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 an excellent choice for guest rooms and vacation homes where ceilings are high, but the floor space is limited.
The addition of the right features transforms bunk beds into elegant 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 to accommodate families of all sizes, or two kids in the same space. They can save space by stacking bed frames on top of another. This arrangement frees space on the floor for play areas and furniture which makes it a perfect solution for rooms that are cramped or lofted spaces that require more sleeping arrangements. Bunk beds are available in a wide range of styles. From modern, sleek metal designs to classic wooden designs. Many bunk beds have an incorporated stairway that can be used to reduce the footprint. A spiral staircase is a fantastic alternative for those who have smaller bedrooms. An integrated set of stairs that are steep is ideal for homes that are limited in storage.
Bunk beds are an excellent way to add style and color to a space.
find more like light grey and navy are a stylish option for bunk beds. The neutral colors can also be dressed up by incorporating themed decor for an extra touch of design, such as an adventure-themed bunk space that brings to mind the forest hideout or a romantic cloud-themed room. If you're looking to mix in a few bright colors, try picking brighter hues for the top bunk and softer shades for the bottom bunk.
If you are building a bunk-room from scratch, it is important to carefully consider the impact of the layout on your space. Draw the outline of your bunk beds using a blue painter's tap on the wall. Then, measure the distance between them and any fixed features, such as doors, windows, or closets. This will help you decide the size of the frame as well as how close it will be to other furniture.
Once you've picked a bunk design that you like, consider adding additional functional features. For example, Ms. Keenan often builds a reading light with a switch on each bunk. It's a great method for kids to read without disturbing the person in front of them. There's also a small shelf on each bunk where children can put glasses or books.
Comfortable Climbing
Even the most adventurous kids won't sleep in a high-rise if climbing up and down is 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, who is the founder of John Martine in Salt Lake City. "Stairs aren't as space-efficient but they are the most safety features for younger children."
The best option is a fixed ladder with simple rungs that attach to the side of the bed. For teenagers and older children the ladders with angled angles may be easier to climb. Test the bunk using blue painter's tape. Make sure there is enough space to walk around.
Another option is an inbuilt staircase that connects to the bottom bunk, or under every mattress on the top and lower levels. These are typically the most secure and large, however they may require more setup time than a freestanding ladder. "Look for stairs with broad, solid rails for stairways, and an angled, low step," advises child safety expert Dr. Moriarty, who also suggests that bunk beds are supported by wood slats instead of wire or thin boards to prevent accidents.
Find a bunk bed with an adjustable trundle. This lets you add an extra twin bed to accommodate sleepovers or guests without taking up more space in the room. A trundle is only available if the bottom bunk of your room is a twin.
Fenton and Alex Morris both love the Oeuf Perch Bunk. It is a contemporary option that can be transformed into a loft or a twin bed. It's the most heavy option on our list, however Fenton calls it "a tank" that's "built to last." The sleek design is chic and doesn't feel babyish. It's also not too babyish for teenagers. The beds can be removed later if they decide they no longer need bunk beds.
Flexibility
When you think about bunk design, the possibilities are endless. If you're designing a kid's room, primary bedroom, or guest room it is possible to design these beds with style without sacrificing functionality. Bunk beds are a great way to create an area of focus, a play area, or even a storage solution. Based on the overall style you're after the bunk beds could also be a focal point that blends into your entire design scheme.
A lot of bunk beds today come with a variety of styles materials, finishes, and colors that will suit any design. Many bunk beds are available in various designs, from bohemian coastal to moody. If you want to give your kids' bedroom a look of bunk beds that matches their personalities pick the right color or theme and then add accessories like pillows, curtains and artwork.
The ladder of a bunk bed has a significant impact on the appearance of the room. Most off-the-shelf bunks come with a fixed ladder, but some can be ordered with the ladder placed on either side of the shorter end of the bed. Bunks with ladders on the short end can leave the lower bunk unlocked, making it ideal for adults. It also gives the room an uncluttered look.
Another option is to consider a different shape for your bunks, such as an L-shaped model. Gil says that these bunks are ideal for rooms with low ceilings and require less space. These bunks can be outfitted with a small desk beneath. This is a great choice for kids who prefer to study in bed.
You can also choose a custom-built bunk with stairs built 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 durable bunk beds.

There are also convertible bunks that can be converted from twin-overtwin to full-size bed, or the reverse. These can be a good option for older children who don't want to share their space or parents who have to accommodate guests.
Storage
Bunk beds can provide plenty of space for clothing and bedding, depending on their design. Look for designs that use shelves or drawers that are that are built into the structure or add standalone units to either side of the bunks. These are particularly useful in smaller rooms, since they maximize unused space without making the bunks feel tight or cluttered.
Some manufacturers build storage into the bed, such as this Oeuf Perch bunk that offers two large storage compartments on each side of the upper loft. These designs are perfect for siblings who share bedrooms, since they allow each child to keep their personal belongings close by while also preventing the often-dreaded "piles" of shared belongings.
In addition to drawers or shelves, other clever bunk bed ideas include incorporating storage into the headboards. Baskets or bins at the end of headboards make it easier to access books, making reading before bedtime more enjoyable. This is also great for bedrooms with shared spaces as it allows children to keep their favorite titles easily accessible and organized.
A ladder can be incorporated into the bunks. This eliminates the need for an extra furniture piece and gives a sleeker look. It is important to keep in mind that angled ladders are difficult for younger children to climb. This type of bunk bed is typically reserved for older children or teens.
Bunk beds are a great fit in almost any type of space including attics and bonus rooms that are typically awkwardly designed. In these spaces an individual-designed configuration could be the best choice to create a functional and stylish bunk room. If you are planning to build a bunk from scratch consider the ceiling's height and what will be above. A higher ceiling will allow for a bigger bunk, but a lower ceiling will limit the dimensions of the bunk.
The ideal bunk bed for a child will depend on the child's age. However the bunk bed could also be a good option for adults looking to make space and add some style to a guest bedroom. 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, so it's a versatile alternative to traditional furniture for bedrooms.