How to Choose the Best Bunk Bed Design
Bunk beds provide a comfortable, space-efficient sleeping solution for children's rooms. They are also an ideal option for guest bedrooms and vacation homes where ceilings are high, but there is a limited amount of floor space.
Adding the right details can transform bunk beds into chic 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 perfect for accommodating an entire family or two children in the same space. They reduce space by stacking a bed frame on over another. This arrangement frees the floor space for play areas and furniture and is a great solution for rooms that are cramped or lofted areas that need more sleeping arrangements. Bunk beds come in a wide range of designs. From modern, sleek metal designs to classic wooden designs. best bunk beds for small spaces come with a built-in stairway that reduces the footprint. A curving ladder is a great alternative for those who have smaller bedrooms, and an integrated set of stairs is perfect for homes with limited storage space.
Bunk beds are a great way to add design and color to an space. Neutral colors such as light grey and navy are stylish choices for bunk beds. The neutral colors can also be dressed up with themed decor for some extra design, such as an adventure-inspired bunk room that reminds you of a woodland hideout or a romantic cloud-themed room. If you're looking to add a little color, opt for brighter hues for the top bunk, and lighter shades for the bottom bunks.
When you are building a bunk room from scratch, you must be aware of the impact of the layout of the space. Use blue painter's adhesive to mark the outline of your bunk beds on the wall, and then measure the distance between the beds and any fixed features like windows, closets, or doors. This will give you a better idea of how close the bed will be to other furniture and will help you choose the right size frame for your space.
After you've decided on a design for your bunk, think about adding additional functional elements. Ms. Keenan, for example is a frequent user of a reading lamp that has a switch on each bunk. It's a great method for each kid to read in peace without disturbing the person in front of them. She also includes a small shelf in each bunk, where children can place books or glasses.
Comfortable Climbing
Even the most adventurous kids will sleep up high if climbing up and down it feels difficult or unsafe. Interior designer Brynne Flower, who is the founder of John Martine Salt Lake City, says the most important thing to do is ensure the bunk bed comes with a sturdy ladder tacked to the side. The stairs aren't as space-efficient, but they're the safest option for children who are young.
The most secure option is a fixed ladder with simple rungs that attach to the side of the bed. For teens and older children the ladders with angled angles may be more comfortable to climb. But 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 that there's enough room for walking around.
A built-in ladder that runs under the mattress of the upper and lower levels or attaches to the bunk below is another good option. They are generally the most secure and spacious, though they can require more time to set up than a freestanding ladder. Dr. Moriarty recommends looking for stairs that have broad, solid rails and a low, round step. He also suggests that bunk beds are supported by wood slats rather than wires or thin boards, to prevent accidents.
If you want a bunk that can grow with kids, look for one that has a removable trundle. This allows you to add an extra twin bed for guests or sleepovers, without taking up more floor space in the room. (Be aware that a trundle is only going to fit if the bottom bunk is a twin, not a full.)
A popular choice for both Fenton and writer Alex Morris, the Oeuf Perch bunk is a stylish option that separates into an loft bed and a standard twin. Fenton says it's the "heaviest" option on our list. It's also "built to last." The sleek design is stylish and doesn't feel too babyish for teen years, and the beds can be separated later on if kids decide they don't need bunk beds anymore.
Flexibility
There are a variety of options to consider when designing bunk beds. You can easily add style without sacrificing the functionality of these beds, whether you're designing a children room, a primary bedroom, or a guest room. Bunk beds are an excellent option to create an eye-catching focal point, play space, or storage solution. Depending on the overall aesthetic you're going for the bunk beds could be a standout piece that blends into your overall design.
Many of today's bunk beds provide a variety of configurations, materials, finishes and colors that can be matched to any design. Many bunk beds are available in various styles, from bohemian to coastal to moody. To give your child's bedroom a look that matches their personalities, choose a color or fabric theme and match it with accessories like curtains, pillows and artwork.
The ladder of a bunk bed can have an important impact on the appearance of the room. The majority of bunks that are available off the shelf have a fixed ladder, but some can be ordered with the ladder set on either side of the shorter end of the bed. Bunks with the ladder on the short end can leave the lower bunk unlocked and is ideal for adults. It also creates an uncluttered look.
Consider a bunk bed in an unusual shape, not typical, like an L-shaped one. They take up less floor space and are ideal for rooms with low ceilings, notes Gil. They can also be outfitted with a desk beneath which makes them an ideal option for children who wish to work in the bed.
You can also choose a bunk that is custom-built with stairs built into the frame. These kinds of bunks are typically employed in hotels and are considered to be the most "grown-up" option on the market. Room & Board offers a assortment of colors and durable bunk beds.
There are also convertible bunks, that can be converted from twin-overtwin to a full-size bed, or vice versa. They are a great option for older siblings that don't want their room shared or parents with 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 built into the structure or even standalone units either side of the bunks. These kinds of options are especially beneficial in small spaces because they make the most of space and ensure that the bunks don't feel overcrowded or cramped.
Some manufacturers include built-in storage inside the bed, like this Oeuf Perch loft that has two large storage spaces on each on the upper level. These designs are perfect for siblings sharing a room since each child can keep personal items close to hand while also helping to prevent the usual piles of shared belongings.
In addition to drawers and shelves, other smart bunk bed ideas include incorporating storage into the headboards. Adding bins or baskets to the sides of the headboards keeps books within easy reach making reading at bedtime much easier and more enjoyable. This is also a great option in bedrooms that are shared, since children can keep their favorite books in order and easily accessible.
Another option is to integrate an integrated ladder into the bunks. This solution eliminates the need for an additional furniture piece and creates a more sleek appearance. However, it's important keep in mind that angled ladders may be more difficult for children younger than to climb, so this kind of bunk is typically reserved for older kids or teenagers.
Bunk beds can work in any kind of space such as attics and bonus rooms which are usually awkwardly shaped. A custom-built bunk bed may be the best choice for these spaces. If you plan to build a bunk from the ground up, take into consideration the ceiling's height as well as the height of the ceiling that will be above. A higher ceiling can allow for a taller bunk, while a lower ceiling will limit the dimensions of the lower bunk.
The right bunk bed for a child is contingent on the child's age. However the bunk bed could also be a good option for adults who want to save some space and add charm to a guest bedroom. This chic Max & Lily bunk is available in many different designs and can be divided into a twin bed and a full bed. It's a great alternative to standard furniture for bedrooms.