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Ottoman Divan Beds: The Ultimate Space-Saving Sleep Solution

In an age of rising rents, compact living, and curated interiors, bedroom furniture is doing more than ever. And at the centre of this multifunctional revolution? The ottoman divan bed. A practical storage hero and a design-forward favourite, ottoman divans are becoming a staple in British bedrooms for good reason.

If you’re wondering what sets ottoman divan beds apart, whether they’re right for your space, and how to choose between the options available, this post has you covered.

What Is an Ottoman Divan Bed?

At its core, an ottoman divan bed is a cleverly designed bed base that offers discreet storage beneath your mattress. Unlike drawers that open out, the entire bed lifts from the side or foot end, allowing you to access a generous hidden compartment—ideal for spare bedding, off-season clothes, or clutter you’d rather keep out of sight.

At Sueno, we take this further. Our ottoman divan beds are upholstered in your choice of over 60 luxury fabrics, made to order, and built by hand in our Yorkshire workshop. This isn’t just storage—it’s style with substance.

Why Choose an Ottoman Divan Bed?

Here’s why ottoman beds are winning hearts—and space—in homes across the UK:

Maximum Storage: Ottoman divans offer full cavity storage. That’s the entire footprint of your bed—no wasted corners or awkward drawers.
Space-Efficient: Perfect for tight rooms, as there’s no need to pull drawers out sideways. Great for beds positioned near walls or radiators.
Neatly Disguised: Once closed, the storage is completely hidden, creating a clean and uncluttered look.
Customisable: With Sueno, you can pair your ottoman base with any of our handcrafted headboards, in any fabric, for a seamless design that suits your style.

Side vs End Opening Ottoman Beds: What’s the Difference?

At Sueno, we offer two main ottoman divan styles: Side Premier and Twix Premier. Both feature our high-quality, gas-assisted lift mechanisms and robust hardwood construction, but each suits different bedroom layouts.

1. Side Premier Ottoman Bed Base

Opens from the side—left or right, based on your preference.
Ideal for rooms where space is limited at the foot of the bed.
Particularly useful for narrow bedrooms or where the footend faces a wall or obstruction.
Gas struts lift smoothly, even with bedding in place.

📍 Note: While practical, the space near the hinge (closest to the headboard) can be slightly harder to reach.

2. Twix Premier Ottoman Bed Base

Opens from the footend, lifting upwards from the end of the bed.
Offers unrestricted access to the entire cavity—left, right, and centre.
Perfect for those who want maximum storage convenience and clear access.
Our best-selling ottoman base for good reason.

Built to Last – and Built for You

Unlike many ottoman divans on the market, Sueno bases are not mass-manufactured. They’re built in small batches by skilled upholsterers in Yorkshire, with the following features:

28cm internal storage height for generous capacity.
Heavy-duty gas lift pistons for reliable operation.
Solid base panels to protect your items and support weight.
Compatible with any Sueno headboard—from classic Chesterfields to Art Deco profiles.

How to Choose the Right Ottoman Divan for Your Room

Choosing the right configuration often comes down to room layout and personal preference. Here's a quick guide:

Room Layout	Best Option	Why?
Narrow room or wall at footend	Side Premier	Access storage from side
Room with ample space around the bed	Twix Premier	Lift from footend for full access
Shared beds with one side against wall	Twix Premier	Equal access from both sides

Still unsure? Just get in touch—we’re happy to talk through your space, preferences, and layout to help you make a confident choice.

FAQ: Ottoman Divan Beds

How much storage space do Sueno ottoman divan beds offer?

Our ottoman divans offer a 28cm internal height, making them perfect for bulky linens, winter duvets, or out-of-season clothing.

Can I choose which side the bed opens from?

Yes. With our Side Premier model, you can select whether the bed lifts from the left or right, ensuring it suits your room layout perfectly.

Are ottoman beds easy to lift?

Thanks to our gas-assisted struts, lifting the lid is easy and safe—even with the mattress and bedding in place. No heavy lifting required.

Can I pair an ottoman base with any headboard?

Absolutely. Every Sueno ottoman divan can be paired with your choice of headboard, all of which are floorstanding and handcrafted to order.

Do ottoman divans affect mattress compatibility?

Not at all. Our ottoman bases are compatible with all standard UK-sized mattresses, including pocket sprung and memory foam.

Customer Story: Smart Storage in a Small Space

“Our bedroom isn’t the biggest, so the Twix ottoman bed was a game changer. It looks beautiful and holds everything from shoes to bedding. The lift mechanism is so smooth—I don’t know how we managed without it.”
– Sueno Customer, Trustpilot ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐