Choosing a bed for a box room

Measure first

• Floor width and length, and the ceiling height (box rooms over the stairs often have a bulkhead or a sloped section).
• Where the door swings, where the window is, and the radiator.
• The stairs and landing, so the bed can get in: see measuring for delivery.

Put those numbers into the bed size calculator to see which sizes fit with a walkway.

Bed ideas that work in a box room

• A single against the wall. A 3ft single (90 × 190 cm) pushed against one wall needs a walkway on one side only. A bed with drawers or an ottoman base adds storage.
• A mid or high sleeper. Raising the bed frees the floor for a desk, wardrobe or play space. For children 6 and over: see cabin, mid and high sleepers.
• A cabin bed. Storage drawers and cupboards built into a lower bed.
• A day bed or trundle for a guest room or office: a sofa by day and a bed (or two) by night.
• A small double (4ft) if the room allows and an adult will use it.

Make the room feel bigger

• Choose a bed with a slim frame and a low or no footboard.
• Use the space under the bed for storage so you need less other furniture.
• Light colours and a bed on visible legs make a small room feel more open.
• Keep the radiator clear; don't push the bed hard against it.

• Single beds (21)
• Small double beds (5)
• Beds with storage (66)
• High sleepers (47)
• Day beds (11)
• Beds with trundles (29)