Canopy Bed

If you're bored with the current look in your bedroom, a stylish option is available that dates back to the 15th century. This look will add an air of nobility to even the drabbest of rooms while acting as the focal point and centerpiece of your bedroom. This cure for your ailing bedroom décor is the classic canopy bed.

For the uninitiated, a canopy bed is a decorative bed somewhat similar to a four-poster bed. A typical canopy bed usually features posts at each of the four corners extending four feet high or more above the mattress. Ornate or decorative fabric is often draped across the upper space between the posts and a solid swath of cloth may create a ceiling, or canopy directly over the bed. There are a wide array of canopy beds, ranging from the more formal traditional styles to today's sleek, modern designs, made with clean lines and a simpler aesthetic. If you're interested in a canopy bed, chances are good there is one out there that is perfect for you.

One might think that early canopy beds were only made for the wealthy. The fact is canopy beds have their roots with the common man. The canopy bed came into existence more from utilitarian means than that of extravagance or decadence. In fact, the earliest incarnations were probably beds of common people seeking an additional layer of shelter beyond that of a less-than-impenetrable thatch roof. Canopy beds with curtains that could completely enclose the bed were used by lords and noblemen in medieval Europe for warmth and privacy, as their attendants often slept in the same room. Until the 16th century, these beds, even those of the nobles, were fairly plain and understated. During this period, carved work on the headboard and posts became popular and more ornate canopy beds followed.

Today's canopy beds generally fit into one of two categories: traditional or contemporary. Most of the traditional canopy beds will have a Victorian aesthetic, with either metal rod frames or intricately carved wood frames and posts. These throwbacks will also often feature ruffled, pleated elaborate draping, sometimes with rather heavy cloth. In contrast, contemporary canopy beds generally employ a cleaner, simpler design. Wood, metal, or a combination of the two is used in the construction of modern canopy beds, which usually have little to no detail on the foot and headboards and often feature sharp, geometric designs.