B is for Bedrooms! A tantalizing look at the challenge.

B is for Bedrooms! A tantalizing look at the challenge of an often-overlooked room in the boat. There is so much scope for storage and space, but this is not always utilised well, or beds are too small and opportunities for extra stowage missed.  The classic situation is a big tank under the bed taking up all the space. Fine, I guess, if it needs to be there, but more space lost.

Under the bed, doors or drawers give access to the front, but what about the back. Here is where a gas strut ottoman style bed is great. Lifting for easy access, it makes it easy (easier) to get things in and out of the back space. This is perfect for camping gear in the winter and heavy gear and boots in the summer.

A built-in cupboard is great, particularly if you can get some hanging space in there. Hanging space is great, but make sure it is wide enough. A pet peeve of mine is rails where the clothes stop the doors closing. If you can’t get 55cm depth, then consider spinning the rail 90 degrees. It reduces access a little, but in a shallow space that’s fine, and you can now get full width hanging.

Do make sure that the cupboard isn’t encroaching on the bed too much. As a tall person, I feel like a battery in a remote when the walls are snug at my head and feet. You are taller lying down somehow, so a proper 1900mm is best, but still allow for overhang at the foot end if at all possible.

Another neat trick for beds is a lift up edge to make it a little wider where you need it. Experience has taught me that a “French Double” (a 120cm wide bed) is quite cosy for two adults.  Especially when you are losing 10cm under the gunwale.

Bedside tables are not practical, however this did lead to the creation of the first Ellie Shelf which makes for an easy bedside table for whoever has the wall, or just yourself when sat ready in bed. Likewise, it’s good to capitalize on the Under Gunwale Storage. It doesn’t cut significantly into the room, but it gives you so much extra space for books and knick-knacks.

We spend a lot of time in our beds, so it’s worth getting the space right. Careful planning and thoughtful cabinetry can turn a small, cramped space into a luxurious pad to relax in.