More Bed Frame info

A bed frame is a metal or wooden framework that holds up a mattress. Since ancient times bed frames have been considered important pieces of furniture, often passed down through generations. Today, bed frames can be built in a variety of styles; from simple metal frames to enormous four-poster sets.

The earliest bed frames are believed to have been made in Egypt between 3000-1000 BCE. These were coveted by royalty and frequently heavily carved or covered in gold. Most of these early beds were made of one large piece, comprised of four legs, a horizontal frame under the mattress and a headboard. Etruscans and Romans also had early bedsteads, although these were usually less elaborate than the Egyptian versions.

Scandinavian Vikings are probably responsible for the first collapsible bed frames. These wooden beds could be easily taken apart and put together for traveling purposes. This made the bedstead easily transportable, even for crowded ship journeys.

Tester and four-poster bed frames became popular during the 17th century. These extremely heavy pieces were normally carved from wood by master craftsmen and often featured a padded headboard or thick curtains. Many 17th century beds were considered heirlooms and passed down through families. William Shakespeare famously left his second-best bed to his wife in his will. Some historians have suggested this gift was meant as an insult, others claim that this bed was probably their marital bed and intended to be sentimental.

The modern bed frame is available in many styles to suit varying decor needs. The most basic bedframe is usually a metal frame that consists of headboard, footboard, rails and legs. These range from £69 upwards.

Another popular variety of bedstead is the called captain or admiral style. These bed frames are modeled after maritime captain’s beds and are usually quite heavy. Generally made out of wood, captain beds are on a raised platform, usually with drawers underneath the mattress. This is ideal for small rooms, where storage space may be limited. Captain bedsteads vary widely in price depending on size and materials.

For a dramatic statement, you may wish to purchase a four-poster bed. These are large pieces of furniture, usually carved from wood. In addition to the bed frame and headboard, a four-poster features large poles at each corner, often with a roof or canopy connecting them. Heavy four posters match well with Renaissance or Victorian design styles, while lighter wood varieties can be combined with delicate fabrics for a colonial or tropical look.

The bedstead is one of the oldest and most important pieces of furniture in human history. While they can be expensive, a beautiful bedstead can serve as a major design element and set the tone for your decor style. Whether you prefer platform, captain, four poster or waterbeds, investing in a bed can add volumes to your comfort and the design of your bedroom.