Under-the-bed storage is highly underused because of its inaccessibility and lack of organization. Items are often kicked beneath the bed frame, left to be forgotten. This DIY bed platform solves that problem while giving you extra storage. Follow along with our instructions for making this hardworking unit yourself. Once all your belongings have a place, you'll be happy you did!
Note: We made our unit to fit a queen size mattress (80 x 60 inches). All measurements are approximate and will vary depending on the size of your bookcases.
Hardware and Supplies
- 1-1/4-inch coarse thread pocket-hole screws
- 2-1/2-inch coarse thread pocket-hole screws
- 1-1/4-inch wood screws
- Set of two 2-inch angle braces
- Wood glue
- Three bookcase sets, approximately 18 x 70-7/8 x 14-5/8 inches
Note: This project calls for pocket holes, which are often preferred among professionals for their ease of use. If you do not have a pocket hole jig, you can use traditional screws.
Wood Products
- (3) 1 x 4 x 96-inch pine boards
- (2) 1 x 4 x 72-inch pine boards
- (1) 1 x 4 x 48-inch pine boards
- (1) 3/4 x 48 x 96-inch pine plywood
- (1) 2 x 4 x 96-inch pine boards
Tools
- Miter saw
- Circular saw or table saw
- Jigsaw
- Drill/driver
- Pocket hole jig
- Speed square and/or carpenter square
- Sander
- Tape measure
Parts List
- (1) Bed platform 3/4 x 41-5/8 x 70-7/8-inch pine plywood
- (6) Platform stretchers 1 x 4 x 41-5/8-inch pine board
- (2) Support legs 2 x 4 x 16-1/2-inch board
- (1) Support stretcher 2 x 4 x 35-1/8-inch board
- (1) Head stretcher 1 x 4 x 41-5/8-inch pine board
Step 1: Assemble the Base
Build and lay three bookcases on their side in a U shape. Measure the dimensions between the bookcases; this will be used for the width of the bed platform. The length of the bed platform is equal to the height (or length) of your side bookcases.
Cut two headboard pieces to length from 1x4s. Drill pocket holes for 3/4-inch material at both ends. Attach them to the headboard end of your assembly as shown with wood glue and 1-1/4-inch pocket screws. The bottom is flush with the bottom of the bookcases and the top is attached 1-1/2-inches down from the top.
Attach 2-inch angle brackets at the bottom of the interior foot end, where the side bookcases meet the third bookcase.
Cut the side supports to length from 1x4s. Drill pocket holes for 3/4-inch material at one end of each board. Attach them to the inner sides of the bookcases 1-1/2-inches down from the top, as shown, with wood glue and 1-1/4-inch wood screws and pocket-hole screws. The pocket hole ends will go to the foot of the bed structure.
Optional: Attach fabric to the inside back of the bookshelves if you do not wish to see though the cubbies to the other side. We reccommend attaching the fabric to the top and bottom for a clean, taut look.
Another option is to fill the cubbies with large storage baskets. When removed, you will be able to reach under-the-bed storage for larger items.
Step 2: Build Bed Platform
Cut bed platform from 3/4-inch plywood to the dimensions from Step 1.
Find the middle of the bed platform. Use a jigsaw to cut two handle holes on each long side of the platform. The handles should be 5-6 inches from the middle.
Step 3: Cut Platform Stretchers
Cut five bed stretchers to length from 1x4s. Attach to the bed platform as shown with wood glue and 1-1/4-inch wood screws.
Sand the platform assembly.
Step 4: Build Support Leg Assemblies
You will make 2 support leg assemblies. Cut two support legs and one support stretcher from the 2x4s. Drill pocket holes for 1-1/2-inch material at one end of each leg and both ends of the stretcher.
Attach the support stretcher to the support legs with wood glue and 2-1/2-inch pocket-hole screws.
Repeat for second assembly. Sand the support assemblies.
Step 5: Attach Support
Attach the support assemblies to the platform assembly, as shown, with wood glue and 2-1/2-inch pocket screws
Step 6: Attach Platform
Set the platform assembly in place. You will be able to lift the bed to gain access to the underbed storage.
Comments (5)