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 an ideal option for guest bedrooms and vacation homes in which ceilings are high and floor space is limited.
Addition of the right features transforms bunk beds into elegant sleeping spaces. 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
Whether they're used to accommodate an entire family or a couple of children in the same space, bunk beds save space by stacking one bed frame on top of another. This arrangement allows for more floor space to be used for furniture and play. It is ideal for small rooms or lofted spaces that require more sleeping arrangements. Bunk beds come in a variety of styles, ranging from sleek modern metal to classic wood designs. Some also have an integrated staircase that reduces the footprint of the structure. A curved staircase is a great alternative for those who have smaller bedrooms. A set of integrated steep steps is perfect for homes that are confined in storage space.
Bunk beds can be a part of the aesthetic of a room, too, if you choose the right color palette and design. neutral colors such as light grey and navy are stylish choices for bunk beds. To add some style you can jazz up the neutral color scheme with themed decor. For instance a bunk room that is with a theme of adventure could be designed to look like a forest hideout or a cloud-themed space. If you're looking to add some color, choose brighter hues for the top bunk and softer shades for the bottom bunk.
If you're building a bunk area from scratch, you need to carefully consider the way that the layout will affect the room. Draw the outline of your bunk beds using a blue painter's tape on the wall. Then, take a measurement of the distance between them, as well as any fixed features, such as doors, windows, or closets. This will help you determine the dimensions of the frame and how close it will be to other furniture.
After you've decided on a design for your bunk consider adding other functional elements. Ms. Keenan, for example, often installs an reading lamp with a switch on each bunk. It's a great way for kids to read quietly without disturbing the person above them. She also likes having an extra ledge on each bunk, where kids can set their books or glasses.
Comfortable Climbing
Even the most adventurous children aren't likely to sleep on top when climbing up and down feels difficult or unsafe. "The most important thing is to ensure that the bunk bed is equipped with a sturdy ladder that's attached to the bunk's side," says interior designer Brynne Flowers, founder of John Martine in Salt Lake City. "Stairs aren't as spacious however they're the most safety features for children younger than."
best bunk beds for teens is a fixed ladder with simple rungs that attach to the side of the bed. Angled ladders, which may be more attainable than straight ones, may be more suitable for older kids and teens. But be sure to test the bunk using blue painter's adhesive to see how close it is to any fixed features like windows or doors and ensure that there's enough space to move around.
A built-in ladder that goes under the mattress on the top and bottom levels or attaches to the bunk below is a great alternative. These are the biggest and safest, but they require more time to set up than the ladder that is able to stand on its own. "Look for stairs that have sturdy, wide railings for stairways and an angled, low step," advises child safety expert Dr. Moriarty, who also suggests that bunk beds are supported by wood slats rather than wire or thin boards to prevent accidents.
For a bunk that will expand with your kids, opt for one that has a removable trundle. This allows you to add an extra twin bed for guests or sleepovers without taking up space in the room. (Be aware that a trundle can only fit if the bottom bunk is an individual twin, not a full.)
A popular choice for both Fenton and writer Alex Morris, the Oeuf Perch bunk is a modern option that separates into an loft bed and a standard twin. Fenton says it's the "heaviest" pick on our list. It's also "built to last." The sleek design is chic and does not feel too babyish. It's also not too babyish for teens. And the beds can be removed later on if they decide that they no longer need a bunk bed.
Flexibility
When you think about bunk design, the possibilities are endless. When you're planning a kids room, a primary bedroom or guest room it is possible to design these beds with style without sacrificing functionality. Bunk beds can be a focal point in the room or create a fun play space or act as a fun storage solution. Depending on the overall aesthetic you're looking for your bunk beds can also be a focal point that will tie in with your overall design.
Bunk beds are available in a range of designs, finishes, colors and materials. There are many bunk beds available in different designs, from bohemian coastal to moody. If you want to give your kids' bedroom a look that matches their personalities, choose a color or fabric theme and then add accessories like pillows, curtains and artwork.
The ladder of a bunk bed can have a significant impact on the appearance of a room. The majority of bunks that are available off the shelf have a fixed ladder, but some can be ordered with the ladder set on either side of the shorter end of the bed. Bunks with the ladder on the short side can leave the lower bunk unlocked, making it ideal for adults. It also gives the room an uncluttered look.
Think about a bunk bed in an unusual shape, not typical, like an L-shaped one. They take up less floor space and are ideal for rooms with low ceilings, notes Gil. These bunks can be fitted with a small desk beneath. This is a great choice for kids who wish to study in bed.
You can also choose a custom-built bunk with stairs built right into the frame. These bunks are commonly used in hotels and are the most "grown-up' option available. They're extremely sturdy and are available in a variety of colors from Room & Board.
There are also convertible bunks, which can be transformed from twin-overtwin to a full-size bed or reverse. These are a good option for older siblings who don't want their room shared or parents with guests.
Stores
Depending on the design, bunk beds can offer plenty of storage space for clothing and bedding. Choose designs that have shelves or drawers built into the structure or standalone units on either side of the beds. These are particularly useful in smaller rooms, since they can maximize space without making the bunks feel tight or cluttered.
Some manufacturers include built-in storage in the bed, like this Oeuf Perch loft that has two large storage spaces on both on the upper level. These designs are great for siblings who share bedrooms, since they allow each child to keep their personal belongings in close proximity, while avoiding the dreaded "piles" of belongings shared.
Other clever bunk bed ideas In addition to shelves and drawers, are incorporating storage into headboards. Baskets or bins placed at the end of headboards make it easier to access books, making reading before bedtime more enjoyable. This option is also great for bedrooms with shared spaces as it allows children to keep their most loved books easily accessible and organized.
A ladder can be incorporated into the bunks. This eliminates the need for an additional piece of furniture and gives it a a sleeker appearance. However, it's important to keep in mind that angled ladders may be more difficult for children who are younger to climb, and this kind of bunk is typically reserved for older kids or teenagers.
Bunk beds can work in almost any type of space including bonus rooms and attics which are usually awkwardly shaped. In these rooms the custom-built bunk bed could be the best option to create a practical and attractive bunk room. If you plan to build a bunk from the ground up consider the ceiling's height as well as what will be above. A higher ceiling can allow for a taller bunk, whereas a lower ceiling will limit the size of the bunk below it.
The right bunk bed for a child will be contingent on the age of the child. However it can also be a good option for adults who wish to save some space and add charm to a guest room. The stylish bunk from Max & Lily is available in a variety of finishes and can be separated into a twin-sized bed as well as a full-size bed, so it's an alternative to standard bedroom furniture.