Photo by Michael Wiltbank.
The Princess and the Pea had it all wrong. The coziest way to get a good night’s rest has nothing to do with being as far above the ground as possible—in fact, the opposite may be more accurate. Placing your mattress on the ground makes bedtime feel decidedly nostalgic—like you brought out a bunch of blankets to sleep on a trampoline or you’re experiencing the rare childhood delight of snoozing on an air mattress (but even better, because it’s a real bed that supports your back).
Floor beds admittedly have a bad reputation for appearing unfinished or untidy; the trick to pulling them off lies in the styling. The perfect number of pillows, bedding that’s been rumpled just so, and a few easy-breezy accents (like a net canopy) ensure the setup will look chic. These ideas might even convince you to give up that bed frame for good.
Try a Monochrome Look
Photo by Brittany Ambridge.
When your bedding, walls, and even your floors are white, it’s pretty impossible to look messy. Don’t overcomplicate it and you won’t go wrong.
Ruffle It Up
Image Courtesy of Urban Outfitters.
If you don’t want to spend your mornings carefully making your bed with utmost precision, buy a duvet cover that looks better when it’s a little disheveled. Textured coverlets, like this white option, are very forgiving.
Go High When Your Bed Goes Low
Photo by Stevan Tasin.
A net canopy will prevent your floor bed from immediately dragging your line of sight downward. Consider this a lesson in balance.
Create a Cozy Corner
Photo by Andrea Posadas Creative.
If you’re styling a mattress on the floor in a multipurpose space (think: an office that sometimes functions as a guest room), align it with a wall to create a daybed feel. Fully tuck in the bedding so it looks nice and neat.
Don’t Forget Bedside Furniture
Photo by Michael Wiltbank.
Just because you’re forgoing a bed frame doesn’t mean you have to give up your nightstands. In this bedroom, a long bench and low-slung table make the mattress feel intentional.
Pick Your Perfect Throws
Photo courtesy of Ball and Claw Vintage.
An intricately printed blanket and three jewel-toned pillows make this laid-back vignette feel sophisticated. When surrounded by lush plants and a conveniently placed lamp, it becomes a serene place for slumber.
Keep It Natural
Photo by Counter-Space.
A floor bed covered in perfectly worn-in linen sheets is soothing on its own. Surround it with minimal wood furniture and just a couple pieces of art, and you’ve turned your space into a bona fide sanctuary.
Find a Frame
Photo courtesy of Bed Threads.
When your bed is low to the ground, you free up some extra wall space—the perfect opportunity to expand your gallery wall. And who needs nightstands when you can have two big plants instead?
Downsize It All
Photo by Brittany Ambridge.
Okay, if you can’t imagine life without a bedside table, you don’t have to give it up; maybe consider picking a miniature option, like the one next to this low-to-the-ground bed. It’s just the right size for your phone, a book, and a glass of water.
Rebecca Deczynski is the Lifestyle Editor at Domino.