How to Choose the Best Bunk Bed Design
Bunk beds are a space-saving, comfortable sleeping solution for rooms for children. They can also be an ideal option for guest bedrooms or holiday homes, where ceilings are high, but the floor space is small.
The addition of the right elements transforms bunk beds to elegant sleeping spaces. The bunks in this ocean themed bedroom were painted using Porter's Paints 'Mariner', which complemented the room's color palette.
Space-Saving
Whether they're utilized to sleep an entire family or a pair of children in the same space, bunk beds make space by stacking one bed frame on top of another. This arrangement frees up floor space to play and other furniture, making it an ideal solution for cramped rooms or lofted areas that require more sleeping arrangements. Bunk beds come in a variety of designs. From modern, sleek metal designs to classic wooden designs. They also come with a built-in staircase that minimizes the footprint of the structure. A curved ladder is a fun alternative for those who have smaller bedrooms, and an integrated set of stairs is perfect for homes with limited storage space.
best bunk bed brands can be a part of the overall aesthetic of a room, if you choose the right color palette and styling. Neutral colors like light grey and navy are stylish options for bunk beds. The neutral hues can also be dressed up with themed decor to add an extra touch of style, like an adventure-themed bunk space that reminds you of the forest hideout or a dreamy cloud-themed space. If you're looking to add a few pops of color, try selecting brighter colors for the top bunk, and more neutral hues for the bottom bunk.
When building a bunk room from scratch, it is important to be aware of the impact of the layout on the space. Use blue painter's tape to draw out the silhouette of your bunk beds on the wall, and then measure the distance between the beds as well as any fixed features 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 right size frame for your space.
Once you've decided on a layout for your bunk Consider adding other elements that are functional. For example Ms. Keenan often builds a reading light with a switch in every bunk. It's a great method for each kid to read quietly without disturbing the person above them. There's also a small shelf in each bunk where children can place books or glasses.
Comfortable Climbing
Even the most adventurous children will not sleep high up if climbing up and down is difficult or unsafe. "The most important thing is to make sure the bunk bed is equipped with an erect ladder that is attached to the bunk's side," says interior designer Brynne Flowers, founder of John Martine in Salt Lake City. The stairs may not be as space-efficient but they're the safest option for young children.
A fixed ladder with basic rungs that are attached to the side of the bunk is usually the safest option. The ladders that are angled, which can be easier to climb than straight ones, might be more suitable for older kids and teens. Make sure you test the bunk using blue painter's tape to determine how close it is to any fixed elements, such as doors or windows, and that there's enough room to move around.
A built-in ladder that is positioned beneath the mattress on the top and bottom levels or attaches to the bunk below is another good alternative. These are typically the safest and most spacious, though they can take longer to set up than an independent ladder. Dr. Moriarty recommends looking for stairs that have broad, solid rails and a low, circular step. He also suggests that bunk beds are anchored by wood slats instead of wires or boards that are thin to avoid accidents.
Find an option with a bunk bed and a removable trundle. This will allow you to have a twin bed in your room for sleepovers or guests without taking up more space. (Be aware that a trundle can only be able to fit if the bunk below is twin and 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 regular twin. Fenton describes it as the "heaviest" choice on our list. It's "built to last." The sleek design is stylish and doesn't feel too babyish for teenagers and the beds can be separated later if children decide that they don't require bunk beds no longer.
Flexibility
There are a variety of options when it comes to designing bunk beds. You can easily add style and the practicality of the beds, no matter if you're designing a children room, a main bedroom, or even a guest space. Bunk beds can be an ideal focal point for rooms, create an imaginative playspace or function as a useful storage solution. Depending on the overall aesthetic you're after your bunk beds can be a standout piece that can be a part of your entire design scheme.
Many of today's bunk beds come with a variety of styles, materials, finishes and colors that can be matched to any design. In fact, many bunks are available in designs ranging from bohemian to oceanic and even sombre. Choose a color scheme or fabric, and then combine it with curtains, pillows and artwork to give your children's bedroom a bunk-bed look that suits their personality.
The ladder of a bunk bed can have a significant impact on the appearance of the room. The majority of bunks that are available off the shelf come with a fixed ladder but some can be ordered with the ladder set on either side of the shorter end of the bed. Bunks that have the ladder positioned on the short end leave the lower bunk unopened, which is ideal for adults and can give the room a minimalist design.
You could consider a bunk bed with the shape that isn't typical, like an L-shaped one. Gil notes that these bunks are ideal for rooms with low ceilings as they make use of less space. They can also be outfitted with a desk beneath and can be an ideal option for children who prefer to study in the bed.
You can also opt for a bunk that is custom-built with stairs built into the frame. These bunks are commonly used in hotels and are the most "grown-up option. Room & Board offers a range of colors and durable bunk beds.
There are also convertible bunks, which can be transformed from twin-overtwins to a full-size bed, or reverse. These are an excellent alternative for older children who don't want to share their bedroom or parents with guests.
Stores
Depending 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 on either side of the beds. These options are particularly useful in small rooms as they maximize the unused space and do not make the bunks appear overcrowded or cramped.
Some manufacturers offer built-in storage inside the bed, like this Oeuf Perch loft that has two spacious storage compartments both on the upper level. These designs are perfect for siblings sharing a room because each child can keep their personal belongings close to hand, and also help avoid the dreaded piles of shared belongings.
Other innovative bunk bed designs, in addition to shelves and drawers, are the use of storage in headboards. Baskets or bins placed at the end of headboards make it easy to access books, making reading before bedtime more enjoyable. This option also works well in shared bedrooms, as children can keep their favorite titles organized and readily accessible.
Another option is to incorporate an integrated ladder into the bunks. This solution eliminates the need for an extra furniture piece and gives an elegant look. However, it's important to keep in mind that angled ladders are more challenging for younger children to climb, and this kind of bunk is usually reserved for older kids or teens.
Bunk beds can be used in almost any type of space including attics and bonus rooms that are typically awkwardly designed. A custom-built bunk bed may be the best choice for these rooms. If you're planning to build a bunk from scratch, consider the height of the ceiling and the height above it. A higher ceiling allows for a larger bunk but a lower ceiling will limit the dimensions of the bunk.
While the best bunk for children's needs will be contingent on his or her age, a bunk can also be a great choice for adults who want to save space and add a touch of class to their guest bedroom. The stylish bunk from Max & Lily is available in several finishes and separates into a twin-sized bed and a full-size bed, which means it's an alternative to standard furniture for bedrooms.