Headboards serve several functions, from providing support for sitting to preventing scratches on the wall. But what if your bed didn’t come with one? Well, it’s certainly not the end of the world, considering the wide variety of headboard substitutes out there!
40 No Headboard Ideas for Your Bedroom
Without a headboard, you’re free to explore numerous options to decorate the wall! Here are 27 inspirational ideas to help you brainstorm!
Multi-Tiered Shelves
Credit to houseandgardenuk
The design of the bed’s surroundings solves several problems at once. There’s a bookshelf immediately behind the head of the bed, which is perfect for storing more than just your favorite novels. The sconces are a nice touch since they provide some much-needed illumination when the story is getting good at nighttime!
Surrounded by Windows
Credit to maridadbydetails
If you’re fortunate enough to have tall windows in your bedroom on at least two sides, then here’s a design you should follow! The lack of a headboard, as well as surrounding furniture, allows this homeowner to enjoy nature in all its glory! You don’t need to look too hard to see the outdoors directly from the comfort of your bed!
Upholstered Panels
Credit to the_bedroom_centre and the_bedroom_centre_hq
If you have floor-to-ceiling upholstered panels behind your bed, does it automatically become a headboard? Regardless, this idea is a neat once, and the panels blend beautifully with the crisp and clean theme of this luxurious bedroom. Gold accents on the plush cream tone—what’s not to love here?
Mounted Artwork
Credit to floyddetroit
This headboard-less bedroom design is one every student would love. Without a headboard, this person has the freedom to express themselves by hanging abstract artwork on the wall. With a window on one side and a bookshelf on the other, this low-platform bed is as cozy as it is inviting.
Bare Wall
Credit to karup_design
There’s a lot to unpack in this picture, but if you look at the wall behind the bed, there’s really nothing to say. It’s a bare wall that’s clean, pure, and needs nothing else to make a statement. The minimalist floating shelf beside the bed is a neat addition, but the true star of this attic bedroom is the loft platform!
Geometric Wall Panels
Credit to widellboschetti
This picture shows where sophistication meets luxury. The dark-gray theme is quite uncommon, but it creates a macho, industrial feel that would make anyone want to sleep here. The lack of a headboard means this homeowner gets to show off geometric patterns using upholstered panels on all four walls without obstruction.
Modular Storage
Credit to adamhunter
This is a room that screams “natural color palette.” The muted tones contribute to an uncluttered atmosphere, but the main attraction is the large wall panel that’s integrated with closets on either side. The panel is a canvas that the homeowner can decorate or leave bare to emphasize minimalism.
Center Stage
Credit to moebecph
Here’s an untraditional bedroom layout. Rather pushing the bed against one or two walls, this designer placed the elevated mattress toward the center of the room. Without a headboard, there’s no place to rest your back while reading in bed, but with large windows in the background, there’s plenty of natural sunlight to raise the homeowner’s spirits!
Exposed Brick Background
Credit to brandimebane
While on the topic of untraditional designs, here’s a picture of a bedroom you don’t see every day. The exposed brick wall gives this bright bedroom a slightly rustic feel, but this is perfectly balanced by the presence of tiny indoor plants and hanging artwork. Also, there’s more than enough pillows to keep everybody comfy at night.
Simply White
Credit to aboderestored
Sticking to one or two colors is a simple way to keep a room neat. This person went with opposing colors—pure white with minor black accents. The headboard-less bed isn’t an issue since the wall provides all the support the pillows and the homeowner’s back needs. But to spruce things up a bit, a few black-framed pictures and a small potted plant provide a breezy feel to this pure-white bedroom.
Freehand Design
Credit to thestellteam
Not sure how to decorate the wall behind your bed? Here’s a solution to consider: just paint the wall! This person went with a large circle in the backdrop that serves as an artistic expression of wholeness and softness. Of course, the true symbolism is in the eye of the beholder, so feel free to paint your wall however you like!
Woven Statements
Credit to motherhoodismyfiat
If this bedroom could be described in a single word, it would probably be “woven.” Everything from the bedspread to the pillowcases—and yes, even the wall design!—follow the same woven theme. Could this possibly be a shout out to the homeowner’s grandparents who gave them this wall art?
Dramatic Wall Mural
Credit to idco.studio
They say less is more, but there’s certainly no problem going a bit overboard! Here, we see an intricate wall design directly behind the bed. This designer certainly isn’t afraid of experimenting with clashing color schemes, judging from the color palette of the chair, rugs, and pillows.
Wooden Wainscoting
Credit to marys_32summers
Instead of using a headboard, this homeowner came up with integrated paneling that extends the entire width of the wall. The rectangular grid pattern offers a sense of traditional charm, while the color choice complements the muted tones of the rest of the room. The raised panels add dimension to the otherwise 2D surface by casting subtle shadows in the daytime.
A Personal Light Show
Credit to nick_kurithof_
Here’s something everyone—especially kids—can enjoy! To add a bit of liveliness to this bedroom, the homeowner went with hundreds of individual lightbulbs in the backdrop. The bulbs are fastened onto a hanging curtain, which is lighter in tone compared to the layered bedding. This design has a more casual, DIY-friendly feel to it, but as it is, it undoubtedly has potential for a romantic vibe.
Pillow-Supporting Pillows
Credit to allisonwhitsel
Some pillows are there to prop your head up while you sleep, while other pillows are for decoration. The pillows in question here fall into the latter category, but they have a very important function: to keep the sleeping pillows away from the wall. The personalized message in the beautiful wooden frame above the bed is absolutely gorgeous!
Shelf Backdrop
Credit to aboderestored
Here, we have another crisp-looking bedroom without a headboard. The theme of this picture is white with gray and dark-green accents spread all around. The substitute for a headboard here is a shelf with vertical panels that span the floor to the ceiling. There’s more than enough space on the shelf for several potted plants, a mirror, and decorative pieces.
Animal Party
Credit to showhomegirls
If you’re a fan of animals, why not decorate your bedroom in a manner that suits your passion? The lack of a headboard makes the wall the focal point. The textile pieces on the wall, combined with the elephant plushie, give the room personality. Gray and white are a creative way to pay homage to the gentle beasts.
Two-Sided Panels
Credit to style4walls
There’s a lot to love about this simple bedroom design. The twin bed rests atop a frame with pull-out drawers, solving the age-old problem of storage space. However, it’s the textile panels surrounding the bed on two sides that steals the show. The bright LEDs create a cozy, playful place any child would enjoy.
A Splash of Black
Credit to scandicondo
A bit of color that contrasts with the room’s overall theme can make a room pop. Here, we see the wall coated in black, which is in full view due to the lack of a headboard. The room has splotches of black here and there, from the curtains to the pillowcases, among the overall theme of brightness noted by white and light gray pieces.
A-Door-Able
Credit to blissfully_eclectic
This particular homeowner had trouble coming up with a design for the bedroom. But with just a bit of creativity, they turned an ordinary wall into something straight out of a barn! A few thrifted doors were all it took to give this bedroom a personal feel. A coat of white paint and a bit of sanding further amplifies the rustic feel of this space.
Reader’s Haven
Credit to thetypennington
Bookworms, this one’s for you! If you’re having trouble finding space to store your prized possessions, get rid of your bed’s headboard and in its place, install rods to keep your books safe and sound. The rods don’t just make the books within arm’s reach from the bed—they also serve as a bookmark! Simply hang your book on the rod on whatever page you last read!
Windowless Scenery
Credit to breeabbg
Usually, windows provide a sight into the wilderness outdoors. This window, however, doesn’t achieve that, but it’s still a nice piece to have. The window frame here simply serves as a decorative piece in place of a headboard. A dark coat of paint and a wreath makes this window frame pop out of the white background.
Curtain Backdrop
Credit to proyectoheim
Here’s an image of a bedroom that looks like it belongs near an ocean somewhere. While the breezy vibes are awesome, it’s the draped curtain backdrop that becomes the focal point. It also helps that the color palette of the curtain matches that of the bedding, as well as contrasts the darkness of the area rug and furniture.
Personalized Touch
Credit to alisondamonte
Your room, your sanctuary. You’re more than welcome to redesign your bedroom however you see fit, whether that’s by hanging artwork on the walls or painting a large rainbow behind your bed. Keen-eyed readers may notice the colors of the rainbow don’t match those in reality. Well, that’s because in this girls’ bedroom, they chose their favorite colors!
Dual-Tone Backdrop
Credit to welcome_to_our_souter
Wainscoting and wall panels are fine and all, but if you want to avoid the hassle of installation, here’s what you can do instead. This homeowner painted half the wall a darker color than the rest, creating the illusion of a headboard. The dual-tone appearance is nice, as are the wicker hats hanging above the bed.
Floating Shelf
Credit to sheri.l._martin
We’ve seen built-in shelves in the backdrop, but what about floating shelves? This person chose to install a massive floating shelf directly above their bed, providing additional storage space for a wide range of knick-knacks. Further decorative pieces, including hanging artwork and a bed side table, create a warm, inviting environment.
Wooden Slat Wall Accent Behind the Bed
Vertical wooden slats rise behind the bed and cover the entire wall. The pattern brings depth and warmth to the bedroom. With this feature, the space feels complete without any need for a headboard.
Vertical Garden or Wall Planters Over the Bed
Lush green plants fill a special frame above the bed. The greenery acts as a natural focal point and gives the bedroom a restful, organic mood. No headboard is required because the plant display captures all attention.
Oversized Upholstered Wall Panels
Large panels with soft upholstery stretch from the pillows to the ceiling. The fabric introduces comfort and a hint of luxury. This setup makes the bed area feel inviting and stylish without relying on a standard headboard.
Tapestry or Textile Wall Hanging
A large, colorful tapestry draped above the bed acts as both wall art and a substitute for a headboard. The pattern and fabric add warmth and personality to the room. This approach transforms a plain wall and defines the bed area with a single decorative piece.
Reclaimed Wood Planks as a Focal Point
A wall of reclaimed wood planks or salvaged doors stands in for a traditional headboard, adding rustic character and depth. The aged finishes and mixed colors tell a story, bringing vintage charm to the space. This is an eco-friendly and creative alternative for a unique bedroom look.
Pegboard With Hanging Decor Above the Bed
A pegboard covers the wall behind the bed. Shelves, hooks, and small decorations fill the board, which doubles as art and storage. The wall feels lively and useful, so a traditional headboard never feels missing.
Painted Accent Wall Panel
A bold shape painted on the wall sits directly behind the pillows. This panel draws the eye and creates a clear focal point for the bed. The painted design supplies both color and definition without the need for a headboard.
Macrame Wall Art Over the Bed
A large macrame piece hangs above the bed and introduces handcrafted detail to the space. The woven textures create a cozy and relaxed mood in the bedroom. The bed feels unique and welcoming, even with no headboard.
Layered Rugs or Blankets as Wall Art
Colorful rugs or blankets stack on the wall behind the bed. The rich patterns and fabrics set a playful tone for the room. This textile display replaces the headboard and gives the bedroom a layered, personal look.
Large Wall Map as a No-Headboard Focal Point
A map covers most of the wall above the bed, offering a classic and worldly touch. The design delivers character and serves as a conversation starter. The room maintains visual interest with the map alone, so a headboard feels unnecessary.
Floating Wood Shelf Above the Bed
A floating wood shelf rests above the pillows and displays a tidy row of decor. Candles, a small succulent, and framed photos add warmth and personality. This setup gives the wall a finished look while offering extra space for personal touches.
Decorative Folding Screen as Headboard Substitute
A folding screen stands behind the bed and instantly defines the sleeping area. The carved pattern on the screen becomes a striking visual feature in the room. This choice brings style and privacy to the bed without a traditional headboard.
Bookshelf Niche Above the Bed
Bookshelves fill the wall behind the bed with color and personality. Rows of favorite books and a few artistic objects draw the eye and create a cozy atmosphere. The design gives the bedroom both storage and a custom touch.
