How to Choose the Best Bunk Bed Design

Bunk beds are a space-saving, comfortable sleeping solution for children's rooms. They're also a great choice for guest rooms and vacation homes where ceilings are high, but the floor space is limited.

The right accessories can transform bunk beds into stylish sleeping spaces. For instance the bunks in this bedroom with an ocean theme are painted with Porter's Paints 'Mariner' to complement the color scheme of the room.

Space-Saving

Whether they're used to sleep a large family or a couple of kids in the same room bunk beds can save space by stacking one bed frame on top of another. This arrangement gives more floor space that can be used for furniture or play. It's ideal for smaller rooms or lofted spaces that need more sleeping arrangements. Bunk beds are available in a variety of styles. From sleek, modern metal designs to classic wooden designs. Some also have an integrated staircase that reduces the footprint of the structure. A curving ladder is a great alternative for those with smaller bedrooms, and an integrated set of stairs is perfect for homes with limited storage space.

Bunk beds are ideal for adding design and color to an space. neutral colors such as light grey and navy are stylish choices for bunk beds. If you want to add a bit of design, you can dress up the neutral scheme by adding themed decor. For example a bunk room that is that is inspired by adventure could be made to resemble a forest hideout or even a cloud-themed room. If you're looking to add some pops of color, try picking brighter hues for the top bunk and softer shades for the bottom bunk.

If you're building a bunk space from scratch, you need to consider the way that the layout will affect your room. 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 features like windows, closets, or doors. This will help you decide the size of the frame as well as how close it will be to other furniture.

After you've chosen a bunk design you like, think about adding other features that are functional. Ms. Keenan, for example, often installs the reading lamp that has a switch on each bunk. It allows each child to read without disrupting the person in the middle. She also likes to add small ledges on each bunk, where children can place glasses or books.

Comfortable Climbing

Not even the most adventurous children will be able to sleep high if climbing up and down it feels hard or unsafe. "The most important thing to do is make sure the bunk bed is equipped with an erect ladder that is attached to the bunk's side," says interior designer Brynne Flowers, the founder of John Martine in Salt Lake City. The stairs might not be as efficient in space but they are the safest option for children.

The best option is a fixed ladder with simple rungs attached to the bed's side. Angled ladders, which can be more attainable than straight ones, might be more suitable for older kids and teens. Be sure to test out the bunk with blue painter's adhesive to see how close it is to any fixed elements, such as doors or windows and also to ensure there's enough clearance to walk around.

Another option is a built-in staircase that attaches to the bottom bunk or under each mattress on the upper and lower levels. They are the largest and safest, but they require more time to construct than a ladder that stands alone. Dr. Moriarty recommends looking for stairs that have wide, solid rails, and a low, round step. He recommends that bunk beds be supported by wood slats rather than thin boards or wires to avoid accidents.

Look for a bunk bed with a removable trundle. This lets you create an extra twin bed for sleepovers or guests without taking up space on the floor. (Be aware that a trundle can only be able to fit if the bunk below is twin and not a full.)

A favorite of both Fenton and writer Alex Morris, the Oeuf Perch bunk is a modern option that can be divided into a loft bed and a standard twin. It's the heaviest pick on our list, however Fenton describes it as "a tank" that's "built to last." The sleek design is elegant and doesn't feel babyish. It's also not too babyish for teenagers. The beds can be removed later on if they decide that they don't need bunk beds.

Flexibility


There are many possibilities when it comes to making bunk beds. You can easily add style without sacrificing the practicality of these beds, regardless of whether you're designing a children room, a primary bedroom, or even a guest room. Bunk beds can be a focal point in the room or create a fun play space, or serve as a fun storage solution. Your bunk beds can become a focal feature, based on the overall design of your room.

The majority of modern bunk beds offer a range of styles materials, finishes, and colors that will suit any style. Many bunk beds are available in different styles, from bohemian and coastal to moody. Choose a color scheme or fabric and mix it with curtains, pillows, and artwork to give your kids' bedrooms an appearance that matches their personality.

best metal bunk beds on a bunk bed can make a huge difference in the appearance of the room. The majority of bunk beds have a fixed ladder. Some can be ordered with the ladder either side of the short end. Bunks with ladders on the short side can leave the lower bunk open and is ideal for adults. It also creates an elegant look.

Another option is to consider a non-traditional shape for your bunks, for instance an L-shaped model. Gil says that these bunks are ideal for rooms with low ceilings as they require less space. They can also come with a desk beneath and can be the ideal choice for children who wish to work in their beds.

Alternatively, you can opt for a custom-built bunk with stairs built into the sides of the frame. These bunks are typically used in hotels and are the most "grown-up option. They're extremely sturdy and are offered in a variety of colors from Room & Board.

If you're looking for a temporary alternative, there are convertible bunks that can convert from twin-over-twin beds into full-size beds, and reverse. These are an excellent alternative for older children who don't want their room shared or parents who host guests.

Stores

Depending on the style, bunk beds can offer plenty of storage space for clothing and bedding. Find designs that feature drawers or shelving that are built into the structure or even standalone units either side of the bunks. These options are especially helpful in smaller spaces, as they maximize unused space without making the bunks feel cramped or cluttered.

best low bunk beds offer built-in storage within the bed, such as this Oeuf Perch loft that has two spacious storage compartments each on the upper level. These designs are great for siblings sharing a bedroom, as they allow each child to keep their personal items close by while also preventing the dreaded "piles" of belongings shared.

Other clever bunk bed ideas as well as shelves and drawers, are adding storage to headboards. Baskets or bins at the end of headboards make it easy to reach books, which makes reading before bedtime more enjoyable. This option is also great for bedrooms that are shared as it allows kids to keep their favourite books easily accessible and organized.

Another option is integrating an integrated ladder into the bunks. This solution eliminates the need for an extra furniture piece and gives it a sleeker look. But, it's important to be aware that angled ladders are more challenging for younger children to climb, and this type of bunk is typically reserved for older children or teenagers.

Bunk beds are a great fit in any kind of space such as attics and bonus rooms that are typically awkwardly designed. In these rooms an individual-designed configuration could be the best option to create a functional and stylish bunk room. If you plan to build a bunk from the ground up consider the ceiling's height as well as what will be above. A higher ceiling allows for a larger bunk, but a lower ceiling will limit the dimensions of the bunk.

While the ideal bunk for a child's needs will depend on his or her age, a bunk can be a great option for adults who want to save space and add a bit of class to their guest bedroom. This chic bunk from Max & Lily is available in a variety of finishes. It can be divided into a twin-size bed and a full-size bed, which means it's an alternative to the conventional bedroom furniture.