How to Choose the Best Bunk Bed Design
Bunk beds are a space-saving, comfortable sleeping solution for rooms for children. They are also an excellent option for guest bedrooms and vacation homes in which ceilings are high and floor space is limited.
Adding the right details can transform bunk beds into chic sleeping spaces. For example, the bunks in this bedroom with an ocean theme are painted by hand using Porter's Paints 'Mariner' to complement the color scheme of the room.
Space-Saving
If they're utilized to sleep a large family or a couple of children in the same space bunk beds can save space by stacking one bed frame on top of another. This configuration frees up floor space for play areas and furniture which makes it a perfect solution for rooms that are cramped or lofted areas that need more sleeping arrangements. Bunk beds are available in a wide range of styles. From modern, sleek metal designs to timeless wooden designs. Many also feature an integrated staircase that reduces the footprint of the structure. A curving staircase is an excellent alternative for those with a small bedroom. An integrated set of steep steps is perfect for homes that are confined in storage space.
Bunk beds can enhance the aesthetic of a room, too, if you choose the right color scheme and design. Neutral colors like navy and light grey are stylish options for bunk beds. The neutral hues can be dressed up by incorporating themed decor for a little extra flair, such as an adventure-inspired bunk room that reminds you of an escape to the woods or a heavenly cloud-themed space. If you're looking to add some color, choose brighter colors for the top bunk and softer shades for the bottom bunk.
When building a bunk room from scratch, you must be aware of the impact of the layout on your room. Use blue painter's tape to mark out the silhouette of your bunk beds on the wall and then take measurements of the distance between the beds as well as any fixed elements like windows, closets, or doors. This will help you decide the dimensions of the frame and how close it will be to other furniture.
After you've chosen a bunk design that you like, consider adding additional functional features. Ms. Keenan, for example is a frequent user of a reading lamp that has a switch on every bunk. It's a great way for kids to read quietly without disturbing the person above them. She also likes having small ledges on each bunk, where kids can set books or glasses.
Comfortable Climbing
Even the most adventurous children will not sleep high up when climbing up and down feels a challenge or unsafe. Interior designer Brynne Flower, founder of John Martine Salt Lake City, says the most important thing to do is make sure the bunk bed comes with a sturdy ladder tacked to the side. "Stairs aren't as spacious but they are the best safety feature for children who are younger."
A fixed ladder with basic rungs mounted to the side of the bunk is typically the most secure option. Angled ladders, which can be easier to climb than straight ones, may work better for older kids and teens. Test the bunk using blue painter’s tape. Check to see if there is best l shaped bunk beds to walk around.
Another great 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 most spacious and safest, however they take longer to construct than the ladder that is able to stand on its own. "Look for stairs with wide, solid railings for stairways and an angled, low step," advises child safety expert Dr. Moriarty, who also suggests bunk beds be supported by wood slats rather than wire or thin boards to prevent accidents.
Look for a bunk bed with a removable trundle. This lets you add an additional twin bed for sleepovers or guests without taking up more space in the room. Trundles can only be used when the bunk at the bottom of your room is a twin.
A favorite of both Fenton and writer Alex Morris, the Oeuf Perch bunk is a stylish option that is divided into a loft bed and a regular twin bed. It's the largest option on our list, but Fenton describes it as "a tank" that's "built to last." The sleek design is elegant and doesn't feel babyish. It's also not too babyish for teens. The beds can be removed later if they decide they don't need a bunk bed.
Flexibility
When you think about bunk design, the possibilities are endless. You can easily add style and functionality to the beds, no matter if you're designing for a kid room, a primary bedroom, or a guest space. Bunk beds can create an ideal focal point for rooms and create a unique play area or function as a useful storage solution. Your bunk beds can be a striking feature, based on the overall style of your room.
A lot of bunk beds today provide a variety of designs as well as finishes, materials and colors that will suit any design. A variety of bunk beds are available in a variety of styles, from bohemian and coastal to moody. Pick a theme or fabric and mix it with curtains, pillows and artwork to create your kids' bedroom a bunk-bed look that suits their personality.
The ladder on a bunk bed can make a big difference in how the room looks. Most off-the-shelf bunks come with a fixed ladder, but there are some that can be purchased with the ladder placed on either side of the short end of the bed. Bunks with the ladder positioned on the short end leave the lower bunk unopened which is great for adults and can provide the room a minimalist appearance.
Another option is to think about an alternative shape for your bunks, for instance an L-shaped variant. These bunks take up less area and are perfect for rooms with low ceilings, explains Gil. They can also be outfitted with a desk underneath and can be the ideal choice for children who wish to work in bed.
You can also select an individual built bunk with stairs built into the frame. These bunks are commonly used in hotels and are the most "grown-up' option available. Room & Board offers a variety of colors and incredibly durable bunk beds.
If you're looking for a more temporary alternative, there are convertible bunks that can be converted from twin-over-twin to full-size beds, and reverse. These can be a good option for older children who don't wish to share their rooms or parents who need to accommodate guests.
Storage
Based on the design, bunk beds can offer plenty of storage space for clothes and bedding. Choose designs that incorporate drawers or shelving built into the structure or add standalone units on either side of the bunks. These are particularly useful in smaller rooms, since they maximize space without making the bunks feel unorganized or cramped.
Some manufacturers have built-in storage in the bed, such as this Oeuf Perch loft that has two large storage compartments on each side of the upper level. These designs are great for families with siblings sharing a room because each child can keep personal items close to hand, and also help avoid the dreaded piles of shared belongings.
Other innovative bunk bed designs, in addition to shelves and drawers, include adding storage to headboards. The addition of baskets or bins to the edges of the headboards keeps books within easy reach making reading at bedtime much easier and more enjoyable. This is also a great option in bedrooms that are shared, since children can keep their favourite books in order and easily accessible.
A ladder can be built into the bunks. This option eliminates the need for an additional furniture piece and gives a sleeker look. It is important to keep in mind 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 can work in just about any type of space including bonus rooms and attics that are often awkwardly shaped. In these situations an individual-designed configuration could be the best choice for creating a functional and stylish bunk room. If you are planning to build a bunk from scratch consider the height of the ceiling as well as the height of the ceiling that will be above. A higher ceiling can allow for a taller bunk, while a shorter ceiling will limit the dimensions of the bunk below it.
The ideal bunk bed for a child is contingent on the age of the child. However the bunk bed could be a great option for adults looking to save some space and add some style to a guest room. This elegant Max & Lily bunk is available in various designs and can be divided into a twin bed or a full bed. It's an excellent alternative to standard bedroom furnishings.