French-style double bed: size, differences and who it suits

by Arredare Moderno · 10 October 2026

Updated October 2026

A French-style double bed measures 140×190 or 140×200 cm: 20 cm narrower than a standard Italian double and 20 cm wider than a small double. It suits couples with little space, or anyone sleeping alone who wants room to stretch.

At a glance

French-style bed sizes: 140×190 or 140×200 cm.
20 cm narrower than the 160 cm standard double.
20 cm wider than the 120 cm small double.
In France it is called a grand lit.
The frame footprint depends on the model: check the technical sheet.

Bed type	Mattress size (cm)	Best for
Single standard	80×190 / 80×200	Children’s rooms and small rooms
Single large	90×190 / 90×200	Adults and teenagers, the most common size
Single maxi	100×190 / 100×200	More room without moving to a small double
Small double (Italian una piazza e mezza)	120×190 / 120×200	One person who likes space
French-style double	140×190 / 140×200	Couples in narrow rooms, or singles
Standard double (Italy)	160×190 / 160×200	Couples, the most common size in Italy
King size	180×200	Couples in large rooms

Sizes refer to the base and mattress. The footprint of the frame, with headboard and sides, varies by model and is stated in the technical sheet.

French-style double bed, what is it?

Cheaper, lighter, smaller than a traditional standard double bed, suitable for people who like to sleep comfortably or for couples with limited bedroom space.

The French-style double bed is a particular type of double mattress that was and still is used in French homes, also known as the “Antico Napoletano” bed, while in France it is called “Grand lit”.

How big is a French double bed?

The classic French double bed measures 140 cm in width and 190 cm in length, with small variations that differ by a few centimetres, so we have the measurements 140 x 190 cm and 140 x 200 cm.

Good value for money, although smaller than the standard size, it is worth remembering that it is larger than the one and a half bed (120 x 190 cm).

The measurements as mentioned above refer to the mattress and the bed base, for the total dimensions you must always consider the bed frame, which varies according to the model chosen.

misure letto matrimoniale alla francese

Why choose the French double bed?

French beds are mainly diffused in European countries such as France, Switzerland, Germany and England ( Queen bad ), but in recent times also in Italy, given the small dwellings widespread among young couples.

The French bed is used in the bedroom to replace the standard bed mainly because of the limited space available, but it is also chosen for its aesthetic characteristics or to replace the single bed in the children’s or guest room.

Space-saving French bed with storage container, the solutions of Arredare Moderno

In addition to saving space with a French bed, you also have the option of adding the storage function, a large compartment below the mattress that can be operated by a mechanical opening mechanism.

The storage space can be used to store bed linen such as sheets, pillow covers, blankets and plaids, or out-of-season clothing, a space-saving compartment that can be used to gain additional space with a small outlay.

French-style foldaway double bed

In addition to the classic version or one with storage, there is the rollaway model. Usually combined with a sofa, a built-in bookcase or wardrobe, the French-style rollaway double bed is perfect for two-room flats or small lofts, or in large flats as an extra bed for guests.

The bed is concealed inside the furniture and can be operated by an easy-to-use electric or mechanical mechanism, this solution is really good stylistically when used in the living room or kitchen.

How much does a French bed cost? How do online discounts work?

The prices of French beds are usually lower than traditional beds due to their smaller size, although prices vary greatly depending on the model chosen, the brand and the additional accessories, it is difficult to give an unambiguous idea but we can give some practical examples of the costs involved.

On the Arredare Moderno online shop, one of the most economical and popular models is the Cantori Iseo bed, with a perimeter structure and aluminium feet, available also in the 140 x 190 cm version, with padding on the headboard, seen at a discounted price of € 3638.00.

Letto alla Francese Cantori

If you are looking for a French-style rollaway bed then take a look at the Kentaro model by Itamoby, made with a wooden frame, compulsory wall mounting, available also in the 140 x 190 cm version, various finishes, available at a discounted price of €1179.00.

Trends and styles, the advice of Arredare Moderno

French double beds are economical, space-saving and uniquely designed furniture, so the choice to purchase a model with these characteristics must also take into account the style of the bedroom.

The solutions proposed on our e-commerce are infinite, ranging from classic upholstered beds to sommier beds (without bed-ring), French beds with wrought iron frame, with storage, made of wood, metal and plastic, available with leather, eco-leather, fabric and velvet finishes.

Classic and vintage, modern and futuristic models, in Industrial, Shabby Chic, Scandinavian style, designed and made in Italy by the best brands such as: Bolzan Letti, Bonaldo Arredamenti, Cantori Letti, Cattelan Italia, Dèsireè Divani, Famar Materassi, Felis, Itamoby, Noctis, Tonin Casa and many others.

Letto alla Francese Tonin Casa

French-style double bed: the accessories

When shopping, we can decide to buy a French-style bed complete with frame, orthopaedic mattress and wooden bed base, or we can decide to buy the components separately. We must also consider the expense of bed accessories, from pillows to sheets, blankets, plaids and mattress covers, bed base covers, pillowcases, quilts, valances.

Where to buy the French double bed?

On Arredare Moderno you will find a wide choice of French-style beds divided by models, sizes, structures, prices and finishes, affordable prices and online discounts always present, a selection of the best Made in Italy brands with in-stock availability.

You can buy complete or customisable beds, orthopaedic mattresses 140 x 190 cm or 140 x 200 cm, bed bases with wooden or traditional staves, foldaway double beds, with storage, design and special, with upholstered or wrought iron frame, you can buy directly online and pay safely and conveniently with credit or debit cards, bank transfer in advance, cash on delivery or decide to pay the full amount in instalments.

From size to model

Many designer beds also come in the French size: you will find them in our selection of Italian designer beds. If space is really tight, compare single bed sizes and American beds.