Platform Bed Design Critique

[Mike Ontko]

You are referring to the cleats on the inside that the slats sit on?

No, the actual support rails (head, foot, and sides) themselves.

[Dave Richards]

OK. I'll see what I can get for you.

[Mike Ontko]

...mattress manufacturers are +/-1" across the spectrum. Because of this it is a good idea to have the mattress on hand to measure. Might also consider the lady that makes the bed and any possible ring on a finger between the mattress and the rail. That and bedding makes an over size cavity for the mattress a good thing. A one or two inch greater length and width are good if space allows.

Fred, I thought I'd replied already, but apparently I didn't post what I'd typed before. The owners-to-be are actually going mattress hunting this weekend, and they're still undecided about whether to get a standard western style mattress or a futon/shikibuton. In either case, it defintely makes sense to leave the internal dimensions open enough to allow for needed finger/reach space. Effective design in this case includes consideration for OEM tolerances and variances when you have to build something that integrates with someone else's products.

[Dave Richards]

Mike, the side and foot rails are 1 in. thick. The cleats on the inside of the side rails are 3/4 in. thick (forms a 3/4-in.-wide ledge for the slats to sit on. The central rail is 2-1/4 in. wide

[Mike Ontko]

Thank you, Dave. From the pictures you'd provided above, I would have guessed those rails were more towards 1-1/2". I feel better now about going with 1-1/4" but will let my eyes make the final decision.