How to Choose the Best Bunk Bed Design
Bunk beds are a space-saving, comfortable option for sleeping in children's rooms. They can also be an ideal option for guest bedrooms or vacation homes, where ceilings are high but floor space is limited.
Addition of the right elements transforms bunk beds to fashionable 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
Whether they're used to accommodate in a large family or a couple of 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 to be used for furniture and play. It's an ideal solution for smaller rooms or lofted spaces that need more sleeping arrangements. Bunk beds come in a wide range of designs. From modern, sleek metal designs to timeless wooden designs. Many bunk beds have an incorporated stairway that can be used to reduce the footprint. A curved ladder is a fun alternative for those who have small bedrooms, while an integrated set of steep staircases is great for homes with limited storage space.
Bunk beds can enhance the aesthetic of a room, too when you select the right color palette and style. Neutral colors such as navy and light grey are a stylish option for bunk beds. The neutral colors can also be adorned with themed decor for an extra touch of style, like an adventure-themed bunk room that evokes an escape to the woods or a dreamy cloud-themed space. If you want to add a few colors, consider picking brighter hues for the top bunk, and more neutral shades 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. Use blue painter's tape to draw the outline of your bunk beds on the wall and then measure the distance between the beds and any fixed features such as windows, closets, or doors. This will give you an idea of how close the bed will be to the other furniture and help you choose the appropriate size frame for your space.
After you've chosen a design for your bunk that you like, consider adding other features that are functional. For instance, Ms. Keenan often builds a reading light with a switch on each bunk. It lets each child read in peace, without disturbing the person on top. She also likes having small ledges on each bunk, where kids can set books or glasses.
Comfortable Climbing
The most daring children will be able to sleep high if climbing up and down it feels hard or unsafe. "The most important thing is to ensure that 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 spacious but they are the most safety features for younger children."
The most secure option is a fixed ladder with simple rungs attached to the side of the bed. For use this link and older children, angled ladders may be more comfortable to climb. Test the bunk with blue painter's tape. Make sure there's enough space to walk around.
A built-in ladder that goes under the mattress on the upper and lower levels or attaches to the bunk below is another good alternative. These tend to be the safest and most large, however they may take longer to set up than an independent ladder. "Look for stairs that have wide, solid stair rails and an angled, low 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.
If you are looking for a bunk that can expand with your kids, opt for one with an adjustable trundle. This lets you add an extra twin bed to accommodate sleepovers or guests without taking up space on the floor. (Be aware that a trundle will only be able to fit if the bunk below is a twin, not a full.)
A favourite of both Fenton and writer Alex Morris, the Oeuf Perch bunk is a modern option that can be divided into an loft bed and a standard twin bed. It's the largest option on our list, however Fenton calls it "a tank" that's "built to last." The sleek design is stylish and doesn't seem too childish for teens The beds can be separated later on if kids decide they don't need bunk beds anymore.
Flexibility
There are a variety of possibilities when it comes to making bunk beds. You can easily add style and the practicality of the beds, no matter if you're designing for a kid room, a primary bedroom, or a guest space. Bunk beds can create an attractive focal point in a room and create a unique play area or act as a useful storage solution. Your bunk beds can be a striking feature, based on the overall design of your room.
A lot of bunk beds today come with a variety of designs materials, finishes, and colors that will suit any design. In reality, a lot of bunks come in styles that range from bohemian, coastal and even moody. To give your child's bedroom a look that matches their personalities select the right color or theme and match it with accessories like curtains, pillows and artwork.
The ladder of a bunk bed can make a significant impact on the appearance of the room. Most bunks on the shelves come with a fixed ladder but some can be ordered with the ladder placed on either side of the shorter end of the bed. Bunks with the ladder on the short end can leave the lower bunk unlocked, making it ideal for adults. It also creates an elegant look.
You could consider a bunk bed with an unusual shape, not conventional, like an L-shaped one. Gil notes that these bunks are perfect for rooms with low ceilings and take up less space. These bunks can be fitted with a small desk underneath. best built in bunk beds is a great choice for kids who wish to study in the bed.
If you prefer, you can choose a custom-built bunk with stairs built into the sides of the frame. These bunks are often used in hotels and are the most "grown-up option. 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 option for older siblings who don't want their room shared or parents with guests.
Storage
Bunk beds can provide ample space for clothing and bedding according to their design. Choose designs that have shelves or drawers that are built into the structure or standalone units that sit on either side of the bed. These options are especially helpful in small rooms, as they maximize space without making the bunks feel cramped or cluttered.
Some manufacturers include built-in storage in 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 who share bedrooms, since they allow each child to keep their personal items close to hand 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. By adding baskets or bins at the ends of the headboards keeps books within easy reach and makes reading before bed much simpler and more enjoyable. This method is also useful in bedrooms that are shared, since kids can keep their favorite books in order and easily accessible.
A ladder can be integrated into the bunks. This removes the need for an additional furniture piece and creates an elegant look. However, it's important to keep in mind that angled ladders can be more difficult for children who are younger to climb, which is why this kind of bunk is typically reserved for older children or teenagers.
Bunk beds are a great fit in almost any type of space such as attics and bonus rooms which are usually awkwardly shaped. A custom-built bunk bed configuration could be the best option for these rooms. If you're considering building a bunk from scratch, think about the height of your ceiling and the space above it. A higher ceiling can permit a loftier bunk, while a lower ceiling will limit the dimensions of the lower bunk.
While the best bunk for children's needs will be contingent on their age, a bunk can also be a good option for adults who want to reduce space and add a bit of charm to a guest bedroom. This chic Max & Lily bunk is available in many different finishes and can be separated into a twin bed and a full bed. It's an excellent alternative to traditional bedroom furniture.