How to Choose the Best Bunk Bed Design
Bunk beds offer a comfy, space-efficient sleeping solution for kids' rooms. They're ideal for guest rooms or vacation homes where the ceilings are high, but the floor space is constrained.
By adding the right details, you can transform bunk beds into stylish sleeping spaces. The bunks in this ocean-themed bedroom were handpainted with Porter's Paints 'Mariner', which complemented the room's color palette.
Space-Saving
If they're used to sleep an entire family or a pair of children in the same space, bunk beds are a great way to save space by stacking a bed frame on top of another. This arrangement frees up floor space 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 can be found in a wide range of styles. From modern, sleek metal designs to timeless wooden designs. Many bunk beds have an integrated stairwell that minimizes the footprint. A spiral staircase is a fantastic alternative for those with an enviable bedroom. A set of stairs that are steep is ideal for homes that are limited in storage space.
Bunk beds are a great way to add style and color to a space. Bunk beds look great in neutral colors like navy and light grey. To add some style, you can dress up the neutral scheme with themed décor. For instance, a bunk room with a theme of adventure could be designed to look like a woodland hideout or a space inspired by clouds. If you're seeking to add a bit of color, opt for brighter hues for the top bunk, and lighter colors for bottom bunks.
If you're building a bunk room from scratch, it's important to think about the impact of the layout on your room. Mark out the shape of your bunk beds with blue painter's tap on the wall. Then, measure the distance between them, as well as any fixed features, such as doors, windows, or closets. This will help you decide the dimensions of the frame and how close it will be to the other furniture.
Once you've settled on a bunk design Consider adding other elements that are functional. For instance Ms. Keenan often builds a reading light with a switch in every bunk. It allows each child to read quietly, without disrupting the person in the middle. She also likes to include a small ledge on each bunk, where children can set 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, founder of John Martine Salt Lake City, says that the most important thing to do is make sure that the bunk bed is equipped with a sturdy ladder that is attached to the side. Stairs might not be as efficient in space but they are the safest option for young children.
A fixed ladder that has simple ladders attached to the sides of the bunk is usually the safest choice. Angled ladders, which can be easier to climb than straight ones, might be more suitable for older kids and teens. Test the bunk using 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 attaches to the bunk below is another excellent alternative. These are the most spacious and secure, however they take longer to set up than the ladder that is able to stand on its own. Dr. Moriarty recommends looking for stairs that have broad, solid rails and a low, round step. He also suggests that bunk beds be supported by wood slats, rather than wires or boards that are thin to avoid accidents.
If you want a bunk that can develop with children, search for one with an adjustable trundle. This lets you add an extra twin bed for guests or sleepovers, without taking up floor space in the room. A trundle is only available when the bunk at the bottom of your room is a twin.
A favourite of both Fenton and writer Alex Morris, the Oeuf Perch bunk is a stylish option that is divided into a loft bed and a standard twin. Fenton says it's the "heaviest" option on our list. best low bunk beds built to last." The sleek design is stylish and doesn't feel babyish. It's also not too childish for teenagers. The beds can be removed later on if they decide that they no longer need a bunk bed.
Flexibility
There are many options when it comes to making bunk beds. You can easily add style but not sacrifice functionality to these beds, regardless of whether you're designing for a kids room, a main bedroom, or a guest room. Bunk beds can create an attractive focal point in rooms, create an imaginative playspace or function as a fun storage solution. Depending on the overall look you're going for, your bunk beds can also be a statement piece that blends into the overall design plan.
Bunk beds are available in a variety of styles, finishes, colors and materials. In fact, many bunks are available in designs that range from bohemian, oceanic and even sombre. Choose a color scheme or fabric and mix it with curtains, pillows and artwork to give your kids' bedroom a bunk-bed look that suits their individual style.
The ladder on a bunk bed could be a significant factor in the way the room appears. Most bunk beds have an adjustable ladder. However, some can be ordered to have the ladder on either side of short end. Bunks with ladders on the short end can leave the lower bunk unlocked, making it ideal for adults. It also gives the room a minimalist appearance.
Consider a bunk bed in a shape that is not conventional, like an L-shaped one. Gil says that these bunks work best for rooms with low-ceilings and take up less space. They can also come with a desk beneath, which can make them the ideal choice for children who want to study in the bed.
You can also build a bunk with stairs built into the sides of the frame. These types of bunks are commonly used in hotels, and are considered the most "grown-up" option on the market. Room & Board offers a variety of colors and incredibly 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 alternative for older children who do not want to share their space or parents who have guests.
Storage
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 that are built into the structure or add standalone units to either side of the bunks. These are especially useful in smaller rooms since they maximize the space and ensure that the bunks don't feel cluttered or cramped.
Some manufacturers have built-in storage in the bed, like this Oeuf Perch loft that has two spacious storage compartments each side of the upper level. These designs are ideal for siblings sharing a bedroom, as they let each child keep their personal belongings in close proximity, while avoiding the common "piles" of belongings shared.
In addition to drawers and shelves, other smart bunk bed ideas include incorporating storage into the headboards. Bins or baskets at the ends of headboards make it easy to reach books, making reading before bedtime more enjoyable. This is also a great option for bedrooms with shared spaces as it allows children to keep their favourite books easily accessible and organized.
Another option is integrating an integrated ladder 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 keep in mind that angled ladders may be more difficult for children who are younger to climb, which is why this kind of bunk is typically reserved for older children or teens.
Bunk beds are a great option for any space, including attics or bonus rooms with unusual shapes. A custom-built bunk bed is a good option for these rooms. If you're planning on building a bunk from scratch take into consideration the height of the ceiling and the space above it. A higher ceiling can allow for a higher-quality bunk, while a lower ceiling will limit the size of the lower bunk.
While the right bunk for the needs of a child will depend on their age, a bunk could also be a great choice for adults who want to save space and add a bit of charm to a guest bedroom. This chic bunk from Max & Lily is available in several finishes and separates into a twin-size bed and a full-size bed, which means it's a versatile alternative to traditional furniture for bedrooms.