Don't Buy Into These "Trends" About Best Bunk Bed Design

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 also a great choice for guest rooms and vacation homes where ceilings are high but the floor space is constrained.

Adding the right details can transform bunk beds into stylish sleeping nooks. The bunks in this ocean themed bedroom were painted with Porter's Paints 'Mariner', which was a perfect match for the room's color scheme.

Space-Saving

They can be utilized to sleep a large family or two children in the same room, bunk beds save space by stacking one bed frame on top of another. This configuration frees up space on the floor for play and other furniture, making it an ideal solution for rooms that are cramped or lofted areas that require more sleeping arrangements. Bunk beds are available in various styles, from sleek modern 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 who have smaller bedrooms. A set of integrated steep steps is perfect for homes with a limited space in storage.

Bunk beds are an excellent way to add design and color to an space. Bunk beds look stunning in neutral shades like light grey and navy. To add some design you can spice up the neutral scheme by adding themed decor. For example, a bunk room inspired by adventure could be designed to look like a woodland hideout or even a cloud-themed room. If you're looking to add some pops of color, try selecting brighter colors for the top bunk, and more neutral hues for the bottom bunk.

When you are building a bunk room from scratch, you must take into consideration the impact of the layout on your room. Mark out the shape of your bunk beds using a blue painter's tape on the wall. Then measure the distance between them as well as any fixed features, such as doors, windows, and closets. This will help you determine the dimensions of the frame and how close it will be to the other furniture.

Once you've settled on a bunk design, think about adding additional functional elements. Ms. Keenan, for example often puts the reading lamp with a switch in each bunk. It's a great way to allow kids to read quietly without disturbing the person who is above them. She also likes having a small ledge on each bunk, where kids can place glasses or books.

Comfortable Climbing

Even the most adventurous kids will not sleep high up when climbing up and down feels difficult or unsafe. "The most important thing to do is make sure the bunk bed is equipped with an erect ladder that is attached to the bunk's side," says interior designer Brynne Flowers, founder of John Martine in Salt Lake City. They aren't as space-efficient, but they are the safest option for young children.

A fixed ladder with basic rungs mounted to the side of the bunk is typically the most secure option. Angled ladders, which may be more attainable than straight ones, could work better for older kids and teens. Be sure to test out the bunk with blue painter's tape to determine how close it comes to any fixed features, such as doors or windows, and that there's enough clearance to walk around.

Another great alternative is a built-in staircase that attaches to the bottom bunk or runs under each mattress on the upper and lower levels.  best low bunk beds  are the most spacious and safest, but they take longer to set up than the ladder that is able to stand on its own. Dr. Moriarty recommends looking for stairs that have solid, wide rails and a low, round step. He recommends that bunk beds be supported by wood slats instead of wires or thin boards, to prevent accidents.

If you want a bunk that can grow with kids, look for one with an adjustable trundle. This will allow you to have a second bed in your bedroom for sleepovers, guests or other occasions without taking up more space. (Be aware that a trundle can only fit if the bottom bunk is a twin, not a full.)

Fenton and Alex Morris both love the Oeuf Perch Bunk. It is a modern choice that can be made into a loft as well as it can also be used as a twin bed. It's the most heavy option on our list, however Fenton calls it "a tank" that's "built to last." The sleek design is elegant and does not feel too babyish. It's also not too childish for teenagers. The beds can be removed later if they decide that they don't need bunk beds.

Flexibility

When you think about bunk bed designs, the possibilities are endless. You can easily add style and the practicality of these beds, regardless of whether you're designing for a kid room, a primary bedroom, or a guest room. Bunk beds can create an ideal focal point for rooms and create a unique play area, or serve as a great storage solution. Depending on the overall look you're after your bunk beds can be a standout piece that can be a part of the overall design plan.

Bunk beds come in a range of styles, finishes colors and materials. In fact, many bunks are available in designs ranging from bohemian to coastal and even moody. Choose a color theme or fabric and mix it with pillows, curtains and artwork to create your kids' bedrooms an appearance that matches their personality.

The ladder on a bunk bed can make a huge difference in the appearance of the room. The majority of bunk beds have a fixed ladder. However, some beds can be ordered with the ladder on either side of the short end. Bunks that have the ladder on the short end leave the lower bunk open and is perfect for adults and gives the room a minimalist design.

Another option is to think about a non-traditional shape for your bunks, for instance an L-shaped variant. Gil says that these bunks are ideal for rooms with low-ceilings and make use of less space. They can also be fitted with a desk underneath and can be an ideal option for children who wish to work in bed.

You can also select a bunk that is custom-built with stairs built right into the frame. These bunks are commonly used in hotels and are the most "grown-up option. Room & Board offers a range of colors and sturdy bunk beds.

There are also convertible bunks that can be converted from twin-overtwin to a full-size bed, or vice versa. These are a great option for older siblings who do not want to share their room or parents who have to accommodate guests.

Stores

Bunk beds can offer plenty of space for bedding and clothing, depending on their design. Look for designs that use drawers or shelving that are built into the structure or add standalone units to either side of the bunks. These options are especially helpful in smaller spaces, as they maximize unused space without making the bunks appear tight or cluttered.

Some manufacturers offer built-in storage inside the bed, like this Oeuf Perch loft that has two large storage compartments on each on the upper level. These designs are great for siblings sharing bedrooms, since they let each child keep their personal items close by while also preventing the common "piles" of belongings shared.

Other innovative bunk bed designs as well as shelves and drawers, include the use of storage in headboards. Bins or baskets at the end of headboards make it easy to reach books, which makes reading before bed more enjoyable. This option is also great for bedrooms that are shared as it allows kids to keep their favourite books easily accessible and organized.

A ladder can be built into the bunks. This option eliminates an extra piece of furniture and gives it a more sleek appearance. 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 are a great fit in just about any type of space including bonus rooms and attics that are typically awkwardly designed. A custom-built bunk bed configuration is a good option for these spaces. If you plan to build a bunk from scratch be aware of the ceiling's height as well as what will be above. A higher ceiling allows for a larger bunk but a lower ceiling will restrict the dimensions of the bunk.

While  best metal bunk beds  for children's needs will be contingent on their age, a bunk could also be a good option for adults looking to reduce space and add a bit of style to a guest bedroom. This stylish Max & Lily bunk is available in various designs and can be divided into a twin bed or a full bed. It's a great alternative to standard bedroom furniture.