The French Bedroom – Transforming a beautiful antique bed
Working with a wonderful QLD based client, Wallrocks had the pleasure of restoring a stunning 19th Century Corbeille Bed, including a bespoke, luxurious, hand painted fabric – a combination which transformed the bed into something truly special.
Please enjoy the before and after…
Restoring a 19th-century French Louis XV carved walnut corbeille bed is an undertaking that requires not only technical skill but a deep sensitivity to the artistic traditions of the period. These beds—recognisable by their graceful serpentine silhouettes, richly carved frames, and elegant upholstered head and foot panels—were conceived as statements of refinement and comfort. When such a bed is restored with knowledge and skill they become a dialogue between past craftsmanship and contemporary adaptation.
The first consideration in restoring a Louis XV corbeille bed is the condition of the walnut frame – is it structurally sound? Is there damage to the carved ornamentation? Are pieces missing?
These are all issues a skilled restorer must tackle, utilising a variety of different skills and disciplines to achieve a wonderful result. The goal is always harmony rather than novelty.
Extending an antique bed to king size requires particular finesse. The original proportions, especially the iconic curved headboard and footboard, must be preserved. A skilled craftsman must extend the side rails and, when necessary, subtly widen the frame while retaining its characteristic sweep. This often involves crafting new elements that blend invisibly with the old, adjusting the rail curves so that the enlarged bed feels authentic rather than distorted.
Upholstery is the final, transformative stage. Traditionally, French corbeille beds were upholstered in silk damask, tapestry, or embroidered textiles. The choice of this bespoke hand-painted fabric introduces a layer of elegance while honouring the spirit of bespoke luxury that defined the original piece. The edges have been finished with a statement double piping.
When the restoration is complete, the bed stands as a testament to both historical artistry and contemporary craftsmanship – a masterpiece reborn for generations to come.
View our current bed collection here.
To discuss a possible transformation of any bed in the collection, please contact us on sales@wallrocks.com.au or 07 3862 2253.
Finally, more examples of antique bed transformations can be seen here.
