How to Choose the Best Bunk Bed Design
Bunk beds are a space-saving, comfortable solution for sleeping in children's rooms. They can also be an ideal option for guest bedrooms and vacation homes, where ceilings are high, but there is a limited amount of floor space.
The addition of the right details transforms bunk beds into stylish sleeping areas. The bunks in this ocean themed bedroom were handpainted with Porter's Paints 'Mariner', which was a perfect match for the room's color scheme.
Space-Saving
Bunk beds are perfect to accommodate families of all sizes, or two children in the same space. They reduce space by stacking bed frames on over another. This arrangement allows for more floor space to be used for furniture or play. It is a great solution for small spaces or lofted spaces that require more sleeping arrangements. Bunk beds come in a variety of styles, from sleek modern metal to timeless wood designs. A majority of bunk beds come with an incorporated stairway that can be used to reduce the footprint. A curved ladder is a fun alternative for those who have smaller bedrooms, and an integrated set of steep stairs is ideal for homes with limited storage.
Bunk beds are a great way to add style and color to a space. Bunk beds look stunning in neutral colors like navy and light grey. The neutral color scheme can also be dressed up by incorporating themed decor for some extra style, like an adventure-themed bunk room that evokes the forest hideout or a romantic cloud-themed room. If best low bunk beds looking to add some colour, pick brighter colors for the top bunk, and lighter colors for bottom bunks.
If you are building a bunk-room from scratch, you should be aware of the impact of the layout on your 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 and any fixed elements like windows, closets, or doors. This will help you determine the size of the frame as well as how close it will be to other furniture.
Once you've picked the design of your bunk that you like, think about adding additional functional features. Ms. Keenan, for example often puts the reading lamp that has a switch on each bunk. It's a great way to allow each kid to read quietly without disturbing the person who is above them. She also has a small shelf on each bunk where kids can place glasses or books.
Comfortable Climbing
Even the most adventurous kids aren't likely to sleep on top if climbing up and down is 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. They might not be as efficient in space but they're the safest option for children.
A fixed ladder that has simple rungs that are attached to the side of the bunk is generally the most secure option. For older children and teens inclined ladders might be more comfortable to climb. Be sure to test out the bunk with blue painter's tape to determine how close it is to any fixed features such as doors or windows and also to ensure there's enough clearance for walking around.
A built-in ladder that is positioned underneath the mattress on the top and bottom levels or attaches to the bunk below is a great option. These are typically the safest and most spacious, though they can require more time to set up than a freestanding ladder. "Look for stairs with broad, solid stair rails and a low, rounded step," advises child safety expert Dr. Moriarty, who also recommends that bunk beds be supported by wood slats rather than wire or thin boards to avoid accidents.
Find a bunk bed with a removable trundle. This will allow you to have an extra twin bed in your bedroom for guests or sleepovers without taking up more space. (Be aware that a trundle is only going to be able to fit if the bunk below is twin and not a full.)
A favourite of both Fenton and writer Alex Morris, the Oeuf Perch bunk is a modern option that separates into a loft bed and a regular twin bed. Fenton calls this the "heaviest" choice on our list. It's "built to last." The sleek design is chic and doesn't feel babyish. It's also not too babyish for teenagers. And the beds can be removed at any time if they decide that they don't need a bunk bed.
Flexibility
When you think about bunk design, the possibilities are endless. Whether you're designing a kids room, a primary bedroom or guest room, you can easily design these beds with style without sacrificing functionality. Bunk beds are an excellent option to create a focal point, a play space, or a storage solution. Depending on the overall look you're after, your bunk beds can also be a statement piece that blends into the overall design plan.
Bunk beds come in a range of designs, 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 of bunk beds that suits their personalities select the right color or theme and match it with accessories like pillows, curtains and artwork.
The ladder on a bunk bed can be a significant factor in the way the room appears. The majority of bunks that are available off the shelf have a fixed ladder, but some can be ordered with the ladder placed on either side of the shorter end of the bed. Bunks with the ladder on the short end can leave the lower bunk open, making it ideal for adults. It also gives the room an elegant look.
Another option is to consider an alternative shape for your bunks, like an L-shaped model. These bunks take up less area and are perfect for rooms with low ceilings, notes Gil. They can also be fitted with a desk beneath, which can make them an ideal option for children who prefer to study in bed.
You can also select an individual built bunk with stairs built right into the frame. These types of bunks are commonly employed in hotels and are considered to be the most "grown-up" option on the market. Room & Board offers a range of colors and sturdy bunk beds.
If you're looking for a temporary option, you can also consider convertible bunks that can be converted from twin-over-twin to full-size beds, and reverse. They can be a great choice for older siblings who do not wish to share their rooms or parents who have to accommodate guests.
Stores

Bunk beds can offer ample space for clothing and bedding, depending on their design. Choose designs that have shelves or drawers built into the structure, or separate units that are placed on either side of the bed. These kinds of options are especially beneficial in smaller rooms since they make the most of space and don't make the bunks feel overcrowded or cramped.
Some manufacturers have built-in storage within the bed, such as this Oeuf Perch loft that has two large storage compartments on both on the upper level. These designs are perfect for siblings who share a bedroom, as they allow each child to keep their personal items in close proximity, while avoiding the often-dreaded "piles" of shared belongings.
Other innovative bunk bed designs, in addition to drawers and shelves, include the use of storage in headboards. Baskets or bins placed at the ends of headboards make it easy to reach books, making reading before bed more enjoyable. This is also a great option in shared bedrooms, as children can keep their favorite books organized and easily accessible.
A ladder can be incorporated into the bunks. This eliminates the need for an additional piece of furniture, and gives it a more sleek appearance. It's important to note that angled ladders can be difficult for children of a younger age to climb. This kind of bunk bed is usually reserved for teenagers or older children.
Bunk beds are a great option for any space, even attics and bonus rooms with unusual shapes. A custom-built bunk bed configuration may be the best choice for these spaces. If you are planning to build a bunk from the ground up consider the height of the ceiling as well as the height of the ceiling that will be above. A higher ceiling will permit a loftier bunk, whereas a lower ceiling will limit the dimensions of the bunk below it.
The ideal bunk bed for a child will depend on their age. However the bunk bed could be a great option for adults who want to make space and add charm to a guest bedroom. This chic Max & Lily bunk is available in a variety of finishes and can be separated into a twin bed or a full bed. It's a great alternative to standard bedroom furnishings.