Distressed

• Distressed metal and vintage decor will give the room a cozy, shabby chic feel. Distress the metal by first using sandpaper to slough off any sleek or existing color. It doesn't matter if your sloughing is uneven or rough, that just adds to its distress. Pick two similar shades of paint. Using sea sponges, splotch the frame up in uneven, messy applications. Finish off the distressed bed frame by banging random areas with the tip of a screwdriver to make small dents. Throw on a vintage bedspread, complete with fringe if possible, and fill the room with flea market finds. Keep extra bed frame paint to use on any used furniture, picture frames and other accessories.
  
  

Sleek

• A metal bed also works well to give the room an art deco, futuristic feel. In this case you want to sand the frame evenly and perfectly, perhaps using a motorized sanding tool. Choose a metallic or glossy spray paint and evenly coat the frame so it glistens and shines. Accompany this look with a geometric patterned bedspread, fiberglass furniture and accessories that look like they came out of a spaceship, such as metallic floor lamps, chrome picture frames and wall art that uses lots of mirrors.
  
  

Whimsical

• Metal beds can also be used to transform the room into a whimsical and wacky haven. Prepare the frame by again sanding off any old paint and repainting it a cheery hue or, if it is good condition, by simply adding details with paint pens. The bed frame's metal bars make for a great canvas to add paint pen flowers, vines, bumblebees, smiley faces, ladybugs or a host of other fun designs. The frame is also ideal for attaching metal artwork with wire across the top of the head or foot boards, as long as it doesn't interfere with the feet or head. Top off the whimsical bed with a faux fur bedspread and throw rugs, wood furniture that has also been embellished with paint pens around the borders and knobs and colorful postcard collages on the walls and ceiling.