The history of the modern canopy bed is tied to the evolution of the bed itself. canopy bed evolved into what we know today after silk became readily available throughout Europe, particularly in Asia and Italy. Canopy beds were also used as a way to keep warm.They were created in an age before central heating and offered protection from drafts. Also, at the time, bugs and other critters were common in homes and castles before people installed screens on windows. Therefore, the canopy bed was created to protect from bugs and pests.
Today’s canopy beds are made from a variety of materials, including natural woods and metals like iron or brass. While many feature elaborate carvings or designs, simple models can also suit any master bedroom decor style or theme.
This article will review the canopy bed and the benefits, risks, and how to choose the best canopy bed.
Canopy Beds We Like
What Is a Canopy Bed?
The canopy bed is a classic style that has come back in modern design and has evolved to include a variety of features.
The traditional canopy bed features four corner posts extending above the bed. The four corner posts are connected at the top with rails, upon which a canopy or cloth “ceiling” is hung. The term “canopy” refers to the cloth covering, also called drapery, that’s suspended over the bed.
In medieval Europe, canopy beds were used by the nobility as a way of keeping warm while also guarding against drafts from windows and doorways. In some cases, carpenters built beds with wooden roofs and walls; these could be covered with fabric or other materials. However, this type of bed was typically used in households of significant wealth. It took a large amount of wood to construct and required other materials for the roofing and canopy bed curtains.
A modern-day canopy bed frame uses a thin metal frame of iron or steel with four posts, one on each corner of the bed. The beds are built with legs that can be attached to each post. The posts are then connected by a crossbar and have a metal rail positioned near the top of each post, which acts as an anchor for the metal frame. A canopy bed frame can also use thinner posts because they often support metal rings that allow canopy bed curtains hung from them.
A canopy bed may have other structural elements, such as an attached desk with a mirror and stools beneath, that are not part of its basic design.
What Are the Benefits of a Canopy Bed?
The canopy bed is a luxurious piece of bedroom furniture that can serve both functional and decorative purposes. It immediately adds refinement to a master bedroom. Although it isn’t always needed, the canopy bed is warmer than a standard bed on a colder night. Sometimes a canopy bed also gives more privacy in a studio space or a shared bedroom.
Some canopy beds offer protection from harmful electromagnetic waves because the overhead structure does not permit the waves to enter the space below. In this way, the canopy beds with EMF-proof canopies are healthier for those sensitive to electromagnetic fields from phones, tablets, and other sources. The canopy bed can also protect from bugs because they generally do not fly high enough to get under the coverings. Some modern versions even come with mosquito netting attached to make them even more bug proof.
What Are the Risks of a Canopy Bed?
Canopy beds are not as popular as they used to be. It is, therefore, possible that you may have to do some searching to find a canopy bed that suits your taste. Generally speaking, a canopy bed tends to be more decorative and is used primarily for aesthetic reasons, while four-poster beds tend to be more functional. In addition, the canopy frame creates a perception of enclosure and privacy, but the thin fabric panels do not provide much in terms of actual privacy. They can sometimes be see-through!
As you might expect, the canopy bed needs more upkeep than other bed styles. The curtains on the canopy bed should be washed frequently; otherwise, they might collect dust. A canopy bed can also block the natural flow of air in a room. For instance, air conditioning vents are sometimes located at the top of a room close to the canopy. Also, it is challenging to have a ceiling fan in a room with a canopy bed. Beware if you have animals, particularly cats, who are allowed in the bedroom. Animals can quickly destroy your canopy from pawing and kneading.
Thus, if you want to go for a canopy bed, make sure that you’re ready to maintain it properly and make sure that it will blend in well with the rest of your home’s design.
Canopy Beds We Like
How to Choose the Best Canopy Bed?
A canopy bed is an ornate bed that is similar to the four-poster bed. The different types of canopy beds include traditional style, modern, antique or whimsical. The style of the canopy will depend on your personal preference and your existing decor. Consider an antique wooden canopy with intricate details if you’re going for a refined look. If you want something bolder, consider a metal canopy with geometric shapes.
In choosing a style, determine what your goal is for buying a canopy bed. For example, if you want to add privacy or cover up an unsightly ceiling fixture, then choose a piece with fabric draping around the frame so that it can be lowered and raised easily as needed. If you’re looking for something to create a grand statement in the room, go for something traditional that extends from floor to ceiling without any fabric.
Today, most homes have heat and don’t need to consider the canopy bed for practicality. Instead, it is a decorative decision that fits your preference. Find the best bed, then look for a great mattress to add to your bed, setting yourself up for the best sleep that you can get. The bed frame and style are just the beginning of your sleep journey.
