Designing the Perfect Upholstered Extended Width Headboard: Key Considerations

An upholstered headboard can add a touch of luxury and comfort to any bedroom, transforming it into a cosy retreat. When commissioning an extended width upholstered headboard, there are several important factors to consider to ensure that it not only fits your needs but also enhances the aesthetic appeal of your space.

An extended headboard is usually floor standing and much wider than the bed base to allow a generous overhang to sot behind nightstands and bedside tables.  It is not unusual for them to span an entire wall.

Here, we delve into the essential considerations when designing the perfect upholstered extended width headboard.

1. Size and Proportion:

• The size of your upholstered headboard should be proportionate to the size of your bed and the overall dimensions of your bedroom. Consider the width of your bed and add a few extra inches on each side for a visually appealing look.
• Take into account the height of the headboard as well, ensuring that it complements the scale of the room and provides adequate support and comfort when sitting up in bed.

Bespoke oversized floor standing Solas Headboard with extension panels in Large Bouclé Ivory.

2. Material Selection:

• Upholstered headboards offer a wide range of material options, including fabric, leather, velvet, and suede. Choose a material that complements your bedroom decor and reflects your personal style.
• Consider the durability, maintenance requirements, and feel of different upholstery materials to select the one that best suits your lifestyle and preferences.
• You can provide  The Headboard Workshop with your own material (COM) if you so wish.

3. Style and Design:

• Upholstered headboards come in various styles, from classic tufted designs to sleek, contemporary silhouettes. Choose a style that aligns with your aesthetic vision and complements the overall decor of your bedroom.
• Explore different design elements such as button tufting, stud detailing, or channel stitching to add visual interest and texture to the headboard.

4. Comfort and Padding:

• Pay attention to the padding and cushioning of the upholstered headboard to ensure optimal comfort and support. Consider the thickness and density of the padding, as well as any additional layers such as foam or batting.
• Test different upholstery samples to gauge the feel and softness of the material, ensuring that it provides a comfortable surface for leaning against when reading or relaxing in bed.

Bespoke extended headboard with wings in three panels, floor standing.

5. Customisation and Personalisation:

• Commissioning an upholstered headboard allows for customisation and personalisation according to your preferences. Work closely with The Headboard Workshop to select the perfect fabric, trim, and detailing.
• Consider incorporating unique features such as contrasting piping, decorative buttons, or embroidered patterns to add a personalised touch to the headboard.

6. Upholstery Tolerances:

• Account for upholstery tolerances in your design to ensure a precise fit and finish. Upholstery materials may stretch or shrink slightly during the manufacturing process, affecting the final dimensions of the headboard.
• Work with The Headboard Workshop to determine the appropriate allowances for upholstery tolerances based on the specific materials and techniques used. Conduct thorough quality checks during the upholstery process to identify any discrepancies early on and address them promptly.

Bespoke panneled design floor standing oversized headboard with socket cutouts.

7. Installation and Property Access:

• Consider the logistics of shipping, delivery, and installation when commissioning an extended width upholstered headboard. Ensure that the headboard can be safely transported and manoeuvred into your bedroom without causing damage to the furniture or property.
• Coordinate with The Headboard Workshop and any professional installers to address any challenges related to property access, such as narrow doorways, staircases, or tight spaces.

8. Panelised Design for Easy Access and Shipping:

• At The Headboard Workshop, we offer the option to create upholstered extended width headboards in panels, allowing for easier shipping, handling, and installation. Panelising the headboard enables us to break down the large piece into smaller, more manageable sections that can be transported with greater ease.
• This approach not only facilitates shipping logistics by reducing the risk of damage during transit but also simplifies the process of manoeuvring the headboard through narrow doorways, staircases, or tight spaces upon delivery.
• Once on site, our professional installers can easily assemble the individual panels to form a cohesive headboard as one unified piece. This method ensures a precise fit and finish while minimising any disruptions or challenges associated with traditional shipping and installation of large furniture items.
• Panelised headboards also offer the advantage of versatility, allowing for easier customisation and modification in the future. Whether you’re moving to a new home or simply updating your bedroom decor, panelised headboards can be disassembled and reassembled with minimal effort, providing added convenience and flexibility.
• By opting for a panelised design from The Headboard Workshop, you can enjoy the convenience of hassle-free shipping and installation without compromising on the quality or aesthetics of your upholstered extended width headboard. Our expert craftsmen ensure that each panel is meticulously crafted and seamlessly integrated to create a stunning focal point for your bedroom.

Bespoke Shallow Buttoned floor standing oversized headboard with socket mounts.

9. CNC Machining and CAD Capabilities for Design Realisation:

• At The Headboard Workshop, we pride ourselves on our state-of-the-art facilities, including full CNC machining and CAD capabilities, which enable us to bring interior designers’ ideas to life with precision and accuracy.
• Our advanced CNC machines allow us to precisely cut and shape materials with intricate detailing, ensuring that every aspect of the upholstered extended width headboard meets the designer’s specifications.
• With CAD software, our team can create detailed 2D schematics and renderings of the proposed design, providing designers with a clear blueprint of the final product before production begins.
• Whether it’s customizing the dimensions, incorporating specific design elements, or experimenting with different materials and finishes, our CNC machining and CAD capabilities empower designers to explore creative possibilities and achieve their vision for the perfect headboard.
• By leveraging our technology-driven approach, designers can collaborate closely with our team to refine their concepts and ensure that the finished headboard exceeds expectations in terms of quality, craftsmanship, and aesthetic appeal.
• Whether you’re working on a residential project or a commercial space, The Headboard Workshop’s CNC machining and CAD capabilities offer the versatility and precision needed to realise even the most ambitious design ideas with confidence and efficiency.

Example 2D dimensions schematic from The Headboard Workshop’s bespoke team