canopy beds like the bed shown here tell us that the texture of the headboard and the canopy posts enhance the look and feel of their bedroom.

Cherry wood feels good to the touch

Finished Cherry lumber not only has a smooth texture but also feels good to the touch. Not unlike a well worn rope or piece of fabric, finished Cherry has an undeniably satisfying “hand” when used. Don’t get me wrong – Cherry is a very hard and long lasting hardwood – but the finished surface is also “soft” to the touch. This truly is difficult to describe in writing, but one of the reasons I love to have Cherry in my home is this buttery texture. I find myself running my hand over the wood once it is finished just for the enjoyment of it.

Cherry wood darkens in color over time

Unlike other hardwoods such as Maple or White Oak, Cherry wood darkens in color over time. This means the longer you have it, the more it will develop the deep red brown coloration that its known for.

When first milled and finished Cherry is light brown in color with a distinct pink hue that will gradually fade to a darker reddish brown. Cherry darkens in this way because natural UV light oxidizes the tannins and in turn causes a chemical reaction that changes the color of the wood’s surface. Unless an oil based stain is used to give the wood a desired color, this reddish brown coloration will become darker and more rich in time.

If you prefer a light colored hardwood that will not darken in color significantly over time, we recommend Maple or Oak. Do you want to know more about Cherry wood colors? Our blog Cherry vs. Maple wood color provides even more detail.

Cherry wood is a perfect match for Tung Oil

If you have spent any time on our website or Instagram page, you know we are advocates of Tung Oil finish. Tung Oil is natural oil produced from the nuts of the Tung tree and has been used for centuries as a wood finish. Tung Oil is naturally low VOC, food safe and produces a rich matte finish. You can also add a high quality furniture wax to a Tung Oil surface to add a satin or glossy finish.

I personally feel that there is no better finishing option for American Cherry than Tung Oil. This finish not only enhances the color at the start of the project, but as the wood darkens in time the oil seems to meld with the wood and produce a rich depth of color that cant be replicated with polyurethane or other synthetic products. Take a look at this photo of a Cherry wood headboard that has aged about 30 days. The oil enhances the grain of the wood and allows the color to naturally change. This wood will get better and better looking over time. Even with heavy use the wood will stay in great shape and remain smooth to the touch!

More about why we use Tung Oil

Cherry only gets better with time

I hope that this blog helped you learn more about Cherry lumber and why we love it. My project – and this blog – is on pause for the moment until I’m able to take another break from work to finish it! In the meantime if you have questions about Cherry wood or any of the hardwood choices that we offer, please send us an email at support@solidcustomheirlooms.com and we are always happy chat!

Please check back soon as I plan to provide more updates as my project progresses.

The post Why I love Cherry wood appeared first on Solid Custom Heirlooms.

The pros and cons of canopy beds

mattmcowen — Mon, 19 Jun 2023 17:38:49 +0000

Canopy beds: pros, cons, and how to choose the right one

Are you dreaming of turning your bedroom into a luxurious sleep oasis? Look no further than canopy beds – the epitome of elegance and sophistication. The point of a canopy bed is not only to add a hint of glamour to your space but to also create a cozy bedroom sanctuary where you can unwind and relax.

In this guide we will dig into the purpose of a canopy bed, discuss the various types available and of discuss the pros and cons of canopy beds. Whether you’re seeking a romantic retreat or a statement piece for your bedroom, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make a well-informed decision.

The pros of canopy beds

Canopy beds offer a wide range of benefits that can make them an excellent choice for any style of home or bedroom.

Canopy beds are are great idea if you are looking to create an immediate sense of luxury and elegance in the bedroom. The striking presence of a canopy bed adds a touch of grandeur to any space, instantly elevating the overall ambiance. Whether you opt for a traditional design or a more modern interpretation, a canopy bed will become the clear centerpiece of your bedroom, making a bold statement.

Wood canopy beds provide a sense of privacy and intimacy. Hung on the wood frame, canopy bed curtains act as a shield, creating a cozy sanctuary within your bedroom. Canopy bed curtains help block out external distractions, creating a more peaceful and serene environment for relaxation and sleep. In addition, the fabric draping from the canopy adds an element of seclusion, making you feel like you’re in your own private retreat.

A wood canopy bed offers an endless opportunity for customization and personalization. With various styles, materials, and designs available, you can choose a wood canopy bed that perfectly reflects your unique taste and style. From sleek and modern to ornate and traditional, there’s a canopy bed out there for everyone. Plus, you can easily change the fabric and accessories to update the look of your bed whenever you desire, giving you the freedom to reinvent your bedroom’s aesthetic.

Overall, the pros of owning a canopy bed are clear – they bring luxury, privacy, and customization options to your bedroom, creating a space that is both stylish and comfortable.

The cons of canopy beds

While canopy beds offer many advantages, it’s important to consider the potential drawbacks before making a purchase.

The primary downside of a canopy bed is its size. Canopy beds tend to be taller and bulkier than standard bed frames, which means they require more space in your bedroom. If you have a small or cramped bedroom, a canopy bed may not be the most practical choice. However, if you have ample space and want to make a bold statement, a canopy bed can become the focal point of your room.

Another consideration is the cost. Canopy beds, especially those made from high-quality materials and with intricate designs, are higher in cost than a standard platform bed or box spring bed. However, there are options available at various price points, so it’s possible to find a canopy bed that fits within your budget. We encourage customers to weigh the cost against factors such the long-term value and the impact it will have on your bedroom’s overall look and feel.

Also keep in mind that the maintenance and cleaning of a canopy bed can be more involved compared to a standard bed frame. The fabric draping from the canopy may require regular washing or dry cleaning to keep it looking fresh and free from dust or allergens. This extra effort might not be appealing to everyone, especially those with a busy lifestyle.

In summary, the cons of owning a canopy bed include the need for ample space, the potential cost, and the additional maintenance required. However, these drawbacks can be outweighed by the luxurious and stylish atmosphere a canopy bed brings to your bedroom.

Different types of canopy beds

Canopy beds come in a variety of styles and designs, allowing you to choose one that suits your personal taste and complements your bedroom décor.

Remember to consider your bedroom’s size, style, and overall aesthetic when choosing a canopy bed. Each type offers its own unique charm, so take your time exploring different options to find the perfect fit for your space.

Here are a few popular types of canopy beds you can consider:

Canopy beds with a box spring base

The “princess bed” that lives in many people’s imagination is likely a canopy bed with a box spring and mattress. A box spring base is different than a platform bed base in that is specifically designed for use with both a box spring base with a mattress on top of it, creating the look of a very thick sleeping surface and a place for a bed skirt, also knowns as a dust ruffle, to finish off the look. Combine this base with a canopy frame and curtains and Prince Charming might ride up at any moment.

Canopy bed with platform base

A platform base brings a lower profile mattress profile to a canopy bed, opening up the design to more modern interpretations. A platform base is designed to be used the mattress only, replacing the need for a traditional box spring with a set of strong wooden slats. In fact many new types of mattresses such as memory foam and hybrid types specify that they be used with a platform base only.

Our “platform bed vs. box spring” blog provides detailed information about the difference between these two types of bed foundations.

Low canopy bed

A canopy bed with a low bed platform brings your mattress closer to the floor while maintaining the elegance of a canopy. Even if you prefer a very low mattress, there is still are significant benefits to using a bed frame vs the floor.

Trundle canopy bed

A trundle canopy hides a trundle bed under your primary mattress, giving you the flexibility of a second bed for last minute guests, vacation homes or even a child that wants to sleep closer to mom and dad.

Storage canopy bed

If you’re looking to maximize your bedroom’s storage space, a canopy bed with built-in storage is a practical choice. These beds often feature drawers or shelves integrated into the bed frame, allowing you to store extra linens, clothing, or other items conveniently. This type of canopy bed is perfect for those who want a stylish and functional solution for their bedroom.

Four poster bed

A four poster bed is a type of canopy bed than features 4 posts but does not have a frame on top of them. Four poster beds can have posts that are square, tapered or even turned for a round shape. Customers often request a custom four poster bed when they want to adjust the post heights to fit a specific size room. Typically all four posts are the same height, although taller posts at the headboard and lower posts by the footboard is another popular option.

Choosing the Right Size for Your Canopy Bed

When selecting a canopy bed, make sure you take time to consider the size that will best suit your needs and bedroom dimensions. Here are a few factors to keep in mind:

Bedroom Size: Measure the dimensions of your bedroom to determine how much space you have available for a canopy bed. Consider the length, width, and height of the room to ensure the bed fits comfortably without overwhelming the space.

Ceiling Height: Canopy beds typically require higher ceilings to accommodate the height of the posts and canopy. Measure the height of your ceiling to ensure it can accommodate the canopy bed you desire. If you have lower ceilings, consider opting for a lower-profile canopy bed or a 4 poster bed without a full canopy and lower posts.

Mattress Size: Decide on the mattress size you prefer before choosing a canopy bed. Common mattress sizes include twin, full, queen, and king. Ensure that the canopy bed you select is compatible with your preferred mattress size. Out mattress size guide provides exact dimensions.

Canopy Bed Accessories and Decorations

To enhance the elegance functionality of your new canopy bed, consider incorporating various accessories and decorations. Here are a few ideas:

Sheer curtains: Hang sheer curtains from the canopy to create a dreamy and romantic atmosphere. Opt for lightweight fabrics, such as chiffon or screen, in soft colors to allow natural light to filter through while maintaining a sense of privacy.

Heavy curtains: Want to sleep like a queen? Heavy velvet or its lower cost cousin, Velour, both look fantastic and protect the sleeper from cold drafts and unwanted noise.

Canopy Ties: Use decorative ties to gather the fabric of the canopy, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication. Choose ribbon or tassel ties that complement your bedroom style.

String Lights: String lights draped along the canopy or woven through the fabric create a magical and cozy ambiance. Warm white or soft-colored lights with a dimmer switch create a soothing and inviting atmosphere.

Throw Pillows: Place decorative throw pillows on your canopy bed to add visual interest and comfort. Choose pillows in various sizes, textures, and patterns to create a layered and inviting look.

Canopy Crown: Consider adding a canopy crown, a decorative element placed at the top of the canopy, to enhance the overall design. Canopy crowns often feature intricate details or wood scroll work, adding a touch of elegance and grandeur.

Wood canopy beds from Solid Custom Heirlooms

Congratulations! You’ve reached the end of the ultimate guide to canopy beds. We’ve explored the pros and cons of owning a canopy bed, different types and styles available, tips for choosing the right size and material, and ideas for accessories and decorations.

Solid Custom Heirlooms is a 3-generation strong family business based in the small town of Vinton, Ohio and is dedicated to crafting fine custom furniture, including canopy beds, from locally sourced hardwoods. The hardwoods that are used in our furniture are sourced exclusively from the Appalachian region of the United States. We believe “Solid is Best” and use solid wood wherever possible in our designs and finishes.

We take pride in working with every customer to design and build furniture that best meets their needs. We gladly accept custom orders and discuss each piece of furniture with our customers. If you see furniture on our website and have an idea on how to customize it to make it best for you – please don’t hesitate to contact us to discuss your ideas.

The post The pros and cons of canopy beds appeared first on Solid Custom Heirlooms.

Bedside table with drawer

nathanmcoweneditor — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 15:53:32 +0000

Bedside tables

Whether your bed is a king, twin, platform, canopy, trundle, or any other type of, a bedside table is an essential for a complete sleeping arrangement. Many people have found that a bedside table is an ideal spot to store bedtime items, such as a lamp or alarm clock. But better yet is a bedside table with drawers, options which expand the possibilities even further.

What are bedside tables called?

But what do you call a bedside table with drawers? Is it a nightstand, an end table or a side table? Here at Solid Custom Heirlooms, we have found that all these terms can refer to the same thing. Call it a nightstand, night table, bedside table, daystand or bedside table – you name it, we will build it for you, whatever of these options you choose! What matters to naming conventions is the location of the furniture piece.

Almost everyone needs a bedside table. Unless if you have a loft bed or bunk bed in which you sleep on top, you should have a bedside table. If you do have a loft bed or bunk bed then other arrangements can be made for bedtime storage. But if you have a standard platform bed design then a bedside table will be great for you!

Bedside table height

A common question is “what height should bedside tables be?” Is there a correct height for bedside tables? Many sleeper’s preferred bedside table height is 2″ to 4″ within the height of the top of the mattress. This is close enough to be within comfortable reach of the sleeper, and is an ideal for side tables height. Most people find that a higher bedside table is best, while some find that a lower one best suits their needs. It is up to personal preference.

Drawers for bedside table

A bedside table with drawer is one of the options that people love when it comes to bedside storage. A bedside table with a drawer, or multiple drawers, can add the right amount of room for sleepers to store their stuff, while still having a convenient surface by their bed. The two options of storage drawers and table surface allow people to sort their possessions into either the drawer or the table.

Bedside table without drawers

Does a bedside table need to add a drawer? No, but a drawer will add a layer of functionality that is not possible without one. Drawers add space, storage, and a convenient spot to store an item, without any real drawbacks. A drawer is a very useful yet compact storage solution, one that will not take up any more space and is basically maintenance free.

Multiple bedside tables

People find that two bedside tables can boost their side table options. But is the price of it worth it? Many people find that it is, but only if you have two usable sides to your bed. If both your headboard and one of the other sides of your bed is up against a wall, you should probably only use a single table on the free side.

Nightstand table

People find that a nightstand is actually the same as a bedside table, because a nightstand is essentially a bedside table that is used at night. If you find that you use your bedside table for mostly nighttime applications, than your bedside table could be called a nightstand or nightstand table.

Side table

What is the difference between an end table and a side table? Side tables are used primarily at the side of a piece of furniture, usually a couch. They are usually used as a place for smaller items such as books or a TV remote.

An end table, however, is used at the end of a furniture piece, such as a bed. These side tables can be used to store sheets and blankets as well as clothes, as they tend to be larger and longer than a typical side table.

End tables

An end table is a small table that is usually placed at the end of a couch or bed. These tables are used as a place to store items such as TV remotes or a lamp. They add more space to the end of a piece of furniture on which to store essentials, and you can also get end tables with drawers that further maximize the space.

But is it OK to use end tables as nightstands? There is no problem with this. Because nightstands and end tables are used for similar purposes in different places, using an end table as a nightstand may work out just fine.

However, an end table may lack some of the features that nightstands do, such as a drawer, so be aware. In the end, if you use an end table as a nightstand, that table is now called a nightstand.

Differences between bedside tables

What is the difference between a nightstand, a bedside table, a side table and an end table? A bedside table is a general category that can encompass any sort of table used by or near a bed in a bedroom. A side table is a more specific type of bedside table, which is used at the side of a bed. End tables are also a specific type of bedside table that are used at the end of a bed, or by a couch outside the bedroom. A nightstand is a side table that is used for nighttime applications or storage.

Bedside table with drawer from Solid Custom Heirlooms

At Solid Custom Heirlooms we believe that side tables are a smart and efficient use of bedroom space, and that a drawer makes your side table even better! We use solid hardwood for our end tables, side tables, nightstands and bedside tables, as we find high quality wood makes high quality furniture.

We love working with every customer to design and build furniture that best meets their needs, and we gladly accept custom orders. If you see furniture on our website and have an idea on how to customize it to best suit your needs, don’t hesitate to contact us and we can talk about your ideas!

The post Bedside table with drawer appeared first on Solid Custom Heirlooms.

Maximizing space: how a twin storage bed can transform your bedroom

mattmcowen — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 20:40:01 +0000

The best storage beds for small spaces

Do you feel cramped in your own bedroom? Do you struggle to find enough storage space for all your bedroom essentials? A twin storage bed may be the answer! This versatile piece of furniture not only provides a comfortable platform bed for sleeping, but it also offers ample storage solutions to help you declutter your space. With built-in drawers underneath the bed frame, you will find twin beds can easily store clothing, linens, and other necessities without sacrificing floor space. In fact many of our customers report that they can replace their existing dresser with a storage bed, freeing up floorspace in a small bedroom. Lets talk about how this highly efficient solution can transform your bedroom and make for a more organized life.

The problem with limited bedroom space

Many customers ask for new ideas to help them free up more space in their bedroom. A small, cramped and cluttered bedroom can be very frustrating! When you don’t have enough storage space, your belongings can quickly pile up, making it difficult to find what you need when you need it.

Fortunately, there are solutions to this problem. Along with loft beds and dressers one of our most popular storage solutions for a small bedroom or studio apartment is to add a twin storage bed. By providing storage space under the bed and in the headboard, a storage bed can help you keep your bedroom organized and clutter-free. This can make it easier to find what you need and help you feel more relaxed and at ease in your own space.

The benefits of a twin storage bed

A twin bed with storage can be equipped with two different styles of storage options: underbed storage and headboard storage.

Underbed storage places drawers or open cubicles under the mattress platform. A twin storage bed has between 2 and 6 drawers on one side of the bed, and sometimes a drawer in the footboard side of the bed. This allows the bed frame to be placed against a wall, further maximizing space. The taller the bed, the more drawers can be accommodated.

A storage headboard, sometimes also called a bookcase headboard, fits shelves, cubbies and drawers into the front and or sides of the headboard. Many people use this space for books, photos and memorabilia as well as bedtime essentials like an alarm clock, phone or lamp.

Customers tell us that in some cases a storage bed with 2 or more drawers can eliminate the need for a separate dresser or chest of drawers in their bedroom, further de-cluttering their space.

Another benefit of a storage bed is its versatility. It can be used in a wide variety of settings, from a child’s bedroom to a guest room to a small apartment. A storage bed is a practical and functional piece of furniture that can adapt to your changing needs over time.

Captains beds and Mates beds

What makes a bed a Captains bed? Turns out that like many things that people call furniture, these two types of beds are different names for similar things. A Captains bed is a storage bed that includes a bookcase headboard. A Mates bed is a twin storage bed without a headboard.

For those who want a more traditional look, a sleigh bed with storage drawers can be another great option. This modern type of bed features a curved headboard and footboard and offers ample storage space underneath.

How to choose the right twin storage bed for your bedroom

When choosing a twin storage bed, there are several factors to consider. First, think about the style and aesthetics of your bedroom. You want to choose a bed that complements your existing décor and enhances the overall look and feel of your space.

Second, consider the amount of storage space you need. Think about what items you want to store and how many drawers or compartments you will need to accommodate them.

Third, consider the size of your bedroom. You want to choose a bed that fits comfortably in your space without making it feel cramped or cluttered. Measure your room carefully and choose a bed that is the right size for your needs.

Finally, consider your budget. Twin storage beds can vary widely in price, so it’s important to set a budget and stick to it. Remember that a higher price doesn’t always mean better quality, so be sure to do your research and choose a bed that offers the features, materials and functionality you need at a price you can afford.

Custom twin storage beds

A twin storage bed can be a game-changer for those who struggle with limited bedroom space. Adding customized and personalized touches such as a specific drawer arrangement, wood type or color can make it even better!

Solid Custom Heirlooms is a 3-generation strong family business based in the small town of Vinton, Ohio and is dedicated to crafting fine custom furniture from locally sourced hardwoods. The hardwoods that are used in our furniture are sourced exclusively from the Appalachian region of the United States. We believe “Solid is Best” and use solid wood wherever possible in our designs and finishes.

The post Maximizing space: how a twin storage bed can transform your bedroom appeared first on Solid Custom Heirlooms.