Ingenious multifunctional furniture: this space-saving sleeping platform serves as a guest bed, a lounge spot, and storage drawers

What was the goal?

The family’s son had moved out. His parents wanted a space for him to stay overnight and spend time during weekend visits. They wanted a bed that could accommodate two, so other guests could sleep there as well. In addition, the parents needed a workspace with storage for their binders, plus closet space for guest blankets and pillows.

What was done?

The room measures about nine square meters and had to accommodate many different needs. They called on interior designer Minna Haapakoski for help. She divided the room into two areas: one reserved for the bed and the other for the desk. The workspace was placed at the front of the room.

The workstation was built with a String shelving system, where shelves and other parts can be rearranged as needed. This airy unit doesn’t dominate the small room. The oak chair is the AC2 model by Andersen.

Oak Muuto Dots knobs add extra storage to the walls.

At the back of the room, Haapakoski designed a raised platform, custom-built by a carpenter, that serves as three pieces of furniture in one. On top is a 120-centimeter-wide futon mattress that can be folded into a sofa-like daybed, and underneath are deep storage drawers.

The room retains its sense of space because multiple pieces of furniture aren’t needed. A window-like mural wallpaper adds personality and a more spacious feel to the small room.

A full carpet covers the lounge-style platform, topped with a futon mattress that can sleep two. The mattress can be folded into a sofa, making it a comfortable spot for breaks during remote work, for example. The mural wallpaper is from Rebel Walls, and the window wall was painted in a dark green shade to complement it. The sofa bed that was previously in the room found a new place elsewhere in the home. The pillows and throw are from Marimekko, and the lightweight lamp is by B. Living.

The deep drawers beneath the sleeping platform offer convenient storage for guest blankets and pillows. One of them is set aside for the son’s belongings when he visits. The heavy birch drawers have a built-in grip so they're easy to pull out. The platform, designed by Minna Haapakoski, was made by Priimakaluste.