Usually the bed is the first thing you see in a room. Choosing which style to go for is an important decision.

In the past, the four poster bed was necessary to surround yourself with drapes to keep out the cold and allow a little privacy from the servants. There are a number of very glamorous modern four poster beds that make a statement and are light and airy. One such is the wooden four poster by West Elm. This is a nod to the sixties and can be complimented by other mid twentieth century bedroom furniture in their range. The Beaumont white four poster bed by the White Company is more of a fairy tale wrought iron affair suitable for a more romantic styling. It is also available in black which has a gothic feel.

A sleigh bed is a popular choice. A wooden bow shape at both ends makes the room immediately traditional and warm. I prefer the look with the lower end at the bottom which gives you the chance to put an ottoman or a small sofa at the bottom of the bed.

This French look is also sold with upholstered headboards. Usually in light wood and with linen upholstery, these beds are charming and natural. The headboard can also be in a white rattan which is reminiscent of the warmth of southern climes.

Think about what look you want the bedroom style to be: light and billowing, cosy and warm, comfortable and modern – you should choose the bed which will set the tone.

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As the bed tends to be the focal point in the bedroom, particularly the master bedroom, it’s important to get the style right. That being said, it should not dominate and be the only thing you notice in the room with other pieces of furniture dwarfed. A dramatic headboard is one way of introducing some character and individual style to the bed, as the look of the basic shape and and size of the bed tends to be generic. By choosing a fabric that reflects the colours in the room or blends in with the curtains, you can choose a wide variety of options. A plain velvet button backed headboard is a classic, or you might want to use a gentle pattern and match it with the coverlet or throw at the end of the bed as well as some cushions. To go for a more country look, choose a linen in pastel tones to give a restful feel.

There are bolder headboards – ones made of wood or an urban metal look. A current look is the rattan headboard which often comes as a half moon shape and is an organic, peaceful addition to the bedroom.

An oversized headboard that rises above you is reminiscent of the hotel look. Sometimes these are useful and lighting can be installed for reading. Oka have a stylish large headboard – King Palmette – handmade from mango wood, it is tall and painted in a subtle grey/green finish, guaranteed to be an eye catching piece in the room. For upholstered headboards you can get bespoke made to the size and height you want or Loaf and John Lewis have a good selection.

The bedroom should always be a haven and a space where rest and calm are paramount. Use the bed as a central part of your design. Make it both unique and let it lead the look you are aiming for in the room. The headboard is the easiest way to bring new elements into the room so start dreaming of a new look.

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Subsequently it has faded in and out of consciousness. It had an iconic moment in the film Emmauel when the popularity of the peacock chair become assured and since then it had been largely used in sunrooms and gardens.

Recently there has been a revival of rattan and wicker. This particular method of constructing furniture has had a new lease of life and along with the fernery/green theme in interior design means that there are plenty of options to choose from to bring this open weave into your home.

Soane in particular have brought out some beautiful pieces made of rattan. Their shell chair is both elegant and a statement in any room. They also have some pretty lampshades in red which will add both colour and texture to any design.

Rocket St George have created some interesting dining chairs that are basket woven. Coming in black and blonde, these chairs can sit easily within an under modern apartment or a Victorian kitchen diner.

For just a dash of this trend you could go to OKA and get a Mandalay side table or one of their lamp bases.

It’s a trend that is quite manageable and which can add interest to set against the softer fabrics and carpets you might have in a living room or bedroom.

There are so many ways to factor this material into your home design that it should not be ignored.

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Traditionally to be seen in kitchens gingham has been upgraded and moved into the sitting room and bedroom.

In a children’s bedroom this cheery fabric comes in lots of pastel shades to add interest in both curtains and blinds as well as cushions . We have moved on from the polarisation of blues / pinks being exclusively boy or girls and the aqua or yellow provide a fun option for colour.

It works best as a Roman blind with accompanying accessories such as lampshades and cushions.

You can use this cheeky check as a neutral in biscuit or oatmeal to contrast with more sumptuous fabrics in a sitting room. Gingham with a metallic thread can hold its own next to a silk or velvet. By putting this fabric on an occasional chair you will bring freshness and stability to your design.

Coming in such a variety of colours it’s simple and adaptable.

Less John Wayne cowboy : more country chic.

Visit or Gallery for more inspiration and modern interior design ideas or go back to the homepage and contact us on 01223 360797.

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