How to Choose the Best Bunk Bed Design
Bunk beds provide a comfortable and space-efficient solution to sleep in kids' rooms. They are also a great option for guest bedrooms and holiday homes, where ceilings are high but there is a limited amount of floor space.
The addition of the right details transforms bunk beds into stylish sleeping areas. For example the bunks in this ocean-themed bedroom are painted with Porter's Paints 'Mariner' to complement the room's palette.
Space-Saving
They can be utilized to sleep an entire family or a pair of kids in the same room, bunk beds save space by stacking one bed frame on top of another. This configuration frees up floor space for play areas and furniture, making it an ideal solution for cramped rooms or lofted areas that need more sleeping arrangements. Bunk beds can be found in a variety of designs. From sleek, modern metal designs to classic wooden designs. Many bunk beds have a built-in stairway that reduces the footprint. A spiral staircase is a fantastic alternative for those with smaller bedrooms. A set of integrated steep steps is perfect for homes with a limited space in storage.
Bunk beds are an excellent way to add design and color to an space. Neutral colors such as light grey and navy are a stylish option for bunk beds. For a little more style you can spice up the neutral colour scheme by adding themed decor. For instance an area that is inspired by adventure could be designed to look like a forest hideout or even a cloud-themed room. If you're looking to add a little colour, pick brighter hues for the top bunk, and lighter colors for bottom bunk.
If you are building a bunk-room from scratch, you should carefully consider the impact of the layout on your space. Use blue painter's tape to mark out the silhouette of your bunk beds on the wall and then measure the distance between the beds as well as any fixed features like windows, closets, and doors. This will give you a better idea of how close the bed will be to the other furniture and will help you choose the best size frame for your space.
After you've chosen the design of your bunk that you like, think about adding other functional features. Ms. Keenan, for example often puts a reading lamp with a switch on each bunk. It's a great way to allow kids to read in peace without disturbing the person who is above them. There's also a small shelf on each bunk, where children can place glasses or books.
best bunk bed ideas Climbing
Not even the most adventurous children can sleep in a high bed if climbing up and down it is difficult or dangerous. "The most important thing to do is make sure the bunk bed has 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. "Stairs aren't as efficient in space but they are the best security feature for younger children."
The safest choice is a fixed ladder with simple rungs that are attached to the bed's side. For teenagers and older children the ladders with angled angles may be easier to climb. Test the bunk with blue painter’s tape. Make sure there's enough space to walk around.
Another alternative is a built-in staircase that attaches to the bottom bunk or under each mattress on the top and lower levels. They are the largest and safest, however they take longer to construct than an individual ladder. "Look for stairs that have broad, solid stair rails and an angled, low 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 prevent accidents.
For a bunk that will grow with kids, look for one with a removable trundle. This allows you to add an extra twin bed to accommodate guests or sleepovers, without taking up more space on the floor. A trundle is only available if the bottom bunk of your room is a twin.
A favorite of both Fenton and writer Alex Morris, the Oeuf Perch bunk is a modern option that separates into an loft bed and a standard twin bed. It's the heaviest pick on our list, however Fenton describes it as "a tank" that's "built to last." The sleek design looks elegant and doesn't feel childish for teenagers and the beds can be separated later on if kids decide they don't want a bunk for themselves anymore.
Flexibility
When it comes to bunk bed design, the options are endless. When you're planning a kids room, a primary bedroom or guest room it is possible to add style to these beds without sacrificing function. Bunk beds are an excellent way to create a focal point, a play area, or even a storage solution. Your bunk beds can be a striking piece, depending on the overall aesthetic of your room.
A lot of bunk beds today come with a variety of styles as well as finishes, materials and colors that can be matched to any design. Many bunk beds are available in different styles, from bohemian and coastal to moody. To give your children's bedroom a bunk bed look that is a good fit for their personality pick the right color or theme and then add accessories like curtains, pillows and artwork.
The ladder of a bunk bed can have an important impact on the look of a room. The majority of bunks that are available off the shelf come with a fixed ladder, but there are some that can be purchased with the ladder placed on either side of the shorter end of the bed. Bunks that have the ladder on the short end leave the lower bunk open and is perfect for adults and can give the room a minimalist appearance.
Another option is to consider a different shape for your bunks, for instance an L-shaped model. These bunks occupy less area and are perfect for rooms with low ceilings, explains Gil. They can also be outfitted with a desk underneath and can be a great choice for kids who want to study in the bed.
You can also choose a custom-built bunk with stairs that are built into the sides of the frame. These types of bunks are often used in hotels, and are considered to be the most "grown-up" option available on the market. Room & Board offers a range of colors and durable bunk beds.
There are also convertible bunks which can be converted from twin-overtwin to a full-size bed, or the reverse. These are a great option for older children who do not want to share their room or parents who have to accommodate guests.
Stores
Bunk beds can provide plenty of space for bedding and clothing in accordance with 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 types of furniture are particularly helpful in smaller spaces, as they maximize space without making the bunks feel tight or cluttered.
Some manufacturers build storage within the bed itself like this Oeuf Perch bunk that offers two large storage compartments on either side of the loft. These designs are perfect for siblings sharing a room, as each kid can keep their personal items to hand while also helping to prevent the dreaded piles of shared belongings.
In addition to drawers and shelves, other clever bunk bed designs include incorporating storage into the headboards. Baskets or bins placed at the end of headboards make it easy to reach books, making reading before bedtime more enjoyable. This is also a great option for bedrooms that are shared because it lets kids keep their favourite books easily accessible and organized.
A ladder can be built into the bunks. This eliminates the need for an additional piece of furniture and gives it a more sleek appearance. It's important to note that angled ladders are difficult for young children to climb. This type of bunk bed is usually reserved for teenagers or older children.
Bunk beds can work in any kind of space, including attics and bonus rooms which are usually awkwardly shaped. A custom-built bunk bed may be the best choice for these rooms. If you plan to build a bunk from scratch consider the ceiling's height and what will be above. A higher ceiling will allow for a larger bunk but a lower ceiling will limit the dimensions of the bunk.
While the ideal bunk for children's needs will be contingent on their age, a bunk could also be a good option for adults who are looking to make space and add a bit of style 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 standard bedroom furniture.