Designers Are Going All in on Canopy Beds in 2024

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Back in medieval times, the best canopy beds kept snoozers warm and sunlight out. In the mid-21st century, however, they're more decorative than they are functional. In fact, plenty of our favorite home stores that offer canopy beds don't even include an actual canopy. For those who love this style and are thinking about buying one for their space, we have good news: canopy bed frames are back in for 2024. According to interior designer Kelly Hoppen, "A canopy bed is more than just furniture; it's a statement of elegance and luxury. Picture a bed fit for royalty, featuring a frame that extends vertically, creating a sense of grandeur."

The furniture piece is no longer reserved for just royals and the elite though, now anyone can own this style. So what is a canopy bed, exactly? According to Hoppen, "Traditionally, it has four corner posts, often connected by a crossbeam to form an overhead canopy. However, it can also be modern and simple, without any fabric, using a square design to create an illusion of height and a sleek frame." With the designer's help, we went ahead and chose 15 gorgeous canopy beds that definitely look and feel royal, but don't cost nearly as much as they would have when royals were commissioning them.

If you want to incorporate such a regal piece into your space, peep our favorite finds below. A pro tip to keep in mind as you browse? Be sure to measure your room before you buy an item because there's nothing worse than bringing a big piece into your home only to realize it won't fit. For convenience, too, we shared all of the key measurements right under each product.

Marinez Low-Profile Canopy Bed

Though canopy beds have allegedly been around since fourth-century China, their first recorded arrival on the design scene is in medieval Europe, which is why we tend to picture something regal and sturdy when we think of them. This one from Three Posts recalls the original design in a much more contemporary way, with the slender posts and upholstered headboard. Canopy beds from centuries-past tended to be made entirely of heavy carved wood. One happy customer says, "More beautiful in person than described. Easy assembly." What's better than easy assembly when it comes to putting together a large piece of furniture? If you're not up to the task, though, feel free to enlist professional assembly for $80.

Whitby Canopy Bed

Marie Antoinette definitely had a proper canopy on her bed, but we imagine the frame looked something like this. It's so elegant and glamorous that arguably France's most fashionable royal would certainly approve. It may look delicate but the entire frame is actually made of thick iron, which is one of the most durable metals. One reviewer says, "I was so afraid of making this purchase online. When it arrived in two boxes, I was very nervous. This Whitby Canopy bed exceeded all my expectations! Love! Love! Love!"

Celeste Canopy Bed

If you want the expensive look and feel of a canopy bed without the hefty price tag, this is a good option. On sale for less than $300, this CosmoLiving frame is nothing short of cool, taking a totally different approach to the design than the medieval original. This one is complete with metal side rails that come together by way of matte gold connectors, giving it a uniquely modern look. One reviewer says, "It's giving luxury. It was a beast to put together, but it's definitely worth it!"

Whitaker Four Poster Bed

Leave it to Serena & Lily to deliver on its promise of beachy luxury. Available in three finishes and four sizes, the Whitaker bed is about as stately as bedroom furniture gets, with subtly tapered posts, notched headboard, and natural wood base.

Aston Canopy Bed

Canopy beds fell a bit out of fashion when midcentury modern, a design style that rejects the ornamentation and attention to detail of previously popular looks, took over, but this AllModern piece screams function over all else. Of course, the canopy is more decorative than anything else, but the clean lines, steel frame, and simplistic look are classic midcentury elements. One reviewer says, "It's sturdy and modern, the perfect addition for a bedroom remodel."

Hargrove Canopy Bed

Leaning into West Elm's signature midcentury modern look, this canopy bed is simplistic in all the right ways. The wood is smooth and not stained, there's no extravagant detailing, and it's highly functional—all elements of the iconic design movement that still creeps into some of the most stylish homes today. Did we mention that it's in stock and ready to ship? There's no need to wait weeks and weeks for your bed to arrive. Just add it to your cart and expect your package in under 14 days. Yes, there's white glove delivery, so don't fret about how in the world you'd assemble this by yourself.

The Thompson Canopy Bed

If you're in the market for something supremely luxurious, you can't go wrong with this Maiden Home canopy bed, which is made-to-order and completely customizable. This one may look a bit quiet, but feel free to have it upholstered in any of the brand's iconic fabrics, including the beige bouclé. The frame, on the other hand, is made from all natural and locally sourced materials. The wood, for instance, is all hand-carved at the brand's factory in North Carolina. One of the reviews says, "I'm very impressed with the quality of these beds and how great they look after a year-plus of use. The leather has aged beautifully and have had guests ask where the beds are from."

Lazio Canopy Bed

Finished in metal and wood, this is a cool canopy bed that makes a serious statement in just about any bedroom. That said, because the colors are naturally on the darker side, it's easy for it to skew masculine. Either lean in and opt for darker bedding or go in the opposite direction and try white sheets and blankets. Luckily, it's as contemporary as it looks: there's no need for a box spring nor is it hard to put together. One happy reviewer says, "This has been our bed for more than two years and it is perfect! It doesn’t make any noise and it is a strong bed. I definitely recommend it. It is exactly as pictured."

Sutherland Canopy Bed

This elegant canopy bed is the work of Studio McGee, who looked no further than the original design to influence the brand's most popular piece. With a lightly padded headboard upholstered in soft linen and a sleek metal frame, this is a classic design that works with any style. The appeal is, dare we say, timeless.

Rowan Upholstered Canopy Bed

For anyone who worries dark furniture can be a bit heavy, worry not. There are hundreds (yes, hundreds) of other colors and fabrics to choose from for this option, so feel free to go as bold or as demure as you'd like. Personally, we're into the mocha velvet pictured, but if we had to go in a different direction, the blueberry tweed would be a serious contender. No matter which color you go with, you're bound to love your bed because, well, just look at it. The sturdy and sculptural silhouette is for the design-forward set who likes to make a serious style statement.

Prana Live-Edge Canopy Bed

It's rare to see live edge wood in the form of a bed, but we're here for it. This gorgeous frame is handmade with ethically sourced wood, meaning each piece is one-of-a-kind. The Prana bed comes in two finishes: a lighter option (pictured) and a slightly darker one. Neither, though, feel oppressive or heavy since they're both such a vivid celebration of natural materials.

Canyon Canopy Bed

Since canopy beds are so traditional in concept, we didn't expect to find anything too funky, but then we stumbled upon this unique pick from Crate & Barrel, which is a totally new take on the design. The main element: black metal tubing on the head and foot of the bed that are connected by thin bars. We'd expect nothing less from designer Leanne Ford. One reviewer says, "My queen bed was delivered and put together by the C&B third-party today, and I am in love! The bed is absolutely GORGEOUS and very hot. I feel like a queen in it."

Anzori Metal Canopy Bed

This is another unexpected find that takes a cool approach to canopy beds. There's something undeniably eye-catching about the rounded corners, thin metal posters that wrap around the whole bed, and upholstered headboard and footboard. It also comes in a sandy color.

Bastille Canopy Bed

With a blackened pewter frame and burnished brass accents, this bed is all about the details, which is why it's one of our favorites. It's designed to work with or without a canopy, but we highly recommend using one if you want that sophisticated French feel. One happy customer says, "The bed is beyond gorgeous. It arrived in perfect condition. Looks expensive: It's heavy and beautifully made. I’ve wanted a canopy bed for years and the design and finishes of this one checked all the boxes—the gold accents really sealed the deal. I keep going into the bedroom to stare at it. And I swear I am sleeping better." Well, there you have it. This bed will give you better sleep.

Franklin Four Poster Bed

Perhaps the most versatile on the list, this Serena & Lily bed is available in everything from a twin to a California king, and more than 120 color options from the brand's vast fabric library. Complete with a channeled headboard for added support when you're leaning back and lounging during movie night. The best part, however, is the fact that every square inch of this perfect pick is upholstered and gently padded.

Meet the expert

Famous for her signature East meets West style, interior designer Kelly Hoppen has penned a whopping 10 tomes and has partnered with several brands like English paint brand Lick, RH, and wallpaper experts de Gournay on home collections. Hoppen has also appeared on a few television shows, including Superior Interiors with Kelly Hoppen back in 2011. Her notable accolades include winning the Andrew Martin Interior Design Award, an ELLE Decoration Award, and Grazia Designer of the Year.

What to look for in a canopy bed frame

When it comes to buying a canopy bed frame, there are several factors to consider. The below elements are arguably the most important.

Size: Because canopy beds are taller than most average beds, making sure it will fit in your space before it arrives at your door is a must. We'll also say: The bed doesn't just have to be able to squeeze into your bedroom; it has to look good in there. If it's touching the ceiling, it will dwarf your room. Make sure there's at least a foot of space between the ceiling and the canopy.

Material: This is more of a personal choice than anything else, but because the canopy bed will take up so much visual space in your bedroom, be sure to choose a material that doesn't feel too overwhelming. Most of our picks are easy on the eyes, but if you want something a bit daintier, opt for metal over wood.

Canopy: The original purpose of the canopy bed was to keep the bed warmer and avoid sunlight reaching the sleepers. Now, of course, we have central heating and blackout shades, so the airy canopy portion is a personal choice.

Are canopy bed frames in style?

Simply put, yes, canopy bed frames are certainly in style for 2024. However, like any piece of furniture, whether or not it works in your space is all about the way you style it. Hoppen says, "Styling a canopy bed can involve runners over the top or on all four sides, avoiding the use of curtains, which may seem old-fashioned. The choice depends on the client's preferences, the headboard design, and the overall theme of the room." All of our picks can be used without a canopy, but a select few look even better with one. "The larger the room, the better. A canopy bed can act as an illusion in small spaces or create coziness in a large room. It adapts well to different room sizes, enhancing the overall aesthetic," the designer adds.

Are bed canopies a good idea?

"The term 'canopy bed' can be misleading," Hoppen notes. "While some traditional designs have a fabric canopy, modern interpretations often omit it. A single runner over the top or on each corner can bring grace to the design. The choice of a canopy or not depends on personal preference." She's not wrong. Back in the day (read: medieval times), the whole point of a canopy bed was to apply a canopy to keep the room dark and to add some regality to a noble bedroom. "Some people prefer an open feel, while others enjoy the idea of being enclosed. Modern canopies can be elegant and versatile." There you have it.

Why trust us?

When it comes to picking out the best (and affordable) pieces for any space, Associate Shopping Editor Jessica Cherner has been reviewing furniture for nearly eight years, having access to more than a few stylish samples and working with countless interior designers. Not to mention, she's been on a never-ending quest to decorate her own New York City apartment with a budget and size constraint in mind.

For this story specifically, she spent hours combing through reviews and shopping options to find the best canopy beds on the market right now. Additionally, Cherner tapped experts like Hoppen for expert advice in how to incorporate this look into one's home.

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