How to Choose the Best Bunk Bed Design
Bunk beds provide a comfortable and space-efficient way to sleep in kids' rooms. They can also be a great option for guest bedrooms or holiday homes, where ceilings are high, but the floor space is small.
The right accessories can transform bunk beds into chic sleeping spaces. For instance, the bunks in this bedroom with an ocean theme are painted by hand using Porter's Paints 'Mariner' to complement the color scheme of the room.
Space-Saving
Whether they're used to accommodate an entire family or a pair of kids in the same room, bunk beds save space by stacking one bed frame on top of another. This arrangement gives more floor space to be used for furniture or play. It is a great solution for smaller rooms or lofted areas that require more sleeping arrangements. Bunk beds come in various styles, 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 who have an enviable bedroom. An integrated set of stairs that are steep is ideal for homes that are confined in storage.
Bunk beds can add to a room's aesthetic, too when you select the right color scheme and style. Neutral colors like navy and light grey are a stylish option for bunk beds. The neutral colors can be dressed up with themed decor to add a little extra flair, such as an adventure-themed bunk space that brings to mind the forest hideout or a heavenly cloud-themed space. If best detachable bunk beds looking to mix in a few colors, consider choosing brighter shades for the top bunk and lighter hues for the bottom bunk.
When you are building a bunk room from scratch, you should be aware of the impact of the layout on the space. Use blue painter's tape to mark out the silhouette of your bunk beds on the wall, and then measure the distance between the beds and any fixed elements like windows, closets, and doors. This will give you an idea of how close the bed will be to other furniture and will help you select the best size frame for your space.
Once you've decided on a layout for your bunk, think about adding other elements that are functional. Ms. Keenan, for example often puts a reading lamp that has a switch on each bunk. This allows every child to read without disturbing the person sitting on top. She also likes to add a small ledge on each bunk, where kids can set their books or glasses.
Comfortable Climbing
The most daring children will be able to sleep high when climbing up and down it feels difficult or unsafe. Interior designer Brynne Flower, the founder of John Martine Salt Lake City, says the most important thing to do is to make sure that the bunk bed is equipped with a sturdy ladder attached to the side. "Stairs aren't as efficient in space, but they offer the most safety features for children younger than."
The most secure option is a fixed ladder that has simple rungs that are attached to the bed's side. For teenagers and older children, angled ladders may be more comfortable to climb. But be sure to test the bunk using blue painter's tape to determine how close it is to any fixed elements, such as windows or doors and ensure that there's enough space to move around.
Another great alternative is a built-in staircase that is attached to the bottom bunk, or under every mattress on the top and lower levels. They are generally the most secure and spacious, though they can require more time to set up than an independent ladder. "Look for stairs that have broad, solid stair rails and a low, rounded step," advises child safety expert Dr. Moriarty, who also recommends that bunk beds be supported by slats of wood instead of wire or thin boards to prevent accidents.
If you want a bunk that can develop with children, search for one with an adjustable trundle. This allows you to have an extra twin bed in your bedroom for sleepovers or guests without taking up any extra space. Trundles is only available when the bunk at the bottom of your room is a twin.
A favorite of both Fenton and writer Alex Morris, the Oeuf Perch bunk is a contemporary option that separates into an loft bed and a regular twin. 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 does not feel too babyish. It's also not too childish for teens. And the beds can be removed later on if they decide that they don't require bunk beds.
Flexibility
There are a variety of options to consider when designing bunk beds. You can easily add style and the practicality of the beds, no matter if you're designing for a kids room, a primary bedroom, or even a guest room. Bunk beds are a great way to create an area of focus, a play space, or a storage solution. Depending on the overall look you're after your bunk beds can also be a focal point that can be a part of your overall design.
Bunk beds come in a range of designs, finishes, colors and materials. Many bunk beds are available in a variety of designs, from bohemian coastal to sombre. To give your child's bedroom a look of bunk beds that suits their personalities pick a theme or color and then add accessories such as curtains, pillows and artwork.
The ladder of a bunk bed can make an important impact on the overall appearance of a room. The majority of bunks that are available off the shelf have a fixed ladder, however, some are available with the ladder placed on either side of the shorter 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 provide the room a minimalist appearance.
Another option is to think about an alternative shape for your bunks, like an L-shaped version. They take up less space on the floor and are great for rooms with low ceilings, says Gil. They can also come with a desk underneath and can be an ideal option for children who want to study in the bed.
You can also opt for a bunk that is custom-built with stairs built into the frame. These kinds of bunks are often used in hotels, and are considered to be the most "grown-up" option on the market. Room & Board offers a range of colors and sturdy bunk beds.
There are also convertible bunks which can be transformed from twin-overtwin to a full-size bed or the reverse. They are a great option for older siblings that don't want their room shared or parents with guests.
Stores
Based on the style the bunk beds will provide plenty of storage for clothing and bedding. Choose designs that have shelves or drawers built into the structure, or standalone units that sit on either side of the bed. These types of furniture are particularly helpful in smaller rooms, since they can maximize space without making the bunks appear cramped or cluttered.
Some manufacturers integrate storage within the bed itself, such as this Oeuf Perch bunk that offers two large storage compartments on either side of the upper loft. These designs are ideal for families with siblings sharing a room, as each kid can keep personal items close at hand while also preventing the usual piles of shared belongings.
In addition to drawers and shelves, other smart bunk bed ideas include incorporating storage in the headboards. Adding bins or baskets to the ends of the headboards keep books easily accessible making reading at bedtime much easier and more enjoyable. This option is also great for shared bedrooms because it lets kids keep their favorite titles 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 an elegant appearance. But, it's important to be aware that angled ladders can be more difficult for children younger than to climb, so this type of bunk is usually reserved for older children or teens.
Bunk beds can be a great option for any space, including attics and bonus rooms with unusual shapes. A custom-built bunk bed configuration may be the best choice for these spaces. If you're planning to build a bunk from scratch consider the height of the ceiling as well as what will be above. A higher ceiling can allow for a bigger bunk, while a lower ceiling can limit the dimensions of the bunk.
While the ideal bunk for a child's needs will depend on the child's age, a bunk can also be a great choice for adults looking to save space and add a bit of charm to a guest bedroom. This elegant Max & Lily bunk is available in many different finishes and can be separated into a twin bed or a full bed. It's an excellent alternative to standard furniture for bedrooms.