It is said that the sleigh be first made an appearance during Louis Philippe’s reign (1830-1848). It was designed for just one person and while it did have rolled sides, it looked more like a day bed than the sleigh bed we are familiar with today. The sleigh bed form became further developed in the mid-to-late 1800s by craftsmen who created headboards and footboards with dramatic rolls that curved inward or outward. When the “S” curve became so pronounced that the bed had the appearance of a horse-drawn sleigh, the sleigh bed gained in popularity. Sleigh beds, characterized by elegant, curving lines and has a distinctive, romantic feel are the epitome of luxury, especially when dressed with plush bedding and plenty of pillows. For the one room in your home intended for sweet dreams, there really is nothing cozier and more inviting than a sleigh bed.

The sleigh bed is just as fashionable today as it was during the 1860s. Perhaps it is because of its flowing curves; its elegant and graceful profile; or its echo back to a simpler more gracious lifestyle. Whatever the reason, a sleigh bed is a popular choice for adults and children alike, from the master bedroom to the guest bedroom to the kid’s room. But don’t be fooled into thinking it’s just for a traditional style décor.

Modern Style Sleigh Bed

A modern style bedroom should start with a soothing, neutral palette (shown here from Benjamin Moore). Since modern style is known for its angular lines and lack of decorative detail, it may seem that a modern sleigh bed is a contradiction in terms.

While it might not possess strictly angular lines, with its hint of the typical sleigh bed “S” curve, the geometric pattern and the metal material it is made of makes the Hillsdale Mansfield Metal Modern Platform Bed uniquely modern.

Pair the Global Furniture USA Emily Nightstand with the NOVA Lighting Swerve Table Lamp and you’ll have a modern style bedroom with a sleigh bed as its visually stunning centerpiece.

The Contemporary Style Sleigh Bed

Contemporary décor colors can be brighter, incorporating more intense shades and tones. For a bedroom, color choices should still be calming and tranquil.

The Homelegance Syracuse Sleigh Bed 2 Piece Bedroom Set has a contemporary style that is elegant and sophisticated. While it makes a fashion statement, the sleigh bed has a low-profile footboard which lends the bed a more open, spacious feel. The tapered lines of the Homelegance Syracuse Nightstand give it a fluidity that’s very chic.

Clean lines, the neutral color of the shade and the bold use of shape give the Kenroy Home Bella Chocolate Faux Leather Table Lamp its very contemporary style. The mix of materials – fabric lamp shade, metal pull chains and decorative metal accent and a faux leather base – is a typical characteristic of both contemporary furniture and table lamps.

The Transitional Style Sleigh Bed

Typical colors for a transitional style bedroom are more muted and earth-toned.

A transitional sleigh bed combines both contemporary and traditional design and style elements together for look that not too formal or too modern. The Modus City II Leatherette Low Profile Sleigh Bed in Coco 4 Piece Bedroom Set demonstrates how transitional style softens austere ultra-modern lines with tapering curves and profiles. The satin nickel drawer pulls of the Modus City II 9 Drawer Double Dresser and the Modus City II 2 Drawer Nightstand make these case goods as stylish as they are functional.

Lighting in a bedroom is important. Especially when selecting bedside lamps, they should complement the nightstands in a way that creates a secondary focal point to the sleigh bed. The transitional design of the AF Lighting Davin Table Lamp will add visual interest to the bedroom’s overall décor design.

If you enjoy that classic look and appearance of the sleigh bed, you don’t have to limit yourself to more formal or traditional interior design styles. These three sleigh beds demonstrate how they can be adapted into more updated décors like modern, contemporary and transitional styles.