Bedroom Furniture Sets: A Brief History

Bedroom Furniture Sets: A Brief History
Photo: Photo: Francesca Tosolini

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Get ready to journey through time and explore the fascinating history of bedroom furniture sets! From humble beginnings of simple sleeping mats to opulent four-poster beds fit for royalty, these sets have evolved over centuries, becoming an essential part of our homes and personal style. In ancient Egypt, wooden beds were decorated with intricate carvings and precious metals, while in other cultures, beds were little more than straw piles or leaves on the ground. As people created more permanent living spaces, furniture sets became more sophisticated, including dressers, wardrobes, and other pieces to help them organise their belongings. Today, countless styles of bedroom furniture sets are available, each with a unique history and design.

So, whether you’re drawn to traditional four-poster beds or modern platform beds, learning about the rich history of bedroom furniture sets can inspire and guide you in choosing the perfect pieces to create your dream bedroom. Join us as we dive into the evolution of bedroom furniture sets throughout history.

1. The Origins of Bedroom Furniture Sets

Concerning bedroom furniture sets, their origins can be traced back to ancient civilisations. The Egyptians, for example, had beds made from wood and reeds that were elevated off the ground. However, it wasn’t until the Middle Ages that bedframes evolved into the furniture sets we know today.

  • The Early Days of Bedframes

During the Middle Ages, bedframes were made from wood and featured simple designs. They consisted of a rectangular frame with four legs and a wooden base to support the mattress. Over time, bedframes began incorporating more intricate designs, such as carving and inlay work. In the 16th century, the four-poster bed became popular. This style of bedframe featured four tall posts at each corner of the bed, often draped with curtains for privacy and warmth. The four-poster bed remained popular for centuries and is still classic in modern bedroom furniture sets.

  • The Evolution of Mattresses

While bedframes were evolving, so too were mattresses. In the Middle Ages, mattresses were typically filled with straw or feathers and placed directly on the wooden base of the bed frame. However, this made for an uncomfortable sleeping experience, and over time, mattresses began to incorporate more comfortable materials. In the 19th century, the coil spring mattress was invented, revolutionising how we sleep. This mattress provided more support and comfort than previous designs, quickly becoming the standard for modern bedroom furniture sets. Today, bedroom furniture sets come in many traditional and contemporary styles. They typically include a bedframe, dresser, and nightstand, often featuring coordinating pieces such as armoires and mirrors. No matter your style, bedroom furniture is set out there to suit your needs and preferences.

2. The Rise of Bedroom Furniture Sets

Looking back in history, you will find that bedroom furniture sets were not always as popular as today. It wasn’t until the Victorian era that bedroom furniture sets became common in homes. Before that, people would typically purchase individual pieces of furniture, such as a bed or a dresser, as needed.

  • The Victorian Era

The Victorian era saw a significant rise in the popularity of bedroom furniture sets. This was partly due to the rise of the middle class, who had more disposable income and could afford luxurious furnishings. Victorian bedroom sets were often ornate and featured intricate carvings and details. Beds were typically large and featured tall headboards and footboards. Dressers and wardrobes were usually solid wood and featured intricate carvings and details. Victorian bedroom sets were also often made of high-quality materials, such as mahogany or walnut, which added to their durability and longevity. They were designed to last for many years, and many of them have survived.

  • The Modern Bedroom

Today, bedroom furniture sets are a common feature in most homes. They are available in various styles and designs, from traditional to modern. Modern bedroom sets are often designed with simplicity and functionality in mind. They are usually made of materials such as metal, glass, and plastic, which are lightweight and easy to clean. Modern bedroom sets often feature clean lines and minimalist designs. They are usually designed to be space-saving, with built-in storage solutions such as drawers and shelves. This makes them ideal for smaller bedrooms or apartments.

Overall, the rise of bedroom furniture sets has made it easier for people to furnish their bedrooms cohesively and stylishly. Whether you prefer a traditional Victorian-style bedroom set or a modern, minimalist design, the bedroom furniture set will suit your needs and taste.

3. Types of Bedroom Furniture Sets

  • Beds

The bed is the centrepiece of any bedroom furniture set. There are many styles of beds, including platform beds, sleigh beds, four-poster beds, and more. Platform beds are low to the ground and have a minimalist design, while sleigh beds have a curved headboard and footboard that resemble a sleigh. Four-poster beds have four tall posts, one at each corner of the bed, and can be very ornate. When choosing a bed, consider the size of your room and the size of the bed you need. A queen-size bed is a popular choice that can fit comfortably in most bedrooms, while a king-size bed is larger and requires more space.

pillows on bed frame
Photo: Kenny Eliason
  • Dressers and Chests

Dressers and chests are used to store clothing and other items. Both come in a variety of styles and sizes to fit your needs. Dressers typically have drawers and a mirror, while chests have drawers only. When choosing a dresser or chest, consider the amount of storage space you need and the style of your bedroom. A tall chest may be a good choice if you have limited floor space, while a wide dresser may be better with a large room.

vase with flowers on top of a chest of drawers
Photo: Eugene Deshko
  • Nightstands

Nightstands are small tables that are placed next to the bed. They hold items such as lamps, books, and alarm clocks. Nightstands come in various styles and sizes and can be a great way to add extra storage space to your bedroom. When choosing a nightstand, consider the height of your bed and the storage space you need. A taller nightstand may be a good choice if you have a high bed, while a smaller nightstand may be better if you have limited space.

wood 2 drawer night stand
Photo: Megan Bucknall
  • Armoires

Armoires are large, freestanding cabinets used to store clothing and other items. They typically have a hanging rod for clothes and shelves or drawers for different things. Armoires come in various styles and sizes and can be a great way to add extra storage space to your bedroom. When choosing an armoire, consider the amount of storage space you need and the style of your bedroom. A tall, narrow armoire may be a good choice if you have limited floor space, while a wide, spacious armoire may be better if you have a large room.

Armoire with glass doors
Photo: VillageChic

4. Choosing the Right Bedroom Furniture Set

Choosing the correct bedroom furniture set can be an exciting and overwhelming experience. The correct set can transform your bedroom into a peaceful and comfortable haven, while the wrong one can leave you frustrated and uncomfortable. Here are some things to consider when choosing a suitable bedroom furniture set.

  • Consider Your Style – When choosing a bedroom furniture set, it is essential to consider your style. Do you prefer a traditional, modern, or rustic look? Do you want a set that matches or one that is more eclectic? Take some time to browse through different styles and find one that speaks to you. It is also essential to consider the style of the rest of your home. You want your bedroom furniture set to complement the rest of your decor, not clash with it. A traditional bedroom set may look out of place if you have a modern home.
  • Think About Functionality – While style is essential, the functionality should not be overlooked. Consider how you will be using your bedroom furniture. Do you need extra storage? If so, a set with a dresser and nightstands may be a good choice. Do you have a small bedroom? If so, a set with a smaller bed and fewer pieces may be a better option. It is also essential to consider the durability of the set. You want a set that will last for years to come. Look for collections made from high-quality materials and with sturdy construction.
  • Take Measurements – Before purchasing a bedroom furniture set, it is essential to take accurate measurements of your bedroom. Measure the length and width of your room and the height of your ceiling. Also, measure the size of your bed and any other furniture you plan to keep in the room. This will ensure that the set you choose fits comfortably in your space.