How to Choose the Best Bunk Bed Design
Bunk beds are a comfortable and space-efficient way to sleep in kids' rooms. They can also be a great option for guest bedrooms or vacation homes in which ceilings are high and the floor space is small.
Addition of the right details transforms bunk beds into fashionable sleeping spaces. For example the bunks in this bedroom with an ocean theme are handpainted with Porter's Paints 'Mariner' to complement the room's palette.
Space-Saving
Bunk beds are great to accommodate families of all sizes, or two children in the same space. They can save space by stacking bed frames on top of another. This arrangement gives more floor space to be used for furniture or play. It is an ideal solution for small spaces or lofted spaces that need more sleeping arrangements. Bunk beds are available in a variety of styles. From modern, sleek metal designs to classic wooden designs. Many bunk beds have an integrated stairwell that minimizes the footprint. A curved ladder is a fun alternative for those with smaller bedrooms, and an integrated set of steep stairs is ideal for homes with a limited storage space.
Bunk beds can add to the aesthetic of a room, too when you select the right color palette and design. Bunk beds look fantastic in neutral hues like light grey and navy. The neutral color scheme can be dressed up with themed decor to add an extra touch of flair, such as an adventure-themed bunk space that reminds you of the forest hideout or a dreamy cloud-themed space. If you want to add some colors, consider choosing brighter shades for the top bunk, and more neutral hues for the bottom bunk.
When you are building a bunk room from scratch, you should be aware of the impact of the layout of the space. Mark out the shape of your bunk beds using a blue painter's taps on the wall. Then measure the distance between them and any fixed features like doors, windows, or closets. This will help you determine the size of the frame and how close it will be to other furniture.
After you've chosen the design of your bunk that you like, think about adding additional functional features. For instance, Ms. Keenan often builds a reading light with a switch on each bunk. This allows every child to read quietly, without disturbing the person on top. She also likes to include an extra ledge on each bunk, where kids can set books or glasses.
Comfortable Climbing
Even the most adventurous kids won't sleep in a high-rise when climbing up and down feels a challenge or unsafe. "The most important thing to do is ensure that the bunk bed is equipped with a sturdy ladder that's attached to the side of the bunk," says interior designer Brynne Flowers, who is the founder of John Martine in Salt Lake City. They might not be as efficient in space but they are the safest option for children.
The safest choice is a fixed ladder that has simple rungs attached to the side of the bed. For older children and teens inclined ladders might be more comfortable to climb. Be sure to test the bunk using blue painter's tape to see how close it is to any fixed features such as doors or windows and also to ensure there's enough space for walking around.
A built-in ladder that runs under the mattress on the top and bottom levels or connects to the bunk below is a excellent alternative. These are typically the most secure and spacious, though they can require more setup time than a freestanding ladder. "Look for stairs with broad, solid railings for stairways and a low, rounded step," advises child safety expert Dr. Moriarty, who also suggests 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 that has an adjustable trundle. This allows you to have a second bed in your bedroom for guests or sleepovers without taking up any more space. (Be aware that a trundle is only going to fit if the bottom bunk is an individual twin, not a full.)
Fenton and Alex Morris both love the Oeuf Perch Bunk. It is a modern choice that can be transformed into a loft or a twin bed. best bunk beds with storage 's the most heavy option on our list, however Fenton describes it as "a tank" that's "built to last." The sleek design looks elegant and doesn't seem too childish for teen years, and the beds can be separated later if children decide that they don't require a bunk for themselves anymore.
Flexibility
There are a variety of options when it comes to making bunk beds. When you're planning a kids room, primary bedroom or guest space, you can easily make these beds look stylish without sacrificing function. Bunk beds are an excellent way to create an area of focus, a play space, or a storage solution. Your bunk beds can be a statement feature, based on the overall aesthetic of your room.
Bunk beds come in a range of styles, finishes colors, and materials. In fact, many bunks are available in designs that range from bohemian, the beach and even moody. Choose a color theme or fabric, and then combine it with curtains, pillows, and artwork to give your kids' bedroom a bunk-bed look that suits their individual style.
The ladder on a bunk bed could be a significant factor in the appearance of the room. Most bunk beds come with a fixed ladder. However, some beds can be ordered to have the ladder either side of the short end. Bunks with a ladder on the shorter end leave the lower bunk completely open and is perfect for adults and can provide the room a minimalist look.
Consider a bunk bed in a shape that is not conventional, like an L-shaped one. Gil says that these bunks work best for rooms with low ceilings as they make use of less space. They can also be fitted with a desk beneath and can be the ideal choice for children who wish to work in their beds.
You can also choose a custom-built bunk with stairs built into the sides of the frame. These bunks are often used in hotels and are the most "grown-up option. They're incredibly sturdy and are available in a variety of colors from Room & Board.
There are also convertible bunks, that can be converted from twin-overtwin to a full-size bed or reverse. These are an excellent alternative for older children who don't want their room shared or parents who have guests.
Storage
Based on the design depending on the design, bunk beds can provide plenty of storage for clothing and bedding. Consider designs with shelves or drawers built into the structure or standalone units that sit on either side of the beds. These options are especially helpful in smaller spaces, as they can maximize space without making the bunks feel tight or cluttered.
Some manufacturers integrate storage into the bed itself like this Oeuf Perch bunk that offers two storage spaces that are spacious on either side of the upper loft. These designs are great for siblings who share bedrooms, since they let each child keep their personal items in close proximity, while avoiding the dreaded "piles" of shared belongings.
Other clever bunk bed ideas, in addition to shelves and drawers, include incorporating storage into headboards. Baskets or bins placed at the end of headboards make it easier to reach books, which makes reading before bedtime more enjoyable. This method is also useful in bedrooms that are shared, since kids can keep their favorite books organized and easily accessible.
A ladder can be built into the bunks. This removes the need for an additional furniture piece and creates a sleeker look. It's important to note that angled ladders are difficult for young children to climb. This kind of bunk bed is typically reserved for teenagers or older children.
Bunk beds can be a great option for any space, including attics and bonus rooms that have strange shapes. In these rooms, a custom-built configuration might be the best option to create a practical and attractive bunk room. If you're planning on building a bunk from scratch consider the height of the ceiling and what will be above it. A higher ceiling will allow for a higher-quality bunk, while a lower ceiling will restrict the size of the bunk below it.
The best bunk bed for a child will be contingent on the age of the child. However it can also be an excellent choice for adults who want to save some space and add a touch of elegance to a guest room. This chic bunk from Max & Lily is available in several finishes and separates into a twin-size bed and a full-size bed, so it's a versatile alternative to traditional furniture for bedrooms.