Storage Beds: Origins, Benefits, and Types for Ultimate Space Saving

What are storage beds?

A storage bed is a bed with built-in storage space in the base. In practice, beneath the mattress there is a roomy compartment where you can store bedding, blankets, seasonal items, suitcases, or anything you want to keep tidy but out of sight.

Depending on the construction, access to the storage space can be via:

Lifting the slatted base (with gas-lift pistons or spring mechanisms)
Side or front drawers
Bases designed with integrated storage compartments

Why are they so useful?

Storage beds are useful because they turn a “dead” area of the bedroom — the space under the bed — into a real extra wardrobe.

Key benefits:

They optimise space: ideal for flats, small bedrooms, or homes where every centimetre matters.
They help keep things tidy: everything is stored discreetly, without cluttering wardrobes and shelves.
They reduce the need for extra furniture: in many rooms they can replace storage benches or additional chests of drawers.
They’re perfect for seasonal changes: duvets, throws, and bulky clothing have a natural place to go.

Who invented them?

There isn’t a single official “inventor” of the modern storage bed. Rather than one invention, it’s a gradual evolution of the idea of a bed with integrated storage.

Historically, the idea of using the bed as storage came from very practical needs: in homes with few pieces of furniture and limited space, the bed was often one of the only large items capable of “hiding” belongings.

Where were they invented?

Again, there isn’t one single, certified place of invention. The concept of storage under the bed appeared in different forms across various parts of Europe, especially where:

homes were compact
storage space was limited
bedding was bulky and valuable

The contemporary version — with safe lifting mechanisms and bases designed for everyday use — spread mainly across the European market in the second half of the 20th century, alongside the rise of space-saving furniture and the development of modern hardware systems.

The main types: Ottoman, Divan Ottoman, and Divan

Today, when people talk about storage beds, there are three very common families. Here’s a quick guide to understanding the differences.

1) Ottoman (lift-up storage bed)

This is the classic storage bed: the base lifts (usually from the foot end) thanks to a mechanism that makes opening smooth and stable.

Ideal if you want maximum space under the mattress
Great for storing bulky items
Perfect for a clean, contemporary look

2) Divan Ottoman (divan base + lift-up storage)

This combines a divan-style base (upholstered and robust) with a storage compartment accessed by lifting. It’s a popular option because it blends sturdiness, comfort, and practicality.

Stable structure and often a more “solid” visual presence
Large internal capacity
Great if you want an upholstered bed that’s also functional

3) Divan (divan base with drawers or integrated storage configurations)

A traditional divan can include storage solutions such as side drawers (depending on the space available in the room). It’s a practical choice when you don’t want (or can’t) lift the base.

Quick access to stored items via drawers
Ideal if you have enough side clearance
A versatile solution for many bedroom layouts

Which one should you choose?

The right choice depends on how you use your bedroom:

If you want maximum capacity and wide access: Ottoman
If you want a divan structure + generous storage: Divan Ottoman
If you prefer drawer access and everyday convenience: Divan

Discover Belsogno Beds models

If you’re thinking about making your bedroom tidier without giving up on style, take a look at our selection of luxury beds with storage solutions.

Explore the available models now and find the perfect bed for your space:

https://belsognobeds.it/collections/luxury-beds

April 28 2026 Wajid Sadiq