How To Build A Case Study Inspired Bed

When we talk about famous, timeless, and striking pieces of furniture, the case study bed is certainly up there – offering minimalism, elegance, and comfort all rolled into one piece of furniture. 

But what exactly is a case study bed, and what is the best way to build one at home? 

What Is A Case Study Bed? 

When we talk about bedroom furniture, a case study bed is certainly one of the most iconic looks around – possessing a slim-legged, minimalist design that differs greatly from what we might consider to be the ‘traditional’ bed frame. 

Described as a platform bed with ‘hairpin’ legs, the key elements of the case study bed are precision balance, and good dispersal of weight – both of which are important to master when constructing your own bed frame. 

Constructing Your Own Case Study Bed

When it comes to making your own case study inspired bed at home, there are some main steps that need to be taken. 

One of the best things about this bed style is that it is about clean lines and simplicity – as is common within the mid-century modern design style – which means that creation of this piece of furniture is suited to both the beginner and the experienced carpenter alike. 

Step One

The first thing you will need to do is to measure your mattress. This is the best way to ensure that your bed frame will be big enough, and that you aren’t going to have problems slotting everything back in when you have finished. 

The platform should be 1 inch wider and longer than the measurements of the mattress, so ensuring a good fit requires a little precision. 

Step Two

The next step you need to do is to construct the platform – and there are a couple of ways you can do this. The first way is to have a sturdy, solid base, and the second way is to have lats laid out across a rectangular shaped frame. 

However, seeing as we are focusing on the simplest way to do it yourself, we will focus on the solid frame. 

For this, you will want to use a hardwood – such as maple, cherry, mahogany, and teak – as these are not only considered to be strong and durable, but also are visually attractive too.

This is what most bed frames are made of (when made from wood), and are industry standard. 

Step Three

Once you have made the platform, it is now time for you to apply any stain or paint that you would like to add to the wood to create a great finish. 

This depends on the color scheme you are going for – as well as matching any other wood you have in the room. However, for the best results, you should look to apply a thick coat, before allowing the stain to dry overnight.

Then proceed to check the finish to see whether you are happy with it – applying further ones if needs be. 

Step Four

Once you have constructed your platform – ensuring that it is 1 inch wider and longer than the size of your mattress, it is then time for you to attach the hairpin legs onto the bottom of the bed. 

These need to be this signature hairpin shape to as to properly support the weight of the wood, the mattress, and however many humans are going to be sleeping on it. These can be collected from your local hardware store, or online if you have a supplier in mind. 

Step Five

The legs can be attached using screws – ensuring that they are perfectly aligned and fastened to both angles of the bed frame. 

Once these are secured, you will then have the basic bed frame upon which to rest your mattress.

Are Case Study Beds Fashionable? 

Case study beds are not only simple to make at home, but they are also one of the most timeless and fashionable designs on the market. 

This combination of looks and ease of construction makes them a popular style for many – and goes to explain why the style has endured for so long. 

Will My Mattress Slide Off? 

This could be a possibility, especially if you are an animated sleeper – however, there are certain things you can do. 

The main way would be to either construct a shallow lip around the edge of the bed – being sure to measure appropriately beforehand – or to add wooden blocks on each corner of the bed to add that little bit of security for the mattress once finally positioned. 

Final Thoughts

It is certainly true that, within the world of design classics, the case study bed is certainly up there – offering a striking, minimalist design that has weathered the test of time and changing fashion.

However, as this article shows, it is more than possible for you to create your slice of style and elegance at home. 

So if you are looking to create your own case study bed, then be sure to follow these handy steps. Something tells me you won’t be disappointed!

Frequently Asked Questions

Now that we know a little more about case study beds, and the best way to create your own at home, it is now time for us to answer some frequently asked questions that you might be interested in.