Classic Hardwood

What is commonly known as a sleigh bed is a wonderful style of bed that has scrolled or curved footboard and headboard. The name is derived from its likeness to a sled or sleigh. The headboard is generally larger than the footboard, and they are both given a scroll feature.

Designs originally date back to the 19th Century, and seem to originate from both France and America. However, inspiration is thought to have been drawn from the ancient Greek and Roman empires.

In my opinion, above any other bedroom furniture, the sleigh bed makes a glorious centrepiece to any room; providing an air of charm and charisma. The rolling design is timeless, and also makes a change to the modern bedroom furniture, that tends to be chunky and square.

Recently sleigh beds have slimmed down, partly due to the reduced sizes of houses we now live in, and partly to give a sleeker style. Equally, the designs have toned down and we find less ornate head and footboards.

I have compiled a brief list of things to watch for when buying a sleigh bed:

1 – In the most part, sleigh beds are made from Mahogany. Ensure that the bed you buy is made from 100% solid hardwood. Veneers are to be avoided at all costs, as are pine furniture imitations.

2 – A quality frame is essential, mahogany is a very heavy wood and the size of most headboards means that anything less than a solid hardwood frame will bend (if it’s metal), or break (if it’s a softwood).

3 – Think about headboard size and style. Whilst stunning, a massive headboard may swamp the room and make the rest of your furniture look like it’s from a dolls house!

4 – Look for evidence of dovetail joints. These are the strongest and highest quality of wood joints, and will ensure the longevity of the furniture.

If you are looking for an impressive bed, there is no other choice than a high quality sleigh bed.