Best Bunk Bed Design: 11 Things You're Leaving Out

How to Choose the Best Bunk Bed Design Bunk beds are an efficient and comfortable sleeping solution for children's rooms. They are also an excellent option for guest bedrooms or vacation homes, where ceilings are high, but there is a limited amount of floor space. The right accessories can transform bunk beds into chic sleeping nooks. For instance the bunks in this ocean-themed bedroom are painted with Porter's Paints 'Mariner' to complement the color scheme of the room. Space-Saving If they're used to sleep an entire family or a couple of children in the same space bunk beds can make space by stacking one bed frame on top of another. This arrangement frees up space on the floor for play and other furniture which makes it a perfect solution for cramped rooms or lofted areas that need more sleeping arrangements. Bunk beds come in a variety of designs, from sleek contemporary metal to classic wood designs. They also come with an integrated staircase that reduces the footprint of the structure. A curved staircase is a great alternative for those who have a small bedroom. A set of integrated steep steps is perfect for homes that are limited in storage. Bunk beds can add to the aesthetic of a room, too, if you choose the right color palette and style. Neutral colors such as navy and light grey are a stylish option for bunk beds. To add some design you can jazz up the neutral colour scheme by adding themed decor. For example an area that is inspired by adventure could be designed to look like a forest hideout or even a cloud-themed room. If you're seeking to add a bit of colour, pick brighter colors for the top bunk and softer colors for bottom bunk. When you are building a bunk room from scratch, it is important to carefully consider the impact of the layout on your space. Use blue painter's tape to draw the outline of your bunk beds on the wall, and then determine the distance between the beds as well as any fixed elements like windows, closets, and doors. This will help you decide the size of the frame and how close it will be to the other furniture. After you've chosen a design for your bunk you like, think about adding other features that are functional. Ms. Keenan, for example, often installs the reading lamp that has a switch on every bunk. It allows each child to read without disturbing the person sitting on top. There's also a small shelf in each bunk, where children can place glasses or books. Comfortable Climbing Not even the most adventurous children can sleep in a high bed if climbing up and down it feels difficult or unsafe. “The most important thing to do is make sure the bunk bed has an adequate ladder that's connected to the bunk's side,” says interior designer Brynne Flowers, who is the founder of John Martine in Salt Lake City. “Stairs aren't as spacious but they are the best security feature for children who are younger.” The most secure option is a fixed ladder that has simple rungs attached to the side of the bed. Angled ladders, which can be easier to climb than straight ones, might be more suitable for older kids and teens. Test the bunk with blue painter’s tape. Make sure there is enough space for walking around. A built-in ladder that runs under the mattress on the top and bottom levels or attaches to the bunk below is another excellent option. These are the most spacious and secure, however they require more time to put up than an individual ladder. Dr. Moriarty recommends looking for stairs that have solid, wide rails and a low, circular step. He recommends that bunk beds are anchored by wood slats rather than wires or thin boards to avoid accidents. For a bunk that will grow with kids, look for one that has an adjustable trundle. This allows you to have a second bed in your room for sleepovers, guests or other occasions without occupying any extra space. A trundle can only be used only if the bunk on the bottom of your room is a twin. A favorite of both Fenton and writer Alex Morris, the Oeuf Perch bunk is a contemporary option that is divided into a loft bed and a standard twin bed. It's the most heavy option on our list, but Fenton calls it “a tank” that's “built to last.” The sleek design looks stylish and doesn't feel childish for teens and the beds can be separated later on if kids decide they don't need a bunk for themselves anymore. Flexibility When it comes to bunk bed design, the options are endless. You can easily add style and functionality to these beds, regardless of whether you're designing a children room, a primary bedroom, or a guest space. Bunk beds are an excellent option to create an eye-catching focal point, play space, or storage solution. Your bunk beds can become a focal piece, depending on the overall aesthetic of your room. A lot of bunk beds today provide a variety of configurations materials, finishes, and colors to suit any style. In fact, a variety of bunks are available in designs that range from bohemian, oceanic and even sombre. Choose a color theme or fabric, and then combine it with curtains, pillows and artwork to give your kids' bedrooms the look of a bunk bed that fits their individual style. The ladder of a bunk bed has a significant impact on the overall appearance of the room. Most off-the-shelf bunks come with a fixed ladder, but some can be ordered with the ladder set on either side of the shorter end of the bed. Bunks that have the ladder at the shorter end can leave the lower bunk open which makes it suitable for adults. It also creates an elegant look. Another option is to consider a different shape for your bunks, such as an L-shaped version. They take up less space on the floor and are great for rooms with low ceilings, explains Gil. best l shaped bunk beds can also come with a desk beneath, which can make them a great choice for kids who wish to work in bed. You can also opt for a bunk that is custom-built with stairs built right into the frame. These kinds of bunks are often employed in hotels and are considered to be the most “grown-up” option available on the market. They're extremely durable and offered in a variety of colors from Room & Board. If you're looking for a temporary alternative, there are convertible bunks that can be converted from twin-over-twin to full-size beds, and vice versa. These are a good option for older siblings who don't want their room shared or parents who host guests. Stores Bunk beds can provide ample space for bedding and clothing, depending on their design. Look for designs with shelves or drawers built into the structure, or standalone units on either side of the bed. These are particularly useful in smaller rooms, since they maximize space without making the bunks feel cramped or cluttered. Some manufacturers incorporate built-in storage within the bed itself, such as this Oeuf Perch bunk that offers two storage spaces that are spacious on each side of the loft. These designs are ideal for siblings who share the bedroom, as they allow each child to keep their personal belongings close to hand while avoiding the dreaded “piles” of belongings shared. Other smart bunk bed ideas In addition to drawers and shelves, include adding storage to headboards. Adding bins or baskets to the sides of the headboards keeps books in easy reach, which makes reading at bedtime much easier and more enjoyable. This method is also useful in shared bedrooms, as children can keep their favorite titles organized and readily accessible. Another option is integrating an integrated ladder into the bunks. This option eliminates an extra piece of furniture and gives it a more sleek appearance. It is important to keep in mind that angled ladders are difficult for children of a younger age to climb. This type of bunk bed is typically reserved for older children or teens. Bunk beds can work in almost any type of space, including bonus rooms and attics that are often awkwardly shaped. A custom-built bunk bed could be the best option for these rooms. If you plan to build a bunk from scratch, take into consideration the height of the ceiling and what will be above. A higher ceiling can allow for a taller bunk, while a lower ceiling will restrict the size of the bunk below it. The best bunk bed for a child is contingent on the age of the child. However, a bunk bed can also be an excellent choice for adults looking to reduce space and add charm to a guest room. This stylish Max & Lily bunk is available in various finishes and can be separated into a twin bed or a full bed. It's an excellent alternative to standard bedroom furnishings.