How to Choose the Best Bunk Bed Design
Bunk beds are an efficient and comfortable option for sleeping in rooms for children. They can also be an ideal option for guest bedrooms or vacation homes where ceilings are high, but there is a limited amount of floor space.
By adding the right details, you can transform bunk beds into chic sleeping nooks. For example, the bunks in this ocean-themed bedroom are painted by hand using Porter's Paints 'Mariner' to complement the room's color palette.
Space-Saving
Bunk beds are great to accommodate families of all sizes, or two children in the same space. They can save space by stacking a bed frame top another. This arrangement allows for more floor space to be used for furniture or play. It is a great solution for small rooms or lofted spaces that require more sleeping arrangements. Bunk beds are available in various designs, from sleek contemporary metal to classic wood designs. best low bunk beds come with an inbuilt staircase that reduces the footprint of the structure. A curved staircase is a great alternative for those who have an enviable bedroom. An integrated set of steep steps is ideal for homes that are limited in storage space.
Bunk beds are ideal for adding design and color to an space. Bunk beds look fantastic in neutral hues like light grey and navy. The neutral color scheme can also be adorned with themed decor for some extra design, such as an adventure-themed bunk space that reminds you of the forest hideout or a dreamy cloud-themed space. If you want to mix in a few colors, consider choosing brighter shades for the top bunk, and more neutral hues for the bottom bunk.

When you are building a bunk room from scratch, you should be aware of the impact of the layout of your space. Use blue painter's tape to mark the outline of your bunk beds on the wall and then determine the distance between the beds as well as any fixed features such as 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 right size frame for your space.
Once you've picked a bunk design that you like, consider adding other functional features. Ms. Keenan, for example, often installs the reading lamp with a switch in each bunk. This allows every child to read in peace, without disturbing the person sitting on top. She also likes to include a small ledge on each bunk, where children can set their books or glasses.
Comfortable Climbing
Not even the most adventurous kids will sleep up high if climbing to and from it feels difficult or unsafe. Interior designer Brynne Flower, founder of John Martine Salt Lake City, states that the most crucial factor to consider is to make sure the bunk bed comes with a sturdy ladder attached to the side. They may not be as space-efficient but they're the most secure option for children who are young.
The most secure option is a fixed ladder with simple rungs that attach to the side of the bed. Angled ladders, which may be easier to climb than straight ones, may be more suitable for older children and teens. Test the bunk using blue painter’s tape. Check to see if there is enough space for walking around.
Another great alternative is an inbuilt staircase that connects to the bottom bunk, or under each mattress on the upper and lower levels. These tend to be the safest and most spacious, but they do require more time to set up than a freestanding ladder. Dr. Moriarty recommends looking for stairs that have wide, solid rails, and a low, round step. He also suggests that bunk beds are anchored by wood slats rather than wires or thin boards, to prevent accidents.
Look for an option with a bunk bed and a removable trundle. This allows you to have an extra twin bed in your bedroom for sleepovers or guests without taking up any extra space. (Be aware that a trundle will only be able to fit if the bunk below is a twin, not a full.)
Fenton and Alex Morris both love the Oeuf Perch Bunk. It is a modern choice that can be made into a loft and an additional bed for twins. It's the most heavy option on our list, but Fenton describes it as "a tank" that's "built to last." The sleek design is elegant and doesn't feel babyish. It's also not too babyish for teens. The beds can be removed later if they decide that they don't need bunk beds.
Flexibility
When it comes to bunk design, the possibilities are endless. You can easily add style without sacrificing functionality to these beds, regardless of whether you're designing for a kids room, a main bedroom, or even a guest room. Bunk beds are a great way to create a focal point, a play area, or even a storage solution. Your bunk beds can be a statement piece, based on the overall design of your room.
Bunk beds come in a variety of styles, finishes, colors and materials. Many bunk beds are available in different styles, from bohemian to coastal to sombre. Choose a color scheme or fabric and combine it with curtains, pillows and artwork to create your children's bedroom a bunk-bed look that suits their individual style.
The ladder of a bunk bed has an important impact on the appearance of the room. The majority of bunk beds have a fixed ladder. However, some beds can be purchased with the ladder on either side of short end. Bunks with ladders on the short end can leave the lower bunk open which makes it suitable for adults. It also provides the room with a minimalist appearance.
Another option is to think about a different shape for your bunks, like an L-shaped variant. They take up less space on the floor and are great for rooms with low ceilings, explains Gil. These bunks can be outfitted with a desk that is small underneath. This is a great choice for kids who wish to study in their bed.
You can also opt for an individual built bunk with stairs built into the frame. These kinds of bunks are commonly employed in hotels and are considered the most "grown-up" option on the market. They're extremely durable and available in a variety of colors from Room & Board.
There are also convertible bunks, which can be transformed from twin-overtwins to a full-size bed or the reverse. These can be a good option for older children who do not wish to share their rooms or parents who must accommodate guests.
Storage
Bunk beds can provide ample space for clothing and bedding, depending on their design. Find designs that feature shelves or drawers that are built into the structure or add standalone units on either side of the bunks. These are especially useful in smaller rooms since they maximize the space and ensure that the bunks don't feel cluttered or cramped.
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 loft. These designs are perfect for siblings who share a bedroom, as they let each child keep their personal belongings close by while also preventing the dreaded "piles" of belongings shared.
Other smart bunk bed ideas In addition to drawers and shelves, include adding storage to headboards. Bins or baskets at the end of headboards make it easy to reach books, which makes reading before bedtime more enjoyable. This is also a great option for shared bedrooms as it allows kids to keep their favourite books easily accessible and organized.
Another option is to integrate an integrated ladder into the bunks. This eliminates the need for an additional piece of furniture and creates more sleek appearance. It's important to remember that angled ladders are difficult for children of a younger age to climb. This type of bunk bed is usually reserved for teens or older children.
Bunk beds are a great fit in just about any type of space including bonus rooms and attics that are typically awkwardly designed. In these situations an individual-designed configuration could be the best choice to create a practical and attractive bunk room. If you are planning to build a bunk from the ground up, take into consideration the ceiling's height and what will be above. A higher ceiling can permit a loftier bunk, whereas a lower ceiling will limit the size of the bunk below it.
The ideal bunk bed for a child will depend on the child's age. However the bunk bed could be a great option for adults looking to make space and add charm to a guest bedroom. This stylish Max & Lily bunk is available in various designs and can be divided into a twin bed or a full bed. It's an excellent alternative to traditional bedroom furnishings.