How to Choose the Best Bunk Bed Design
Bunk beds are a comfortable and space-efficient way to sleep in children's rooms. They're ideal for guest rooms or vacation homes where the ceilings are high, but the floor space is constrained.
The right combination of details transforms bunk beds into fashionable sleeping spaces. For example, the bunks in this bedroom with an ocean theme are painted with Porter's Paints 'Mariner' to complement the room's palette.
Space-Saving
Whether they're used to accommodate a large family or a couple of kids in the same room, bunk beds are a great way to save space by stacking a bed frame on top of another. This arrangement allows for more floor space that can be used for furniture or play. It is an ideal solution for small rooms or lofted areas that require more sleeping arrangements. Bunk beds can be found in a variety of styles. From sleek, modern metal designs to classic wooden designs. A majority of bunk beds come with an integrated stairwell that minimizes the footprint. A curving staircase is an excellent alternative for those who have a small bedroom. An integrated set of steep steps is perfect for homes that are limited in storage.
Bunk beds are an excellent way to add design and color to an space. Bunk beds look fantastic in neutral colors like light grey and navy. If you want to add a bit of flair, you can dress up the neutral colour scheme with themed decor. For example a bunk room that is inspired by adventure could be designed to resemble a forest hideout or a space inspired by clouds. If you're looking to add some color, choose brighter hues for the top bunk, and lighter colors for bottom bunk.
When you are building a bunk room from scratch, it is important to take into consideration the impact of the layout of your room. Mark out the shape of your bunk beds with blue painter's tap on the wall. Then measure the distance between them as well as any fixed features like windows, closets and doors. This will help you decide 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. For instance Ms. Keenan often builds a reading light that has a switch inside each bunk. It's a great way for each kid to read quietly without disturbing the person in front of them. She also includes a small shelf on each bunk where kids can put their glasses or books.
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 to do is make sure the bunk bed is equipped with an adequate ladder that's connected to the side of the bunk," says interior designer Brynne Flowers, who is the founder of John Martine in Salt Lake City. They aren't as space-efficient, 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 teens and older children the ladders with angled angles may be more comfortable to climb. Be sure to test out the bunk with blue painter's adhesive to see how close it comes to any fixed elements such as doors or windows and also to ensure there's enough room for walking around.
A built-in ladder that runs beneath the mattress of the upper and lower levels or connects to the bunk below is another great option. These are the biggest and safest, however they take longer to put up than the ladder that is able to stand on its own. Dr. Moriarty recommends looking for stairs that have wide, solid rails, and a low, circular step. He also suggests that bunk beds are anchored by wood slats rather than wires or thin boards, to prevent accidents.
Look for a bunk bed with a removable trundle. This will allow you to have a second bed in your bedroom for sleepovers or guests without occupying any more space. (Be aware that a trundle will only be able to fit if the bunk below is an individual twin, 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 standard twin. Fenton calls this the "heaviest" choice on our list. best bunk beds for teenager built to last." The sleek design looks elegant and doesn't feel childish for teens The beds can be separated later on if kids decide they don't need bunk beds no longer.
Flexibility
There are a variety of possibilities when it comes to designing bunk beds. You can easily add style without sacrificing the practicality of these beds, whether you're designing a children' room, a primary bedroom, or even a guest room. Bunk beds are a great option to create an area of focus, a play space, or storage solution. Based on the overall style you're going for your bunk beds can be a standout piece that will tie in with your overall design.
Bunk beds come in a variety of styles, finishes, colors, and materials. There are many bunk beds available in various styles, from bohemian and coastal to sombre. To give your children's bedroom a bunk bed look that matches their personalities pick a color or fabric theme and then add accessories such as curtains, pillows and artwork.
The ladder on a bunk bed could make a huge difference in the appearance of the room. Most off-the-shelf bunks have a fixed ladder, however, some are available 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 open and is perfect for adults and can give the room a minimalist look.
Another option is to think about a non-traditional shape for your bunks, for instance an L-shaped variant. Gil says that these bunks work best for rooms with low ceilings as they require less space. They can be fitted with a desk that is small underneath. This is a great option for kids who prefer to study in the bed.
You can also select an individual built bunk with stairs built into the frame. These types of bunks are often employed in hotels and are considered to be the most "grown-up" option available on the market. They're incredibly sturdy and are offered in a variety of colors from Room & Board.

There are also convertible bunks, which can be transformed from twin-overtwins to a full-size bed, or vice versa. These are a great option for older siblings who do not wish to share their rooms or parents who need to accommodate guests.
Storage
Depending on the design depending on the design, bunk beds can provide plenty of storage space for clothes and bedding. Choose designs that incorporate shelves or drawers that are built into the structure or even standalone units either side of the bunks. These types of furniture are particularly helpful in small rooms, as they can maximize space without making the bunks appear cramped or cluttered.
Some manufacturers incorporate built-in storage within 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 ideal for rooms with multiple siblings, as each kid can keep their personal items at hand while also preventing the dreaded piles of shared belongings.
Other innovative bunk bed designs In addition to shelves and drawers, are incorporating storage into headboards. Adding bins or baskets to the ends of the headboards keeps books easily accessible, which makes reading at bedtime much easier and more enjoyable. This option is also great for bedrooms with shared spaces as it allows kids to keep their most loved books easily accessible and organized.
A ladder can be built into the bunks. This option removes the need for a separate furniture piece and creates a sleeker look. However, best bunk beds for teenagers be aware that angled ladders can be more challenging for younger children to climb, which is why this type of bunk is usually reserved for older children or teenagers.
Bunk beds can be used in just about any type of space, including bonus rooms and attics that are often awkwardly shaped. In these spaces an individual-designed configuration could be the best choice for creating a functional and stylish bunk room. If you plan to build a bunk from scratch, take into consideration the ceiling's height as well as the height of the ceiling that will be above. A higher ceiling can allow for a taller bunk, while a lower ceiling will limit the dimensions of the bunk below it.
While the best bunk for the needs of a child will depend on the child's age, a bunk could be a great option for adults who want to make space and add a touch of style to a guest bedroom. This chic bunk from Max & Lily is available in a variety of finishes and can be separated into a twin-sized bed and a full-size bed, which means it can serve as an alternative to conventional furniture for bedrooms.