How to Choose the Best Bunk Bed Design
Bunk beds are an efficient and comfortable option for sleeping in children's bedrooms. They are also a great choice for guest rooms and vacation homes where the ceilings are high but the floor space is small.
The right combination of details transforms bunk beds into fashionable sleeping spaces. The bunks in this ocean-themed bedroom were painted using Porter's Paints 'Mariner', which complemented the room's color palette.
Space-Saving
Whether they're utilized to sleep an entire family or a couple of children in the same room bunk beds can are a great way to save space by stacking a bed frame on top of another. This arrangement frees space on the floor to play and other furniture, making it an ideal solution for rooms that are cramped or lofted areas that need more sleeping arrangements. Bunk beds come in various styles, ranging from sleek modern metal to classic wood designs. A majority of bunk beds come with an integrated stairwell that minimizes the footprint. A curving staircase is an excellent alternative for those with smaller bedrooms. An integrated set of steep steps is ideal for homes with a limited space in storage space.
Bunk beds are a great way to add design and color to an space. Neutral colors such as navy and light grey are a stylish option for bunk beds. The neutral colors can also be adorned by incorporating themed decor for some extra flair, such as an adventure-themed bunk space that evokes the forest hideout or a dreamy cloud-themed space. If you're looking to add a few bright colors, try picking brighter hues for the top bunk, and more neutral shades for the bottom bunk.
If you are building a bunk-room from scratch, it is important to be aware of the impact of the layout on your space. Mark out the shape of your bunk beds with blue painter's tape on the wall. Then measure the distance between them and any fixed features such as windows, closets and doors. This will give you an idea of how close the bed will be to other furniture and will help you select the best size frame for your space.
Once you've decided on a design for your bunk consider adding other elements that are functional. For example Ms. Keenan often builds a reading light that has a switch inside every bunk. It's a great way to allow each kid to read quietly without disturbing the person in front of them. There's also a small shelf in each bunk where kids can put their glasses or books.
Comfortable Climbing
Not even the most adventurous children can sleep in a high bed 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, who is the founder of John Martine in Salt Lake City. "Stairs aren't as efficient in space however they're the most safety features for children who are younger."
The most secure option is a fixed ladder with simple rungs that attach to the bed's side. For teens and older children, angled ladders may be easier to climb. Test the bunk with blue painter's tape. Make sure there's enough space for walking around.
A built-in ladder that runs beneath the mattress of the upper and lower levels or connects to the bunk below is a excellent alternative. These are the most spacious and safest, however they take longer to put up than a ladder that stands alone. "Look for stairs that have broad, solid railings for stairways and an angled, low step," advises child safety expert Dr. Moriarty, who also suggests that bunk beds are supported by wood slats rather than wire or thin boards to avoid accidents.
If you want a bunk that can expand with your kids, opt for one that has a removable trundle. This lets you create an extra twin bed to accommodate guests or sleepovers, without taking up floor space in the room. (Be aware that a trundle is only going to be suitable if the bunk on the bottom is an individual twin, not a full.)
Fenton and Alex Morris both love the Oeuf Perch Bunk. It is a contemporary option that can be converted into a loft and an additional bed for twins. Fenton calls this the "heaviest" pick on our list. It's also "built to last." best bunk beds on amazon looks elegant and doesn't feel childish for teenagers and the beds can be separated if kids decide they don't need a bunk anymore.
Flexibility
There are plenty of options when it comes to designing bunk beds. You can easily add style and the practicality of these beds, regardless of whether you're designing a children room, a main bedroom, or even a guest space. Bunk beds can provide an attractive focal point in a room or create a fun play space, or serve as a great storage solution. Based on the overall style you're going for, your bunk beds can also be a statement piece that will tie in with your overall design.
Bunk beds are available in a variety of designs, finishes, colors, and materials. In reality, a lot of bunks are available in designs ranging from bohemian to coastal and even moody. Choose a color theme or fabric and combine it with curtains, pillows and artwork to create your kids' bedrooms a bunk-bed look that suits their individual style.
The ladder on a bunk bed could make a huge difference in the appearance of the room. The majority of bunks that are available off the shelf have a fixed ladder, but there are some that can be purchased with the ladder placed on either side of the shorter end of the bed. Bunks with the ladder on the short end leave the lower bunk completely open and is perfect for adults and gives the room a minimalist appearance.
Think about a bunk bed in the shape that isn't conventional, like an L-shaped one. These bunks occupy less floor space and are ideal for rooms with low ceilings, notes Gil. These bunks can be fitted with a small desk beneath. This is a great solution for kids who wish to study in the bed.
You can also select a custom-built bunk with stairs built into the frame. These bunks are often used in hotels and are the most "grown-up option. Room & Board offers a assortment of colors and durable bunk beds.
There are also convertible bunks which can be transformed from twin-overtwin to full-size bed, or vice versa. They are a great option for older siblings who don't want their room shared or parents who have guests.
Storage
Bunk beds can provide plenty of space for bedding and clothing according to their design. Look for designs that use shelves or drawers that are that are built into the structure or add standalone units on either side of the bunks. These types of furniture are particularly helpful in smaller spaces, as they maximize unused space without making the bunks feel tight or cluttered.
Some manufacturers build storage within the bed itself, such as this Oeuf Perch bunk that offers two spacious storage compartments on each side of the upper loft. These designs are perfect for rooms with multiple siblings since each child can keep their personal belongings close at hand while also helping to prevent the common piles of belongings.
In addition to drawers and shelves, other smart bunk bed ideas are to incorporate storage into the headboards. Adding bins or baskets to the edges of the headboards keep books within easy reach and makes reading before bed much simpler and more enjoyable. This is also great for bedrooms with shared spaces because it lets kids keep their most loved books easily accessible and organized.
Another option is integrating an integrated ladder into the bunks. This eliminates the need for an extra furniture piece and gives a more sleek appearance. However, it's important be aware that angled ladders can be more difficult for children who are younger to climb, so this type of bunk is typically reserved for older kids or teens.
Bunk beds are a great fit in almost any type of space, including bonus rooms and attics which are usually awkwardly shaped. In these situations an individual-designed configuration could be the best option to create a practical and attractive bunk room. If you're planning to build a bunk from scratch, take into consideration the height of the ceiling and what will be above it. A higher ceiling will allow for a larger bunk while a lower ceiling can limit the dimensions of the bunk.
While the right bunk for a child's needs will depend on the child's age, a bunk can also be a great choice for adults who want to save space and add a touch of charm to a guest bedroom. This chic Max & Lily bunk is available in a variety of finishes and can be separated into a twin bed or a full bed. It's a great alternative to standard bedroom furnishings.