How to Choose the Best Bunk Bed Design
Bunk beds are an efficient and comfortable solution for sleeping in rooms for children. They are also an excellent option for guest bedrooms and holiday homes, where ceilings are high, but the floor space is small.
The right combination of features transforms bunk beds into stylish sleeping areas. For example the bunks in this ocean-themed bedroom are painted with Porter's Paints 'Mariner' to complement the room's palette.
Space-Saving
Bunk beds are great for accommodating an entire family or two kids in the same space. They save space by stacking bed frames on over another. This configuration frees up the floor space for play and other furniture, making it an ideal solution for cramped rooms or lofted spaces that require more sleeping arrangements. Bunk beds come in a variety of designs, from sleek contemporary metal to classic wood designs. They also come with an inbuilt staircase that reduces the footprint of the structure. A curving staircase is an excellent alternative for those with an enviable bedroom. An integrated set of steep steps is perfect for homes with a limited space in storage space.
Bunk beds can be a part of the overall aesthetic of a room, if you choose the right color scheme and style. Bunk beds look stunning in neutral colors like navy and light grey. The neutral color scheme can also be dressed up with themed decor to add a little extra design, such as an adventure-themed bunk space that reminds you of a woodland hideout or a heavenly cloud-themed space. If you're seeking to add a bit of color, opt for brighter hues for the top bunk and more neutral colors for bottom bunks.
If you're building a bunk area from scratch, it's important to consider the way that the layout will affect your space. Mark out the shape of your bunk beds using a blue painter's tape on the wall. Then, take a measurement of the distance between them as well as any fixed features such as windows, closets and doors. This will give you an idea of how close the bed will be to other furniture and help you choose the right size frame for your space.
Once you've picked a bunk design that you like, consider adding other functional features. Ms. Keenan, for example often puts the reading lamp with a switch in each bunk. This allows every child to read without disrupting the person in the middle. She also likes to add a small ledge on each bunk, where children can set their books or glasses.
Comfortable Climbing
The most daring children will be able to sleep high if climbing up and down it feels hard or unsafe. Interior designer Brynne Flower, the founder of John Martine Salt Lake City, says that the most important factor to consider is to ensure the bunk bed comes with a sturdy ladder attached to the side. "Stairs aren't as efficient in space however they're the best security feature for children who are younger."
The safest choice is a fixed ladder with simple rungs attached to the bed's side. The ladders that are angled, which can be more attainable than straight ones, could be more suitable for older kids and teens. Be sure to test out the bunk with blue painter's tape to see how close it is to any fixed features, such as windows or doors and also to ensure there's enough room for walking around.
Another option is an inbuilt staircase that connects to the bottom bunk, or under each mattress on the upper and lower levels. These tend to be the safest and most large, however they may take longer to set up than an independent ladder. "Look for stairs with sturdy, wide stair rails and an angled, low 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 prevent accidents.
If you are looking for a bunk that can grow with kids, look for one with a removable trundle. This lets you add an additional twin bed for sleepovers or guests without taking up more floor space in the room. (Be aware that a trundle will only be suitable if the bunk on the bottom is twin and not a full.)
Fenton and Alex Morris both love the Oeuf Perch Bunk. It is a stylish option that can be transformed into a loft and it can also be used as a twin bed. It's the most heavy option on our list, however Fenton describes it as "a tank" that's "built to last." The sleek design looks stylish and doesn't feel childish for teens and the beds can be separated later on if kids decide they don't need a bunk anymore.
Flexibility
When you think about bunk design, the possibilities are endless. You can easily add style and functionality to these beds, whether you're designing for a kid room, a main bedroom, or even a guest room. Bunk beds are a great way to create a focal point, a play space, or storage solution. Depending on the overall look you're going for, your bunk beds can also be a statement piece that can be a part of the overall design plan.
Bunk beds are available in a range of designs, finishes, colors and materials. In fact, many bunks are available in designs that range from bohemian, coastal and even sombre. Pick a theme or fabric and mix it with pillows, curtains, and artwork to give your kids' bedrooms a bunk-bed look that suits their personality.
The ladder of a bunk bed can make an important impact on the appearance of the room. The majority of bunks that are available off the shelf have a fixed ladder, but some can be ordered with the ladder set on either side of the short end of the bed. Bunks with the ladder on the short end can leave the lower bunk unlocked which makes it suitable for adults. It also creates an uncluttered look.
Another option is to think about an alternative shape for your bunks, for instance an L-shaped version. Gil notes that these bunks are perfect for rooms with low ceilings and take up less space. They can also be outfitted with a desk underneath and can be the ideal choice for children who wish to work in the bed.
If you prefer, you can choose a custom-built bunk with stairs that are built into the sides of the frame. These bunks are commonly used in hotels and are the most "grown-up' option available. They're extremely durable and offered in a variety of colors from Room & Board.
There are also convertible bunks that can be converted from twin-overtwins to a full-size bed or vice versa. These are a good alternative for older children who do not want to share their space or parents with guests.
Storage
Based on the design the bunk beds will provide plenty of storage for clothing and bedding. Look for designs with shelves or drawers that are built into the structure, or separate units that are placed on either side of the bed. These are particularly useful in smaller spaces, as they maximize unused space without making the bunks feel cramped or cluttered.
Some manufacturers offer built-in storage within the bed, like this Oeuf Perch loft that has two spacious storage compartments each on the upper level. These designs are great for siblings who share a bedroom, as they allow each child to keep their personal items in close proximity, while avoiding the common "piles" of shared belongings.
best bunk beds for teens as shelves and drawers, are incorporating storage into headboards. Baskets or bins placed at the ends of headboards make it easy to access books, making reading before bed more enjoyable. This option also works well in bedrooms that are shared, since children can keep their favorite books organized and easily accessible.
Another option is integrating an integrated ladder into the bunks. This removes the need for an extra furniture piece and gives it a sleeker look. However, it's important be aware that angled ladders may be more challenging for younger children to climb, and this type of bunk is typically reserved for older children or teenagers.
Bunk beds can be a great option for any space, even attics and bonus rooms with strange shapes. A custom-built bunk bed configuration could be the best option for these spaces. If you plan to build a bunk from scratch be aware of the height of the ceiling as well as what will be above. A higher ceiling can permit a loftier bunk, while a lower ceiling will limit the size of the lower bunk.
While the best bunk for a child's needs will depend on their age, a bunk could be a great option for adults who are looking to reduce space and add a touch of charm to a guest bedroom. This chic bunk from Max & Lily is available in several finishes and separates into a twin-sized bed as well as a full-size bed, which means it's an alternative to conventional furniture for bedrooms.