How to specify a bespoke bed

Discover our guide to specifying a bespoke bed, where we’ll navigate you through the maze of options and choices, so you can uncover a lifetime of quality sleep.


Savoir Virginia Bed, featuring a striking green rectangular headboard, photographed against stark, white interior of the Lypiatt Park Manor.

Sleep is the single most important thing you can do for your health and well-being. More important than nutrition and exercise, it’s an entirely pleasurable way to improve how you feel the next day. Good sleep starts with the right bed, but there are several factors to consider when investing in a new one. We’re here to navigate you through the most important elements in specifying a bespoke bed, allowing you to focus on enjoying uncovering a lifetime of quality sleep.


We need sleep to function, both physically and mentally. When we sleep, our bodies rest and repair. Sleep is brain food, as important as oxygen and water.


Dr Rebecca Robbins

Choosing to purchase a new bed is an incredibly exciting decision. However, with endless options, fabrics and tensions, making the right choice can very quickly become time-consuming. Your bed is by far the most significant part of a good night’s rest, and so, we’ve created a carefully curated guide to help you make the right choice when specifying your very own bespoke bed.


A dark navy bed with a modular headboard, dressed in dark navy bedding that complements the upholstery.
A clever blend of calming blues brings a serene atmosphere into the bedroom.

1. Support


The correct level of support is fundamental to ensuring that your spine is maintained in its natural position. To achieve this, you must sink into the bed comfortably or your spine will curve and result in aches and stiffness when you awake. For side sleepers, your hips and shoulders need to sink in to make sure you get support around the waist level. If you lie on your back, your body must sink in sufficiently to ensure your lower back is well supported.


This is why we offer a split-tension mattress option, custom-made to your preferences, so both you and your partner can have different support in the same bed. Discover our mattress buying guide to find out more about selecting the right support for you.


2. Base


The right base supports both, the mattress, and the person sleeping on it. It needs to have a level of firmness to its support. However, a base that is too firm will compromise the feel of even the softest mattress. A box spring base gives the mattress the best possible support, adding to the comfort of your bed and extending its life.


At Savoir, our box springs vary according to the hours of work and materials involved. The large independent hourglass springs and unrivalled edges take your weight. Enabling the mattress to do its job of taking your shape and giving the quality of support required whilst you sleep.


Detailed image of starlashing - a method used to bind the hourglass springs in a Savoir mattress.
Hand-tied 7.5 springs create the perfect foundation of a bed, resulting in supreme comfort.
Detail of the Savoir box spring in the making, showcasing natural materials and time-honoured techniques

3. Size


When choosing the right bed, size is incredibly important. Ultimately, it’s a matter of individual taste and preference. There’s no one-size-fits-all. After all, we’re all built differently, have different sleeping positions, and have different comfort preferences. However, as a basic rule of comfort, you want to opt for the biggest bed your bedroom can fit. This will allow you to not only sleep more comfortably but also to approach designing the bed more creatively, as you curate the bedroom of your dreams.


A UK king is 150cm wide, giving each person just 75cm each to sleep on, which is less than a single bed. Similarly, a US Queen is 60″ wide, with just 30″ of sleeping space for each person. The more room you have, the more comfortable and less disturbed you will be by your partner’s movements.


For large beds, we offer zip and link mattresses and bases, to make them easier to handle and turn, but also to assist with access up staircases.


4. Materials


When it comes to choosing the materials inside your bed, natural is best. Horsetail, wool, and cotton all breathe exceptionally well. They provide incredible insulation properties and are critical for temperature regulation, which is important all year round.


Maintaining the body’s temperature helps improve the REM stage of sleep, which is essential for restorative rest. Natural materials tend to be found in the most expensive mattresses, toppers and bases, but also offer greater longevity. Foams and latex are less expensive but don’t breathe, so can feel hot and deteriorate over time. One of the worst things you can do for your sleep is overheating. It disrupts the sleep cycle and increases sleep disturbances.


Our beds are created with only the finest, natural materials harvested from the wild and lovingly refined for a calming, restful night’s sleep.


Our Lenoir design photographed at UK's iconic Lypiatt Park mansion. Upholstered in rich blue velvet, dressed in complementing accessories.
Our Lenoir design styled by Sania Pell and photographed by Michael Sinclair.

5. Style and design


While comfort, natural materials and size are all fundamental to good sleep, the style of your bed is just as important. As individual as the right mattress tension, the design of your bed is a wonderful way to add personality to your bedroom. We offer infinite style options, including headboards, legs and an almost unlimited range of fabrics. 


Although being spoilt for choice is rarely bad news, if you find yourself lost in countless ideas, our curated Design Page is there to inspire you to make your dream bed a reality. Every Savoir bed is made to order, we hold no stock, so your design starts with you.


Discover how our designs came to life at Lypiatt ParkPitzhanger Manor and other one-of-a-kind locations on House of Savoir and find out how to create your very own sleep sanctuary, starting with a bespoke bed.


6. Sleep test


Just as we don’t believe in rushing when creating our beds, we also don’t believe the decision to choose the right one should be rushed either. After all, we spend a third of our lives in bed. And so, we strongly advise visiting one of our global showrooms, where you can lie down, try different mattresses and allow yourself to drift off on the bed that is perfect for you. Our Sleep Specialists will be there to guide you through every step of the way, because purchasing a new bed is an investment that will pay off every day of your life. 


For more advice and ideas on a guide to choosing a bespoke bed, visit design page. 


Francis Sultana's Haute Couture bed for Savoir

Discover the inspiration behind Francis Sultana’s unique design for Savoir, crafted in London fusing the finest, natural materials with an element of Haute Couture drama.


The Louis Design by Francis Sultana

As one of the most sought-after interior and furniture designers, Francis Sultana is known for his unique ability to merge different styles and eras of design. Working across both residential and private spaces, his studio creates some of the most extraordinary designs. He is one of only a handful of UK designers to be featured in Architectural Digest’s most coveted AD100 list.


Alongside his multiple international interior projects, his atelier produces annual collections of bespoke furniture and textiles. Francis’ own work is known for his use of noble materials such as bronze, rock crystal, straw marquetry and bespoke fabrics. Additionally, the studio also strives to support artisanal skills and techniques from around the UK and Europe throughout its work.


Our mutual passion for natural and rare materials influenced a collaboration from which emerged one of our most unique designs. Inspired by Elizabethan ruffs and collars, the ‘Louis’ bed elegantly marries traditional tweed with vibrant, joyful tones. Whilst the fluid shape of the headboard nods at organic Art Deco shapes. The result is a wonderfully inspiring design, which instantly becomes the focal point of the room.


I didn’t want to design a standard headboard, a ruff adds a wonderful sense of fashionable opulence and drama.


Francis Sultana tells Architectural Digest
Designer Francis Sultana standing next to his design for Savoir, the Louis Bed, featuring bright green tweed upholstery and a dynamic, curved headboard.
Francis Sultana next to his design for Savoir, the Louis bed. photographed by Alexander James.
Image of the Louis bed, featuring a bright green tweed upholstery and a curved headboard, photographed in opulent, glamourous setting.

Paired with our iconic Nº2 bed set, originally created for the Savoy Hotel in London, the headboard elegantly towers over the bed. Hand-upholstered in a bespoke fabric by Francis Sultana, the traditional tweed perfectly juxtaposes the organic shape of the headboard. The choice of fabric is perhaps the most unique element of this design. Two shades of green are weaved with a complementing gold shimmer and a contrasting bold black colour. These intricate details elevate this design, adding a moment of Haute Couture drama.


[the Louis bed is] named after both King Louis XIII of France, who wore the ruff with great aplomb, and Louis Majorelle, an Art Nouveau French furniture designer who devised some amazing beds for his own house.


Francis Sultana
A close-up image of the Louis design, showcasing the intricate bright green tweed fabric by Francis Sultana.
Details of the design, photographed by Alexander James.
A close-up image of the Louis design, showcasing the intricate bright green tweed fabric by Francis Sultana.

Grace Coddington on a lifetime of storytelling

From creating the most whimsical stories at American Vogue to collaborating with Louis Vuitton and starring in the first-ever insider fashion documentary – The September Issue, Grace Coddington talks to Savoir about a lifetime of storytelling.


Image of Grace Coddington on her bed and Savoir mattress, wearing all black attire with her cat Jimmy

When The September Issue first premiered in 2009, many were yet to learn the name, Grace Coddington. Starring alongside Anna Wintour, the legendary then editor-in-chief of American Vogue, she quickly became an icon of her own. In her signature all-black attire and long, curly red hair, she took the audience on a journey of creating one-of-a-kind stories for the magazine.


Following her appearance in the documentary, her book ‘Grace: A Memoir’ gave even further insight into a career that spans over five decades. Born in Wales, with a trail of success as a model in London, Coddington swiftly found her place behind the scenes of photoshoots at British Vogue. But when she was ready for a new challenge, she packed up a suitcase and moved to New York. Creative directing and styling some of the most memorable campaigns across the ocean, she eventually found herself back at Vogue to continue crafting creatively daring stories. This time, however, she could execute her vision on a much larger scale at American Vogue. “If [Anna] Wintour is the Pope, Coddington is Michelangelo, trying to paint a fresh version of the Sistine Chapel 12 times a year.” exclaimed The Times magazine of her unparalleled instinct for storytelling. Now, after her departure from Vogue, she shows no signs of slowing down in her creative path.


When Grace visited our New York showroom earlier this year, we were instantly enchanted by her creative spirit. Creating the perfect mattress that fit her sleep habits and needs was an experience that led us to a conversation about this city, and how its shaped her career. Join as Grace talks to Savoir about the inspiration behind some of her most recognised work, the lessons she’s learnt throughout her career and why good sleep is the most precious luxury to her.


Grace Coddington wearing a nightgown resting on her Savoir mattress with her cat Jimmy
Grace Coddington with her cat, Jimmy. All imagery credited to Christophe von Hohenberg.

Your experience is valuable even if the world has moved on. Hold on to your friends. Always be dependable. If you say you will do something, make sure you do it, there is nothing worse than letting people down.


Grace Coddington

Savoir: Is there a particular moment in your career that’s been the absolute highlight for you?


Grace Coddington: I think when I packed up and left England for America was a pretty big moment for me. It was taking a big jump both in my career and private life. When I first came here, [I] worked for Calvin Klein, which was a fantastic introduction to this country but I missed magazines. So, I soon went to US Vogue, which was a huge challenge – it was finally [about] working with the ‘Big Boys’ and I was measured at a global level. It was exciting, and demanding, and rewarding, all at once.


Finally, culminating with my memoir, which I would have never had the opportunity to write, had it not been for my participation in the film ‘The September Issue’, which kind of made me a household name. It was on The Times Bestseller list for several weeks.


 


You’ve created some of the most iconic and whimsical stories throughout your career. How do you remain inspired and where do your ideas usually stem from?


It is strange, over the years my inspirations have come from a wide variety of influences. Gardens and their magic have always inspired me, leading me to fairy tales. My absolute favourite was Alice in Wonderland with Anne Leibovitz. A huge production with weeks of preparation – I was involved with every aspect to do with it, from the idea and casting to the layout. It was as close to perfection as anything I’ve ever been entrusted with. I am truly proud of it.


Sadly, the romance of fairly tales like that (and the budgets for them) have passed. They are no longer relevant. But happily, stories on lifestyle intrigue me too, and that can just come from looking around me… Also, films have always been a great place to find stories and ideas.


 


You have travelled a lot throughout your life, how do you maintain healthy habits and ensure you get enough rest when on the go?


I haven’t done so much travelling since I left Vogue – it was beginning to tire me out – living out of a suitcase. I like to sleep in my own bed these days, but I did enjoy seeing the world, especially when working for Vogue it was made so easy.


[My tip would be] That when you’re travelling with a team, always have someone to show you the way. I was very spoilt – still am these days when I go to the incredibly special locations of Louis Vuitton cruise shows – Brazil, Japan, Italy, south of France – in luxurious hands of LVMH. I am forever grateful. I always like to leave a couple of days early to get over the jet lag in a civilised manner. And drinking lots of water.


Jimmy, Grace Coddington's cat enjoying the new Savoir mattress paired with crisp, white bed linen in our trademark Trellis ticking
Grace and her cat Jimmy enjoying a rest on their Savoir mattress.
Grace Coddington wearing a nightgown resting on her Savoir mattress with her cat Jimmy

I am a perfectionist and no one has time for that. Having said that, there are still projects I want to do, like another ‘Catwalk’ book. And I am making an animated version with Disney, so that is exciting. And I’d like to do another book on my work since leaving Vogue.


Grace Coddington

When you departed from your role at Vogue, you’ve mentioned that you had no intention of slowing down. So, what’s next on your agenda?


Well, I think I was a little over-ambitious. Right afterwards I was indeed pretty busy, but life has inevitably slowed down now. It is now several years on and I am several years older. There’s been the pandemic and that changed everything.


Nowadays it seems only younger people are wanted in the work force and they have a very different energy. I am a perfectionist and no one has time for that. Having said that, there are still projects I want to do, like another ‘Catwalk’ book. And I am making an animated version with Disney, so that is exciting. I’d like to do another book on my work since leaving Vogue. And drawing – I love drawing. Doing collaborations – I did a big one with Louis Vuitton, which was really fun and I’ve really loved working with you to design my new mattress – why wouldn’t I, it is the most handsome and comfortable thing in the world – thank you!


 


What’s one thing you wish you learnt earlier in your life or career?


I think to follow my beliefs and never let anything fall below my standard. You must be proud of what you do. Always help others, help the younger generation (if they will let you and listen). Your experience is valuable even if the world has moved on. Hold on to your friends. Always be dependable, if you say you will do something make sure you do it, there is nothing worse than letting people down.


Image of Grace Coddington on her bed and Savoir mattress, wearing all black attire with her cat Jimmy
Grace Coddington photographed at her New York apartment.

I’ve really loved working with you to design my new mattress – why wouldn’t I, it is the most handsome and comfortable thing in the world – thank you!


Grace Coddington

What’s one luxury you can’t live without?


Good sleep – a good night’s rest is the most important! If I don’t sleep one night, it takes me days to catch up. Bless the day I discovered Savoir beds, who were able to make me a perfect custom mattress, not just the size that fits my not standard bed but also my personal comfort level – soft, but also firm enough for my difficult back. And a topper that just tops off my every whim and desire.


 


How do you find calm after a long day, do you have a bed-time routine?


Putting my feet up. Reading the newspaper with my cats, a light meal, a glass of wine and maybe watching a documentary of one of the TV series on my iPad – going to bed early on my new mattress now it is so very comfortable – I just float away…


 


And lastly, when’s the last time you’ve done something for the first time and what was it?


I feel like I’ve tried just about everything interesting I’ve ever wanted to do, except perhaps parachute out of a plane – but I am far too much of a coward to try that!


A scan of Grace Coddington's signature

The timeless allure of bespoke pieces with Roman Thomas

Together with David Kesselman, the co-founder of New York-based Roman Thomas, we discuss our shared passion for craft, the need to slow down and the intriguing power of finding inspiration in stillness and quiet luxury.


Image of a handmade table by New York-based Roman Thomas, featuring gold brass accents on a white surface

Through a flawless illusion of simplicity, quiet luxury is making its way into our homes. With a focus on pieces that prioritise craftsmanship and high-quality materials, this is so much more than just a trend. It’s a movement. Quiet luxury means choosing items that represent quality and skill above all else. The shift is driven by the need to step off the merry-go-round of the world’s constant pursuit for the most. Instead, it draws our attention to the timeless allure of bespoke items that stand the test of time.


Just as Mondrian’s iconic artworks make their impact through a minimised approach to form and colour, this movement strips back the unnecessary distractions, so that quality and artisan techniques can take centre stage. A pared-back approach to design offers a unique opportunity to express oneself. Abandoning the commotion of trends, we can take a step back and create a home that truly is a reflection of who we are.


Inspired by an unplanned visit to a family friend in Spain, where the founders discovered a historical handcrafted lighting collection, Roman Thomas is an embodiment of quiet luxury. The New York-based furniture brand recognises that quality, not quantity, is the only way to ensure true craftsmanship continues to be championed. And through this shared passion for craft, Savoir and Roman Thomas began a partnership. Specifying bespoke beds and our signature mattresses that pair with their iconic, one-of-a-kind products. Together, we infuse homes with the timeless allure of bespoke pieces.


A close-up image of Roman Thomas' lamp, hand-crafted in New York and painted in abstract pops of colour.
Detail of The Barrel Lamp by Roman Thomas
Image of a small coffee table designed and created by Roman Thomas, featuring a black metal frame and a shiny gold top
The Stanton Table by Roman Thomas

When we see our work placed in design projects and homes in which leading renowned furniture, art and objects are installed – this is gratifying.


David Kesselman, co-founder of Roman Thomas

Earlier this summer we sat down with David Kesselman, the co-founder of Roman Thomas and dived into a conversation about craft, the need to slow down and finding inspiration in stillness. Roman Thomas’ ethos is undoubtedly reflected in David’s day-to-day life. Starting each day with an intentionally slow and mindful approach, he takes his miniature schnauzer twins, Bea and Lil, outdoors to play ball, while he enjoys a moment of quiet observing birds and squirrels. “Bea and Lil helped me break most of my prior morning habits, which were in need of a new order”, David explains.


Savoir: Does being based in New York influence the products design and manufacture?


David: Since inception we have worked with design firms across the US and internationally. Our intent is to produce timeless and relevant pieces for the global citizen. We are privileged to work with talented artisans who gravitate to New York city, where their skills are appreciated and applied to noteworthy projects.


What is the most exciting project that Roman Thomas has worked on?


When we see our work placed in design projects and homes in which leading renowned furniture, art and objects are installed – this is gratifying.  When we can share in history in the making; for example, our Plateau coffee table in the Obama Oval Office remains an enduring high point.


How do you balance work and life


This is not necessarily my strength, although taking time to participate in purely creative or meditative exercises is the best bridge towards finding balance.


Are you a morning person or a night owl?


I am a morning person! The still of the early morning after a good night’s sleep is when I can be most productive. This is a time when creative thoughts and breakthroughs are more likely to take place.


And lastly, do you have a bedtime routine?


While I naturally respond to the “magnetism” that pulls me toward sleep each evening – it’s the time of day to recall at least one good, memorable thing that verifies I gave the day my all – it’s reassuring.


Two side tables created by Roman Thomas in dark walnut with white panels and golden details
Wolcott Side Tables by Roman Thomas

I am a morning person! The still of the early morning after a good night’s sleep is when I can be most productive. This is a time when creative thoughts and breakthroughs are more likely to take place.


David Kesselman, co-founder of Roman Thomas

For many of us who live in a city, there’s a certain sense of longing for slower days and finding balance, seeking to reconnect with nature. And perhaps that’s what inspired the movement toward quiet luxury. Time-honoured techniques and skills, which have been passed down for generations, and natural materials, cared for and refined with love.


There are a few simple ways to introduce the movement into your home. As the place you spend a third of your life in, a handcrafted bed is one of the best investments you can make. Created from only the finest, natural materials, a Savoir bed elegantly nods to quiet luxury while providing you with a lifetime of restorative rest. Unique elements, such as coffee tables and lamps you can speckle around your home are also a great way to infuse your home with luxurious elements and provide an exciting outlet for self-expression.


Going forward, our homes will evoke a sense of amiability through a dialogue of history, craftsmanship and skill. Futureproofed and entirely personal, they’ll become an immaculate reflection of who we are. So, if you’re thinking about investing in a bespoke piece, our suggestion would be to seek out items that evoke a sense of joy and calmness. And take your time with it.


Contact your nearest Savoir showroom to enquire about creating your own bed, or visit romanthomas.com to discover more about the artisan pieces and the story behind some of the brand’s most notable work.