Upholstered headboard ideas to add interest to your bedroom

The bed is the focal point of the bedroom. Why not spice up your space with bold headboards that steal the show and set your imagination on fire?

Upholstered headboards can make a bedroom feel cosier than wooden or metal designs. Something about tactile fabrics creates a homely and snuggly atmosphere – perfect for a good night’s sleep.

So, headboards are important to get right, but before we get to the inspiration, there are a few practicalities you need to know first…

Bold headboard design with natural patterns
The Tree of Life bespoke headboard for Firmdale Hotels / Kit Kemp Design Studio, price on application, Natasha Hulse.

Upholstered headboards: practicalities

The headboard needs to be attached to the bed – obvious, I know, but you can’t just run out and buy a fancy headboard without thinking about this first. Beds often come with the headboard built in, and some bases won’t work with certain headboards. So, choosing the two elements from the same company can be a simple solution as the two will fit together. However, you’re not constrained to this.

Consider whether the headboard is tall enough for you or your partner’s height. Also, don’t choose a headboard that’s too tall if you have a low ceiling, as it can make the room look smaller.

For a statement look, it’s worth opting for a design that’s wider than the bed. And, when it comes to maintenance, you can’t just pop your headboard in the washing machine. If you are concerned about dirt or dust, choose one that is easy to clean or perhaps a material that is darker or patterned.

Colourful bedroom: click here to see how this renovator created a boutique hotel master suite

Design decisions

What are the latest upholstered headboard trends, you ask? Elena Mellows, head of buying at Oak Furnitureland, says that colour is key. “We’re seeing more customers choose from a richer colour palette including emerald green, teal or navy with velvet fabrics still leading the way,” she explains.

Making a bold headboard work in a space can be difficult as it pulls much attention. So, how do you manage that?

“From a style perspective, an upholstered design allows you to introduce colour and pattern to the space, while acting as an anchor to base your scheme around,” advises Emma Deterding, founder of Kelling Designs. “Highlight key colours from the fabric and use cushions and accessories throughout the room to create a cohesive look and balance of colour and pattern.”

Ornate headboard in a traditional style bedroom
Rosyth headboard, £750, Anbôise.

Upholstered headboard ideas

With statement headboards, you can either go bold with the help of the fabric or the shape. But the sneaky third option is to get creative with both!

What options are out there? The latest trend revolves around soft, curved shapes. Think of the classic seashell or rounded shapes, which are perfect for creating a stunning centrepiece – be it in a lively shade or a calming neutral.

Shell cream headboard with monochrome duvet and blanket
Art Deco super king beige linen headboard, £1500, Rockett St George.

The classic square headboard will never go out of style. The simple design can showcase plain colours, shapes within the patchwork, or tufting. If you’re not into bold colours or patterns, this is a great opportunity for making a calm yet stylish statement.

Grey upholstered headboard with tufting
Buttoned headboard in grey, £595, Cox & Cox.
pink headboard
Yarnmouth tall headboard in Easy Clean Plush Velvet Petal, from £536, Darlings of Chelsea.

More of a maximalist? Bold colours are ideal for injecting personality into a bedroom. Ornate headboards are one of the biggest bedroom trends in 2023click here to find out more.

These striking designs come in a range of styles, from modern and fun to elaborate traditional designs.

Maximalist bed design
Matisse headboard in bespoke fabric, £1695 for a king size, Furl.

Upholstered headboards: shop the look

Range of seven headboard designs
1. Rita custom headboard, from £1435, Andrew Martin. 2. The Great River headboard upholstered in Tracery Fuchsia hand-block printed linen, from £1300 for a double, Anbôise. 3. Artisan Collection Thomas Suzani straight headboard, £1800, Kelling Home. 4. Thomas Artisan super king-sized headboard, £1800, KDloves. 5. Rum headboard in Giraffe Blossom fabric, £1499 for a king size, The Headboard Workshop. 6. Marrakech headboard, from £1310, Lorfords Contemporary. 7. Transylvanian Manor headboard, £2900, Mindthegap.

Need more help buying a bed? Watch this video

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