Genuine antique beds are, of course, extremely expensive. But happily one can obtain a large variety of antique style beds-reproductions of original designs, to reproduce that bedroom elegance-at a more reasonable cost.

One of the great features of antique style beds is that they focus on the raw material and craftsmanship. The upholstered bed is not a feature of those designs. Large, ornate headboards are generally the focal point, dominating the whole room.

Antique beds also came in various sizes, the most popular size for the main bedroom being the king size bed. (Although varying slightly in dimensions, modern king size mattresses would fit them.) Double beds and twins were, of course, in common usage too.

The flamboyant designs of the antique beds conjure up immediate images of huge four-poster beds in spectacular wood, cast iron or brass. The metal beds often had beautifully designed frames above them, creating a virtually separate ‘space’ within the bed area. While the large ones are certainly a focal point in any bedroom, the smaller single four-posters of that design make a wonderful space in a girl’s bedroom. It creates a fairytale world all of her own.

An interesting design akin to the four-poster is what they called a ‘half tester bed’. This is generally an ultra-high headboard – the size of a four-poster – usually well endowed with lace or exotic material, while the footboard is of normal size.

Another interesting concept was the ‘day bed’. This was a combination of a bedstead and a sofa, often used as a cot or an occasional bed. Very often these were placed in the living area as a feature.

The style and elegance of the antique designs is timeless; modern reproductions of those designs will always be popular choices.