As DailyGalaxy explains, there were several key reasons why people chose to sleep this way.
Practicality
Life in the Middle Ages was harsh. Houses were small, cold, often consisting of a single room, and a fireplace couldn’t heat the entire space. In such conditions, the “sleep wardrobe” was a salvation:
Warmth
The enclosed space retained body heat, creating a comfortable “capsule” in a cold room.
Privacy
In crowded homes where privacy was a luxury, curtains or wardrobe doors gave a sense of personal space. Some were even lockable, providing security.
space saving
The multi-functional design allowed the ‘bed-cabinet’ to be used as a seat or a place to store things during the day.
With the spread of modern heating systems and improved living conditions in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, there was no longer a need for such cupboards.
A new life for an old idea
Today, in the era of micro-apartments and expensive square metres, the idea of saving space is once again a priority. Modern interpretations of “bed-cabinets” can be seen everywhere:
Capsule hotels offer minimalistic sleeping pods that provide privacy.
Multifunctional furniture such as folding beds are becoming increasingly popular.
This proves that the best ideas are those that have stood the test of time and can adapt to new realities.