When choosing a fabric divan bed for a bungalow, focus on three things: a comfortable sitting height that makes getting in and out easy, storage drawers or an ottoman base to make up for the lack of loft or upstairs cupboard space, and a headboard and fabric that suit the wide windows and open, single level layout typical of bungalows. A divan with a firm, supportive base and a well upholstered headboard tends to suit these homes very well, especially for anyone who values comfort and ease of movement.
Bungalows are popular with downsizers, families and anyone who prefers living on one level. Our range of modern fabric beds UK includes upholstered designs that complement the calm, practical character of these homes, and pairing the bed with the rest of your modern bedroom furniture UK helps the whole room feel joined up.
A divan bed consists of a solid, upholstered base that sits close to the floor, usually on small castors or glides, with the mattress resting on top. The headboard is normally a separate panel that attaches to the back of the base or stands against the wall. Unlike a bed frame on legs, there is no open space underneath.
This construction has several advantages. The base offers firm, even support across the whole mattress. It can incorporate drawers or an ottoman lift, turning the entire footprint into storage. And because the base is enclosed, there is no gap for dust, lost items or pets to disappear into.
Fabric divans are upholstered in the same kinds of fabrics as framed beds, from soft chenille to velvet and linen look weaves, so they can be just as stylish while remaining highly practical.
Many people choose bungalows because they prefer to avoid stairs, whether for mobility, comfort or simply convenience. A bed that is easy to get in and out of fits naturally with that thinking. Divans can be specified with different base depths and mattress thicknesses to achieve a comfortable height.
Without an upstairs floor, bungalows often have less built in storage than a house of similar size. Lofts can be hard to reach, especially for those who prefer not to use a ladder. Drawers built into a divan base keep bedding, clothes and seasonal items close at hand.
Bungalow bedrooms frequently have broad windows that sit relatively low on the wall, often looking directly onto a garden. A divan's neat, compact profile sits comfortably beneath or beside these windows without obscuring the view.
Bed height is one of the most important considerations, particularly for older buyers or anyone with joint or back discomfort. A bed that is too low means pushing up from a deep seated position. A bed that is too high can make getting in awkward and feel less secure.
A useful test is to sit on the edge of the mattress with your feet flat on the floor. Your knees should be roughly level with or slightly lower than your hips. That position makes standing up much easier. Because the total height combines the base and the mattress, you can adjust it by choosing a deeper or shallower base, or a thicker or thinner mattress.
If two people share the bed and have different needs, aim for a height that suits the person who finds getting up harder. Good bedside lighting and a sturdy bedside cabinet to steady yourself on also help with safe movement at night.
Divan bases are usually available with a choice of storage configurations, and the best one depends on how your room is laid out.
Before choosing, measure the space beside and at the foot of the bed. Drawers need room to open fully, and you will need space to kneel or stand in front of them comfortably. For anyone who finds bending difficult, an ottoman lift with assisted gas struts may be easier than low drawers, as items can be reached from a standing position.
The headboard gives a divan its character. Options range from low, simple panels to tall, padded designs with buttoning, channels or curved tops.
In bungalows, where ceilings are generally of standard height and windows can sit low, a medium height headboard is often the most balanced choice. It provides comfortable support for sitting up without dominating the room. If the bed sits beneath a window, keep the headboard below the sill so the window remains easy to open and clean.
Floor standing headboards, which rest on the floor behind the divan and attach to it, tend to feel more substantial and stay steadier than lighter strutted designs. They are worth considering if you like to sit up and lean back in bed.
Bungalows often enjoy good natural light from wide windows and garden views. Soft, natural colours work well in these conditions: cream, oatmeal, stone, soft grey and muted greens all echo the garden outside and keep the room calm.
For durability, choose a tightly woven fabric that resists snagging and pilling. Chenille and textured weaves are forgiving of small marks and comfortable to touch. Velvet adds a touch of luxury, while linen look fabrics give a relaxed, airy feel.
If the bedroom faces south or west, position the headboard out of direct sunlight where possible, since prolonged exposure can fade some fabrics over time.
Single storey homes reward simple, uncluttered layouts. Aim for clear walkways around the bed, especially on the side used for getting in and out. This is particularly important if anyone in the household uses a walking aid.
Place bedside cabinets within easy reach and at a height that lines up roughly with the top of the mattress. Our range of bedside cabinets UK sale includes designs with drawers and shelves for glasses, books and medication.
Lighting matters too. Bedside lamps with switches that are easy to reach from bed, and a low level night light along the route to the bathroom, make the room safer and more comfortable after dark.
Bungalow main bedrooms often have a generous footprint and can comfortably accommodate a king size bed. A larger bed gives couples more space and can make it easier for each person to get in and out without disturbing the other. Our king size fabric beds UK include options that pair well with divan style comfort and storage.
Before committing, check the room carefully. Our guide to UK king size bed dimensions and room sizes sets out how much space a king size needs to feel comfortable. Once the bed is chosen, our article on bedside table measurements for UK bedrooms explains how to match cabinet height to the height of a divan and mattress.
Second bedrooms in bungalows are often smaller and may suit a standard double or a single divan, perhaps with drawers for guest bedding.
Divans are relatively easy to look after. Vacuum the base and headboard regularly with an upholstery attachment, rotate the mattress as recommended by the manufacturer and keep drawers free from overloading so the runners stay smooth. Blot any spills promptly with a clean cloth and avoid soaking the fabric.
Castors and glides benefit from an occasional check too. If the bed shifts on hard floors, castor cups or small rubber pads will hold it steady.
A fabric divan bed brings together support, storage and a tidy appearance, which suits the practical and comfortable nature of bungalow living. Choose a height that makes getting up easy, a storage configuration that fits your room and a fabric that complements the light and views. You can explore our range of bedroom furniture and more at Furniture in Fashion.
When sitting on the edge of the bed with feet flat on the floor, knees should be roughly level with or slightly below the hips. This makes standing up easier. Adjust the height through the depth of the base and the thickness of the mattress.
Yes. Divan bases can include two drawers, four drawers, a continental drawer at the foot or a full ottoman lift, turning the bed's footprint into useful storage.
Often it is. An ottoman lift with gas struts lets you reach stored items from a standing position, whereas drawers sit low and require bending or kneeling.
It can, as long as the headboard sits below the windowsill and does not block a radiator. This keeps the window easy to open and allows heat to circulate.
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