Post Modern

Back in the good old days, before standardized bed sizes like twin, double or king, the bed was a sign of wealth and prestige. The larger and more ornate the bed, the more prominent its owner was considered to be. It makes perfect sense, then, that the bed of kings was the four poster bed.

In the evolution of the bed, it might be surprising to note that the canopy or tester appeared first and was not associated with the four poster bed until roughly two centuries later. The canopy, from which curtains were hung, was originally suspended above the bed by cords from the beams of the ceiling. When the poster bed finally caught up with the canopy, it was certainly worth the wait. The simple bedstead of yore now boasted panels of wood, an elaborate canopy frame stretching the full length of the bed and richly colored and embroidered fabrics. Silk sheets, of course, were used. Depending on the nobleman or monarch, these impressive structures for sleeping were often embellished with gold bars, silver accents, precious jewels and gold thread.

Still popular today, perhaps because it makes its occupant feel like royalty, the poster bed is the bed of choice when wanting to make a statement. But, for most of us, what immediately spring to mind are the elaborately carved posts, bun feet, crown molding and intricately detailed motifs of a traditional style bed. However, today's manufacturers of bedroom furniture offer modern and contemporary versions that are just as impressive in their own right as their ancestors.

The Lifestyle Solutions Wilshire Canopy Four Poster Platform Bed is a perfect example. Pairing the low-profile type of bed with tall, tapering posts creates the illusion of grand scale, without sacrificing precious space. Very contemporary, the clean lines are emphasized by the dark finish for a look that is distinctive yet restful.

Mixing materials (like precious stones embedded in wood) is nothing new, but the Homelegance Levanto Maple Poster Bed does so in a chicly modern way. The simple curves and clean straight lines of the wood are offset by the tapered spire bedposts with sleek nickel finials and accents. This poster bed would blend with a number of contemporary styles, including transitional.

The same can be said for the American Drew Sterling Pointe Poster Bed. Its design is distinctly modern, but it does display classic structural accents that create visual interest. The gentle arch of the headboard is given definition by decorative molding. The lines of the square tapered posts are bold and unique.

These three poster beds have one thing in common: they are a tasteful fusion of traditional and contemporary elements. If you have always wanted a poster bed, but have thought of them as being too traditional, it's time reconsider. Many manufacturers offer urban chic poster beds designed for today's modern lifestyle.