When used today, the term box bed generally indicates a bed with a mattress that lifts up. It could also signify a bed with pullout storage drawers underneath the mattress. Either way, the basic idea is that the bed provides extra storage without eating up more floor space. For space-challenged folks, this is a killer idea.

If you briefly research box beds, you will learn about various countries that favored the idea of an enclosed sleeping alcove built into the wall of a house. Generally, they were closed off by a curtain or wooden doors. In Scotland and Sweden, they were often a part of the architecture. In Brittany, France's northwesternmost region, a slightly different style was popularized: The "lits clos," or enclosed bed, was a carved ornate structure that often stood close to a fireplace. It offered privacy and warmth in an open room.

Oddly enough, both concepts are appropriate to consider for modern living spaces. I can see the value of installing a variation of the Breton lits clos in an open loft. There is a practical element to using this design in colder climates as well. After watching several episodes of the "Tiny House Nation" TV series, I saw that the bedroom space offered in most of the homes was really not much more than a modern version of a box bed — there is often just enough room for the mattress.

Besides antique-style box beds, there are other sleek-looking modern bed designs where the mattress either lifts up to reveal a storage cavity or sits over deep rolling storage drawers. Both designs are terrific ways to conserve space without having to get rid of belongings.

The Room & Board furniture company offers five different models of storage beds. Three are upholstered beds, one has a leather headboard and frame and one has a wooden headboard and frame. All models have drawers with excellent hardware that operates smoothly. Many well-known companies carry storage bed options, such as Wal-Mart, IKEA, Crate and Barrel and Pottery Barn. If you want to create your own design, you can buy hardware separately to make the mattress lift. You can also call a cabinet shop to learn what it will cost to build your own frame and headboard. Costs range: Inexpensive designs usually cost several hundred dollars, whereas exotic designs can cost up to several thousands of dollars.

The fact remains, when you live in a two-bedroom condo and have limited closet space, it is important to look outside the box for ideas for cargo space. You may not have much space for furniture in a guestroom, or even the master bedroom, so a specialty bed is a worthwhile investment. Store a collection of extra bedding, pillows and linens. Stash clothes that are out of season under the mattress. Protect old family photos, games, toys and clothes. Incorporating storage under your bed will increase your organizational efficiency, and you can even eliminate the need for a bulky dresser.

There are instances when investing in a very specific piece of furniture is absolutely worth the extra money. Beyond a specialty bed, you can buy a barn-door-style sliding door to save the space a swinging door would occupy. If you convert to a tankless water heater, you could create a pantry or linen closet in the water heater's place. All of these choices will make your living space more comfortable and much more functional.

Photo Credit: BoConcept

BoConcept box bed is one of many available.

Christine Brun, ASID, a San Diego-based interior designer and author of "Small Space Living". Send her questions and comments by email at [email protected]. To find out more about Christine Brun and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.