5 Bedside Storage Ideas for Platform Beds Without Standard Height

Why platform beds need a different approach

Platform beds sit lower than traditional divans, which changes what works beside them. A standard tall bedside cabinet can look out of place, leaving the mattress dwarfed by furniture that rises well above it. The solution is to rethink the bedside zone entirely, choosing pieces that sit closer to the floor and respect the cleaner lines of a platform frame. The five ideas below have been popular in UK bedrooms over the past few seasons, and each one keeps storage useful while honouring the relaxed proportions of a low bed.

1. A low profile bedside chest

The most direct option is a bedside chest designed with a shorter overall height. These typically sit between 40 and 50 centimetres tall, which keeps the top in line with a low mattress. Two shallow drawers are usually enough for a phone, a notebook, hand cream, and other small essentials. Look at the full bedside cabinets range at Furniture in Fashion for low height options in oak, walnut, and painted finishes.

2. A floor cushion with a small tray

For a more relaxed Scandinavian feel, a firm floor cushion paired with a flat wooden tray creates an informal bedside surface. The tray holds a glass of water and a book, while the cushion can also be used as casual extra seating. This idea suits minimalist bedrooms where the platform bed is already the main visual feature, and works particularly well in homes that lean toward Japanese influenced interiors.

3. A floating shelf at mattress height

Where floor space is tight, a wall mounted shelf set just above the mattress acts as a clean bedside surface. It removes the need for any furniture on the floor, which keeps the line of sight under the bed open and the room feeling lighter. A floating shelf works best in rented homes only where wall fixings are allowed, and it pairs well with a wall light to keep the surface clear. The wider shelving and storage options include slim styles that suit this use.

4. A small storage ottoman

An ottoman with a lift up lid is a quiet workhorse beside a platform bed. The height usually sits comfortably with a low frame, and the hidden interior is ideal for spare bedding, books, or anything you would rather not display. A fabric upholstered finish softens the harder lines of a wooden platform, and the piece can move easily if the room is rearranged. For a more polished result, a mirrored bedside table on slim legs can also work, especially in a bedroom with warm lighting.

5. A pair of nesting tables

Two small nesting tables placed side by side give flexibility that a single cabinet cannot. One can stay close to the bed for nightly essentials, while the second can be pulled out for guests or moved to another spot when needed. The combined surface is generous, yet either piece on its own is easy to tuck away. Choose finishes that echo the bed frame for a calm, considered look.

Things to check before choosing

Before settling on any of these ideas, take three measurements. Note the mattress height from the floor, the distance from the bed to the nearest wall, and the height of any plug socket nearby. These three numbers prevent the most common mistakes, such as a cabinet that blocks a socket or a shelf that sits awkwardly above the pillow line. A small sketch on paper is often quicker than imagining the result in the room itself.

Styling a low bedside area

With the right surface in place, styling can stay light. A small lamp with a low base, a single ceramic vessel, and one folded throw nearby are usually enough. Avoid stacking tall items beside a low bed, since the contrast in height can feel unsettled. The goal is for the eye to flow gently from pillow to surface to floor without interruption.

FAQs

What height should bedside storage be for a platform bed?

Aim for the surface to sit roughly level with the top of the mattress, or slightly below. This is usually between 35 and 50 centimetres from the floor for most platform frames.

Can I still use a tall lamp with a low bed?

A tall lamp can work if the base is slim and the shade is soft. Heavy bases on tall stems tend to overwhelm a low bedside surface, so lean toward a delicate silhouette.

Are wall mounted shelves safe above a bed?

Only when fixed securely into solid wall studs or with proper plasterboard fixings rated for the weight. If in doubt, keep the shelf to one side of the pillows rather than directly above the head.

Do I need matching pieces on both sides?

Not at all. Mixing a small chest on one side with a stool or shelf on the other can feel relaxed and intentional, provided the tones tie together.