How to Choose the Best Bunk Bed Design
Bunk beds offer a comfy and space-efficient solution to sleep in kids' rooms. They are also an ideal option for guest bedrooms and holiday homes, where ceilings are high, but floor space is limited.
Addition of the right elements transforms bunk beds to elegant sleeping spaces. For instance the bunks in this ocean-themed bedroom are handpainted with Porter's Paints 'Mariner' to complement the room's color palette.
Space-Saving
Bunk beds are ideal for accommodating an entire family or two children in the same space. They can save space by stacking a bed frame over 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 require more sleeping arrangements. Bunk beds come in various styles, ranging from sleek modern metal to classic wood designs. Many bunk beds have an integrated stairwell that minimizes the footprint. A spiral staircase is a good alternative for those who have small bedrooms, while an integrated set of steep stairs is perfect for homes with a limited storage space.
Bunk beds can enhance a room's aesthetic, too when you select the right color palette and styling. neutral colors such as navy and light grey are a stylish option for bunk beds. If you want to add a bit of flair you can spice up the neutral colour scheme with themed decor. For instance, a bunk room inspired by adventure could be decorated to look like a woodland hideout or even a cloud-themed room. If you're looking to add some bright colors, try choosing brighter shades for the top bunk, and more neutral shades for the bottom bunk.
If you're building a bunk area from scratch, you need to think about how the layout will impact your room. Draw the outline 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, such as doors, windows, or closets. This will give you an idea of how close the bed will be to the other furniture and will help you choose the appropriate size frame for your space.
After you've chosen a bunk design that you like, think about adding additional functional features. Ms. Keenan, for example is a frequent user of an reading lamp with a switch on every bunk. It allows each child to read without disrupting the person in the middle. She also includes a small shelf in each bunk where children can place glasses or books.
Comfortable Climbing
Even the most adventurous kids won't sleep in a high-rise when climbing up and down feels a challenge or unsafe. Interior designer Brynne Flower, founder of John Martine Salt Lake City, says that the most important thing to do is to make sure the bunk bed comes with a sturdy ladder that is attached to the side. "Stairs aren't as spacious but they are the most safety features for children younger than."
A fixed ladder with simple rungs that are attached to the side of the bunk is typically the most secure option. Angled ladders, which may be easier to climb than straight ones, may be more suitable for older children and teens. Test best bunk beds for teens with blue painter's tape. Make sure there is enough space to walk around.
Another option is an inbuilt staircase that connects to the bottom bunk or under each mattress on the upper and lower levels. They are generally the most secure and spacious, though they can require more setup time than a freestanding ladder. "Look for stairs with broad, solid railings for stairways and a low, rounded 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.
Find a bunk bed with an adjustable trundle. This lets you create an additional twin bed for guests or sleepovers without taking up floor space in the room. (Be aware that a trundle can only fit if the bottom bunk is twin and not a full.)
A popular choice for both Fenton and writer Alex Morris, the Oeuf Perch bunk is a stylish option that is divided into an loft bed and a standard twin bed. Fenton says it's the "heaviest" option on our list. It's "built to last." The sleek design is elegant and doesn't feel babyish. It's also not too babyish for teens. And the beds can be removed at any time if they decide they don't require a bunk bed.
Flexibility
There are a variety of possibilities when it comes to designing bunk beds. You can easily add style without sacrificing the practicality of these beds, whether you're designing for a kids' room, a primary bedroom, or even a guest space. Bunk beds are an excellent way to create an eye-catching focal point, play space, or a storage solution. Your bunk beds can be a statement piece, depending on the overall aesthetic of your room.
Many of today's bunk beds provide a variety of designs as well as finishes, materials and colors that can be matched to any style. In fact, many bunks are available in designs that range from bohemian, the beach and even sombre. To give your child's bedroom a bunk bed look that matches their personalities pick the right color or theme and pair it with accessories like curtains, pillows and artwork.
The ladder of a bunk bed has a significant impact on the overall appearance of the room. Most bunk beds have a fixed ladder. However, some beds can be ordered with the ladder either side of the short end. Bunks with the ladder on the short end leave the lower bunk open, which is ideal for adults and gives the room a minimalist look.
Another option is to consider a different shape for your bunks, for instance an L-shaped model. Gil notes that these bunks work best for rooms with low-ceilings and make use of less space. best bunk beds for low ceilings can be outfitted with a small desk underneath. This is a great solution for kids who wish to study in the bed.

You can also select a bunk that is custom-built with stairs built into the frame. These kinds of bunks are commonly used in hotels, and are considered to be the most "grown-up" option on the market. Room & Board offers a assortment of colors and sturdy bunk beds.
There are also convertible bunks, which can be converted from twin-overtwin to full-size bed, or reverse. These can be a good option for older siblings who do not want to share their room or parents who need to accommodate guests.
Storage
Bunk beds can offer plenty of space for bedding and clothing in accordance with their design. Find designs that feature shelves or drawers built into the structure or add standalone units to either side of the bunks. These are particularly useful in small rooms, as they maximize space without making the bunks feel unorganized or cramped.
Some manufacturers build 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 rooms with multiple siblings, as each kid can keep personal items close at hand and also help avoid the usual piles of shared belongings.
Other clever bunk bed ideas In addition to drawers and shelves, include incorporating storage into headboards. Bins or baskets at the end of the headboards allow you to access books, making reading before bedtime more enjoyable. This option also works well in shared bedrooms, as children can keep their favorite books in order and easily accessible.
A ladder can be integrated into the bunks. This solution removes the need for an additional furniture piece and gives a sleeker look. It is important to keep in mind that angled ladders can be difficult for children of a younger age to climb. This type of bunk bed is typically reserved for teens or older children.
Bunk beds can be a great option for any space, even attics and bonus rooms with odd shapes. A custom-built bunk bed configuration is a good option for these rooms. If you're planning to build the 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 restrict the size of the lower bunk.
The best bunk bed for a child is contingent on the age of the child. However it can be a great option for adults looking to make space and add a touch of elegance to a guest room. This stylish Max & Lily bunk is available in various finishes and can be separated into a twin bed and a full bed. It's a great alternative to standard bedroom furnishings.