How to Choose the Best Bunk Bed Design
Bunk beds offer a comfy and space-efficient way to sleep in children's rooms. They are also an excellent option for guest bedrooms or vacation homes where ceilings are high, but floor space is limited.
The addition of the right details transforms bunk beds into elegant sleeping spaces. The bunks in this ocean-themed bedroom were painted with Porter's Paints 'Mariner', which helped to complement the room's colors.
Space-Saving
If they're used to sleep a large family or two children in the same room bunk beds are able to 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 a great solution for smaller rooms or lofted spaces that require more sleeping arrangements. Bunk beds are available in different styles, from sleek modern metal to timeless wood designs. A majority of bunk beds come with an integrated stairwell that minimizes the footprint. A curved ladder is a fun alternative for those with smaller bedrooms, and an integrated set of steep stairs is ideal for homes with a limited storage space.
Bunk beds can add to the aesthetic of a room, too, if you choose the right color palette and design. neutral colors such as light grey and navy are stylish options for bunk beds. If you want to add a bit of style, you can dress up the neutral colour scheme by adding themed decor. For example, a bunk room with a theme of adventure could be designed to resemble a forest hideout or a cloud-themed space. If you're looking to add some colour, pick brighter shades for top bunk and more neutral shades for the bottom bunks.
If you're building a bunk area from scratch, you need to consider the impact of the layout on your space. Use blue painter's adhesive to mark the outline of your bunk beds on the wall and then determine the distance between the beds and any fixed features such as windows, closets, and doors. This will give you a better idea of how close the bed will be to the other furniture and help you choose the appropriate size frame for your space.
Once you've picked a design for your bunk that you like, think about adding other functional features. Ms. Keenan, for example is a frequent user of an reading lamp with a switch in every bunk. It's a great way to allow kids to read without disturbing the person in front of them. There's also an extra shelf on each bunk where kids can put their books or glasses.
best bunk beds for low ceilings Climbing
Even the most adventurous children will be able to sleep high when climbing up and down it feels difficult or unsafe. "The most important thing is to make sure the bunk bed is equipped with an adequate ladder that's connected to the bunk's side," says interior designer Brynne Flowers, founder of John Martine in Salt Lake City. They might not be as efficient in space but they're the most secure option for children who are young.
A fixed ladder with simple ladders attached to the sides of the bunk is typically the most secure option. For teenagers and older children inclined ladders might be easier to climb. Be sure to test out the bunk with blue painter's tape to determine how close it is to any fixed elements like doors or windows and ensure that there's enough clearance for walking around.
Another alternative is a built-in staircase that is attached to the bottom bunk or under each mattress on the top and lower levels. These are the biggest and secure, however they take longer to construct than the ladder that is able to stand on its own. "Look for stairs that have sturdy, wide stair rails and a low, rounded step," advises child safety expert Dr. Moriarty, who also recommends that bunk beds be supported by wood slats instead of wire or thin boards to prevent accidents.
For a bunk that will develop with children, search for one with an adjustable trundle. This lets you have an extra twin bed in your room for sleepovers, guests or other occasions without occupying any more space. (Be aware that a trundle is only going to fit if the bottom bunk is a twin, not a full.)
Fenton and Alex Morris both love the Oeuf Perch Bunk. It is a stylish option that can be made into a loft and an additional bed for twins. It's the heaviest pick on our list, however Fenton describes it as "a tank" that's "built to last." The sleek design looks elegant and doesn't feel too babyish for teenagers, and the beds can be separated if kids decide they don't need bunk beds for themselves anymore.
Flexibility
There are plenty of possibilities when it comes to creating bunk beds. If you're designing a kid's room, primary bedroom, or guest space, you can easily design these beds with style without sacrificing functionality. Bunk beds are a great way to create an area of focus, a play space, or a storage solution. Depending on the overall look you're looking for, your bunk beds can be a standout piece that will tie in with your overall design.
Bunk beds are available in a range of styles, finishes colors and materials. In fact, many bunks are available in designs ranging from bohemian to the beach and even moody. Pick a theme or fabric and mix it with pillows, curtains and artwork to give your kids' bedrooms an appearance that matches their individual style.
The ladder of a bunk bed can have an important impact on the look of a room. The majority of bunks that are available off the shelf come with a fixed ladder, but some can be ordered with the ladder positioned on either side of the shorter end of the bed. Bunks that have the ladder positioned on the short end leave the lower bunk completely open which is great for adults and gives the room a minimalist design.
You could consider a bunk bed with a shape that is not traditional, such as a L-shaped one. They take up less space on the floor and are great for rooms with low ceilings, explains Gil. They can also come with a desk underneath which makes them an ideal option for children who prefer to study in bed.
Alternatively, you can opt for a custom-built bunk with stairs built into the sides of the frame. These types of bunks are typically used in hotels, and are considered to be the most "grown-up" option available on the market. Room & Board offers a range of colors and sturdy bunk beds.
There are also convertible bunks, which can be converted from twin-overtwin to a full-size bed, or the reverse. These are an excellent alternative for older children who don't want their room shared or parents who host guests.
Storage
Based on the design, bunk beds can offer plenty of storage space for clothing and bedding. Choose designs that incorporate 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 rooms, since they maximize unused space without making the bunks feel tight or cluttered.
Some manufacturers integrate storage into the bed, such as this Oeuf Perch bunk that offers two storage spaces that are spacious on each side of the upper loft. These designs are ideal for families with siblings sharing a room because each child can keep their personal items to hand and also help avoid the dreaded piles of shared belongings.
In addition to drawers or shelves, other smart bunk bed ideas include incorporating storage into the headboards. Baskets or bins at the ends of headboards make it easy to access books, making reading before bed more enjoyable. This option is also great for bedrooms that are shared as it allows children to keep their favourite books easily accessible and organized.
Another option is to incorporate an integrated ladder into the bunks. This option eliminates an extra piece of furniture and creates a sleeker appearance. It is important to keep in mind that angled ladders can be difficult for children of a younger age to climb. This type of bunk bed is typically reserved for teenagers or older children.
Bunk beds are an excellent option for any space, including attics and bonus rooms that have strange shapes. In these situations an individual-designed configuration could be the best option for creating a functional and stylish bunk room. If you're planning on building the bunk from scratch, think about the height of your ceiling and what will be above it. A higher ceiling will allow for a bigger bunk, while a lower ceiling will limit the size of the bunk.
The right bunk bed for a child will be contingent on the age of the child. However the bunk bed could also be an excellent choice for adults who wish to make space and add charm to a guest bedroom. This stylish Max & Lily bunk is available in various designs and can be divided into a twin bed and a full bed. It's an excellent alternative to traditional furniture for bedrooms.