Wingback Bed Guide: Styles, Sizes & Everything You Need to Know

Wingback beds have become one of the most sought-after headboard styles in UK bedrooms — and for good reason. They combine a statement aesthetic with practical comfort, and when paired with an ottoman storage base, they offer beauty and function in equal measure. Here's everything you need to know before you buy.

What Is a Wingback Bed?

A wingback bed takes its name from the classic winged armchair. The headboard features a tall central panel flanked by two 'wings' — upholstered extensions that wrap slightly forward, creating an embracing, enclosed silhouette at the head of the bed.

The original wingback armchair design served a practical purpose: the wings blocked draughts in cold rooms. On a bed, the wings create a cocooning, boutique-hotel effect that makes the headboard the centrepiece of the room.

Wingback Headboard Styles

Not all wingback beds look the same. The headboard profile — particularly the top edge — significantly changes the overall feel:

Scalloped Wingback

A scalloped wingback has a softly curved, arched top edge — often shaped like a gentle semicircle or a series of curves. This style has an art deco and glamorous quality. It suits period properties, traditional interiors, and anyone who wants a romantically elegant look. Often seen in velvet upholstery in rich jewel tones.

Straight / Square Wingback

A straight wingback has clean, angular lines with flat top edges and sharp corners. This creates a contemporary, architectural look that suits modern apartments, minimalist bedrooms, and Scandi-inspired interiors. Often paired with faux leather or boucle upholstery.

Curved / Arched Wingback

Some wingback designs use a continuous curve from the central panel through to the wing tips, creating a fluid, sculpted silhouette. This is the most design-led option — best suited to eclectic or contemporary-luxe bedrooms.

Wingback Ottoman Beds: The Best of Both Worlds

The most popular configuration we sell is the wingback ottoman bed — combining a statement wingback headboard with a gas-lift storage base.

This gives you:

• The visual drama of a wingback headboard — the room's focal point
• Full under-bed storage — access the entire mattress footprint of storage with one lift
• A single, cohesive piece of furniture — no need for separate storage units

Wingback ottoman beds are available in double, king size, and super king — all with a choice of standard or extra deep storage configurations.

Wingback vs Chesterfield vs Panel Beds

Room Size & Ceiling Height Advice

Wingback beds have presence — and that's their appeal. But it's important to match the headboard scale to your room:

• Rooms under 10m² — opt for a lower wingback profile (110–120cm headboard height) and push against a wall to minimise visual bulk
• Rooms 10–15m² — standard wingback (120–135cm) works beautifully; creates a focal point without overwhelming the space
• Rooms over 15m² — full-height wingback (140–160cm) creates a hotel-suite effect; pair with a super king for maximum drama
• Low ceilings (under 2.3m) — choose a wingback with a straight rather than arched top to avoid the headboard feeling imposing
• High ceilings (2.5m+) — taller wingback designs shine here; the vertical emphasis makes ceilings feel even higher

Colour & Fabric Pairings for Wingback Beds

The wingback headboard's generous surface area makes fabric and colour choice particularly impactful:

• Velvet in jewel tones (navy, emerald, plum) — the most popular choice; looks spectacular against neutral walls
• Grey or cream chenille — versatile and timeless; works in virtually any bedroom colour scheme
• Blush pink velvet — creates a romantic, softly glamorous atmosphere in light-filled rooms
• Charcoal faux leather — moody and contemporary; pairs beautifully with white walls and brushed gold accessories
• Oatmeal boucle — warm, tactile, and on-trend for Japandi-influenced spaces

Frequently Asked Questions