- The size of a storage bed is affected by more than just the mattress size. Does your bed use box springs underneath the mattress? Box springs can add as much as 12 inches to the height of your bed; this may result in less storage space, or you may need to add a bed stool to get in and out of bed. A platform bed will be much more accessible, or provide more storage space underneath.
What do you want to store under your bed? Some items simply take up more room. You may find it more useful to build a base that is wider or longer than the mattress, and add bookshelves or cabinets that extend above the mattress to increase your options. Remember, a "storage bed" is not restricted to under-mattress storage. - Cabinets with doors are one possible type of storage area. Doors can protect items from dust and prying eyes, and can incorporate locks if needed. Cabinetry should be well thought out, however; crawling into a tight cabinet could cause possible injury.
Drawers are very popular for underbed storage. Because the top of the drawer is open, items are often easier to reach without getting on your hands and knees. Drawers can be mounted using special hardware; be sure to choose slides that can handle the weight of the items you intend to store. Drawers can also be simple boxes on wheels or casters; just add a sufficient handle to the front.
Bookshelves are sometimes placed under the bed; while they don't protect items from dust, they can be a good solution when library or display space is needed. - Whether they use box springs or platforms, storage bed bases generally have tops on which the bed will rest. Slat supports, common on many bed frames, can let too much dust into the storage area.
The base itself is often made from sheet goods like plywood or particleboard, as these allow larger components to be made without the need to glue up separate boards. There is no reason that lumber and sheet goods cannot be combined, however, to make the best use of each material's strength and minimize any weaknesses.
Lumber is clearly superior when looks are important, especially at corners and edges, while furniture-grade plywood is usually easier to work. Because of this, lumber is good for framed openings, while plywood can make quick work of the main box construction. Moldings can be added for decoration or to cover exposed edges as well. - Do not ignore the storage possibilities of headboards and footboards. Headboards are convenient places for frequently used items, especially items that need to be kept handy at bedtime.
Footboards can be combined with benches, chests and even desks or vanities to combine several pieces of bedroom furniture into a relatively compact area. A well-designed "sleep machine" like this can take on the look of a built-in unit and vastly increase the amount of floor space available in your bedroom.