Canopy Beds and its Evolution to the Modern Bedroom

A canopy bed is a great way to create an everlasting ambiance in a bedroom. The drapes of fabric cascading down to the bottom of the bed bring immediate elegance and warmth. Canopies not only evoke cozy and romantic aesthetics in any bedroom but it also comes with many unexpected benefits. Traditionally, canopies were used in the bedroom for many reasons. Some cultures used canopies for protection from nature’s intruders, other cultures used them for temperature regulation, and some used them for privacy. No matter the usage, it seems as though, canopy beds transgressed through many cultures and times.

Interestingly enough, I found out that canopy’s popularity arose during the Medieval era in Europe, with its origin traced back to the Middle East. Canopies in the bedroom were mostly used by the wealthy in the Medieval period.

In the earliest days of the European castle, the lord and his family slept in the great hall, along with all their servants. The noble family’s sleeping area was usually at one end of the hall and was separated from the rest by simple curtains.² In time, castle builders constructed separate chambers for the nobility, but though lords and ladies had their bed(s) to themselves, attendants might share the room for convenience and security. For the sake of warmth as well as privacy, the lord’s bed was curtained, and his attendants slept on simple pallets on the floor, on trundle beds, or on benches.
Thoughtco.com

A bedroom in the Medieval ages had a bed with heavy curtains that retained full privacy. Here is a photo of an early canopy bed.

Now that we know a brief history of canopies and their early usage; let’s begin talking about how canopy beds are used in modern times. It’s still reflective that canopies in some societies are used for protection, especially from nature. However, today, canopies are mostly used for aesthetics and for creating serenity in a room.

Without further ado, let’s begin with my favorite style of décor, the ultimate Moroccan bedroom.

In these Moroccan bedrooms, the canopies look like curtain drapes that can be closed and used for privacy. Once closed it looks like the curtains create a sleeping nook.

Canopies have translated well with bohemian aesthetics. Drapes can be used the non traditional way, creating an elusion of endless fabric. In these pictures canopies are hung effortlessly, letting it cast naturally and freely.

Canopies are for everyone and it’s definitely not expensive. There are so many different ways to style your canopy. In the world of Pinterest, there are infinite DIY inspirations that will surely meet your style.

Last but not least are these eye-catching, breathtaking and elegant canopies that scream sophistication at their core.

If these bedroom decorations didn’t inspire you to get even contemplate getting a canopy, then I don’t know what will. Check out my Pinterest page to check the origins of these gorgeous images.

I’ve also created a couple of links that can potentially give you an idea of where to get canopies. These links are affiliated, if you decide to purchase through the links I do receive a small commission without affecting the original cost for the consumer. Just click on the picture below and it will get you right to the website.