How to Choose the Best Bunk Bed Design
Bunk beds are a comfortable and space-efficient solution to sleep in kids' rooms. They are also an excellent option for guest bedrooms and vacation homes in which ceilings are high and the floor space is small.
Adding the right details can transform bunk beds into stylish sleeping nooks. The bunks in this ocean themed bedroom were painted with Porter's Paints 'Mariner', which complemented the room's color palette.
Space-Saving
They can be used to sleep in a large family or two kids in the same room bunk beds can save space by stacking one bed frame on top of another. This arrangement frees up space on the floor to play and other furniture and is a great solution for rooms that are cramped or lofted areas that require more sleeping arrangements. Bunk beds come in a variety of designs. From sleek, modern metal designs to timeless wooden designs. Some also have an integrated staircase that reduces the footprint of the structure. A curving ladder is a great alternative for those with small bedrooms, while an integrated set of stairs is ideal for homes with limited storage space.
Bunk beds can enhance the aesthetic of a room, too when you pick the right color palette and style. Bunk beds look great in neutral shades like light grey and navy. If you want to add a bit of flair you can jazz up the neutral colour scheme by adding themed decor. For instance a bunk room that is that is inspired by adventure could be made to look like a woodland hideout or even a cloud-themed room. If you're looking to add a little colour, pick brighter colors for the top bunk, and lighter shades for the bottom bunks.
When you are building a bunk room from scratch, you should be aware of the impact of the layout of the space. Use blue painter's tape to draw 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, or doors. This will give you a better idea of how close the bed will be to the other furniture and will help you select the right size frame for your space.
Once you've decided on a layout for your bunk Consider adding additional functional elements. For instance, Ms. Keenan often builds a reading light with a switch on every bunk. This allows every child to read quietly, without disrupting the person in the middle. She also likes to include small ledges on each bunk, where kids can place glasses or books.
Comfortable Climbing
Even the most adventurous children will not sleep high up if climbing up and down feels a challenge or unsafe. "The most important thing to do is make sure the bunk bed has an adequate ladder that's connected to the bunk's side," says interior designer Brynne Flowers, the founder of John Martine in Salt Lake City. They aren't as space-efficient, but they are the safest option for young children.
A fixed ladder with basic rungs mounted to the side of the bunk is usually the safest choice. Angled ladders, which may be easier to climb than straight ones, could be more suitable for older children and teens. Test the bunk using blue painter's tape. Check to see if there is enough room to walk around.
Another alternative is a built-in staircase that attaches to the bottom bunk, or under every mattress on the top and lower levels. These are the biggest and safest, however they take longer to construct than an individual ladder. Dr. Moriarty recommends looking for staircases that have wide, solid rails, and a low, circular step. He also suggests that bunk beds are anchored by wood slats instead of thin boards or wires to avoid accidents.
Look for a bunk bed that has an adjustable trundle. This lets you add an extra twin bed to accommodate guests or sleepovers, without taking up more floor space in the room. Trundles can only be used only if the bunk on the bottom of your room is a twin.
A favourite of both Fenton and writer Alex Morris, the Oeuf Perch bunk is a modern option that can be divided into an loft bed and a regular twin bed. It's the largest option on our list, however Fenton calls it "a tank" that's "built to last." The sleek design is stylish and doesn't feel childish for teen years, and the beds can be separated later if kids decide they don't want a bunk no longer.
Flexibility
When you think about bunk bed design, the options are endless. Whether you're designing a kids room, primary bedroom or guest room you can easily design these beds with style without sacrificing functionality. Bunk beds are an excellent way to create an eye-catching focal point, play space, or storage solution. Based on the overall style you're after, your bunk beds can also be a statement piece that will tie in with the overall design plan.
Bunk beds come in a range of styles, finishes, colors, and materials. There are many bunk beds available in a variety of styles, from bohemian to coastal to sombre. To give your children's bedroom a look that matches their personalities select a theme or color and match it with accessories like pillows, curtains and artwork.
The ladder on a bunk bed could make a huge difference in the appearance of the room. Most bunk beds have an adjustable ladder. However, some can be ordered to have the ladder either side of the short end. Bunks with the ladder at the shorter end can leave the lower bunk unlocked which makes it suitable for adults. It also gives the room a minimalist appearance.
Another option is to consider a different shape for your bunks, like an L-shaped version. These bunks take up less space on the floor and are great for rooms with low ceilings, notes Gil. They can be fitted with a desk that is small underneath. This is a great choice for kids who wish to study in the bed.
You can also select an individual built bunk with stairs built into the frame. These types of bunks are commonly used in hotels, and are considered to be the most "grown-up" option available on the market. Room & Board offers a variety of colors and incredibly durable bunk beds.
There are also convertible bunks which can be transformed from twin-overtwin to 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.
Storage
Bunk beds can offer ample space for bedding and clothing, depending on their design. Find designs that feature shelves or drawers that are built into the structure or even standalone units either side of the bunks. These types of furniture are particularly helpful in smaller spaces, as they can maximize space without making the bunks appear unorganized or cramped.

Some manufacturers integrate storage into 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 ideal for siblings sharing a bedroom, as they let each child keep their personal belongings close to hand while avoiding the dreaded "piles" of shared belongings.
Other smart bunk bed ideas In addition to shelves and drawers, include adding storage to headboards. Adding bins or baskets to the sides of the headboards keep books easily accessible making reading at bedtime much easier and more enjoyable. This option also works well in shared bedrooms, as children can keep their favourite titles organized and readily accessible.
Another option is to integrate an integrated ladder into the bunks. This eliminates the need for an additional piece of furniture, and gives it a more sleek appearance. best metal bunk beds is important to keep in mind that angled ladders are difficult for young children to climb. This type of bunk bed is usually reserved for teenagers or older children.
Bunk beds can work in any kind of space such as attics and bonus rooms that are typically awkwardly designed. In these rooms, a custom-built configuration might be the best choice to create a practical and stylish bunk room. If you're planning to build a bunk from the ground up, take into consideration the height of the ceiling as well as the height of the ceiling that will be above. A higher ceiling allows for a larger bunk but a lower ceiling will limit the size of the bunk.
The right bunk bed for a child will depend on the age of the child. However, a bunk bed can be a great option for adults who want to reduce space and add some style to a guest bedroom. The stylish bunk from Max & Lily is available in a variety of finishes. It can be divided into a twin-sized bed and a full-size bed, so it's a versatile alternative to traditional furniture for bedrooms.