What’s the Difference Between a Divan Base and a Bed Frame?

If you’re shopping for a new bed, you’ve probably come across the terms divan base and bed frame — but what’s the actual difference? And more importantly, which one is right for your bedroom? At Yorkshire Handmade Beds, we specialise in handmade bed frames using premium materials, and we’re often asked how these differ from divan bases. In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences in structure, design, storage, and comfort — so you can make an informed decision when choosing your next bed.

What Is a Divan Base?

A divan base is a type of bed base made from a solid timber frame, usually covered in fabric and often sold as a set with a matching mattress. It typically comes in two sections for easy manoeuvrability and is designed to sit directly on the floor. Most divans are upholstered in a plain or neutral fabric and may include drawers for underbed storage. You can also choose between a platform top (firm) or sprung edge (softer) version depending on the level of support you prefer.

What Is a Bed Frame?

A bed frame is a full bed structure that includes a visible headboard, footboard, and side rails. At Yorkshire Handmade Beds, our bed frames are handcrafted from a timber base, upholstered in a wide choice of fabrics, and designed to be both functional and stylish. Our frames sit slightly raised from the floor on legs, which allows for airflow beneath the bed and adds to the aesthetic. They typically use a platform top base to provide firm, even support — ideal for pocket sprung mattresses.

Key Differences Between Divan Bases and Bed Frames

Feature	Divan Base	Bed Frame
Structure	Solid Timber Box, Fabric Covered	Timber Frame With Headboard, Footboard & Sides
Design Options	Basic and Minimal	Wide Range of Styles and Finishes
Under Bed Storage	Often Built-in Drawers	Optional Drawers or Open Underbed Space
Assembly	Simple- Often Comes in Two Halves	Some Assembly Required
Aesthetic Appeal	Practical, Often Hidden By Bedding	Visible Design Element in the Room
Airflow	Limited, Sits Flush to The Floor	Elevated For Better Airflow

 

Style and Customisation

If style is important to you, a bed frame offers far more visual impact. At Yorkshire Handmade Beds, our frames are built to be the centrepiece of your room — with options for deep-buttoned headboards, scalloped edges, winged sides, or a minimalist modern design.

You can also customise:

• Upholstery fabric and colour
• Bed height and dimensions
• Drawer configurations (if required)
• Headboard height and detailing

Divan bases, on the other hand, tend to prioritise practicality over design. While you can usually select a fabric and headboard to match, the overall aesthetic is more understated.

Comfort and Mattress Performance

Both divans and bed frames can offer excellent support, but the base type underneath your mattress makes a big difference. Our bed frames feature a solid platform top base, which provides consistent, firm support that’s ideal for pocket sprung mattresses.

Sprung-edge divans have a slightly softer feel due to the built-in springs, but this can reduce the firmness and responsiveness of a high-quality mattress — particularly one that’s designed to offer precise support on a firmer base.

Which Should You Choose?

Choose a divan base if:

• You want built-in storage but have limited space
• You prefer a lower-profile, more discreet bed
• Budget and practicality are your priorities

Choose a bed frame if:

• Design, style, and bedroom aesthetics matter
• You want a long-lasting, customisable product
• You’re using a pocket sprung mattress and want firmer support
• You prefer better airflow and an elevated sleep surface

Why We Only Make Bed Frames

At Yorkshire Handmade Beds, we focus exclusively on handcrafted bed frames — not divans.

That’s because our customers care about quality, design, and comfort that lasts. Every bed is made to order using durable hardwoods, high-density padding, and a sturdy platform top base- all assembled with care in our Yorkshire workshop.

We believe a bed should be more than just a place to sleep — it should enhance your room, support your sleep, and reflect your personal style.

Looking for a stylish, handmade bed frame built around you?

Explore our full collection today, or get in touch with our team for guidance on choosing the right size, style, and fabric for your dream bed.