Tufted and Statement Cribs: Dakota, Antonio and Cleopatra

Cribs with presence: arches, carving and classic detail.

Short answer: a statement crib should look special in the nursery and still look right as a full-size bed ten years later. Romina's three classic statement designs, Dakota, Antonio and Cleopatra ($1,810 each for the convertible), get their presence from carved, architectural solid hardwood rather than trend details. All three convert through five stages to a full-size bed. Romina's low-profile footboard listings also note that you can add a tufted panel to the headboard at the full-bed stage, which is the easiest way to get a soft, upholstered look without an upholstered crib.

What makes a crib a "statement" crib?

A statement crib is the focal point of the room. It usually has one or more of:

• Shaped or carved headboards and footboards, not flat panels.
• A substantial base that makes the crib look like furniture rather than a frame.
• Decorative detail, such as an appliqué, a curve or a tufted panel.

The risk is that a crib designed only to look good in a nursery photo looks babyish later. The safest statement pieces are the ones that borrow from classic adult furniture, so they carry into a teen room.

How do Dakota, Antonio and Cleopatra compare?

All three are made in Europe from 100% solid hardwood, use a solid wood mattress support with three height settings, and are Greenguard Gold certified with non-toxic, water-based and organic oil finishes.

Dakota: the most architectural

Romina describes Dakota as "classic, not traditional, and superbly dressed with architectural details, the timeless design is a statement of craftsmanship." You can order it with or without the headboard appliqué, so the same crib can be ornate or quieter.

Shop the guide: Dakota

• Dakota Convertible Crib: $1,810. Daybed stage included, with or without appliqué.
• Dakota Conversion Kit: $530. Two sets of slats. Box spring included: no separate box spring needed, just add a standard full-size mattress.
• Dakota Double Dresser: from $2,470. 59" wide; works as a changing station with a tray.

Antonio: classic English lines

Antonio is "designed for lifetime use", growing "from newborn to college". The collection's beds are described as "a refreshed Queen Anne classic English", with classic lines carved into the headboard. Antonio converts to a full-size bed two ways: with the original footboard or with the low-profile footboard.

Shop the guide: Antonio

• Antonio Convertible Crib / Open Back: $1,810.
• Antonio Convertible Crib / Solid Back: $1,810.
• Antonio Conversion Kit: $530. Solid wood rails and slats, no box spring needed.

Cleopatra: curves on an elevated base

Romina calls Cleopatra "a statement of quality and craftsmanship", with "a robust elevated base adorned with subtle architectural details where curve and scale complement each other." It's the collection to choose if you want the crib to look like a piece of fine furniture.

If you don't need the full-bed stages, the Cleopatra Classic Crib ($1,725) has symmetrical side panels, so it looks finished from every side and can sit in the middle of the room.

Shop the guide: Cleopatra

• Cleopatra Convertible Crib / Open Back: $1,810.
• Cleopatra Convertible Crib / Solid Back: $1,810.
• Cleopatra Classic Crib: $1,725. Converts to a toddler bed.
• Cleopatra Nursery Set: $4,124. Convertible crib and double dresser in Solid White, Quick-Ship.

Where does a tufted panel fit in?

Tufting adds softness and texture, and it's a classic look in upholstered beds. On a crib, though, you also want surfaces that are easy to wipe and nothing a teething baby can pull at. That's why the cleanest approach is to add tufting at the bed stage, when your child is older.

Romina's Dakota and New York low-profile footboard listings say that at the full-bed stage you "can also add a tufted panel for your headboard and your crib will become a full size bed to dream of." Open-back cribs are the natural partner for a headboard panel. Tufted options change over time, so contact Romina for what's currently available for your model before you plan around it.

How do statement cribs grow with my child?

All three follow Romina's five official stages:

1. Standard Crib (0–24 months)
2. Toddler Bed (24 months–4 years), with a design-specific toddler rail ($275)
3. Daybed (24 months–4 years), included
4. Full Size Bed (4 years to forever), with the $530 conversion kit
5. Customised Full Size Bed (4 years to forever), for example with the $530 Low-Profile Footboard

The low-profile footboard matters more for statement cribs than for plain ones. A carved crib footboard is tall, and Romina notes that "when converted to full bed, the crib footboard may be a bit higher especially for smaller rooms." The low version opens the room and lets your child get into bed from all sides.

Browse: Dakota · Antonio · Cleopatra · Low-profile footboards

FAQ

Which Romina crib is the most ornate?

Dakota with the headboard appliqué and Cleopatra, with its elevated base and curves, are the most decorative. Antonio is classic but a little calmer.

Can I get a tufted crib from Romina?

Romina has offered tufted panels for some models. Availability changes, so check with Romina for your crib model.

Do these cribs convert to a full-size bed?

Yes. Dakota, Antonio and Cleopatra convertible cribs all convert with a $530 design-specific conversion kit.

Are statement cribs harder to keep clean?

Not if they're solid wood with a water-based finish. Romina says a damp cloth, followed by a dry one, is all you need.

Are they safe?

All Romina cribs meet US CPSC requirements and are Greenguard Gold certified. Any mattress used must be at least 27 1/4 × 51 5/8 inches and no more than 6 inches thick.

Related guide: Is a Luxury Crib Worth It? The Cost-per-Year of a Crib That Lasts to College