Traditional-Style Bedding

Generally, bedding is the materials laid above the mattress of a bed, but does not include the mattress, box spring or bed frame. Bedding is used for both warmth and for decoration. There are all kinds of styles of bedding that correspond with the style of a bedroom, including traditional. Traditional furniture can also consist of furniture constructed in America any time from the 18th century to the early 20th century.

Early History

The first humans who moved their beds off the ground to sleep on a raised surface were the ancient Egyptians, around 3400 B.C. Most beds throughout human history have been simple, with very little decoration. This changed during the Roman Empire, when mattresses were stuffed with wool, feather, reeds or hay and were decorated with paint, bronze, silver, jewels and gold. People during the Renaissance stuffed their mattresses with straw and feathers and covered them with silks, velvet and satin.

European History

Bed frames were made of cast iron for the first time in Europe during the 18th century. This is when mattresses began to be made and filled with cotton. An innovation in bedding occurred with the invention of the box spring in the 19th century, also in Europe. Innovations during the 20th century included the inner spring mattresses, the air mattress and foam rubber mattresses and pillows. Futons and the water bed also became popular during this time.

Traditional Design Philosophy

Traditional styles in interior design are in direct opposition to modernism, a historical movement in art and interior design that constituted a rejection of the traditions of the past. Most interior designers wish to make some kind of statement, and designers who value the designs of the past tend to use traditional design methods, especially in the designs of bedrooms and in bedding.

Aspects of Traditionalism

According to the editors of Publications International, traditional styles, and not just in the bedroom, are the preference for designers and clients “with a passion for regal elegance and a dramatic flair.” This kind of decorating is calm, orderly and predictable, with nothing wild or chaotic. Furniture and accessories are placed in pairs and centered, so bedding designs tend to be grouped in pairs. There is a casual, comfortable feel about a room decorated in the traditional style.

Traditional Bedrooms

Traditional bedrooms are usually warm, elegant and classical, so traditional bedding styles usually include jewel-toned bed coverings with gold accents. Its linens tend to be luxurious high-thread count sateen sheets, finished with delicate hemstitches and fine lace trim. Pillows, especially accent pillows, are made from sumptuous fabrics and tend to be scattered throughout the bedroom. Traditional bedrooms are also full of throws with designs that complement the rest of the room and are made of cashmere or silk.

References

• TLC: Bedroom Decorating Ideas
• Design Center Sourcebook: Traditional Furniture