Our Classic Iron Beds and Their Stories

At Wrought Iron and Brass Bed Co., we share the nation’s love for a cup of tea.

So, what better way to introduce you to some of our first, favourite and most-popular frames than with a brew?

From Isaac to Edward, Emily to Grace, each carefully crafted frame has its own story to tell.

Discover the tales of yours and our favourite frames below.

A History of Style

Strong and steadfast, iron beds are a mainstay in master bedrooms. With designs heralding as far back as Ancient Egypt, you can be sure a metal bed frame is as timeless as it is durable.

Over the last century, different eras and art movements have informed iron bed designs, from understated Edwardian practicality to graphic Art Deco geometry and scrolling Art Nouveau adornment.

But it’s Victorian styles that stand out. (And they’re the ones that influence our own.)

Timeless and chic, trendless yet modern. Iron beds’ sleek designs were prized for their simplicity and hygiene properties over the dark and imposing wooden four-posters popular at the time.

They’re a showcase of intricate craftsmanship and time-honoured technique. It’s not easy to replicate this skill today. The Victorians honoured this artistry and sculpture (just take a look at the metal bed that made it to the Great Exhibition). After the onset of industrialisation post-WWI, practicality prevailed instead.

Forget lightweight imported steel beds for a moment. Look to longevity. Establish your style with a frame that’s made to last.

How It Starts

As a family-run company, each frame holds special meaning and is thoughtfully designed.

In the search for metal beds for their sons, founders Amanda and Stephen were underwhelmed to find flimsy frames the norm. Their solution? We’ll make our own. 

From our workshop in the Norfolk village of Wolferton, we create heritage-inspired designs for today. As a family-run, independent business recognised by The Guild of Master Craftsmen, we champion high quality artisanal iron beds made to last a lifetime.

The key word: handcrafted.

Iron and brass bars arrive straight from the mill- you can tell it’s wrought iron by its weightiness. Our raw materials are 100% British, individually measured and cut down to size before being carefully welded together.

Hand-spun finials, hand-polished brass, hand-painted finishes. Each bed is bespoke. Each bed is unique. Our designs are testament to our unparalleled standards and the enduring presence of an iron bed.

Origin Stories

Isaac

Origin: Launched in 2005, Isaac is one of our first frames, alongside Emily. It’s a modern silhouette with a traditional touch.
Namesake: Named for founders Amanda and Stephen’s first grandson.
Design: Isaac is an iron bed that’s both grand and grounding, imposing and inviting.

With its tall headboard and low tail-end, the striking frame boasts bold Victorian knuckles, particularly when seen in black, elevated by softly spun brass finials.

Robust cast iron feet perfect slender bedposts- ideal for those looking for regality. Nevertheless, Isaac wouldn’t look out of place in a monochromatic modern scheme or as contrast to brightly patterned pops of colour.

Emily

Origin: The chalk to Isaac’s cheese, Emily is the other half of our original duo. Representative of feminine strength.
Namesake: Named for a close friend’s daughter, sister to Sophie.
Design: Elongated and elegant. Emily adds a flourish of femininity to any bedroom.

Gently sweeping curves rise into sculpted bloom-like finials, while slim bedposts are supported by textured sand-casted finials. In classic ivory, this iron bed invites the warmth of a bright summer morning- place near wide open windows for maximal impact.

A frame that wouldn’t look out of place in stately chic or cottage-core minimalism. Emily’s effortlessness is enough to elevate an interior.

Sophie

Origin: Sophie is a frame that takes us back to our roots, inspired by the Victorian heritage we first sought to modernise.
Namesake: Named for a close friend’s first daughter, the second being Emily.
Design: A classic wrought iron frame with a hint of masculinity, Sophie is solid yet sophisticated.

The frame’s tall headboard exudes low-key luxe, its low tailboard practical and enticing. Hand-turned finials blend seamlessly into its iron silhouette, emitting a strong and uncompromising presence.

Versatility is key. See Sophie as the centrepiece to an industrial interior or complement the sleek functionality of mid-century design. Pair with a matching wrought iron bedside table- don’t be afraid of distinctive design.

Edward

Origin: Edward epitomises our brand mission. Dormitory style designed for contemporary living.
Namesake: Formerly known as Oliver, Edward’s namesake is shrouded in mystery.
Design: For that je ne sais quoi, look to Edward.

It’s an iron bed with enduring charm. Dormitory style is solidified in rounded curves and a thick iron hoop. The frame is subtly finished with tasteful cast iron feet, while elongated iron bars lengthen its slightly lower tailboard. It’s plain-spoken and eye-catching with form and function fusing seamlessly.

Be bold with uncomplicated design. Edward is a bed of immortal style.

Grace

Origin: Probably our most popular design, Grace combines elements of Sophie with understated detail.
Namesake: As we all know, “Tuesday’s child is full of grace”. And if son Harry had been born a girl, this frame would’ve been his namesake.
Design: Grace is a frame with just that.

A simple, restrained design, it’s an iron bed suited to both the small space of cosy cottage interiors and the clean walls of modern new builds. Straight lines and humble details create a softness perfect for idle afternoons whiling the day away. Everyone’s accommodated thanks to the shorter tailboard. Time to cocoon yourself in cloud-like duvets and textured blankets.

Grace is a country-inspired design with honest charm.

How It’s Going

You can see why these (and all our other) frames are much-loved! 

A testament to our signature craftsmanship and love for longevity, our iron, brass and nickel beds combine timelessness with style. They’re guaranteed to last a lifetime, so rest assured in high quality artistry that will transcend trends and become your modern family heirloom.

Whether you’re a master of minimalism or an advocate of maximalism, frames like Edward, Isaac and Sophie are sure to suit your style and personality.

Did you know you can find Edward, Sophie and Lily in your local John Lewis?

Or, if that’s not enough, you can visit our showroom in the historic Norfolk market town of Swaffham.

Style your frame in a way that’s unique to you, but still pays homage to the longevity of our antique-inspired designs. Become part of the Wrought Iron and Brass Bed Co. story with your timeless iron frame.

Listen to our podcast Two in a Bed to find out how it’s going and what Amanda’s up to next. (Hint: it’s sheep-related!)