A Platform bed is a type of bed frame that uses wooden slats, typically spaced 1 to 2 inches apart, as a mattress foundation. Unlike other traditional bed frames, platform beds do not require the use of box springs.
Platform Beds are our most popular bed because of their simplicity and ability to be used in a wide variety of bedroom styles. From sleek Mid Century Modern, homey Craftsman all to Japanese Tatami style, this type of bed can work for everyone. Because of their solid foundation most platform beds are recommended for use with memory foam mattresses.
People love platform beds because they are sturdy, simple in design, eliminate the extra cost of a box spring and look great in all types of bedroom styles.
A Platform Bed is simple and easy to set up and keep looking good. The mattress is placed directly on the platform with no need for a box spring. Many of our customers tell us that the platform configuration makes it faster and easier to make-up the bed and change the sheets, especially tucking in the corners of those tricky fitted sheets.
A platform bed’s wooden slatted base is designed to keep body weight evenly distributed throughout the bed and protect the mattress from sagging and creating indentations or unwanted “hot spots.”
You can put any mattress directly on a platform bed – no need to purchase a box spring. The strong wooden slats provide a solid foundation for all types of mattresses from traditional innerspring, memory foam mattresses as well as many of the new and interesting designs now coming to the market. Many of the top mattress brands specify that their mattresses must be used with a platform bed to keep the warranty intact.
A well-built Platform Bed is sturdy and quiet! No squeaking or other unwanted noises from the Box Spring or metal bed frame to keep you awake at night. A wood bed can be particularly strong and quiet.
Another benefit is that the design of a platform bed can accommodate a platform extension, which is an extra surface the extends past the edge of the bottom of the mattress at the sides and end of the bed. This adds a distinct style and can be a convenient place to store items needed at bedtime.
The bed shown to the right features 4 inch platform extensions. The mattress will be supported by the wood slats and the extension trim will surround the bed. A box spring bed would not allow this type of trim to be used.
Solid Custom Heirlooms offers platform beds in a wide variety of configurations. This article will describe each type and discuss the advantages of each.
Customers often ask how high should a bed be from the ground? This is entirely personal preference! Please consider style, function and don’t forget to calculate the thickness of your new mattress too. While there is no industry standard, as a general rule, most standard beds have a finished mattress high that are at knee level, putting them at approximately 16 to 25 inches from the floor.
The mattress platform for a low platform bed is typically 4-16 inches from the ground
The mattress platform for a high platform bed is typically 24-48 inches from the ground
The mattress platform for a loft platform beds is typically 60+ inches from the ground
A low platform typically bed raises the mattress up off the floor approximately 4 to 16 inches. Depending on what type of mattress is used, this puts the finished bed height between 5 to 24 inches from the ground.
Solid platform beds do not have legs and are our lowest profile option. Solid platform beds rest directly on the bedroom floor for a very minimalistic and modern look.
A low platform bed with legs is typically a bit taller, with legs that raise the bed frame 6 to 16 inches from the floor, often with a 12 to 24 inch finished mattress height.
Simple construction and ease of assembly makes a low platform bed good people that move often. Some bed designs can be broken down into a compact enough package to fit into a small car.
A low bed can make a small room look bigger because it has a small volume and takes up less space. A low bed is especially good for a room with a low ceiling or if the bedroom has sloped ceiling. A low platform bed with a small or no headboard can work very nicely with a sloped ceiling room.
Parents love low platform beds because they are at floor level, making it easy for young people to “roll out of bed” easily and safely. A low platform bed can be an ideal first bed for a child. Some parents will also use a trundle bed for a first bed because it provides a low mattress height on the bottom mattress and later a higher bed height on the top mattress.
People that co-sleep with their children tell us that a low bed gives them peace of mind that children will not fall out of the bed during the night.
Low platform beds are the ideal base for the Japanese platform beds. While a Tatami Mat, Futon or Shikibuton can certainly be used on the floor, we have many customers order a simple low bed to keep their mat up off the floor, adding style and definition to their bedroom while helping to keep the bedding clean.
Advantages of a low platform bed:
Disadvantages of a low platform bed:
Also known as a cantilever bed, a floating bed is a platform bed that appears to “hover” just above the bedroom floor by placing the legs or base where they are less visible from the common view. Floating platform bed frames often include built in nightstands which also levitate alongside the mattress.
A high platform bed uses legs to raise the finished bed height to 24 inches or higher bringing the bed to a more typical mattress height.
People typically choose a high platform bed frame to provide extra storage space under the bed. Some people also find that a high platform makes it easier to get in and out of bed.
A high Platform Bed with stairs can make it easier for people to access taller beds.
A canopy bed adds a posts and a frame to any platform or storage bed frame. The canopy bed bases and frame can be used for hanging curtains, drapes or other materials to add style and privacy to the bed.
A storage platform bed makes the most of often-unused space under the bed by providing built in drawers, cabinet doors or other spaces for storage. Storage platform beds support or replace an unused and often dusty space with clean, well-organized drawers or cabinets. Where as typical under-bed storage gets dusty, a storage bed keeps things clean and well organized.
Some storage beds also include drawers or shelves in the headboard of the bed. Readers appreciate a bookcase headboard that keeps their favorite texts within arm’s reach. Some beds can even have a space for a small lamp to sit on one of the shelves.
Loft bed frames are our tallest type of platform bed, with the mattress platform starting 5 feet or more from the floor. A loft bed is similar to a bunk bed, but replaces with bottom bed with open space that can be filled with a desk, table or other furniture.
Loft beds for adults are a great choice for small rooms because they:
Solid wood platform beds are worth it because wood is the strongest and most beautiful choice for any bed. Wood construction provides a firm, solid surface squeak-free foundation for any type of mattress.
The natural beauty of real hardwood is unsurpassed. Whether the fascinating tones of Cherry, rich White Oak or dark Walnut, wood will bring a natural warmth to the bedroom that cannot be replicated by metal or man made veneers.
If cared for properly, high quality bed and hardwood beds will last for decades or longer and can become a family heirloom valued my multiple generations.
Hardwood can be repaired easily and does not chip, warp or otherwise deform over time.
Real wood is healthy and does not emit chemical fumes found in particle board, metal or painted products.
An investment in a solid wood platform bed will support your mattress and provide years of peaceful, healthy sleep.
Low Platform Beds can be ideal for Feng Shui enthusiasts as experts say that a bed height should be between 8-18 inches from the floor and the space between the mattress and floor should be open. There should be as little as possible between the person using the low profile bed frame and the floor. This will help to ground the sleeper and ensure good sleep.
People who say “I hate Platform Beds” should take a look at the benefits of a Box Spring bed. A Box Spring bed supports the mattress with a Box Spring. Generally, a Box Spring is sold by the manufacturer alongside the mattress. The bed is designed for the thickness of both the Box Spring and the mattress together. While a Box Spring bed does have horizonal support slats, they are generally fewer in number and would not support a thicker mattress even without a Box Spring.
Buyers often choose a Box Spring bed vs a Platform when they want a more traditional look and feel to their bed. When both a Box Spring and mattress are stacked together the has a much taller vertical mattress look, most often twice the thickness of the platform alternative. This will make the bed look larger in the room, and depending on the overall design of the bed, will often make the top of the mattress higher.
A Box Spring bed allows the use of a Bed Skirt which is a piece of material, most often tucked between the wooden box spring and the mattress, that covers the space between the bottom of the Box Spring and floor. This gives a traditional finished look to this type of bed and can cover this space so that items under the bed cannot be seen.
A Box Spring can also provide a different feel to a mattress and some mattresses are designed to be used specifically with a Box Spring. In some cases, this type of bed can be more “springy” or “bouncy.” Make sure to buy a high-quality Box Spring, as some customers complain that they can be squeaky or creaky over time.
Can you put a Box Spring on a Platform Bed?
Yes, it is possible, but it will depend on the bed design. Platform Beds are generally deigned to accommodate only a mattress and the addition of a Box Spring could make the finished mattress height taller than desired.
Does a Platform Bed feel different than Box Spring?
This will be highly dependent on your mattress type and mattress manufacturer recommendation. There are a wide variety of different styles and types of mattresses designed to be used in both types of beds
Do Platform Beds need Box Springs?
A platform bed is designed for use without Box Springs
Do you need a Box Spring with a bed frame?
Beds are generally designed for a either with our without a Box Spring. Depending on your bed type you may or may not need one.
Are Platform Beds comfortable to sleep on?
Yes! Platform Beds are our best-selling bed for a reason. Our customers report that Platform Beds are extremely comfortable.
How thick should a mattress be for a platform bed?
A platform bed can accommodate any thickness of mattress from a 1 inch thick Tatami Mat to and 18 inch inch thick or larger memory foam mattresses. When planning your bed purchase please also plan for your mattress thickness, especially in relation to headboards, footboards and overall finish bed height.
Does a platform bed need ventilation?
If a mattress is not ventilated properly mold and mildew can form between the bed surface and bottom of the mattress. Slatted platform beds are built with wooden mattress support slats, typically space between 1 and 3 inches apart to provide this needed ventilation. If you build or purchase a bed with a solid plywood or particle board mattress foundation, consider adding ventilation holes to provide proper air circulation.
What is the difference between a platform bed and a regular bed?
A platform bed is a popular alternative to “regular” or “traditional” bed frames that require a box springs.
Why are platform beds so cheap?
A platform beds is lower in total cost vs other types of beds because it does not require a purchase of a box spring or other additional mattress foundation. In addition, many of our platform beds are simple in design which makes them lower in cost.
Can I raise a platform bed without legs?
To fine tune your bed height with minimal effort, mattress topper can help you quickly raise a platform bed by 1 to 4 inches. A topper is placed directly on top of your mattress and in addition to making your bed taller, it can be comfortable too!
At Solid Custom Heirlooms we build all types of Platform Beds and also work with customers to create beds customized to their individual needs. Each piece of furniture is built to order by American craftspeople from the highest quality hardwood, sourced from throughout the Appalachian region. We believe that “solid is best” and avoid the use of veneers and compressed particle board. We are practical artists devoted to the creation of attractive forms in beautiful wood that meet functional needs and provide visual pleasure for generations of users.
Solid Custom Heirlooms is a family owned and operated company started in 2010 by an Ohio native when he turned a woodworking hobby into a business. Today we are a three generation strong family business that employs skilled craftspeople throughout the Appalachian region for our design, furniture building and finishing operations. We are proud that the production and sale of our furniture supports the people and economy of the Appalachian region.
The realm of custom furniture has seen a remarkable evolution in recent years, driven by consumer demand for unique, personalized home decor that matches individual tastes and lifestyles. This trend emphasizes bespoke designs, allowing homeowners to actively participate in the creation of their furniture. As a result, buyers are not just acquiring a piece of furniture; they are investing in an item that reflects their personal style and household needs.
Custom furniture has become increasingly popular, particularly because it provides solutions that mass-produced items fail to offer. From maximizing storage in compact homes to creating statement pieces that highlight one’s aesthetic preferences, this personalization trend speaks directly to homeowners who want their spaces to tell a story. The craftsmanship and artistry involved in custom furniture make each piece distinct, often resulting in heirlooms that are cherished for generations.
Amish craftsmanship is renowned for its rigorous adherence to quality and tradition. The Amish woodworking culture is deeply rooted in values of simplicity and functionality, coupled with an unparalleled dedication to quality. Unlike factory-produced furniture, Amish-made items are crafted with traditional techniques passed down through generations, focusing on longevity and beauty.
The Amish approach centers on using hand tools and techniques that have remained unchanged for centuries, ensuring each piece is not only of high quality but also rich in heritage. This dedication to time-honored methods ensures every item is not just furniture but a piece of history.
Handmade furniture holds significant value not just for its durability but also for its individuality. Every piece of handmade furniture has its own story, crafted with care and attention to detail that machines cannot replicate. The human touch in each piece means that no two items are identical, offering homeowners a unique product that is both functional and a work of art.
At Solid Custom Heirlooms, we embody this heritage of quality. Our furniture, built by skilled American craftspeople, reflects the elegance and reliability associated with the Amish tradition of craftsmanship. Supporting economic growth in the Appalachian region, our furniture not only meets functional needs but also adds value to homes across America.
Amish furniture is renowned for its exceptional quality craftsmanship, which sets it apart from mass-produced alternatives. Using high-quality materials, traditional woodworking techniques, and meticulous attention to detail, Amish craftsmen create furniture pieces that are both durable and beautiful, making them highly valued by homeowners and furniture buyers alike.
One of the primary reasons Amish furniture is so good is the use of premium, high-quality materials. Amish craftsmen prefer to use solid hardwoods, sourced from native American species such as oak, cherry, and maple. These hardwoods are chosen for their strength, durability, and natural beauty, which ensure that each piece of furniture is not only aesthetically pleasing but also long-lasting. This focus on high-quality materials means that Amish furniture can withstand everyday wear and tear, maintaining its functionality and charm for generations
The Amish are known for employing traditional woodworking techniques that have been passed down through generations. This includes the use of dovetail joints, mortise and tenon joints, and other time-tested methods that enhance the strength and stability of the furniture. Such techniques require significant skill and patience, allowing each piece to be constructed with precision and attention to detail. Moreover, Amish craftsmen often work without the use of electrical tools, relying instead on manual skills and hand tools, which further exemplifies their dedication to traditional craftsmanship.
Another hallmark of Amish furniture is the impeccable attention to detail. Every cut, sand, and finish is executed with great care, resulting in a superior product that showcases excellent craftsmanship. Details such as smooth finishes, well-aligned grains, and sturdy fixtures all contribute to the overall quality of the furniture. This attention to detail not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the pieces but also ensures their durability, meaning they can be cherished and used for many years without losing their structural integrity.
The meticulous approach of Amish craftspeople results in furniture that not only carries a timeless appeal but also stands as a testament to quality and dedication in woodworking. It’s this unwavering commitment to excellence that makes Amish furniture an investment in quality that homeowners and furniture buyers can be proud of.
 Amish furniture stands out due to its exceptional quality, craftsmanship, and the use of all-natural materials. Unlike mass-produced furniture, which often uses veneers and particle board, Amish furniture is typically made entirely of solid wood, offering superior durability and longevity. Additionally, it incorporates environmentally friendly finishes and bespoke designs that cater to the specific needs and preferences of the buyer, making each piece truly unique and personal.
The absence of veneers or particle board is one of the most distinguishing features of Amish furniture. Using solid wood sourced from sustainable forests, Amish craftsmen avoid shortcuts that can detract from the furniture’s quality and lifespan. Solid Custom Heirlooms, for example, echos this approach by ensuring real American hardwood is integral to their offerings. The result is furniture that not only looks beautiful but also withstands the test of time, embodying heirloom quality.
Another aspect that sets Amish furniture apart is its environmentally friendly finishes. Rather than using harsh chemicals found in many modern finishes, Amish furniture often utilizes natural oils and stains that highlight the wood’s grain and natural beauty without emitting toxic fumes. This practice aligns with increasing consumer demand for sustainable products, contributing to both a healthier home environment and a healthier planet.
At Solid Custom Heirlooms, we use natural Tung Oil finish.
Customization and bespoke design are central to the allure of Amish furniture, allowing customers to specify wood types, finishes, and designs that best fit their spaces and styles. This level of personalization ensures that each piece of furniture is as unique as the home it inhabits. Solid Custom Heirlooms further strengthens this concept by offering design consultations where homeowners can collaborate directly with the furniture makers, ensuring their vision is brought to life.
The Amish approach to furniture design is rooted in functionality and simplicity, favoring forms that are timeless rather than trendy. This approach results in pieces that not only meet current aesthetic desires but also maintain a classic appeal that won’t look dated over time. This dedication to enduring beauty and practical design is what many furniture buyers look for when seeking high-quality pieces that can become future heirlooms.
Amish woodworkers are renowned for their exceptional craftsmanship, and their reputation as skilled artisans is well-deserved. With generations of accumulated knowledge, the Amish community exemplifies an unparalleled dedication to the art of woodworking. This commitment extends beyond mere skill, as it involves a deep-seated tradition of mastering the craft while continuously honing their abilities. Their reputation for excellence and reliability in woodwork is a testament to their enduring legacy in the furniture-making industry.
The mastery of woodworking within Amish communities is often passed down through generations, creating a strong lineage of woodworking expertise. Young Amish craftsmen typically learn the trade from their elders, starting at an early age. This apprenticeship ensures that time-tested techniques and meticulous attention to detail remain a hallmark of Amish furniture. Each new generation of artisans is trained extensively in both basic techniques and complex craftsmanship skills, ensuring the continuum of quality and care that has defined Amish woodworking for centuries.
While deeply rooted in tradition, Amish woodworkers are not static in their approach. Instead, they embrace a commitment to continuous learning and improvement. This dedication is reflected in their openness to refining their techniques and integrating innovative methods where they align with traditional values. By maintaining this balance, Amish woodworkers uphold their standards of excellence while ensuring their products remain relevant and competitive in modern markets. The result is finely crafted furniture that combines aesthetic appeal with practical functionality.
The reputation of the Amish as meticulous and reliable craftspeople draws in consumers who value the quality and durability of each piece of furniture. This reliability is not just a promise of construction quality but a guarantee of a piece of heirloom significance that will be appreciated for generations. Their reputation extends beyond the immediate communities as consumers across the nation seek out Amish products, recognizing the unmatched craftsmanship that comes with furniture bearing the Amish name.
At Solid Custom Heirlooms, we share a similar philosophy regarding the importance of skilled craftsmanship and quality materials. Our custom furniture, built by seasoned American craftspeople in the Appalachian region, echoes the values seen in Amish woodworking, such as durability, beauty, and generational longevity. Our dedication to producing heirloom-quality pieces aligns with the timeless standards set by generations of Amish artisans, making both excellent choices for those seeking superior woodwork.
Amish furniture is crafted by skilled individuals within Amish communities, often involving whole families dedicated to maintaining their traditional craft. These family-run workshops are the backbone of Amish furniture-making, producing pieces known for their quality and attention to detail. Typically, furniture is made without modern machinery, relying instead on manual tools and time-honored techniques passed down through generations.
Amish communities are central to the production of their acclaimed furniture. Each piece is not just a product but a testament to their values of simplicity, humility, and sustainability. Through a communal approach that values both tradition and community welfare, the Amish ensure high-quality outputs that reflect their collective skills. This community-based craftsmanship embeds a sense of purpose and authenticity in every item, distinguishing Amish craftsmanship in the marketplace.
Family-run workshops are the primary establishments for crafting Amish furniture. These workshops serve as places where family members learn and perfect their skills, nurturing an environment where craftsmanship thrives alongside familial bonds. In these settings, knowledge is passed from elder to youth, ensuring continuity and consistency in quality. Typically, a family will manage all stages of production—from selecting timber to applying the final touch of polish—reinforcing a direct connection between the maker and the materials
In addition to family resources, Amish furniture makers often collaborate with local craftspeople, enhancing the creativity and variety of furniture designs. These collaborations allow for the sharing of specialized skills and resources, leading to a diverse range of bespoke pieces that can cater to a multitude of needs and preferences. Such partnerships also support the local economy, contributing to a sustainable and thriving community ecosystem.
The reliance on American craftspeople for the creation of their furniture underscores the Amish commitment to domestic craftsmanship excellence. This ensures that the final product carries the essence of both the region and the artisans who crafted it. Not only does this foster a sense of pride and quality assurance, but it also reinforces consumer trust in each uniquely crafted piece of furniture.
Today’s consumers are markedly more conscientious about the environmental and social footprint of their purchasing decisions. In the world of custom furniture this shift is manifesting in a pronounced preference for locally sourced materials and ethical business practices. Ohio is particularly well positioned to lead this movement: the Appalachian region offers not only an abundance of high-quality hardwoods, including oak, maple, cherry, and walnut, but also a vibrant network of craftspeople who are deeply invested in sustainable forestry.
By sourcing lumber locally and favoring solid wood construction over cheaper alternatives like veneers and particle board, custom furniture makers in Ohio minimize transportation emissions, reduce waste, and support the regional economy. These practices resonate with homeowners who understand that environmental sustainability and long-term durability often go hand in hand. Transparent supply chains, wood certifications, and stories about the provenance of each piece contribute to customers’ sense of connection, both with the furniture and the community. As sustainability concerns continue to influence buying choices, Ohio’s commitment to local, ethical craftsmanship sets its custom furniture industry apart.
Collaborating with Amish builders offers homeowners a unique opportunity to create customized, one-of-a-kind furniture pieces that seamlessly blend traditional craftsmanship with modern design aesthetics. This partnership is particularly appealing to those who value high-quality craftsmanship and sustainability, as Amish builders are renowned for their meticulous attention to detail and use of natural materials. Homeowners can benefit from the expertise of Amish craftsmen, who bring generations of woodworking experience to each project, ensuring that the final result is a durable and beautiful piece that meets individual style preferences and functional requirements.
By working directly with Amish artisans, homeowners gain access to a level of craftsmanship that is rare in today’s mass-produced market. Amish builders are skilled at transforming conceptual designs into tangible works of art, offering homeowners the ability to specify every detail, from wood type to finish, to create truly bespoke furniture. This collaboration allows for the creation of heirloom-quality pieces that reflect personal taste while incorporating superior materials and construction techniques.
Moreover, the experience of crafting with Amish builders often includes a personalized design consultation, allowing homeowners to receive expert advice and recommendations that enhance the overall design of the piece. This personalized approach ensures that each item is not only functional and beautiful but also perfectly suited to the client’s home environment and lifestyle.
Though rooted in tradition, Amish builders play a critical role in advancing design innovation within the custom furniture industry. Their willingness to collaborate on contemporary design challenges has led to inventive solutions and creative blends of traditional and modern styles. Their expertise in using sustainable, natural materials encourages a more eco-friendly approach to furniture design, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers.
In addition, Amish builders often incorporate technological advancements in woodworking tools and techniques, which while subtle, enhance precision and efficiency without compromising the hand-crafted quality that they are known for. This balance of innovation and traditional methodology results in custom furniture pieces that are not only unique but also stand the test of time.
Solid Custom Heirlooms embodies these collaborative and innovative spirits by working alongside skilled Amish craftsmen to bring your dream furniture to life. With our focus on customer satisfaction and sustainability, our partnership guarantees high-end, artisan-quality furniture tailored to your specific needs. Contact us today to begin your custom furniture project and experience the unmatched quality and design innovation that only Amish craftsmanship can offer.
As we look towards the future of custom furniture, the relevance of quality and tradition exemplified by Amish craftsmanship continues to shine brightly. The benefits of Amish furniture are characterized by a commitment to enduring quality, meticulous attention to detail, and the sustainable use of local materials — elements that appeal to conscientious homeowners and discerning furniture buyers.
The future of the industry is set to be influenced by an increasing appreciation for bespoke, high-quality furniture. Consumers are becoming more aware of the environmental and economic impacts of their purchasing decisions, leading to a growing demand for furniture that not only serves aesthetic purposes but also aligns with sustainable and ethical standards. The Amish, with their time-honored traditions and superior craftsmanship, are perfectly positioned to meet these emerging consumer expectations.
Moreover, the ability to offer customizable solutions allows Amish furniture to cater to diverse consumer needs and preferences, bridging the gap between traditional methods and contemporary design requirements. This customization ensures that each piece of furniture is unique and tailored to the client’s specific taste, serving not just as functional items but as personal expressions of style and identity.
For consumers, embracing Amish quality and tradition in custom furniture is a way to secure investments that will stand the test of time, offering both usability and aesthetic pleasure across generations. It is a celebration of traditional craftsmanship that integrates seamlessly into modern lifestyles, elevating the ambiance of any home environment.
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