Winging It

Upholstered, wingback beds are perfect for soaring off into dream land. The protruding “wings” on either side of the head board and, sometimes, the foot board give an added sense of privacy and feel more cozy. Of course, fabric(s), frame materials and finishing touches such as nail heads and tufting, are limitless, so you can custom tailor to suit yourself. Though I couldn’t track down any history of wingback beds,  we can assume they were inspired by wingback chairs, which first appeared in poorly heated, 17^th century English homes and were designed to block drafts.  As for 21^st century beds, here are a few examples that have recently caught my eye:

Photo Courtesy of Kravet.com

If your room is small you should opt for just the wingback headboard. No need for a footboard, but don’t be afraid of height for the headboard. This sleek, contemporary bed from Kravet is upholstered in Ultrasuede for a comfortable, luxurious look with custom-tailored details.

Photo Courtesy of Anthropoligie.com

Leather and geometry give this unusual bedroom its offbeat personality within classic boundaries. The tufted headboard and crisp, blue and white backdrop are traditional elements juxtaposed with the colorful geometric rug and the sharply planed lamps. Look closer and you’ll notice that unusual accent chair with the tapered, white front legs – that’s an unexpected element that makes me smile!

Photo Courtesy of HickoryChair.com

This sophisticated bed is a carefully crafted blend of masculine and feminine. The rich walnut veneer is paired with an inner headboard upholstered in a plush gray channeled fabric, giving it an aura of executive success, while the flouncy white and gray pillow shams and flowers on the nightstand soften the look. The bed can be placed against a wall or floated in the center of the room for 360-degree appreciation of its many assets.

Photo Courtesy of ElleDecor.comA dark leather, wingback bed is a smart choice for the rough-luxe tone of this spacious bedroom - heavy wooden beams and doors are paired with a delicate marble-topped side table and soft-spoken acrylic lamp. The two-toned leather bolster pillows look so comfy, too!

Photo Courtesy of SummerHouseStyle.com

A simple, creamy white, wingback headboard and crisp gray and white bedding are cheerful contrast to the dark, mysterious wall treatment and dark accent lamps and pillows.

Okay, now I'm ready for a nap!