It’s been a few months since I saw the Highgrove Bourne ottoman. My thoughts at the time however were that the high, winged headboard is impressively elegant with its tall, tidy vertical fluting, and the fabric finish I went with has a luxurious feel. The ottoman storage is deep and truly useful, though I have some reservations about the durability of the lift hardware and the base boards when compared to similarly styled, less expensive frames.
Design & Build
This is a contemporary upholstered frame with a statement headboard, softly arched wings and neat fluting, finished on dark ebony feet. It is handmade in the UK and exclusive to Furniture Village, with multiple upholstery options and in small double, double, king and super king sizes. The base uses wooden slats with 28 slats quoted for the king size, and the ottoman opens from the foot of the bed. On paper, that is a very solid specification for a modern storage bed frame.
Assembly & Setup
Assembly is a two person job simply because of the weight and size of the components, especially the headboard and the lift platform. Expect the usual routine of bolting side rails to the headboard and foot end, fitting the slatted platform, then attaching the lift struts. Furniture Village’s delivery service will place the frame in the room and assemble it where appropriate.
Comfort & Practicality
The sprung slatted base has enough give to work well with a wide range of mattresses, and it feels breathable too. I paired it with a medium firm hybrid mattress and I detected a slight bounce from the slats which softens the overall feel just a little, useful if you have a mattress on the firmer side. The tall, cushioned headboard is excellent for sitting up to read, with the wings adding a cosier, more enclosed feel without making the bed bulky.
Storage
Storage capacity is a clear strength. The deep ottoman base swallows spare bedding and seasonal clothes comfortably, and end opening makes access straightforward in most rooms. My one caveat is the perceived sturdiness of the mechanism and the floor panels. The gas lift felt serviceable but not particularly heavy duty, similar to budget frames I have tested, and the loose lay base boards could do with more support rails. With careful loading and even weight distribution I have had no failures, but I would avoid piling heavy boxes all in one corner.
Everyday Use
Once built the Bourne feels stable in everyday use. There is minimal creaking from the frame and no noticeable racking when rolling in bed, provided the fixings are tightened fully. The ottoman action is smooth and well balanced with an average weight mattress, and the handle clearance at the foot end is practical. Upholstery care is typical for fabric beds, regular vacuuming with a brush attachment and quick attention to spills.
Value for Money
Pricing will fluctuate, but at the time of writing I saw a Was price of £1349, sale around £1049 and a promotional Black Friday price of £849 on selected sizes and colours. Even at the lower promo price it is not an outright bargain when you consider the very ordinary lift hardware, but you are paying for the striking design and UK build. If you love the look, the numbers make more sense when discounted.
Who It Suits
- Anyone who wants a boutique hotel aesthetic without an overly ornate look will appreciate the Bourne. The tall headboard and winged sides create presence, and the generous ottoman cavity is ideal for flats and smaller homes where storage is a priority.
- It also suits sleepers pairing medium or firm mattresses with a slatted base to add a touch of compliance.
Who It Does Not Suit
- If you prioritise rock solid ottoman mechanics and reinforced storage floors above styling, you may find better engineered lift systems at a similar or slightly higher price.
- Very heavy mattresses will make any end opening ottoman harder to lift, and those needing side opening access should look elsewhere.
Final Verdict
The Highgrove Bourne ottoman is a looker, and in day to day use it has been comfortable and practical. I am impressed with the upholstery quality and the headboard design in particular. My only lingering concern is longevity of the mechanism and base boards compared with cheaper ottomans I have owned, which slightly tempers the value proposition at full RRP. Catch it in a good sale and treat the storage floor with care, and you will have a stylish, functional bed frame that elevates the room and keeps clutter out of sight.
