Bedroom Furniture

by Giorgina Devereaux

Although searching for the right bedroom furniture can be a bit overwhelming, it’s worth taking your time in order to find pieces that are comfortable and reflect your personality and style. 

Understanding the different types of bedroom furniture that is available will arm you with the necessary information to make the best choices. 

Who knows, you may even discover some furniture pieces that you would not have considered a possibility until now. 
 

Selecting the Right Bedroom Furniture

When searching for bedroom furniture, consider putting your comfort first. 

While you may be tempted to purchase bedroom furniture based only on how lovely it looks, that could come back to haunt you if you later realize that the furniture is very uncomfortable.  Remember that beautiful furniture does not always mean that it will be comfy. 

One of the other things to keep in mind when selecting bedroom furniture is function. 

When you think about it, aside from sleeping, we spend a lot of time in our bedroom applying makeup, doing our hair, watching TV, or reading a book, which means that the bedroom necessitates a set up to accommodate all of these activities. 

If you prefer to handle the household finances in your bedroom, then perhaps you may wish to consider incorporating a secretary desk.  Bedroom furniture that includes a desk makes the room all that much more functional. 
 

Other bedroom furniture to consider includes an armoire for a TV, a chest of drawers, a dresser, vanity, chaise, corner chair, or bench.  Since storage is a major factor in most bedrooms, it is important to include enough storage space.  This will eliminate having piles of clothes strewn about and will make for an organized and tidy bedroom. 

The centerpiece to any bedroom is the bed itself.  A bed needs to be built solidly while at the same time feel comfortable.  To bring a sense of grandeur and sophistication, opt for a majestic mahogany sleigh bed.  If you have a guest bedroom that you would like to furnish and prefer a smaller bed that will achieve a feeling of elegance and has a dual function, you may want to go with a daybed. 
 

Having a theme for the bedroom is a good starting point.  There are many styles available that choosing a theme that appeals to you should not be difficult.  If you are unsure as to what style appeals to you, please visit, “Choose a Style” for specific details on the different styles available. 
 

Types of Bedroom Furniture

Beds

Beds are offered in four standard sizes – king size, queen size, double, and twin. 

When searching for a bed, it is best to choose one that fits your sense of style. 

Beds are available in the following styles:
 

• Arched

• Canopy

• Daybed with Trundle

• Panel

• Platform

• Poster

• Sleigh

• Upholstered

Arched:  This type of bed features an arched headboard and makes a fabulous impact in the bedroom because of its graceful curves.  Not only does it exude a feeling of warmth and richness, but it brings a traditional feel to the bedroom furniture.  If you are looking for a style that is not overbearing and commands instant attention in any bedroom, then this is an excellent choice.
 

Canopy:  A canopy bed has been in existence for centuries and it’s no surprise that it is a favorite.  At its inception, in 16^th/17th-century Europe, canopy beds played a role in offering an extra layer of protection against the elements.  The canopy bed drapes could be drawn and families would all sleep in the same bed for additional warmth.  They were also used by lords and nobleman in medieval Europe for warmth and privacy since their attendants often slept in the same room.  When the first settlers came over the Atlantic, they brought the canopy bed and it has remained a romantic reminder of the Old World. 

A canopy bed is a decorative bed that is somewhat similar to a four-poster bed.  It features posts at each of the four corners extending four feet high or more above the mattress.  Most often accompanying a canopy bed is a canopy top.  This is a nice option if you choose a canopy bed with an arched top.  Canopy tops are essentially fitted pieces of ornate or decorative fabric that is stretched over the top frame. 

To enhance the intimate feel of a canopy bed, you may wish to consider canopy bed drapes.  It is recommended that you opt for opaque or patterned fabrics for an elegant enclosure.
 

If you prefer to do without a canopy top or canopy drapes, you may wish to leave the canopy bars bare.  This provides for a clean and simple look.

Daybed with Trundle:  A daybed is a type of bed that resembles a couch with the back also functioning as the headboard.  In order to convert a daybed that features a trundle into a full size bed, simple pull out the trundle from beneath the bed.  Usually, the trundle portion is on wheels in order to make it easier to pull it out from beneath the daybed. 

The trundle can then be popped up to make it the same level as the main portion of the daybed.  Using a daybed link spring, the trundle portion can be easily connected to the main daybed in order to make a king size bed. The trundle can also be left separate in order to create two twin size beds. 
 

To clarify, a link spring is a metal grid-like structure with springs that substitutes for a box spring.

The daybed link spring attaches to the side panels of the daybed frame and creates a sturdy, stable daybed. The mattress rests on the daybed link spring, allowing room below for the optional second mattress.

A daybed is ideal for guest bedroom furniture in which the room also functions as an office.  When the daybed is set up in its couch form, it is a great space saving solution since it does not take up much space in the room.  However, when guests arrive, the daybed can easily be converted to a bed, which is very convenient.
 

These beds are also used in children's bedrooms, to provide a bed for a sleepover guest.  It is also useful when multiple children share the same bedroom, which allows them enough space in the bedroom to be active during the day since the trundle is put away.  The neat thing is that most trundle beds are light enough for a child to move without the assistance of an adult.  This allows for the child to make the bed and then put it away after he/she gets up in the morning. 

Daybeds are constructed of a variety of materials to complement many decorating schemes.  Some assemblies include daybeds that are carved from wood, made from cast iron, or upholstered in fabric to resemble traditional style couches. 

This versatile piece of bedroom furniture makes a great sofa/bed arrangement in any bedroom. 

Panel:  A panel bed consists of a headboard and footboard that feature a convex curve.  This provides linear contrast and interest to the overall look of the bed.   Some panel beds feature raised panels and corner posts, with leather padding on the headboard and footboard.  Other panel beds have headboards with leather inserts or feature gracefully shaped fronts, along with delicate carvings.  Although the details vary with each panel bed, the result is a handsome bed overflowing with a dramatic and striking design.

Platform:  Platform beds are offered in wood, upholstered, and metal materials. 

Its sleek and stylish design is perfect for a Contemporary bedroom.  This type of bed is also offered in a Traditional style. 

You can even find platform beds that feature storage underneath, which is a great space spacer. 

For this type of bed, you generally do not need a box spring, which retains its attractive low profile.

Some platform bed styles have a headboard while others do not.  Headboard designs are available in rectangular cutouts while others have two headboards that are independently adjustable to provide comfort and support while reading or watching TV.   A platform bed is sure to be the focal point of your bedroom furniture for many years to come.

Poster:  A four poster bed consists of a bed with four vertical columns, with one column in each corner.  There are an extraordinary number of lovely poster beds that are ornate with intricate carvings and feature gentle arches, smooth curves, clean lines, and beautifully turned posts. 

A poster bed is designed to evoke romance with its refined details and elegant styling.  It is exactly what you will need to transform old bedroom décor into something stunning that breathes warmth and elegance. 
 

Sleigh:  A sleigh bed features a curved or scrolled headboard and footboard that resembles a sled or a sleigh with it rolling outward at the top.  This particular type of bed design is welcoming and speaks comfort because of its regal and majestic appearance. 
 

You can find sleigh beds that are made of materials, such as wood, iron, steel, rattan, and aluminum.  Some sleigh beds feature a tufted leather headboard for added elegance. 

This finely crafted bed will easily become a centerpiece of any bedroom furniture set.

Upholstered:  Upholstered beds feature headboards that are graced with sumptuous fabrics, rich leather, rattan, sea grass, natural abaca fibers, and natural grass fibers. 

Padded headboards are offered in the following fabrics and designs:

Fabrics

• Linen

• Microfiber

• Quilted

• Twill

• Velvet

Designs

• Pattern

• Floral

• Solid

Some headboards feature a nailhead pattern, tufted or plain design.  This definitely adds interest to the overall look of the bed and will beautifully complement your bedroom décor.

Types of Nightstands

Nightstands are available in the following styles:

• Closed

• Open

• Pedestal

Closed:  A closed nightstand consists of drawers and has no shelves.  Closed nightstands have anywhere from two to four drawers.

Open:  An open nightstand features drawers, along with a shelf perfect for displaying items or storing books. 

Pedestal:  A pedestal nightstand resembles a small table and some designs feature a small drawer. 

Types of Bedroom Dressers

Dressers are available in the following:

• Double Dresser

• Chest of Drawers

• Lingerie Chest

Double Dresser:  Double dressers are available with or without a mirror. 

It is essentially a dresser that appears as if you have placed two single dressers side by side. 

The amount of drawers varies and ranges from 4 to 12 drawers. 

Chest of Drawers:  The main function of a chest of drawers is storage.  It is a single dresser that has anywhere from 4 to 8 drawers.

Lingerie Chest:  This type of furniture piece is slender and tall.  It is typically used to store lingerie and has up to 7 drawers.

Miscellaneous Bedroom Furniture

Miscellaneous bedroom furniture is available in the following:

• Armoire

• Bed Bench

• Bed Steps

• Chaise

• Corner Chair

• Floor Mirror

• Jewelry Armoire

• Secretary Desk

• Vanity

Armoire:  This is a tall cabinet that has doors, drawers, with some designs having mirrors on the doors. 

It is used to store clothing and can also be used to house a television since some are equipped with a slide out back panel television compartment. 

Armoires are an excellent storage solution for the bedroom.

Bed Bench:  A bed bench makes a fantastic accent at the foot of the bed.  There is a variety to choose from in leather and in upholstered styles.

Bed Steps:  Bed steps are a convenient way to get into and out of bed.  It is ideal for tall beds.

Chaise:  A chaise lounge offers another way to relax in your bedroom furniture. 

There are many to choose from that are available in a nice selection of fabrics. 

A roll pillow will come in handy for extra comfort and relaxation while lounging.

Corner Chair:  If a chaise takes up too much space and you need a place to relax and unwind, consider a corner chair.  A corner chair creates a cozy reading area in your bedroom and is a nice alternative to a chaise.

Floor Mirror:  A floor mirror is a must have when you are lacking a dresser mirror.  It will allow you to check your appearance before leaving for work or a social gathering.

Jewelry Armoire:  Store those cherished jewelry pieces in a beautiful jewelry armoire.  Some feature a flip top mirror, drawers, and swing out doors that provide plenty of space to store your dazzling pieces.  This piece of furniture will look handsome in any bedroom.

Secretary Desk:  Secretary desks feature a set of large, flat drawers.  On top of the drawers, there is a hutch with shelving that is usually enclosed, along with an area underneath that has small nooks and other storage in the back of the desk. 

A flip-down tray encloses the area under the hutch and when in use, this drop front creates ample desk space and reveals various storage compartments, such as slots for separating bills. 

A variation of the secretary desk utilizes a roll top mechanism to secure the desk space and does not include a fold out section.  This desk is perfect for securing information since the folding area of the desk locks.  You can store files, books, miscellaneous documents, as well as small items. 
 

You can find secretary desks that feature a smooth and lustrous finish and brushed pewter hardware.  Others feature a hand-painted design consisting of an intricate floral arrangement on an antiqued-beige background.  This makes a simple, delicate, and beautiful statement that gives personality to this lovely desk. 

If you prefer detailed carvings, you may wish to consider a secretary desk covered in ornate hand carved patterns.  This elaborate secretary desk is sure to make your bedroom look more beautiful as well as help simplify your life with staying organized.
 

Vanity:  A vanity provides a lovely place where you can apply makeup and store cosmetics and beauty supplies.  Most feature an adjustable mirror, full size drawer, and an upholstered bench.  Other vanities are more elaborate with 6 drawers and a mirrored shelf.  It is an elegant piece that will enhance the surrounding furniture and décor in the bedroom.

Furniture Finishes

Furniture finishes are offered in the following:

• Tobacco

• Espresso

• Light Cherry

• Dark Cherry

• Mahogany

• Maple

• Oak

• Walnut

As you can see, there is an amazing assortment of bedroom furniture. 

With an abundance of different styles and types of furniture available, you are sure to find pieces that will inspire you to create a bedroom that makes an enchanting statement.