Decorating Ideas for a Bed With No Head or Foot Boards

Headboard Replacements

• You can create the look of an attached headboard in a variety of ways that suit any decorating style. For a vintage, shabby-chic look, attach a whitewashed picket fence to the wall with screws behind the head of the bed. For a chic French-inspired look, attach the gate of a wrought-iron fence; these come in different heights and designs. Create your own fabric-covered faux headboard out of pressboard covered with batting and fabric and attach it to the wall with screws.

Footboard Replacements

• A footboard at the end of the bed signals a transition between a sleeping space and another area in the bedroom. A piece of furniture at the end of the bed works just as well. A vintage trunk at the foot of the bed doubles as a storage piece, while a large bench is streamlined enough to be unobtrusive and also work as bedroom seating if necessary. A console table the same height as the bed imitates the look of a footboard and doubles as a display area for photos and accessories.

Canopy

• In lieu of a headboard or a footboard, create a suspended canopy. Hang curtain rods the same width or slightly wider than your bed directly above the head and foot of your bed. Suspend the curtain rods from S-shaped hooks and fishing line so that they hang a few inches below the ceiling. Drape long lengths of fabric over the rods so that the cloth hangs elegantly above the head and foot of the bed, creating a canopy.

Folding Screens and Vintage Doors

• Folding screens and vintage doors add a dramatic flair when used in place of headboards. Place an antique door or exotic screen at the head of the bed for an old-world look. Screens can be placed in a resting position behind the bed, while doors can be suspended from the ceiling or bolted to the wall.