The double bed came into being with the Industrial Revolution. The reason? People were moving into overcrowded neighborhoods and cities with little living space . Before the Victorian era, it was common for married couples to sleep separately.
We're not in the 19th century anymore, but the idea of sleeping separately is making a comeback for some couples. They put two single beds in the same room, and that's it.
This makes sense in light of reports claiming that sharing a bed is bad for your health . Dr. Neil Stanley, a sleep disorder specialist, explained at the British Science Festival how sharing a bed can be detrimental, both because of snoring and the "theft" of the blanket. Many people experience sleep disruptions due to their partner's movements or even their body heat.
Also from England, Dr. Robert Meadows, a sociologist at the University of Surrey, conducted a study and found that when couples share a bed and one of them moves, there is a 50% chance that the other's sleep will be affected.
Photo: Amador Toril/ Styling: Beatriz Sánchez.
Prioritizing rest is behind this decision, which is increasingly common among modern couples. Restful sleep translates into a better mood and more energy. Quality rest. Having your own space to sleep provides a certain sense of freedom.
Some might see a lack of romance in this decision. However, its proponents argue that it's not a lack of connection, but rather a new way to strengthen the relationship based on respect and individual well-being. And being more relaxed can foster smoother communication with your partner. Enjoying the relationship without sacrificing sleep.
Photo: Courtesy of Pia Capdevila.
Once the decision has been made, it's time to talk about design. Because you can sleep separately but share a headboard. And in this regard, there are many different options: from more classic models to more daring choices. Another way to unify the space is to use wallpaper on the wall behind the headboards. Botanical motifs work particularly well in these cases.
As for bedside tables , the most logical option seems to be for each person to have their own, but some prefer to share. In these cases, a larger model is advisable to accommodate both people's belongings, including two lamps, unless two wall-mounted models are chosen.
To sleep together or to sleep separately, that is the question. Studies show that those born between 1981 and 1996 are the most likely to practice sleep divorce , followed by Generation X (born between 1965 and 1980) at 33%; Generation Z (born between 1997 and 2012) at 28%; and finally, baby boomers (born between 1946 and 1964) at 22%. Sleep divorce is a term that also refers to those who choose to sleep in separate beds and even separate rooms, but that's a different topic altogether.
