In recent years, the bedroom has become more than just somewhere for sleep. More people today use it as a retreat to unwind, watch some television, or work on their computers. Everyone wants a room that is restful, comfortable, and stylish. To create the proper feel, furniture should be chosen carefully.

Do not try to fit in more or larger pieces than the room will accommodate. Some of the larger beds, such as a queen sleigh bed or four poster can make a small room feel crowded. If you have a small bedroom, opt for just a headboard. You might consider choosing a chest rather than a dresser, placing a mirror on the wall if one is desired.

If there is sufficient space, a sleigh bed has an elegant look and then a cozy, snug feeling at night. Traditionally, this style has rolled tops on both the foot board and the headboard. They need to be paired with items that are of a similar scale. Bow front pieces, such as chests, nightstands, and dressers, work well with this style.

Sleigh beds first appeared early in the nineteenth century, but they were a far cry from the ones on the market today. They were built for single use and were more akin to day beds. They were developed later than canopy or poster beds, which usually had curtains that could be closed to block drafts. Early models of both types were usually finished in dark stains, such as walnut or cherry. Today they are available in a wide range of finishes and some models even incorporate leather or metal.

For a light, airy feel, you might consider a wicker headboard. Many of these are painted, often in white, and can help make a dark bedroom more cheerful. You can also choose a fabric covered headboard to brighten the room or add drama, depending on the fabric chosen.

Whatever style of bed you choose, you should select bedding that suits it best. For a four post or canopy bed, a bedspread is a good choice. Comforters or quilts look better with sleigh types. Take into account the finish as well, since pale paint or stain normally look best with bedding in lighter shades.

It is not uncommon for bedroom furniture to be kept until it is no longer functional. As such, consider that you may need to sleep in the bed you choose for many years. If you take a little time to select a style you can live with, you will probably be more satisfied in the long term.