How to Choose the Best Bunk Bed Design
Bunk beds are a space-saving and comfortable solution for sleeping in children's rooms. They are ideal for guest rooms or vacation homes where the ceilings are high but the floor space is small.
Addition of the right elements transforms bunk beds to stylish sleeping areas. The bunks in this ocean-themed bedroom were handpainted with Porter's Paints 'Mariner', which complemented the room's color palette.
Space-Saving
Bunk beds are perfect for accommodating an entire family or two children in the same space. They save space by stacking bed frames on top of another. This configuration allows for more floor space to be used for furniture and play. It is an ideal solution for small rooms or lofted areas that require more sleeping arrangements. Bunk beds come in different designs, from sleek contemporary metal to timeless wood designs. They also come with an integrated staircase that reduces the footprint of the structure. A spiral staircase is a good alternative for those with smaller bedrooms, and an integrated set of steep stairs is ideal for homes with a limited storage space.
Bunk beds are an excellent way to add design and color to an space. Bunk beds look stunning in neutral hues like navy and light grey. The neutral colors can be dressed up by incorporating themed decor for a little extra style, like an adventure-themed bunk space that brings to mind an escape to the woods or a dreamy cloud-themed space. If you're looking to mix in a few bright colors, try picking brighter hues for the top bunk and lighter shades for the bottom bunk.
If you're building a bunk room from scratch, you need to think about the way that the layout will affect your room. Draw out the design of your bunk beds with blue painter's tape on the wall. Then measure the distance between them and any fixed features such as windows, closets and doors. This will help you decide the size of the frame as well as how close it will be to other furniture.
Once you've selected a bunk design you like, think about adding additional functional features. For example Ms. Keenan often builds a reading light with a switch in every bunk. It's a great way for each kid to read quietly without disturbing the person above them. She also has a small shelf on each bunk where children can put glasses or books.
Comfortable Climbing
Not even the most adventurous children can sleep in a high bed when climbing up and down it feels difficult or unsafe. "The most important thing to do is ensure that the bunk bed is equipped with a sturdy ladder that's attached to the side of the bunk," says interior designer Brynne Flowers, who is the founder of John Martine in Salt Lake City. They may not be as space-efficient but they're the most secure option for children who are young.
The safest choice is a fixed ladder that has simple rungs that are attached to the bed's side. For teens and older children the ladders with angled angles may be more comfortable to climb. Make sure you test the bunk using blue painter's tape to see how close it comes to any fixed features such as doors or windows, and that there's enough clearance for walking around.
Another alternative is a built-in staircase that is attached to the bottom bunk or runs under each mattress on the upper and lower levels. These tend to be the safest and most large, however they may take longer to set up than a freestanding ladder. "Look for stairs with sturdy, wide stair rails and a low, rounded step," advises child safety expert Dr. Moriarty, who also suggests bunk beds be supported by wood slats rather than wire or thin boards to avoid accidents.
Find an option with a bunk bed and an adjustable trundle. This lets you create an extra twin bed for guests or sleepovers without taking up space in the room. (Be aware that a trundle can only fit if the bottom bunk is an individual twin, not a full.)
Fenton and Alex Morris both love the Oeuf Perch Bunk. It is a stylish option that can be converted into a loft as well as a twin bed. Fenton says it's the "heaviest" pick on our list. It's also "built to last." The sleek design is elegant and doesn't feel babyish. It's also not too childish for teenagers. The beds can be removed later if they decide that they no longer need a bunk bed.
Flexibility
When it comes to bunk design, the possibilities are endless. If you're designing a kid's room, primary bedroom or guest space you can easily make these beds look stylish without sacrificing functionality. Bunk beds are an excellent option to create a focal point, a play space, or a storage solution. Your bunk beds can be a statement piece, depending on the overall aesthetic of your room.
A lot of bunk beds today come with a variety of configurations as well as finishes, materials and colors that will suit any design. There are best bunk beds for adults bunkbedsstore in different designs, from bohemian coastal to sombre. Choose a color theme or fabric and combine it with curtains, pillows and artwork to create your kids' bedroom an appearance that matches their individual style.
The ladder on a bunk bed can be a significant factor in how the room looks. The majority of bunk beds have an adjustable ladder. Some can be purchased with the ladder on either side of the short end. Bunks that have the ladder on the short end can leave the lower bunk unlocked and is ideal for adults. It also gives the room an uncluttered look.
Think about a bunk bed in the shape that isn't traditional, such as a L-shaped one. Gil says that these bunks work best for rooms with low ceilings and make use of less space. These bunks can be outfitted with a small desk beneath. This is a great solution for kids who wish to study in bed.
You can also select an individual built bunk with stairs built into the frame. These bunks are typically used in hotels and are the most "grown-up' option available. They're extremely durable and available in a variety of colors from Room & Board.

There are also convertible bunks which can be transformed from twin-overtwin to a full-size bed or vice versa. These are an excellent option for older siblings that don't want their room shared or parents with guests.
Storage
Bunk beds can offer plenty of space for bedding and clothing in accordance with their design. Find designs that feature drawers or shelving built into the structure, or add standalone units on either side of the bunks. These kinds of options are especially beneficial in small rooms as they make the most of space and do not make the bunks appear cluttered or cramped.
Some manufacturers offer built-in storage within the bed, like this Oeuf Perch loft that has two large storage spaces on each side of the upper level. These designs are perfect for siblings sharing a room since each child can keep their personal belongings close to hand, and also help avoid the common piles of belongings.
In addition to drawers or shelves, other smart bunk bed ideas are to incorporate storage in the headboards. Bins or baskets at the ends of the headboards allow you to reach books, which makes reading before bed more enjoyable. This method is also useful in shared bedrooms, as kids can keep their favorite titles organized and readily accessible.
Another option is to incorporate an integrated ladder into the bunks. This option removes the need for a separate furniture piece and gives a more sleek appearance. 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 usually reserved for older kids or teens.
Bunk beds are a great option for any space, even attics and bonus rooms with odd shapes. In these spaces an individual-designed configuration could be the best option to create a practical and attractive bunk room. If you plan to build a bunk from the ground up consider the height of the ceiling as well as the height of the ceiling that will be above. A higher ceiling can allow for a taller bunk, while a shorter ceiling will limit the size of the bunk below it.
While the best bunk for the needs of a child will depend on the child's age, a bunk could be a great option for adults who are looking to make space and add a touch of class to their guest bedroom. This stylish Max & Lily bunk is available in a variety of colors and styles. It can also be split into a twin bed or a full bed. It's a great alternative to standard bedroom furnishings.