How to Choose the Best Bunk Bed Design
Bunk beds provide a comfortable and space-efficient solution to sleep in children's rooms. They are also an ideal option for guest bedrooms or vacation homes in which ceilings are high and there is a limited amount of floor space.
The right accessories can transform bunk beds into stylish sleeping nooks. The bunks in this ocean-themed bedroom were painted using Porter's Paints 'Mariner', which was a perfect match for the room's color scheme.
Space-Saving
If they're used to sleep a large family or a pair of children in the same space bunk beds can make space by stacking one bed frame on top of another. This configuration frees up space on the floor for play areas and furniture and is a great solution for cramped rooms or lofted areas that need more sleeping arrangements. Bunk beds are available in a variety of styles, from sleek modern metal to classic wood designs. Many bunk beds have a built-in stairway that reduces the footprint. A spiral staircase is a good alternative for those with a smaller bedroom, while an integrated set of steep stairs is perfect for homes with limited storage.
Bunk beds can enhance a room's aesthetic, too, if you choose the right color palette and design. Bunk beds look great in neutral hues like navy and light grey. The neutral color scheme can also be adorned with themed decor to add some extra flair, such as an adventure-inspired 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, choose brighter colors for the top bunk and softer shades for the bottom bunk.
If you're building a bunk room from scratch, it's crucial to carefully consider how the layout will impact the room. Draw out the design of your bunk beds using a blue painter's tape on the wall. Then measure the distance between them, as well as any fixed features like doors, windows, and closets. This will help you decide the size of the frame and how close it will be to the other furniture.
After you've decided on a bunk design consider adding other functional elements. For instance Ms. Keenan often builds a reading light that has a switch inside each bunk. It allows each child to read in peace, without disturbing the person on top. She also includes an extra shelf on each bunk where children can place glasses or books.
Comfortable Climbing
The most daring children will be able to sleep high when climbing up and down it feels hard or unsafe. Interior designer Brynne Flower, the founder of John Martine Salt Lake City, says the most important factor to consider is to ensure the bunk bed comes with a sturdy ladder that is attached to the side. "Stairs aren't as efficient in space however they're the best security feature for children who are younger."
The safest choice is a fixed ladder that has simple rungs that are attached to the side of the bed. For teens and older children, angled ladders may be more comfortable to climb. Make sure you test the bunk using blue painter's tape to see how close it is to any fixed features, such as windows or doors and also to ensure there's enough room to move around.
A built-in ladder that runs under the mattress of the upper and lower levels or attaches to the bunk below is another excellent alternative. These are the biggest and safest, however they take longer to set up than an individual ladder. Dr. Moriarty recommends looking for staircases that have solid, wide rails and a low, round step. He recommends that bunk beds be supported by wood slats, rather than thin boards or wires, to prevent accidents.
If you are looking for a bunk that can expand with your kids, opt for one with a removable trundle. This lets you create an extra twin bed for sleepovers or guests without taking up space in the room. Trundles is only available if the bottom bunk of your room is a twin.
Fenton and Alex Morris both love the Oeuf Perch Bunk. It is a stylish option that can be converted into a loft and it can also be used as a twin bed. Fenton says it's the "heaviest" option on our list. It's also "built to last." The sleek design is stylish 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 they don't need a bunk bed.
Flexibility
There are many options to consider when making bunk beds. You can easily add style and the functionality of these beds, regardless of whether you're designing for a kid room, a primary bedroom, or a guest room. Bunk beds can provide an ideal focal point for rooms, create an imaginative playspace or function as a fun storage solution. Your bunk beds can become a focal feature, based on the overall aesthetic of your room.
A lot of bunk beds today come with a variety of styles, materials, finishes and colors that will suit any style. In fact, many bunks are available in designs that range from bohemian, coastal and even sombre. To give your child's bedroom a look of bunk beds that suits their personalities pick the right color or theme and match it with accessories like curtains, pillows and artwork.
The ladder of a bunk bed has a significant impact on the look of the room. best childrens bunk beds off-the-shelf bunks have a fixed ladder, but there are some that can be purchased with the ladder positioned on either side of the short end of the bed. Bunks with a ladder positioned on the short end leave the lower bunk open, which is ideal for adults and can give the room a minimalist look.
Another option is to consider a different shape for your bunks, for instance an L-shaped model. These bunks take up less area and are perfect for rooms with low ceilings, says Gil. These bunks can be fitted with a small desk underneath. This is a great choice for kids who prefer to study in bed.
You can also choose a bunk that is custom-built with stairs built into the frame. These kinds of bunks are often used in hotels and are considered the most "grown-up" option on the market. Room & Board offers a range of colors and durable bunk beds.
There are also convertible bunks, that can be converted from twin-overtwin to a full-size bed or vice versa. These can be a good option for older siblings who don't want to share their room or parents who have to accommodate guests.
Stores
Depending on the style depending on the design, bunk beds can provide plenty of storage space for clothes and bedding. Find designs that feature 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 ensure that the bunks don't feel overcrowded or cramped.
Some manufacturers incorporate built-in storage into the bed like this Oeuf Perch bunk that offers two spacious storage compartments on either side of the loft. These designs are perfect for siblings sharing a bedroom, as they let each child keep their personal items in close proximity, while avoiding the often-dreaded "piles" of belongings shared.
In addition to drawers or shelves, other smart bunk bed ideas are to incorporate storage into the headboards. Adding bins or baskets to the sides of the headboards will keep books easily accessible making reading before bed much simpler and more enjoyable. This option also works well in shared bedrooms, as kids can keep their favorite books organized and easily accessible.
Another option is to incorporate an integrated ladder into the bunks. This removes the need for a separate furniture piece and gives it an elegant look. However, it's important to be aware that angled ladders may be more difficult for children younger than to climb, so this kind of bunk is usually reserved for older children or teens.
Bunk beds are a great fit in almost any type of space, including attics and bonus rooms that are typically awkwardly designed. A custom-built bunk bed configuration could be the best option for these rooms. If you're considering building the bunk from scratch, take into consideration the height of the ceiling and the height above it. A higher ceiling can allow for a larger bunk while a lower ceiling will restrict the size of the bunk.
The right bunk bed for a child is contingent on the child's age. However, a bunk bed can be a great option for adults who wish to reduce space and add a touch of elegance to a guest room. This chic Max & Lily bunk is available in many different designs and can be divided into a twin bed or a full bed. It's an excellent alternative to standard bedroom furnishings.