Define Your Platform

by Jim Burnham

Florida will be a key player in the 2008 elections as winning it could clinch a win for either the Democrats or the Republicans. Moving its primary up to January means Florida is likely to play a key role in the 2008 primaries as well.

Florida, the fourth most populous state in the U.S., is not only an important player in the political arena, but is increasingly being seen as a style and trend leader in modern architecture and interior design. With the new year and the primary elections around the corner, we thought we’d look at some of the most popular platforms – of the bedroom variety, that is – to forecast what we can expect to see in Florida in 2008.

The Origins of the Platform Bed

As far back as the Neolithic period, man has had a designated area for sleeping. Around 3400 BC, Egyptians created the concept of a ‘bed’ as we know it, by sleeping on raised pallets covered in palm leaves.

Over the ages, there have been all types of bed styles, including the platform bed, which was originally a loft bed and has been around for thousands of years. Originally, the sleeping area was raised on four poles so that there would be space for everyday living activities below. As living became more luxurious, and houses became larger, the beds became shorter.

The modern platform beds are not a new invention, but rather, a new twist on an old concept. Today’s platform bed has a base that consists of a raised and flat surface meant to support just a mattress. Platform beds provide firm cushioning and with the support of either slats or solid paneling, they eliminate the need for a box spring. They are characterized by their low-profile sleeping surface, simple lines and sleek design.

The Modern Bedroom

Platform beds have been a European trend for some time and with a wide variety of sizes and styles available, they have quickly gained popularity across North America in recent years.

The modern bedroom does not function merely as sleeping quarters, but also as a lounge of sorts. Many people now have televisions in their rooms and desks from which they work. In addition to all the newer uses for bedrooms, they are also a place in the home where people can express their personal taste through their décor.

Platform beds are great for people who want a clean, designer look in their bedroom. They may or may not include a headboard or footboard. Platform beds without a footboard and/or a headboard are popular as they take up less space and help ‘open up’ a bedroom.

Platform beds are also becoming much more popular in high-end remodels and luxury houses with plush interiors due to their versatility. You can choose from a wide range of styles, including all different types of wood, different colors and fabrics, and a range of configurations.

Dark finishes are sharp and defining, making the platform bed the focus of the bedroom. White, or lighter finishes make a clean and crisp statement. Plush, upholstered headboards and luxurious bedding can create a warm and inviting focal point in any bedroom.

For more storage you can choose a platform bed with drawers, which you can use to keep your bedroom looking clean and clear of clutter, thereby making your bedroom a more restful haven.

Whatever your style, the combinations are truly endless.

Comfort is Key

Once you’ve decided which style and configuration you like, it is important to choose a good mattress. After all, you spend one third of your life in bed, so make sure your mattress provides you with optimal comfort for a good night’s sleep.

The wide variety in mattress choices also allows you to customize not only the look of your bed, but the comfort as well. For example, a low profile platform bed combined with a pillow-top mattress will eliminate the need for a box spring, without sacrificing the height.

Oftentimes, people may want to augment their platform bed with a memory foam mattress, utilizing the latest technology to enhance the latest style trends for the bedroom. The perfect mattress conforms to your body – and not the other way around. The visco-elastic foam in a Fahrenheit mattress from BoConcept is designed to automatically adjust to your body weight and temperature, offering you perfect comfort and support. The unique foam helps to eliminate uncomfortable pressure points so you don't have to turn over as often while you're sleeping. The result is a more effective sleep so you don't need the same amount of sleep compared to a normal mattress. The visco-elastic foam will mold to your body shape giving you the ultimate support, so you can say goodnight to neck and back pains.

To keep up with the latest trends and styles in platform beds, visit BoConcept Orlando at Waterford Towers or www.boconcept.com. See how a platform bed provides the ability to customize your bedroom while embracing simplicity and high design. These platforms can appeal to stylish Floridians of any party affiliation!