This project was built and designed by Mark from Gunflint Designs. It’s a sophisticated platform bed built from black walnut that maximizes storage while adding timeless style to the bedroom.
Mark takes a simple idea—upgrading from a basic metal bed frame—and elevates it into a showpiece that combines clean lines, smart joinery, and plenty of storage. His approach makes this a rewarding project for woodworkers at almost any skill level.
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Designing a Bed with Purpose
The design centers around creating a functional, modular bed frame with accessible storage. Black walnut is chosen for its rich tones and durability, giving the project a high-end look without sacrificing usability.
At the heart of the design is an internal cabinet structure, allowing the bed to incorporate multiple drawers seamlessly. Assembly is tool-free once the frame is built, making it easy to set up, take apart, or move when needed.
Building the Cabinet Foundation
Mark starts by breaking down sheets of plywood to create the internal boxes that support the bed frame. Using a circular saw with a guide ensures straight, clean cuts, followed by refining the widths on the table saw.
To keep the build visually clean, walnut strips are applied to hide any exposed plywood edges. This simple touch elevates the quality of the project and ties it into the design of existing furniture, like a matching nightstand Mark built previously.
Butt joints are used for the cabinet boxes, focusing on quick, hidden assembly. Screws are placed strategically so they’re invisible once the mattress and drawers are in place.
Milling the Black Walnut
The solid walnut pieces are milled carefully to prepare for the visible parts of the bed, including the legs, headboard, and side rails. Flattening and sizing the boards is time-consuming but necessary to achieve tight joints and smooth panels.
Mark keeps the design consistent by mirroring the style of the nightstand’s legs, incorporating gentle curves and clean lines. Dado joinery is used throughout the frame to provide extra strength while keeping hardware hidden.
Smart Joinery and Hidden Fasteners
To preserve the minimalist look, Mark frames the side panels with slim walnut strips. This adds depth for hardware installation and creates a small shadow line that adds subtle visual interest.
Glue and pin nails are used to attach the walnut strips without needing bulky clamps. Pocket holes are added to attach the rails to the panels, providing a strong, unseen connection that keeps the structure rigid without marring the surface.
Headboard and Footboard Construction
The headboard and footboard are built in much the same way, using dados to securely capture the panel inserts. Large glue-ups are handled with careful clamping, and Mark stresses the importance of keeping everything perfectly square at this stage.
Hardware installation is another thoughtful touch. Bed rail hooks are recessed into the legs, allowing the rails to lock securely in place without visible screws. This detail adds professionalism and makes disassembly much simpler if needed.
Test Fitting and Assembly
Before final assembly, a dry fit is conducted to make sure everything fits together as intended. Business cards are used as temporary spacers, making later assembly easier and ensuring that parts slide into place smoothly.
The drawers are constructed using basic butt joints and fitted with lightweight slides. Though simple in construction, they function smoothly and are accented with walnut trim to conceal the plywood edges.
Mark also builds a support deck for the mattress using spaced slats attached to the cabinet boxes. This step is critical for providing even mattress support without the need for a bulky box spring.
Applying the Finish
Finishing a project of this scale can be daunting, but Mark simplifies the process with an Earlex HVLP spray system. This tool allows him to apply an even coat quickly, covering all surfaces thoroughly without runs or drips.
The final finish brings out the deep, rich grain of the black walnut, giving the bed an inviting warmth that transforms the bedroom. Careful sanding and multiple coats ensure a smooth, durable finish that will stand up to years of use.
A Complete Bedroom Transformation
By the end of the build, Mark successfully transitions from a simple, low-to-the-ground setup to a refined platform bed with integrated storage. The room is not only more functional but dramatically more stylish.
This project is a perfect example of how thoughtful design and careful craftsmanship can elevate everyday furniture into something truly special. With solid construction, hidden joinery, and high-quality materials, the bed will serve for decades.
You can see all of Mark’s plans here: https://www.gunflintdesigns.com/project-plans.