How to Choose the Best Bunk Bed Design
Bunk beds provide a comfortable, space-efficient sleeping solution for children's rooms. They are also a great choice for guest rooms and vacation homes where ceilings are high, but the floor space is limited.
The right combination of elements transforms bunk beds to elegant sleeping spaces. The bunks in this ocean-themed bedroom were painted with Porter's Paints 'Mariner', which helped to complement the room's colors.
Space-Saving
Bunk beds are ideal to accommodate a large family, or two children in the same space. They save space by stacking bed frames on over another. This arrangement frees up the floor space to play and other furniture which makes it a perfect solution for cramped rooms or lofted spaces that require more sleeping arrangements. Bunk beds come in different designs, from sleek contemporary metal to classic wood designs. A majority of bunk beds come with an incorporated stairway that can be used to reduce the footprint. A curved staircase is a great alternative for those with an enviable bedroom. A set of steep steps is perfect for homes that are confined in storage space.
Bunk beds are a great way to add design and color to an space. neutral colors such as navy and light grey are stylish choices for bunk beds. For a little more design you can jazz up the neutral color scheme by adding themed decor. For example, a bunk room that is inspired by adventure could be made to look like a woodland hideout or even a cloud-themed room. If you want to add a few colors, consider selecting brighter colors for the top bunk and lighter shades for the bottom bunk.
If you're building a bunk room from scratch, it's important to consider the impact of the layout on the room. Use blue painter's tape to draw the outline of your bunk beds on the wall and then take measurements of the distance between the beds and any fixed elements like windows, closets, and doors. This will help you decide the size of the frame and how close it will be to the other furniture.
Once you've decided on a layout for your bunk, think about adding additional functional elements. Ms. Keenan, for example is a frequent user of an reading lamp with a switch in every bunk. This allows every child to read in peace, without disturbing the person on top. There's also a small shelf in each bunk where kids can put glasses or books.
Comfortable Climbing
Even the most adventurous children won't sleep in a high-rise if climbing up and down feels a challenge or unsafe. Interior designer Brynne Flower, who is the founder of John Martine Salt Lake City, states that the most crucial thing to do is make sure that the bunk bed is equipped with a sturdy ladder that is attached to the side. They might not be as efficient in space but they are the safest option for children.
A fixed ladder with simple rungs that are attached to the side of the bunk is generally the safest option. For teens and older children, angled ladders may be more comfortable to climb. Test the bunk with blue painter’s tape. Make sure there's enough space for walking around.
A built-in ladder that is positioned underneath the mattress of the top and bottom levels or attaches to the bunk below is another great option. These are the most spacious and secure, however they require more time to set up than an individual ladder. Dr. Moriarty recommends looking for stairs that have wide, solid rails, and a low, round step. He recommends that bunk beds are anchored by wood slats instead of thin boards or wires, to prevent accidents.
For a bunk that will grow with kids, look for one that has a removable trundle. This allows you to add an extra twin bed for guests or sleepovers without taking up more space in the room. (Be aware that a trundle will only be suitable if the bunk on the bottom 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 made into a loft or it can also be used as a twin bed. Fenton calls this the "heaviest" pick on our list. It's also "built to last." The sleek design is chic and does not feel too babyish. It's also not too childish for teens. The beds can be removed at any time if they decide that they don't need bunk beds.
Flexibility
When you think about bunk bed design, the options are endless. You can easily add style without sacrificing the practicality of the beds, no matter if you're designing for a kids room, a primary bedroom, or a guest space. Bunk beds can be an attractive focal point in a room and create a unique play area or act as a fun storage solution. Based on the overall style you're going for the bunk beds could also be a focal point that blends into your entire design scheme.
Bunk beds come in a variety of styles, finishes colors and materials. There are best quality bunk beds in a variety of styles, from bohemian and coastal to sombre. To give your children's bedroom a bunk bed look that suits their personalities select a color or fabric theme and then add accessories like pillows, curtains and artwork.
The ladder on a bunk bed could make a big difference in how the room looks. Most off-the-shelf bunks come with a fixed ladder, but there are some that can be purchased with the ladder positioned on either side of the shorter end of the bed. Bunks with the ladder on the short end can leave the lower bunk unlocked which makes it suitable for adults. It also gives the room a minimalist appearance.
Another option is to consider a different shape for your bunks, such as an L-shaped variant. These bunks occupy less space on the floor and are great for rooms with low ceilings, explains Gil. They can also be fitted with a desk beneath which makes them the ideal choice for children who want to study in bed.
You can also choose a custom-built bunk with stairs built into the sides of the frame. These bunks are often used in hotels and are the most "grown-up' option available. They're incredibly sturdy and are available in a variety of colors from Room & Board.
If you're looking for a temporary option, you can also consider convertible bunks that can convert from twin-over-twin beds into full-size beds, and reverse. These are an excellent option for older siblings who don't want to share their bedroom or parents who host guests.
Storage
Bunk beds can offer plenty of space for bedding and clothing, depending on their design. Consider designs with shelves or drawers built into the structure, or standalone units on either side of the bed. These are especially useful in small spaces because they maximize the unused space and ensure that the bunks don't feel unorganized or cramped.
Some manufacturers have 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 ideal for rooms with multiple siblings, as each kid can keep their personal belongings close to hand, while also preventing the usual piles of shared belongings.
In addition to drawers or shelves, other smart bunk bed ideas are to incorporate storage into the headboards. By adding baskets or bins at the sides of the headboards will keep books within easy reach and makes reading at bedtime much easier and more enjoyable. This option is also great for bedrooms that are shared because it lets kids keep their most loved 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. However, it's important to keep in mind that angled ladders are more difficult for children who are younger to climb, which is why this type of bunk is usually reserved for older children or teens.
Bunk beds are a great option for any space, even attics or bonus rooms with strange shapes. In these spaces an individual-designed configuration could be the best option to create a practical and stylish bunk room. If find more info plan to build a bunk from the ground up, take into consideration the ceiling's height as well as what will be above. A higher ceiling allows for a larger bunk, but a lower ceiling will limit the dimensions of the bunk.
While the best bunk for the needs of a child will depend on his or her age, a bunk can be a great option for adults looking to reduce space and add a bit of class to their guest bedroom. This chic Max & Lily bunk is available in a variety of finishes and can be separated into a twin bed and a full bed. It's a great alternative to standard bedroom furnishings.