Looking for an extra large bed?
When you’re looking for extra space in the bedroom, three solutions often come up:
family bed (co-sleeping bed),
Emperor bed (UK luxury format) and
Alaskan King (the large, square “giant” from North America). Here you get a practical overview of dimensions, availability of bedding/accessories, delivery and space requirements – so you can make the right choice first time.
Quick definitions (typical dimensions)
- Family bed: An extra-wide co-sleeping bed in modular dimensions, typically 240–360 cm in width and 200–220 cm in length (e.g. 240×200, 270×210, 300×200, 300×210, 360×210), available at www.fambed.co.uk. Often built on a foundation of 2–3 mattresses on a wooden frame.
- Emperor bed: UK format. Typically 200×200 cm; some retailers offer larger variants around 210–215×210–215 cm.
- Alaskan King: North American oversize. Standard is approximately 274×274 cm (108″×108″).
Comparison: dimensions, comfort and practical considerations
| Solution | Typical dimensions | Space per adult (2 pers.) | Bedding & accessories | Delivery/installation | Best for |
|---|
| Family bed | 240–360 × 200–220 cm (modular construction) | Can be precisely tailored to your needs | Fitted sheets in custom sizes for a seamless sleeping surface available at www.fambed.co.uk | Typically delivered in modules (frame + mattresses), easy to carry through doors/stairs | Co-sleeping (parents + 1–3 children), large rooms, flexible construction and replaceable parts. |
| Emperor bed | 200×200 cm (some: ~210–215×210–215) | ~100 cm per adult (2 pers.) | UK range available, but narrower than standard EU/US | Often one large mattress +/- split base; be aware of whether you can get it through stairs/doors. Special fitted sheets may be necessary and expensive. | Couples who want “square luxury” without going full oversize; hotel look at home. |
| Alaskan King | ~274×274 cm (108″×108″) | ~137 cm per adult (2 pers.) | Requires special fitted sheets/topper and often a special frame; selection is growing but still niche in the EU. | Logistics, stairs, turns and door widths must be planned | Requires a large amount of space in both directions – the 274 cm/108 inches places significant demands on the room. Maximum space, a lot of unusable material and wasted length, so it is more about the luxurious look than practical usability. |
Family bed: when co-sleeping is the goal
A family bed is in practice a wide, modular system. Typical setups:
- 240 cm: 2 adults + baby/toddlers for shorter periods.
- 270 cm: 2 adults + 1–2 children for everyday use.
- 300 cm: 2 adults + 2 children with a comfort margin.
- 360 cm: For extreme comfort and freedom of movement.
Advantages: Affordable, modular construction so you can get the size that suits you and your room, components can be replaced separately (mattresses, covers, toppers), designed specifically for co-sleeping.
Emperor bed: square luxury in UK format
The Emperor sits between the EU King (180×200) and pure oversize family beds. The square shape feels spacious, yet is still manageable in ordinary master bedrooms. Be aware that “Emperor” is not entirely standardised – some retailers offer 200×200 cm, others go up to around 210–215 cm.
Advantages: Luxury feel and good sleeping space without extreme bedding/frames.
Challenges: Accessories (fitted sheets/duvet covers) are not as widely available as for 180×200; dimensions should therefore always be checked against the manufacturer.
Alaskan King: the large square giant
The Alaskan King at approximately 274×274 cm (
108″×108″) is significantly larger than both the Emperor and the EU King. It is designed for a maximum luxury look, high comfort for very tall people.
Advantages: “No conflicts over space”, the option to lie across the bed, and a statement piece in the room – or dogs at the foot of the bed.
Challenges: Requires an ENORMOUS room, special fitted sheets/toppers and planned delivery (stairs, door widths). High total weight and price level.
What should you choose?
- Primarily co-sleeping (2 adults + 1–3 children): Choose a family bed based on the rule of thumb of 90 cm space per adult and 60 cm per child. Flexible construction, easy bedding, good value.
- Couples who want luxury without niche accessories: Choose an Emperor (200×200) – just check bedding dimensions with the retailer.
- Going for the ultimate luxury hotel look and have the budget: Choose an Alaskan King. Plan logistics and special bedding from the start.
