How to Choose the Best Bunk Bed Design
Bunk beds offer a comfy, space-efficient sleeping solution for kids' rooms. They can also be an excellent option for guest bedrooms or vacation homes where ceilings are high but floor space is limited.
The right accessories can transform bunk beds into stylish sleeping nooks. The bunks in this ocean-themed bedroom were painted with Porter's Paints 'Mariner', which helped to complement the room's colors.
Space-Saving
They can be used to accommodate a large family or a couple of children in the same space, bunk beds save space by stacking one bed frame on top of another. This arrangement allows for more floor space that can be used for furniture or play. It's a great solution for small spaces or lofted areas that require more sleeping arrangements. Bunk beds are available in a wide range of styles. From sleek, modern metal designs to timeless wooden designs. Many also feature a built-in staircase that minimizes the footprint of the structure. A curving ladder is a great alternative for those who have a smaller bedroom, while an integrated set of stairs is ideal for homes with limited storage space.
Bunk beds can add to the aesthetic of a room, too when you pick the right color palette and styling. Bunk beds look great in neutral hues like navy and light grey. The neutral colors can also be adorned by incorporating themed decor for a little extra design, such as an adventure-themed bunk room that reminds you of a woodland hideout or a heavenly cloud-themed space. If you want to add some pops of color, try choosing brighter shades for the top bunk, and more neutral shades for the bottom bunk.
If you're building a bunk space from scratch, it's important to consider the way that the layout will affect your space. Use blue painter's tape to draw out the silhouette of your bunk beds on the wall and then measure the distance between the beds as well as any fixed elements like windows, closets, or doors. This will give you a better idea of how close the bed will be to the other furniture and help you choose the right size frame for your space.
Once you've settled on a bunk design, think about adding other elements that are functional. Ms. Keenan, for example often puts an reading lamp with a switch in every bunk. It's a great method for each kid to read in peace without disturbing the person in front of them. She also likes to include an extra ledge on each bunk, so that kids can set books or glasses.
Comfortable Climbing
Even the most adventurous children won't sleep in a high-rise when climbing up and down feels difficult or unsafe. "The most important thing to do is ensure that the bunk bed has an adequate ladder that's connected to the side of the bunk," says interior designer Brynne Flowers, founder of John Martine in Salt Lake City. "Stairs aren't as efficient in space however they're the best security feature for children who are younger."
The best option is a fixed ladder that has simple rungs that are attached to the side of the bed. For teens and older children, angled ladders may be easier to climb. Test the bunk using blue painter’s tape. Make sure there's enough space for walking around.
A built-in ladder that runs beneath the mattress on the upper and lower levels or attaches to the bunk below is a good alternative. best bunk beds for adults tend to be the safest and most spacious, though they can require more setup time than a freestanding ladder. "Look for stairs that have wide, solid railings for stairways and a low, rounded step," advises child safety expert Dr. Moriarty, who also suggests bunk beds be supported by wood slats rather than wire or thin boards to prevent accidents.
Find a bunk bed with an adjustable trundle. This allows you to have an extra twin bed in your bedroom for guests or sleepovers without taking up extra space. A trundle is only available when the bunk at the bottom of your room is a twin.
Fenton and Alex Morris both love the Oeuf Perch Bunk. It is a modern choice that can be made into a loft or an additional bed for twins. Fenton describes it as the "heaviest" choice on our list. It's also "built to last." The sleek design is chic and doesn't feel babyish. It's also not too babyish for teens. And the beds can be removed at any time if they decide they no longer need bunk beds.
Flexibility
There are a variety of options to consider when creating bunk beds. You can easily add style but not sacrifice the practicality of the beds, no matter if you're designing for a kids' room, a primary bedroom, or even a guest room. Bunk beds can be an ideal focal point for a room or create a fun play space or function as a fun storage solution. Your bunk beds can be a statement feature, based on the overall aesthetic of your room.
Many of today's bunk beds provide a variety of designs, materials, finishes and colors that will suit any design. There are many bunk beds available in different designs, from bohemian coastal to sombre. To give your children's bedroom a look that matches their personalities select a color or fabric theme and match it with accessories like curtains, pillows and artwork.
The ladder of a bunk bed can make an impact on the look of a room. The majority of bunk beds have a fixed ladder. However, some can be ordered to have the ladder either side of the short end. Bunks with ladders on the short end can leave the lower bunk unlocked which makes it suitable for adults. It also creates an uncluttered look.
Another option is to consider an alternative shape for your bunks, such as an L-shaped version. They take up less floor space and are ideal for rooms with low ceilings, explains Gil. These bunks can be outfitted with a small desk underneath. This is a great solution for kids who prefer to study in their bed.
You can also select a bunk that is custom-built with stairs built into the frame. These types of bunks are often employed in hotels and are considered to be the most "grown-up" option available on the market. Room & Board offers a range of colors and durable bunk beds.
If you're looking for a temporary option, you can also consider convertible bunks that can be converted from twin-over-twin beds to full-size beds and reverse. They can be a great option for older siblings who don't want to share their room or parents who have to accommodate guests.
Storage
Bunk beds can offer plenty of space for bedding and clothing, depending on their design. Look for designs with drawers or shelves built into the structure, or standalone units on either side of the bed. These options are particularly useful in small rooms as they make the most of space and do not make the bunks appear unorganized or cramped.
Some manufacturers include built-in storage within the bed, like this Oeuf Perch loft that has two large storage spaces on both on the upper level. These designs are perfect for siblings sharing bedrooms, since they allow each child to keep their personal items close to hand while avoiding the often-dreaded "piles" of shared belongings.
In addition to drawers or shelves, other clever bunk bed ideas are to incorporate storage into the headboards. The addition of baskets or bins to the sides of the headboards keeps books easily accessible making reading at night much more enjoyable and more enjoyable. This is also great for bedrooms that are shared as it allows kids to keep their most loved books easily accessible and organized.
A ladder can be built into the bunks. This solution eliminates an extra piece of furniture and creates a sleeker appearance. It's important to note that angled ladders can be difficult for younger children to climb. This type of bunk bed is typically reserved for teenagers or older children.
Bunk beds can be a great option for any space, including attics and bonus rooms with odd shapes. In these spaces an individual-designed configuration could be the best choice to create a practical and attractive bunk room. If you're considering building the bunk from scratch, consider the height of the ceiling and the height above it. A higher ceiling will allow for a larger bunk, while a lower ceiling can limit the dimensions of the bunk.
The best bunk bed for a child will depend on the age of the child. However, a bunk bed can be a great option for adults who want to reduce space and add charm to a guest room. This chic bunk from Max & Lily is available in a variety of finishes. It can be divided into a twin-sized bed as well as a full-size bed, which means it's a versatile alternative to standard bedroom furniture.