What's the difference between Ottoman and Divan Beds?
When storage becomes part of the design, the choice between an ottoman bed and a divan bed is not simply about practicality; it’s about aesthetics. These two silhouettes, each with its own rhythm and refinement, offer distinct ways to bring order and beauty to your space. Allow us to explore what sets a divan and ottoman bed apart and guide you to choose the storage bed that best suits your lifestyle and aesthetic.
What is a divan bed?
A divan bed is the quiet minimalist of the bedroom world. Built from a sturdy wooden frame, softly padded and upholstered in fabric, its base mirrors the exact dimensions of your mattress, creating a clean, compact silhouette that’s ideal for lofts, guest rooms, or small bedrooms.
The divan’s defining feature is its drawer-based storage. Configurations range from two standard drawers to a full set of four, or a combination of standard and continental drawers for tighter spaces. These compartments are perfect for storing bed linen, seasonal clothing or spare pillows.
Beyond storage, divan beds offer excellent comfort. A platform top provides a firmer feel, while a sprung top adds a layer of softness and responsiveness. This flexibility allows you to tailor your sleep experience to your preferences, without sacrificing a refined aesthetic.
For those drawn to contemporary interiors, the divan is a natural fit. Its understated profile and modular storage make it a versatile foundation for any bedroom scheme - from minimalist to modern country aesthetics.
Benefits of a Divan Bed
• No headboard making them good for loft rooms or sloping ceilings
• Can include underbed storage drawers in several configurations
• Compact base size
Standard drawer options you are likely to find are as follows:
None
2 Standard Drawers
2 Standard & 2 Continental Drawers
4 Standard Drawers
So, you can choose your drawer configuration based on the amount of storage you need and the available access around the bed.
You'll often also have the choice of either a platform or sprung top, meaning you can choose your preferred level of firmness, so your comfort is guaranteed.
Platform Top
For a firmer feel
Sprung Top
For extra comfort
There’s a lot to love about a divan bed, besides the handy extra drawer-based storage. They’re a great choice for creating a contemporary feel to a bedroom, offering that wonderful simplicity that works so well in minimalist interiors.
What is an Ottoman Bed?
If the divan is discreet, the ottoman bed is quietly dramatic. Inspired by the multifunctional furniture of the Ottoman Empire, this bed style transforms the entire base into a hidden storage haven. With a piston-assisted lift mechanism, the mattress rises smoothly to reveal a spacious compartment divided lengthways — ideal for storing larger items such as suitcases, throws or even festive decorations.
Ottoman beds open from either the foot end or the side, adapting beautifully to your room’s layout. The lift mechanism is engineered for ease and longevity, allowing you to access your belongings without strain, even with bedding in place. For extra convenience and accessibility, modern ottoman beds have automatic opening and storage lighting — simply press the button and watch it rise. This allows anyone to use an ottoman more easily, regardless of fitness level.
Benefits of an Ottoman Bed
- A choice of headboard designs
- Piston assisted lift and close mechanism
- Electronic opening and storage lighting avaiable
- Large storage space divided into two compartments
- Opens from foot or side for any room layout
Storage comparison: Divan vs. ottoman
When comparing divan vs ottoman beds, storage is often the deciding factor. Divan beds offer modular drawer storage, which is ideal for everyday items and quick access. Ottoman beds, by contrast, provide full-base storage, maximising every inch of space beneath the mattress.
If you need to store larger items or want to reduce visual clutter, ottoman beds are particularly effective. They’re also ideal for smaller bedrooms, as they don’t require the floor space necessary for drawer access.
Aesthetics and comfort: Silhouette and support
Divan beds are minimalist by nature, with a compact base that blends seamlessly into contemporary interiors, and often headboard-free, giving you the freedom to choose a design that suits your taste.
Ottoman beds offer more expressive styling. From sculptural sleigh headboards like the Ives Ottoman Bed to soft, upholstered panels like the Orla Ottoman Bed, they invite personalisation. Whether your bedroom leans coastal, classic or contemporary, ottoman beds can be tailored to your aesthetic.
Both divan and ottoman beds can be paired with platform or sprung tops, depending on your comfort preference. Finding your perfect mattress depends on a number of factors, but generally, platform tops offer firmer support, while sprung bases add a layer of responsiveness and softness. Feather & Black’s divan and ottoman collections are designed to support your mattress beautifully, enhancing your sleep quality without compromising on style.
Discover your perfect mattress in our mattress buyers guide.
Ottoman beds pros and cons: Is an ottoman or divan bed better?
The answer lies in your lifestyle. If you favour quick-access drawers and a minimalist footprint, a divan bed may be your ideal companion. If you’re seeking expansive storage with a touch of drama, ottoman beds blend practicality with design seamlessly. The pros of Ottoman beds include generous hidden storage, elegant styling and ease of access. The only consideration is the lifting mechanism, which requires vertical clearance - something to bear in mind in tighter spaces.
Whether you choose a divan or ottoman bed, both offer practical elegance and thoughtful design. At Feather & Black, our storage beds are crafted with British heritage, premium materials and a commitment to comfort. Explore our range to find the storage bed that not only fits your space, but elevates it – because in a bedroom designed for rest, every detail should feel quietly luxurious.
Find your perfect storage bed
For bedrooms that have it all, an elegant storage bed is a must. Offering discreet but impressive under-bed storage, our ottoman and divan beds cleverly hide bedroom clutter to keep your sanctuary looking its very best.