Difference Between Panel Beds & Platform Beds

Design and Construction

• A panel bed consists of a headboard and footboard made from flat panels of wood. The panels are framed with raised molding or grooves that mimic traditional wood paneling or wainscoting. The headboard and footboard are connected by wooden rails. Manufacturers offer panel beds in both painted and wood-stained finishes. Some also offer headboard-only versions.

  A platform bed has a flat, slab-like platform that sits on top of legs or a box base. Some bases include storage drawers. Platform beds come in wood, metal and laminate versions. Some platforms beds have optional or attached headboards. In some cases, the headboards are upholstered in fabric or leather.

Dimensions

• Both panel and platform beds vary in height. Panel beds are nearly always taller than platform beds, which means the mattress sits higher as well. Though platform beds are sleek and low to the ground, they frequently take up more floor space than panel beds. Many designs feature platforms that are larger than the mattress size they’re meant to accommodate. The size difference ranges from a few inches to more than a foot all the way around.

Bedding

• Panel beds require a box spring to support the mattress. Wood or metal crossbars spaced between the rails or bed frame provide structural support for the bedding but not enough for a mattress alone.

  Platform beds typically are designed to hold a mattress alone. Most include a series of slats set into the platform for support; occasionally you'll find designs with an upholstered inset. Unless you use a low-profile version, a standard box spring spoils the low-slung effect characteristic of a platform bed.

Decorating Styles

• Panel beds are classic, and they work with a range of decorating styles. They look equally at home in formal and casual bedrooms. Though panel beds aren’t contemporary by design, the lines are clean enough to work in many contemporary rooms.

  Platform beds have a distinctly contemporary look. They mix well with Asian-inspired bedrooms, as well as with mid-century modern, art moderne and some arts and crafts interiors. Platform beds look out of place in traditional, country or cottage decor.