6 Inspiring Headboard Ideas for Every Type of Bedroom

Creative headboards are a simple way to make your bed shine—it's the star of the bedroom, after all. Even if you're short on square footage, a beautiful headboard can do a lot for your space. Headboards add color, make a statement, or even provide a padded cushion to lean against while in bed reading. To inspire your headboard search, we've compiled our favorite ideas, including a DIY headboard.

Take a Simple Approach

While a king bed is an excellent way to keep a restless partner from ruining your slumber, it can be tricky to find the right accessories for king beds. Just shop smart to get a look that will last. By keeping scale and color in mind, as they did here with this not-too-tall, grey upholstered headboard, the bed feels finished without being so loud it takes over. With a set-up this cozy, don’t be surprised when the whole family ends up climbing in—thankfully, there’s room!

Try a Boho Backdrop

Sometimes you stumble on an ornate item that’s so lovely you have to find a place for it in your home. This carved wooden screen is a prime example of this. Propping an accent piece like this one behind your standard mattress and box spring will keep it in place while creating a unique focal point. The benefit of a yard sale or thrift store find? No one else will have the same look.

Play With Patterns

If your room is skewing toward neutral, a patterned headboard is an easy way to add a little pizazz. Are you worried about committing to something for the long haul? Opt for a larger-scale patterned fabric like this geode-inspired print. The ripples make it interesting without being too busy, and its shades of blue are easy to pair with other colors. Avoid any pattern that’s too trendy—unless you honestly want llamas on your bed set for years to come.

Have Fun With Texture

When it comes to your bed, texture is so important. It’s what gives it that I-want-to-spend-all-day-there feeling. Balancing materials and fabrics, like this headboard made of rough wool framed with wood, lends a timeless and sophisticated look. Wool, velvet, and fabric feel inviting and warm, while metal and wood feel more minimal. Combine the two for spectacular results.

Scale Up for Drama

With headboards, it can be a real Goldilocks situation—too small, and you lose your shot at making an impact; too big, and it makes your bed look like it’s taking over the room. This oversized version in emerald green velvet with nailhead trim adds drama to a basic twin bed. The neutral pillows propped up in front help bridge the distance between the top of the headboard and the bed. If considering this style, try before buying by using painter’s tape to grid out the dimensions behind your existing mattress.

Try a DIY Headboard

Who knew that a pretty sheet of plywood could look so high-design behind your bed? Choose a piece of wood with pretty markings and grain (cut to size if needed), then sand it to ensure the entire surface is smooth. Even the most DIY-averse person could make this homemade headboard.