How to Choose the Best Bunk Bed Design

Bunk beds are a comfortable and space-efficient way to sleep in children's rooms. They are also a great option for guest bedrooms and vacation homes, where ceilings are high but there is a limited amount of floor space.

Addition of the right elements transforms bunk beds to fashionable sleeping spaces. The bunks in this ocean-themed bedroom were painted with Porter's Paints 'Mariner', which complemented the room's color palette.

Space-Saving

Bunk beds are ideal for accommodating an entire family or two children in the same space. They can save space by stacking a bed frame on over another. This arrangement allows for more floor space to be used for furniture and play. It is an ideal solution for smaller rooms or lofted areas that require more sleeping arrangements. Bunk beds come in a variety of designs, from sleek contemporary metal to timeless wood designs. They also come with an integrated staircase that reduces the footprint of the structure. A spiral staircase is a good alternative for those who have smaller bedrooms, and an integrated set of steep stairs is ideal for homes with a limited storage space.

Bunk beds can add to a room's aesthetic, too, if you choose the right color scheme and design. Neutral colors such as light grey and navy are a stylish option for bunk beds. The neutral colors can also be adorned with themed decor for an extra touch of flair, such as an adventure-inspired bunk room that reminds you of the forest hideout or a romantic cloud-themed room. If you're looking to mix in a few bright colors, try selecting brighter colors 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 how the layout will impact your room. Use blue painter's tape to mark 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 give you a better idea of how close the bed will be to other furniture and will help you choose the best size frame for your space.

After you've chosen the design of your bunk you like, think about adding other functional features. Ms. Keenan, for example is a frequent user of the reading lamp that has a switch on every bunk. It's a great way to allow every child to read without disturbing the person above them. She also has an extra shelf on each bunk where kids can put their books or glasses.

Comfortable Climbing

Even the most adventurous children aren't likely to sleep on top when climbing up and down is difficult or unsafe. Interior designer Brynne Flower, who is the founder of John Martine Salt Lake City, says that the most important thing to do is make sure the bunk bed comes with a sturdy ladder that is attached to the side. The stairs might not be as efficient in space but they're the safest option for children.

A fixed ladder with basic ladders attached to the sides of the bunk is generally the most secure option. The ladders that are angled, which can be easier to climb than straight ones, may work better for older kids and teens. Test the bunk using blue painter’s tape. Check to see if there is enough space for walking around.

best bunk bed for teens is a built-in staircase that attaches to the bottom bunk, or under every mattress on the top and lower levels. These tend to be the most secure and spacious, but they do require more setup time than a freestanding ladder. Dr. Moriarty recommends looking for staircases that have solid, wide rails and a low, circular step. He recommends that bunk beds be supported by wood slats, instead of wires or boards that are thin to avoid accidents.

If you are looking for a bunk that can expand with your kids, opt for one that has a removable trundle. This allows you to have a second bed in your room for guests or sleepovers without taking up more space. (Be aware that a trundle is only going to fit if the bottom bunk is an individual twin, not a full.)

A favorite of both Fenton and writer Alex Morris, the Oeuf Perch bunk is a modern option that is divided into a loft bed and a regular twin bed. It's the largest option on our list, but Fenton describes it as "a tank" that's "built to last." The sleek design looks stylish and doesn't feel too babyish for teens and the beds can be separated later if kids decide they don't want a bunk anymore.

Flexibility

When it comes to bunk bed designs, the possibilities are endless. You can easily add style but not sacrifice the practicality of these beds, whether you're designing for a kid room, a primary bedroom, or even a guest room. Bunk beds are a great way to create an eye-catching focal point, play space, or a storage solution. Your bunk beds can become a focal feature, based on the overall design of your room.

The majority of modern bunk beds come with a variety of configurations as well as finishes, materials and colors that will suit any design. A variety of bunk beds are available in a variety of styles, from bohemian to coastal to moody. Pick a theme or fabric, and then combine it with pillows, curtains and artwork to give your kids' bedroom a bunk-bed look that suits the personality of your child.

The ladder on a bunk bed can make a huge difference in the way the room appears. Most bunks on the shelves come with a fixed ladder however, some are available with the ladder placed on either side of the shorter end of the bed. Bunks that have the ladder on the short end leave the lower bunk open which is great for adults and can give the room a minimalist look.

Consider a bunk bed in the shape that isn't typical, like an L-shaped one. These bunks occupy less floor space and are ideal for rooms with low ceilings, notes Gil. They can also be fitted with a desk beneath which makes them the ideal choice for children who wish to work in their beds.

You can also opt for an individual built bunk with stairs built right into the frame. These bunks are commonly used in hotels and are the most "grown-up' option available. Room & Board offers a range of colors and sturdy bunk beds.

If you're looking for a more temporary option, you can also consider convertible bunks that can be converted from twin-over-twin to full-size beds and vice versa. They can be a great option for older siblings who do not wish to share their rooms or parents who have to accommodate guests.

Stores

Bunk beds can provide plenty of space for bedding and clothing in accordance with their design. Find designs that feature shelves or drawers that are built into the structure or add standalone units to either side of the bunks. These options are especially helpful in small rooms, as they maximize unused space without making the bunks feel unorganized or cramped.

Some manufacturers have built-in storage within the bed, such as this Oeuf Perch loft that has two spacious storage compartments both on the upper level. These designs are ideal for rooms with multiple siblings, as each kid can keep their personal items to hand while also helping to prevent the common piles of belongings.

In addition to drawers or shelves, other clever bunk bed ideas are to incorporate storage in the headboards. Adding bins or baskets to the edges of the headboards keeps books easily accessible and makes reading at night much more enjoyable and more enjoyable. This is also great for shared bedrooms because it lets kids keep their favourite books easily accessible and organized.

A ladder can be integrated into the bunks. This eliminates the need for an additional piece of furniture and gives it a a sleeker appearance. However, it's important to be aware that angled ladders are more challenging for younger children to climb, which is why this type of bunk is usually reserved for older kids or teenagers.

Bunk beds can be a great option for any space, including attics and bonus rooms that have odd shapes. A custom-built bunk bed configuration is a good option for these rooms. If you are planning to build a bunk from the ground up consider the ceiling's height as well as what will be above. A higher ceiling will allow for a larger bunk but a lower ceiling will restrict the size of the bunk.

While the right bunk for children's needs will be contingent on their age, a bunk can also be a good option for adults looking to reduce space and add a touch of style to a guest bedroom. This chic bunk from Max & Lily is available in a variety of finishes and can be separated into a twin-size bed and a full-size bed, which means it's a versatile alternative to traditional bedroom furniture.