How to Choose the Best Bunk Bed Design
Bunk beds offer a comfy and space-efficient way to sleep in children's rooms. They are also a great option for guest bedrooms and vacation homes, where ceilings are high, but floor space is limited.
The right combination of features transforms bunk beds into fashionable sleeping spaces. For instance the bunks in this bedroom with an ocean theme are handpainted with Porter's Paints 'Mariner' to complement the room's color palette.
Space-Saving
Bunk beds are ideal to accommodate families of all sizes, or two children in the same space. They save space by stacking bed frames on over another. This configuration frees up space on the floor to play and other furniture which makes it a perfect solution for cramped rooms or lofted areas that need more sleeping arrangements. Bunk beds are available in various styles, ranging from sleek modern metal to timeless wood designs. They also come with an inbuilt staircase that reduces the footprint of the structure. A spiral staircase is a fantastic alternative for those with an enviable bedroom. A set of steep steps is ideal for homes that are confined in storage.
Bunk beds are ideal for adding design and color to an space. neutral colors such as light grey and navy are stylish choices for bunk beds. The neutral colors can also be dressed up with themed decor for some extra style, like an adventure-inspired bunk room that reminds you of an escape to the woods or a heavenly cloud-themed space. If you're seeking to add a bit of color, opt for brighter colors for the top bunk, and lighter shades for the bottom bunks.
When 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 the outline of your bunk beds on the wall, and then measure the distance between the beds and any fixed features like windows, closets, and doors. This will give you an idea of how close the bed will be to the other furniture and will help you choose the best size frame for your space.
Once you've selected a design for your bunk you like, think about adding other functional features. For example, Ms. Keenan often builds a reading light with a switch on every bunk. It's a great method for every child to read in peace without disturbing the person above them. She also includes an extra shelf on each bunk where kids can put books or glasses.
Comfortable Climbing
Not even the most adventurous kids will sleep up high 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 an erect ladder that is 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 however they're the best security feature for children younger than."
A fixed ladder with basic rungs that are attached to the side of the bunk is usually the most secure option. For teenagers and older children inclined ladders might be more comfortable to climb. Test the bunk using blue painter’s tape. Make sure there is enough space for walking around.
A built-in ladder that runs underneath the mattress of the top and bottom levels or attaches to the bunk below is a great option. They are generally the most secure and spacious, though they can require more time to set up than an independent ladder. Dr. Moriarty recommends looking for staircases that have solid, wide rails and a low, round step. He recommends that bunk beds are anchored by wood slats, rather than wires or boards that are thin, to prevent accidents.
If you are looking for a bunk that can expand with your kids, opt for one with an adjustable trundle. This lets you create an extra twin bed to accommodate sleepovers or guests without taking up floor space in the room. (Be best full size bunk beds that a trundle will only be suitable if the bunk on the bottom is a twin, not a full.)
Fenton and Alex Morris both love the Oeuf Perch Bunk. It is a modern choice that can be transformed into a loft as well as an additional bed for twins. Fenton describes it as the "heaviest" option on our list. It's "built to last." The sleek design is stylish and does not feel too babyish. It's also not too childish for teens. And the beds can be removed later if they decide that they don't need bunk beds.
Flexibility
When it comes to bunk bed design, the options are endless. You can easily add style and the functionality of these beds, whether you're designing for a kids room, a primary bedroom, or a guest room. Bunk beds can provide an attractive focal point in rooms, create an imaginative playspace or act as a useful storage solution. Your bunk beds can be a striking piece, depending on the overall style of your room.
A lot of bunk beds today offer a range of designs materials, finishes, and colors that will suit any style. In fact, a variety of bunks are available in designs that range from bohemian, oceanic and even moody. To give your child's bedroom a look that is a good fit for their personality select a theme or color and match it with accessories like curtains, pillows and artwork.
The ladder of a bunk bed has an important impact on the look of a room. Most off-the-shelf bunks come with a fixed ladder however, some are available with the ladder placed on either side of the short end of the bed. Bunks with the ladder on the short end leave the lower bunk unopened and is perfect for adults and can give the room a minimalist look.
You could consider a bunk bed with an unusual shape, not typical, like an L-shaped one. Gil notes that these bunks are perfect 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 choice for kids who prefer to study in their bed.
You can also opt for a bunk that is custom-built with stairs built into the frame. These types of bunks are typically employed in hotels and are considered to be the most "grown-up" option available on the market. They're extremely durable and available in a variety of colors from Room & Board.
There are also convertible bunks, that can be converted from twin-overtwin to full-size bed, or the reverse. They can be a great option for older children who do not want to share their room or parents who must accommodate guests.
Stores
Depending on the design depending on the design, bunk beds can provide plenty of storage for clothing and bedding. Consider designs with drawers or shelves built into the structure or separate units that are placed on either side of the bed. These options are especially helpful in smaller spaces, as they maximize unused space without making the bunks appear tight or cluttered.
Some manufacturers integrate storage within the bed itself, such as this Oeuf Perch bunk that offers two storage spaces that are spacious on each side of the upper loft. These designs are great for siblings who share a bedroom, as they let each child keep their personal items close to hand while avoiding the dreaded "piles" of shared belongings.
Other innovative bunk bed designs, in addition to shelves and drawers, are incorporating storage into headboards. Baskets or bins placed at the ends of headboards make it easier to reach books, making reading before bed 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 option eliminates an extra piece of furniture, and gives it a a sleeker appearance. But, it's important to keep in mind that angled ladders are more difficult for children who are younger to climb, so this type of bunk is usually reserved for older children or teenagers.
Bunk beds are a great fit in almost any type of space, including attics and bonus rooms which are usually awkwardly shaped. A custom-built bunk bed configuration may be the best choice for these spaces. If you're planning to build a bunk from scratch take into consideration the height of the ceiling and the height above it. A higher ceiling will allow for a taller bunk, whereas a lower ceiling will limit the dimensions of the lower bunk.
The right bunk bed for a child will be contingent on the child's age. However, a bunk bed can also be an excellent choice for adults looking to save some space and add charm to a guest room. This elegant Max & Lily bunk is available in many different designs and can be divided into a twin bed or a full bed. It's a great alternative to standard bedroom furniture.