How to Choose the Best Bunk Bed Design
Bunk beds offer a comfy and space-efficient way to sleep in children's rooms. They're also a great choice for guest rooms and vacation homes where ceilings are high but the floor space is small.
The right accessories can transform bunk beds into chic sleeping nooks. For instance the bunks in this ocean-themed bedroom are handpainted with Porter's Paints 'Mariner' to complement the room's palette.
Space-Saving
Whether they're used to accommodate an entire family or two kids in the same room bunk beds can make space by stacking one bed frame on top of another. This arrangement frees space on the floor for play areas and furniture, making it an ideal solution for cramped rooms or lofted areas that need more sleeping arrangements. Bunk beds are available in a wide range of designs. From sleek, modern metal designs to timeless wooden designs. Many bunk beds have an incorporated stairway that can be used to reduce the footprint. A spiral staircase is a good alternative for those who have a smaller bedroom, while an integrated set of staircases is great for homes with limited storage.
Bunk beds are ideal for adding design and color to an space. Bunk beds look fantastic in neutral colors like light grey and navy. The neutral hues can also be dressed up by incorporating themed decor for a little extra style, like an adventure-themed bunk room that brings to mind a woodland hideout or a romantic cloud-themed room. If you're seeking to add a bit of color, opt for brighter colors for the top bunk, and lighter shades for the bottom bunks.
When building a bunk room from scratch, you must carefully consider the impact of the layout on the space. Mark out the shape of your bunk beds using a blue painter's tape on the wall. Then, take a measurement of the distance between them as well as any fixed features like windows, closets and doors. This will help you determine the size of the frame as well as how close it will be to other furniture.
Once you've picked 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's a great way to allow kids to read without disturbing the person above them. She also includes a small shelf in each bunk where children can put books or glasses.
Comfortable Climbing
Even the most adventurous children will not sleep high up if climbing up and down feels a challenge or unsafe. "The most important thing is to ensure that the bunk bed has an erect ladder that is attached to the side of the bunk," says interior designer Brynne Flowers, who is the founder of John Martine in Salt Lake City. The stairs might not be as efficient in space but they're the safest option for children.
The best option is a fixed ladder with simple rungs attached to the side of the bed. Angled ladders, which can be more attainable than straight ones, might be more suitable for older children and teens. Test the bunk using blue painter’s tape. Make sure there's enough room to walk around.
A built-in ladder that is positioned underneath the mattress of the upper and lower levels or connects to the bunk below is another excellent option. These are typically the most secure and spacious, though they can take longer to set up than a freestanding ladder. "Look for stairs that have broad, solid railings for stairways and a low, rounded step," advises child safety expert Dr. Moriarty, who also suggests that bunk beds are supported by slats of wood instead of wire or thin boards to avoid accidents.
Find a bunk bed that has an adjustable trundle. This lets you have a twin bed in your bedroom for sleepovers, guests or other occasions without taking up more space. A trundle is only available only if the bunk on the bottom of your room is a twin.
A popular choice for both Fenton and writer Alex Morris, the Oeuf Perch bunk is a stylish option that is divided into an loft bed and a regular twin bed. It's the largest option on our list, however Fenton describes it as "a tank" that's "built to last." The sleek design is stylish and does not feel too babyish. It's also not too babyish for teens. And best double bunk beds can be removed later on if they decide that they don't need a bunk bed.
Flexibility
There are a variety of options when it comes to creating bunk beds. best full size bunk beds can easily add style without sacrificing the practicality of the beds, no matter if you're designing for a kid room, a main bedroom, or even a guest room. Bunk beds can create a focal point in the room or create a fun play space or function as a great storage solution. Depending on the overall aesthetic you're after your bunk beds can also be a focal point that blends into your entire design scheme.
The majority of modern bunk beds provide a variety of designs materials, finishes, and colors that can be matched to any design. Many bunk beds are available in different designs, from bohemian coastal to sombre. Pick a theme or fabric and combine it with pillows, curtains, and artwork to give your children's bedroom an appearance that matches their personality.
The ladder of a bunk bed can make an impact on the overall appearance of a room. Most bunk beds have a fixed ladder. However, some can be ordered with the ladder on either side of short end. Bunks that have the ladder on the short side can leave the lower bunk unlocked, making it ideal for adults. It also gives the room an elegant look.
Another option is to consider a non-traditional shape for your bunks, like an L-shaped variant. These bunks occupy less space on the floor and are great for rooms with low ceilings, notes Gil. They can also come with a desk beneath, which can make them an ideal option for children who prefer to study in their beds.
You can also choose an individual built bunk with stairs built right into the frame. These bunks are often used in hotels and are the most "grown-up option. They're extremely sturdy and are offered in a variety of colors from Room & Board.
There are also convertible bunks that can be converted from twin-overtwins to a full-size bed or reverse. They can be a great option for older children who don't want to share their space or parents who must accommodate guests.
Storage
Depending on the style, bunk beds can offer plenty of storage for clothing and bedding. Look for designs that use shelves or drawers built into the structure, or add standalone units to either side of the bunks. These are especially useful in small spaces because they maximize the space and don't make the bunks feel unorganized or cramped.
Some manufacturers offer built-in storage within the bed, like this Oeuf Perch loft that has two spacious storage compartments both on the upper level. These designs are great for siblings sharing a room since each child can keep personal items close to hand while also helping to prevent the usual piles of shared belongings.
In addition to drawers and shelves, other clever bunk bed ideas include incorporating storage in the headboards. By adding baskets or bins at the ends of the headboards keep books within easy reach, which makes reading at bedtime much easier and more enjoyable. This is also a great option for bedrooms that are shared as it allows children to keep their favourite books easily accessible and organized.
Another option is to integrate an integrated ladder into the bunks. This eliminates the need for an extra furniture piece and creates an elegant look. However, it's important be aware that angled ladders can be more challenging for younger children to climb, so this type of bunk is usually reserved for older kids or teens.
Bunk beds can work in any kind of space such as bonus rooms and attics which are usually awkwardly shaped. In these spaces, a custom-built configuration might be the best choice to create a functional and stylish bunk room. If you are planning to build a bunk from the ground up be aware of the ceiling's height as well as what will be above. A higher ceiling will allow for a bigger bunk, while a lower ceiling can restrict the size of the bunk.
The right bunk bed for a child is contingent on their age. However, a bunk bed can also be an excellent choice for adults who wish to save some space and add some style to a guest room. This chic Max & Lily bunk is available in a variety of finishes and can be separated into a twin bed or a full bed. It's an excellent alternative to traditional bedroom furniture.