Canopy Beds vs. Regular Beds

What Is a Canopy Bed?

• A standard bed typically consists of a bed frame, headboard and footboard. In addition to these items, a canopy bed also has four tall posts that extend upward from each of the four corners and a canopy “roof” over the bed. While some people simply leave the posts bare, others drape fabric over them to form a canopy.

Styles of Beds

• Just as standard bed frames and headboards come in many different styles, so do canopy beds. Canopy beds are often made from metal or wood. Modern-style canopy beds are simple. The headboard and posts have little or no detail. On the other hand, traditional canopy beds have ornately carved wood posts and headboard.

When to Use

• Two of the main factors to consider when deciding whether to use a standard or a canopy bed are décor and size of the bedroom. If the bedroom lacks any interesting architectural focal point, a canopy bed can be very eye-catching and make a big statement. Canopy beds provide a look of elegance, luxury or romance. For a Victorian feel, use a traditional canopy bed with heavy, draped curtains. Canopy beds are also popular in children’s rooms. A canopy bed with pink netting can be perfect for a princess-themed room. If you have two girls who share a room, a canopy bed with curtains can also provide some privacy.

  While canopy beds can look stunning in a room, there needs to be ample space for the bed. Canopy beds are taller than a standard bed. Canopy beds can be at least 81 to 83 inches tall. Thus, they work well for large bedrooms with high ceilings. While not typically longer or wider than a standard bed, they do take up a lot of “visual space” in the room. The room needs to be large enough not to be overwhelmed by such a large piece of furniture.

Considerations

• Both standard and canopy beds come in a variety of sizes, ranging from twin to king. However, canopy beds are often more expensive than standard beds. If cost is an issue, you can create a canopy by hanging curtains from the ceiling and draping them around the bed.

  Just as there is a wide variety of canopy bed styles, there also is a wide variety of canopy curtains. From ruffled canopy tops to sheer netting to long, flowing curtains, the type of canopy curtain used should match the décor and style of the bedroom. Some canopy curtains come ready-made with accessories for easy hanging; others are custom-made to a customer’s wishes.