Type of Headboard That Wraps Around

Description

• A wingback headboard echoes the look of a wingback chair with a tall back and curved sides, or wings, that come out at 90 degrees or greater to the headboard’s back. Wingback headboards are fully upholstered and often tufted, which means that fabric-covered buttons make depressions in the fabric and create a design. Modern wingback headboard versions may not feature tufting. Wingback headboards may have exposed wood trim or decorative nail heads on the wings as well.

Origin

• Wingback chairs, first introduced in the 1700s, blocked drafts and captured a fire’s warmth. They were usually set near the fireplace, where residents could turn them to optimize exposure to the flames. Through the centuries, these upholstery-and-wood chairs became synonymous with luxury, warmth and style. The wingback chairs usually featured exposed wooden legs and detailing paired with plush upholstery. These chairs served as inspiration for today's wingback headboard, which capitalizes on the easily recognizable design of the wingback chair, creating a comfortable, elegant sleeping space.

Styles

• Wingback headboards come in a variety of styles, designs, fabrics and finishes. Styles range from cherry wood and sleek leather combinations to completely upholstered versions in vintage fabric. Visually, wingback headboards give the bed a look of permanence and presence. When designing a look for a bedroom, the headboard often sets the standard as the focal point.

Advantages

• While you may not need a wingback headboard to keep drafts away, a solid, padded headboard offers several advantages. The solid construction and high back make sitting up in bed comfortable when watching television, working on a laptop or reading a book. The headboard padding makes it comfortable to sit against. Because of their size and visual density, wingback headboards work best in large bedrooms where they quickly become a focal point.