THE HIGH, four-poster bed makes a statement of dramatic elegance.
Archivists note that the four-poster bed originally served a purely functional purpose that of keeping people high off the cold, hard ground.
Today, nothing cuts a dash in the bedroom like a well-constructed poster bed. It's one of the first things you see when you walk in. A gorgeous four-poster bed sets the tone for the entire bedroom.
The bed dominates space and its presence lays the foundation for style. Today, traditional hand-carved wood four-poster beds are enjoying a renaissance in popularity because there are so many styles of wood and posts to choose from.
Consider a regal, high-post bed which stands up to eight feet tall and fills a room with its presence.
If you feel intimidated (I do not need that much bed, you say) then how about low-post beds, perhaps three feet high, which offers a subtle, yet substantial look?
Wood and metal
For added texture, designers incorporate four-poster beds that combine wood and metal. Highly polished dark wood can be complemented with brushed pewter accents. For a look that's sleek and modern, some forgo the wood and stick strictly with metal. Consider also a hand-painted bed for a beautiful work of art that serves a practical purpose.
Create the look of a canopy by hanging sheers from the ceiling at the bed's four corners. The canopy also adds a bit of intimacy to a dramatic bed. It lends softness and a touch of elegance to a bedroom.
Many styles today are designed to easily convert from a standard four-poster to a canopy.
The designers suggest that nature lovers can bring the outdoors in by winding fake vines around twisted metal posts.
For the cosiness of a canopy without all the fabric, drape panels over curtain tiebacks above the bed to frame the headboard and soften the wall. It gives a canopy feel, yet keeps the look simple and elegant.
Outlook Team
