How to Choose the Best Bunk Bed Design
Bunk beds are a space-saving, comfortable solution for sleeping in children's bedrooms. They can also be an ideal option for guest bedrooms or vacation homes in which ceilings are high and the floor space is small.
The addition of the right features transforms bunk beds into 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 ideal for accommodating a large family, or two kids in the same space. They save space by stacking bed frames on over another. This arrangement frees up floor space for play and other furniture which makes it a perfect solution for rooms that are cramped or lofted areas that require more sleeping arrangements. Bunk beds come in different styles, ranging from sleek modern metal to classic wood designs. Some also have an inbuilt staircase that reduces the footprint of the structure. A curved staircase is a great alternative for those with an enviable bedroom. A set of steep steps is perfect for homes that are limited in storage space.
Bunk beds can be a part of the overall aesthetic of a room when you pick the right color palette and design. Neutral colors like navy and light grey are a stylish option for bunk beds. For a little more design you can spice up the neutral color scheme by adding themed decor. For instance, a bunk room with a theme of adventure could be designed to resemble a forest hideout or a space inspired by clouds. If you want to add a few pops of color, try selecting brighter colors for the top bunk and lighter hues for the bottom bunk.
When you are building a bunk room from scratch, you should take into consideration the impact of the layout on the space. Use blue painter's tape to draw out the silhouette of your bunk beds on the wall and then measure the distance between the beds as well as any fixed features such as windows, closets, or doors. This will help you determine the dimensions of the frame and how close it will be to the other furniture.
Once you've decided on a layout for your bunk Consider adding additional functional elements. For instance, Ms. Keenan often builds a reading light with a switch in each bunk. It's a great way to allow each kid to read quietly without disturbing the person who is above them. She also likes to include small ledges on each bunk, where kids can place glasses or books.
Comfortable Climbing
Not even the most adventurous kids will sleep up high if climbing up and down it feels hard or unsafe. "The most important thing is to make sure the bunk bed is equipped with a sturdy ladder that's attached to the side of the bunk," says interior designer Brynne Flowers, founder of John Martine in Salt Lake City. "Stairs aren't as efficient in space but they are the best security feature for children who are younger."
The safest choice is a fixed ladder with simple rungs that are attached to the bed's side. Angled ladders, which may be easier to climb than straight ones, could be more suitable for older children and teens. But be sure to test the bunk using blue painter's adhesive to see how close it comes to any fixed features such as windows or doors and also to ensure there's enough clearance to walk around.
Another great option is a built-in staircase that is attached to the bottom bunk or under every mattress on the top and lower levels. These are the most spacious and secure, however they take longer to construct than an individual ladder. "Look for stairs that have broad, solid railings for stairways and a low, rounded step," advises child safety expert Dr. Moriarty, who also recommends that bunk beds be supported by wood slats rather than wire or thin boards to avoid accidents.
Look for an option with a bunk bed and an adjustable trundle. This allows you to add an extra twin bed to accommodate sleepovers or guests without taking up floor space in the room. A trundle is only available when the bunk at the bottom of your room is a twin.
A favourite of both Fenton and writer Alex Morris, the Oeuf Perch bunk is a modern option that can be divided into a loft bed and a standard twin. Fenton says it's the "heaviest" option on our list. It's "built to last." The sleek design is stylish and doesn't seem too childish for teenagers, and the beds can be separated if kids decide they don't want bunk beds for themselves anymore.
Flexibility
When you think about bunk bed designs, the possibilities are endless. You can easily add style but not sacrifice the functionality of these beds, regardless of whether you're designing for a kid room, a primary bedroom, or even a guest space. Bunk beds are a great option to create a focal point, a play space, or storage solution. Depending on best bunk bed ideas look you're looking for your bunk beds can also be a focal point that blends into your entire design scheme.
Bunk beds come in a variety of designs, finishes, colors and materials. In fact, a variety of bunks are available in designs that range from bohemian to the beach and even sombre. Choose a color scheme or fabric and mix it with curtains, pillows, and artwork to give your children's bedroom the look of a bunk bed that fits their personality.
The ladder of a bunk bed can have a significant impact on the overall appearance of a room. The majority of bunk beds have an adjustable ladder. However, some beds can be ordered to have the ladder on either side of the short end. Bunks with a ladder on the shorter end leave the lower bunk completely open, which is ideal for adults and can give the room a minimalist look.
Another option is to think about a different shape for your bunks, for instance an L-shaped version. These bunks take up less area and are perfect for rooms with low ceilings, explains Gil. These bunks can be outfitted with a small desk underneath. This is a great option for kids who prefer to study in their bed.
You can also opt for a custom-built bunk with stairs built into the frame. These types of bunks are often employed in hotels and are considered the most "grown-up" option available on the market. Room & Board offers a variety of colors and incredibly sturdy bunk beds.
There are also convertible bunks which can be transformed from twin-overtwins to a full-size bed or the reverse. These are a great option for older children who don't wish to share their rooms or parents who need to accommodate guests.
Stores
Depending on the style, bunk beds can offer plenty of storage for clothing and bedding. Consider designs with shelves or drawers that are built into the structure, or standalone units on either side of the bed. These kinds of options are especially beneficial in small rooms as they maximize the space and don't make the bunks feel unorganized or cramped.
Some manufacturers include built-in storage within the bed, such as this Oeuf Perch loft that has two large storage compartments on both on the upper level. These designs are great for rooms with multiple siblings since each child can keep personal items close at hand while also helping to prevent the usual piles of shared belongings.
In best bunk bed for teens to drawers or shelves, other smart bunk bed ideas are to incorporate storage in the headboards. Bins or baskets at the ends of headboards make it easier to reach books, which makes reading before bed more enjoyable. This method is also useful in bedrooms that are shared, since kids can keep their favorite titles organized and readily accessible.
A ladder can be built into the bunks. This solution 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 young children to climb. This kind of bunk bed is typically reserved for older children or teens.
Bunk beds can work in any kind of space such as attics and bonus rooms that are often awkwardly shaped. In these rooms an individual-designed configuration could be the best choice for creating a functional and attractive bunk room. If you plan to build a bunk from scratch, take into consideration the ceiling's height as well as the height of the ceiling that will be above. A higher ceiling can allow for a bigger bunk, while a lower ceiling can limit the size of the bunk.
While the ideal bunk for a child's needs will depend on their age, a bunk could also be a good option for adults who are looking to reduce space and add a bit of charm to a guest bedroom. This chic bunk from Max & Lily is available in a variety of finishes and can be separated into a twin-sized bed as well as an extra-large bed, so it's an alternative to standard bedroom furniture.