How to Choose the Best Bunk Bed Design
Bunk beds are a space-saving, comfortable sleeping solution for children's bedrooms. They are ideal for guest rooms and vacation homes where ceilings are high but the floor space is small.
Addition of the right elements transforms bunk beds to fashionable sleeping spaces. For example, the bunks in this ocean-themed bedroom are handpainted with Porter's Paints 'Mariner' to complement the room's color palette.
Space-Saving
Bunk beds are ideal to accommodate a large family, or two kids in the same space. They reduce space by stacking a bed frame on top another. This arrangement frees up floor space for play areas and furniture which makes it a perfect solution for cramped rooms or lofted spaces that require more sleeping arrangements. Bunk beds are available in a wide range of styles. From sleek, modern metal designs to classic wooden designs. Many bunk beds come with an integrated stairwell that minimizes the footprint. A spiral staircase is a good alternative for those with smaller bedrooms, and an integrated set of stairs is perfect for homes with a limited storage space.
Bunk beds can enhance the aesthetic of a room, too when you pick the right color scheme and styling. Bunk beds look great in neutral hues like navy and light grey. If you want to add a bit of style you can jazz up the neutral colour scheme with themed decor. For example, a bunk room with a theme of adventure could be made to resemble a forest hideout or a cloud-themed space. If you're looking to add a few colors, consider selecting brighter colors for the top bunk and softer shades for the bottom bunk.
When you are building a bunk room from scratch, you must be aware of the impact of the layout of your room. Use blue painter's adhesive to mark the outline of your bunk beds on the wall and then take measurements of the distance between the beds as well as any fixed features such as windows, closets, and doors. This will help you determine the size of the frame and how close it will be to other furniture.
After you've decided on a design for your bunk, think about adding other functional elements. For instance, Ms. best loft bunk beds builds a reading light with a switch in each bunk. This allows every child to read in peace, without disturbing the person sitting on top. She also likes having an extra ledge on each bunk, where children can set 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 is to make sure the bunk bed has an adequate ladder that's connected 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 space-efficient, but they offer the most safety features for children who are younger."
A fixed ladder that has simple rungs mounted to the side of the bunk is generally the safest option. For older children and teens the ladders with angled angles may be easier to climb. Test the bunk using blue painter's tape. Make sure there is enough room to walk around.
A built-in ladder that goes under the mattress on the top and bottom levels or connects to the bunk below is a great option. These are the biggest and safest, however they take longer to construct than the ladder that is able to stand on its own. Dr. Moriarty recommends looking for staircases that have broad, solid rails and a low, circular step. He also suggests that bunk beds are supported by wood slats, instead of wires or boards that are thin to avoid accidents.
Find an option with a bunk bed and a removable trundle. This allows you to add an extra twin bed to accommodate guests or sleepovers, without taking up space in the room. (Be aware that a trundle will only fit if the bottom bunk is an individual twin, not a full.)
A favorite of both Fenton and writer Alex Morris, the Oeuf Perch bunk is a stylish option that is divided into two beds: a loft and a standard twin. It's the heaviest pick on our list, however Fenton describes it as "a tank" that's "built to last." The sleek design looks stylish and doesn't feel too babyish for teenagers, and the beds can be separated later on if kids decide they don't want a bunk anymore.
Flexibility
There are many options when it comes to designing bunk beds. When you're planning a kids room, primary bedroom or guest space it is possible to design these beds with style without sacrificing function. Bunk beds can provide an attractive focal point in the room and create a unique play area or function as a useful storage solution. Based on the overall style 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. There are many bunk beds available in various designs, from bohemian coastal to moody. To give your children's bedroom a look of bunk beds that matches their personalities, choose a color or fabric theme and pair it with accessories like pillows, curtains and artwork.
The ladder on a bunk bed can make a big difference in the appearance of the room. Most bunk beds have a fixed ladder. However, some can be ordered with the ladder on either side of the short end. Bunks with a ladder on the shorter end leave the lower bunk completely open and is perfect for adults and can give the room a minimalist look.
Another option is to think about a different shape for your bunks, such as an L-shaped version. They take up less space on the floor and are great for rooms with low ceilings, says Gil. They can be fitted with a desk that is small underneath. This is a great option for kids who prefer to study in their bed.
You can also choose a custom-built bunk with stairs built into the frame. These bunks are commonly used in hotels and are the most "grown-up' option available. Room & Board offers a variety of colors and incredibly sturdy bunk beds.
If you're looking for a more temporary alternative, there are convertible bunks that can be converted from twin-over-twin beds to full-size beds, and vice versa. They are a great alternative for older children who don't want their room shared or parents with guests.
Stores
Bunk beds can provide ample space for clothing and bedding, depending on their design. Look for designs with drawers or shelves built into the structure, or separate units that are placed on either side of the bed. These are especially useful in small rooms as they make the most of space and ensure that the bunks don't feel unorganized or cramped.
Some manufacturers include built-in storage inside the bed, such as this Oeuf Perch loft that has two large storage compartments on each on the upper level. These designs are perfect for rooms with multiple siblings because each child can keep personal items close to hand, and also help avoid the common piles of belongings.
Other innovative bunk bed designs In addition to shelves and drawers, include the use of storage in headboards. Adding bins or baskets to the edges of the headboards will keep books easily accessible making reading before bed much simpler and more enjoyable. This method is also useful in bedrooms that are shared, since children can keep their favorite books in order and easily accessible.
A ladder can be built into the bunks. This option removes the need for a separate furniture piece and gives an elegant look. However, it's important be aware that angled ladders are more challenging for younger children to climb, so this type of bunk is usually reserved for older children or teenagers.
Bunk beds can be used in just about any type of space such as attics and bonus rooms that are typically awkwardly designed. A custom-built bunk bed could be the best option for these rooms. If you're considering building a bunk from scratch, take into consideration the height of the ceiling and the height above it. A higher ceiling can allow for a taller bunk, whereas a lower ceiling will limit the size of the lower bunk.
While the ideal 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 reduce space and add a bit of charm to a guest bedroom. This stylish bunk from Max & Lily is available in a variety of finishes. It can be divided into a twin-sized bed and an extra-large bed, so it's an alternative to standard bedroom furniture.