How to Choose the Best Bunk Bed Design
Bunk beds offer a comfy and space-efficient solution to sleep in kids' rooms. They are ideal for guest rooms or vacation homes where the ceilings are high, but the floor space is constrained.
Adding the right details can transform bunk beds into stylish sleeping nooks. The bunks in this ocean-themed bedroom were painted with Porter's Paints 'Mariner', which helped to complement the room's colors.
Space-Saving
Whether they're used to sleep a large family or two children in the same space bunk beds can save space by stacking one bed frame on top of another. This configuration allows for more floor space that can be used for furniture or play. It's an ideal solution for small spaces or lofted spaces that require more sleeping arrangements. Bunk beds are available in different styles, from sleek modern metal to classic wood designs. Some also have an inbuilt staircase that reduces the footprint of the structure. A curving ladder is a great alternative for those with small bedrooms, while an integrated set of steep stairs is ideal for homes with limited storage.
Bunk beds can add to the aesthetic of a room, too when you select the right color scheme and style. neutral colors such as light grey and navy are stylish choices for bunk beds. If you want to add a bit of flair you can spice up the neutral scheme with themed decor. For best bunk bed with slide that is inspired by adventure could be made to look like a woodland hideout or a cloud-themed space. If you want to mix in a few pops of color, try choosing brighter shades for the top bunk and lighter hues for the bottom bunk.
If you're building a bunk room from scratch, you need to carefully consider the impact of the layout on the room. Draw out the design of your bunk beds with blue painter's tap on the wall. Then measure the distance between them as well as any fixed features like 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 decided on a bunk design, think about adding other elements that are functional. For example, Ms. Keenan often builds a reading light with a switch in every bunk. It's a great method for kids to read quietly without disturbing the person who is above them. There's also a small shelf in each bunk where children can place books or glasses.
Comfortable Climbing
Even the most adventurous kids will not sleep high up if climbing up and down feels a challenge or unsafe. "The most important thing to do is make sure the bunk bed is equipped with an adequate ladder that's connected to the side of the bunk," says interior designer Brynne Flowers, the founder of John Martine in Salt Lake City. "Stairs aren't as efficient in space but they are the most safety features for children younger than."
A fixed ladder that has simple rungs that are attached to the side of the bunk is usually the safest option. The ladders that are angled, which can be more attainable than straight ones, might work better for older kids and teens. Be sure to test out the bunk with blue painter's tape to determine how close it is to any fixed elements, such as windows or doors and also to ensure there's enough clearance to walk around.
A built-in ladder that runs underneath the mattress of the top and bottom levels or attaches to the bunk below is another good alternative. They are generally the safest and most spacious, but they do require more setup time than a freestanding ladder. "Look for stairs that have wide, solid rails for stairways, and an angled, low step," advises child safety expert Dr. Moriarty, who also suggests bunk beds be supported by slats of wood instead of wire or thin boards to avoid accidents.
If you are looking for a bunk that can grow with kids, look for one with a removable trundle. This allows you to add an additional twin bed for guests or sleepovers, without taking up floor space in the room. A trundle can only be used if the bottom bunk of your room is a twin.
Fenton and Alex Morris both love the Oeuf Perch Bunk. It is a modern choice that can be converted into a loft as well as it can also be used as 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 looks stylish and doesn't feel too babyish for teens The beds can be separated later if kids decide they don't need bunk beds anymore.
Flexibility
When you think about bunk bed design, the options are endless. You can easily add style but not sacrifice functionality to the beds, no matter if you're designing for a kid' room, a primary bedroom, or even a guest space. Bunk beds are a great option to create an eye-catching focal point, play area, or even a storage solution. Your bunk beds can be a statement piece, depending on the overall aesthetic of your room.
Bunk beds come in a variety of styles, finishes colors, and materials. In reality, a lot of bunks come in styles that range from bohemian, oceanic and even moody. Choose a color theme or fabric, and then combine it with curtains, pillows, and artwork to give your kids' bedroom an appearance that matches their personality.
The ladder on a bunk bed could make a big difference in the appearance of the room. Most bunk beds come with an adjustable ladder. However, some can be purchased with the ladder on either side of the short end. Bunks that have the ladder on the shorter end leave the lower bunk unopened and is perfect for adults and can give the room a minimalist appearance.
Think about a bunk bed in an unusual shape, not typical, like an L-shaped one. These bunks occupy less space on the floor and are great for rooms with low ceilings, says Gil. These bunks can be fitted with a small desk underneath. This is a great option for children who want to study in their bed.
Alternatively, you can choose a custom-built bunk with stairs that are 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. They're incredibly sturdy and are available in a variety of colors from Room & Board.
If you're looking for a more temporary solution, there are also convertible bunks that can convert from twin-over-twin beds into full-size beds and reverse. These are an excellent option for older siblings that don't want their room shared or parents with guests.
Storage
Depending on the design, bunk beds can offer plenty of storage for clothing and bedding. 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 small rooms as they maximize the space and don't make the bunks feel overcrowded or cramped.
Some manufacturers have built-in storage in the bed, like this Oeuf Perch loft that has two large storage compartments on each side of the upper level. These designs are perfect for siblings sharing a bedroom, as they allow each child to keep their personal items close to hand while avoiding the common "piles" of shared belongings.
Other innovative bunk bed designs In addition to drawers and shelves, include incorporating storage into headboards. By adding baskets or bins at the sides of the headboards keep books in easy reach, which makes reading before bed much simpler and more enjoyable. This is also a great option for bedrooms that are shared as it allows children to keep their favorite titles easily accessible and organized.
Another option is integrating an integrated ladder into the bunks. This solution removes the need for a separate furniture piece and creates a more sleek appearance. It's important to remember that angled ladders can be difficult for younger children to climb. This kind of bunk bed is typically reserved for teenagers or older children.
Bunk beds can be a great option for any space, even attics and bonus rooms that have unusual shapes. In these spaces an individual-designed configuration could be the best option to create a practical and stylish bunk room. If you're planning to build a bunk from scratch, 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 larger bunk while a lower ceiling can limit the dimensions of the bunk.
While the right bunk for the needs of a child will depend on their age, a bunk could also be a good option for adults looking to make space and add a bit of class to their guest bedroom. This stylish Max & Lily bunk is available in various colors and styles. It can also be split into a twin bed and a full bed. It's a great alternative to standard bedroom furniture.