Allure of four-poster bed dates back centuries

There was a time when the bedstead was considered to be the most important item of furniture in the house. In Medieval England these bedsteads were ornately carved, surrounded by luxurious curtains and richly decorated counterpanes. It was a major concern to keep warm. This cozy chamber, raised off the floor and protected from drafts and cold, became a practical and acceptable rendezvous for entertaining for royalty and commoners alike.

Since that time we have had a love affair with the four-poster bed. Historically, it is the most sought-after bed design. Different styles evolved, depending on who was in power and the ideas brought back from different cultures.

The canopy, or tester, was first introduced as a curtain hung over cords that were suspended from the ceiling beams. This progressed to wooden or metal rails for the curtains set up around the bed. The Tudor four-poster bed was huge, with massive carved posts that supported heavy valances and hangings.

In the 17th century the bedstead became one whole unit: Bed frames and posts were made all in one, and the same fabric was used for the valance, quilt and bed curtains, and continued at the windows. Variations on this style are still in great demand. Because our interiors are heated, the fully enclosed bed chamber is not so important. Even in the cold climates, hanging dozens of yards of weighty and expensive materials has given way to lighter and simpler solutions. But the allure and romance of being cosseted will always capture our imaginations.

The most minimal of the four-poster designs is the pencil-post bed, which has plain or twisted posts, not very high -- about 3 feet, and not meant to have a canopy. The next step is an extended pencil post, where the four posts are connected at the bottom to the bed frame and at the top by beams. This canopy style shown here is simple, yet distinguished in a more modern setting. Stark, clean geometric lines determine the bed as the focal point in the room. Dark-stained wood and a sensuous silk bed blanket are luxurious, warm and inviting. Wrought-iron or steel posts and beams would up the contemporary mood even more, while continuing to hark back to another era, which is always an exciting design trick.

With a canopy bed you can develop a specific mood or atmosphere simply with the choice of fabric and the method of hanging or draping the material over and around the bed. If you're looking for drama and a little mystery in the bedroom, fashion a swagged canopy in saturated tones of velvet and satin. Add fringe and tassels on tiebacks and trim with gold or sequins. The play of dim light on the sheen of these materials is mesmerizing.

A white or pastel canopy and simple linen or cotton curtain panels hung at the sides and back, in place of a headboard, will create a tranquil mood. Natural materials and shades of water and earth are calming and restful.

For a masculine, tailored effect, try a fitted canopy in gray, black or even plaid flannel or wool. Leave the sides open or continue with the straight lines, using piping as trim.

Sheers, muslin and mosquito netting are summery favorites and can be gathered, swagged, draped and easily held back to suit the situation.

Debbie Travis is a columnist for King Features Syndicate. E-mail questions to her at house2home@debbietravis.com.