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 a great choice for guest rooms or vacation homes where the ceilings are high, but the floor space is small.
Addition of the right details transforms bunk beds into elegant sleeping spaces. 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
They can be used to sleep in a large family or a couple of children in the same space bunk beds are able to make space by stacking one bed frame on top of another. This arrangement gives more floor space that can be used for furniture or play. It's a great solution for smaller rooms or lofted spaces that need more sleeping arrangements. Bunk beds are available in a wide range of styles. From modern, sleek metal designs to classic wooden designs. Many bunk beds have an incorporated stairway that can be used to reduce the footprint. A spiral staircase is a fantastic alternative for those who have smaller bedrooms. An integrated set of steep steps is perfect for homes that are confined in storage.
Bunk beds are ideal for adding design and color to an space. Bunk beds look great in neutral hues like light grey and navy. The neutral hues can also be adorned by incorporating themed decor for an extra touch of flair, such as an adventure-themed bunk space that evokes a woodland hideout or a heavenly cloud-themed space. If you're looking to add a little colour, pick brighter hues for the top bunk, and lighter colors for bottom bunks.
If you're building a bunk room from scratch, you need to carefully consider the way that the layout will affect your room. Draw out the design of your bunk beds using a blue painter's tap on the wall. Then, measure the distance between them and any fixed features such as doors, windows, and closets. This will give you a better idea of how close the bed will be to other furniture and help you choose the best size frame for your space.
Once you've picked a bunk design that you like, think about adding other features that are functional. For instance Ms. Keenan often builds a reading light with a switch on every bunk. It allows each child to read in peace, without disturbing the person on top. There's also an extra shelf on each bunk where kids can place books or glasses.
Comfortable Climbing
Even the most adventurous children won't sleep in a high-rise when climbing up and down feels difficult or unsafe. "The most important thing to do is ensure that the bunk bed has an adequate ladder that's connected to the bunk's side," says interior designer Brynne Flowers, who is the founder of John Martine in Salt Lake City. "Stairs aren't as spacious but they are the most safety features for children younger than."
A fixed ladder with basic rungs mounted to the side of the bunk is typically the safest choice. For older children and teens inclined ladders might be easier to climb. Test the bunk with blue painter’s tape. Make sure there is enough room to walk around.
Another alternative is an inbuilt staircase that connects to the bottom bunk or runs under each mattress on the top and lower levels. These are the biggest and secure, however they require more time to put up than the ladder that is able to stand on its own. "Look for stairs that have sturdy, wide rails for stairways, 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 avoid accidents.
For a bunk that will grow with kids, look for one with a removable trundle. This will allow you to have an extra twin bed in your room for guests or sleepovers without occupying any more space. A trundle is only available if the bottom bunk of your room is a twin.
A favorite of both Fenton and writer Alex Morris, the Oeuf Perch bunk is a contemporary option that can be divided into two beds: a loft and a regular twin. Fenton calls this the "heaviest" choice on our list. It's also "built to last." The sleek design is stylish and does not feel too babyish. It's also not too childish for teenagers. The beds can be removed at any time if they decide that they don't require bunk beds.
Flexibility
There are many possibilities when it comes to creating bunk beds. You can easily add style without sacrificing the practicality of these beds, whether you're designing a children room, a main bedroom, or a guest room. Bunk beds are an excellent option to create an area of focus, a play space, or storage solution. Depending on the overall look you're looking for your bunk beds can be a standout piece that blends into your entire design scheme.
Bunk beds come in a variety of designs, finishes, colors and materials. There are many bunk beds available in different designs, from bohemian coastal to moody. Choose a color theme or fabric and mix it with curtains, pillows, and artwork to give your kids' bedroom an appearance that matches their personality.
The ladder on a bunk bed could be a significant factor in the appearance of the room. The majority of bunks that are available off the shelf have a fixed ladder, but there are some that can be purchased with the ladder placed on either side of the shorter end of the bed. Bunks that have the ladder on the short side can leave the lower bunk open which makes it suitable for adults. It also gives the room a minimalist appearance.
Another option is to think about an alternative shape for your bunks, like an L-shaped variant. These bunks take up less floor space and are ideal for rooms with low ceilings, explains Gil. They can be fitted with a small desk beneath. This is a great choice for kids who prefer to study in bed.
If you prefer, you can build a bunk with stairs built into the sides of the frame. These types of bunks are typically used in hotels and are considered to be the most "grown-up" option on the market. Room & Board offers a range of colors and durable bunk beds.
There are also best convertible bunk beds that can be converted from twin-overtwin to a full-size bed, or vice versa. These are an excellent option for older siblings that do not want to share their space or parents who host guests.
Storage
Bunk beds can offer ample space for bedding and clothing, depending on their design. Consider designs with shelves or drawers built into the structure or separate units that are placed on either side of the bed. These types of furniture are particularly helpful in smaller spaces, as they maximize unused space without making the bunks appear unorganized or cramped.
Some manufacturers include built-in storage in the bed, such as this Oeuf Perch loft that has two spacious storage compartments both on the upper level. These designs are perfect for siblings who share bedrooms, since they let each child keep their personal belongings close by while also preventing the often-dreaded "piles" of shared belongings.
Other smart bunk bed ideas as well as shelves and drawers, are the use of storage in headboards. Adding bins or baskets to the sides of the headboards keeps books easily accessible making reading at bedtime much easier and more enjoyable. This is also a great option in shared bedrooms, as children can keep their favorite books in order and easily accessible.
Another option is integrating an integrated ladder into the bunks. This option removes the need for an extra furniture piece and gives it a more sleek appearance. However, it's important to keep in mind that angled ladders may be more difficult for children younger than to climb, so this kind of bunk is typically reserved for older children or teenagers.
Bunk beds are a great fit in almost any type of space including attics and bonus rooms which are usually awkwardly shaped. In these situations an individual-designed configuration could be the best option to create a practical and attractive bunk room. If you plan to build a bunk from scratch, take into consideration the ceiling's height as well as the height of the ceiling that will be above. A higher ceiling will allow for a higher-quality bunk, while a lower ceiling will limit the size of the lower bunk.
While the ideal bunk for children's needs will be contingent on his or her age, a bunk can be a great option for adults looking to make space and add a touch of style to a guest bedroom. This chic bunk from Max & Lily is available in a variety of finishes and can be separated into a twin-sized bed and an extra-large bed, so it's an alternative to conventional furniture for bedrooms.