Divan bed

The divan bed and mattress set is one of the most popular bed types that you can buy today. In fact in the United Kingdom it is the single most popular bed construction in terms of sales. Although less popular in the USA, it is still a big seller. Orthopedic beds are available in the divan format.

So what is a divan?

A divan bed comes in two parts. The first part is the frame, structure or support (the base), and the second part is the mattress. The mattress sits on top of the divan base and this elevates the mattress to a suitable level whilst providing a firm and level base. That however is only part of a divan’s function.

How is it made?

The divan base is normally made from a timber framework that forms a hollow box like structure. This frame is then covered with a fabric that will normally match the fabric finish (ticking) of the mattress and, for ease of movement, four casters are normally fitted, i.e. one at each corner.

The important thing about this box like construction is that it opens up the possibility for the empty divan base to be used for storage. Most divan bases have a depth of at least 12 inches (300mm) and some can be as much as 18 inches (450mm) deep. By adding sliding drawers into the sides or the front of the divan this extensive area can be utilised for storage.

Formats

One of the advantages of the divan bed is that it comes with many different options. These options range from the size of the bed through to the finishes and mattress types that it is supplied with. The size and number of drawers is another selection criteria.

In terms of sizes, you can buy a divan in the full range of standard bed size formats (see bed sizes). These start with single and continue through to double, king size etc. However, the comparatively simple frame construction of a divan bed mean that it is relatively easy and economic to have a divan base made to order to fit an unusual or non standard set of dimensions.

The finishes available to a divan are also flexible and extensive and one of the big aesthetic features of this bed type is the fact that the divan base and mattress are supplied as a matching set. This means that it is not necessary to try and hide or disguise the bed base with a valance or throw-over cover because everything matches.

The types of mattress available in the divan bed include standard and pockets springs, visco elastic memory foam, Latex foam and orthopedic mattresses. In other words you can have any mattress type that you want with a divan bed.

Divan drawer formats

How many drawers a divan bed has will be determined by two factors, namely the size of the bed and the choice of the customer.

A single divan can have either one or two drawers that are accessed from the side of the bed. In most cases these drawers will be of different sizes with a large drawer at the foot end of the bed and a smaller drawer towards the head end of the bed. The reason for this is so that the smaller drawer can be set inwards from the head of the bed. This allows the drawer to open (slide) past any bedside cabinet that would otherwise prevent it from being opened.

In the case of a double or king size bed, the divan base is comprised of two separate sections (like two single bed bases) that are connected together. This means that it is possible to have two or four drawer beds where there are either one or two drawers on each side of the bed.

For more information about single divan beds go to this page single divan, and for further information about double divan beds go to this page double divan.