How to Choose the Best Bunk Bed Design
Bunk beds offer a comfy and space-efficient solution to sleep in kids' rooms. They are also a great option for guest bedrooms or holiday homes, where ceilings are high, but floor space is limited.
best bunk beds for teens of features transforms bunk beds into stylish sleeping areas. 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
They can be used to sleep a large family or two kids in the same room bunk beds are able to make space by stacking one bed frame on top of another. This arrangement allows for more floor space to be used for furniture and play. It is a great solution for smaller rooms or lofted areas that require more sleeping arrangements. Bunk beds come in a variety of styles. From modern, sleek metal designs to timeless wooden designs. They also come with an integrated staircase that reduces the footprint of the structure. A spiral staircase is a fantastic alternative for those who have smaller bedrooms. A set of stairs that are steep is ideal for homes that are limited in storage space.
Bunk beds can enhance a room's aesthetic, too when you select the right color palette and style. Neutral colors such as navy and light grey are stylish options for bunk beds. To add some flair you can spice up the neutral scheme by adding themed decor. For instance an area inspired by adventure could be decorated to resemble a forest hideout or a cloud-themed space. If you want to add a few colors, consider selecting brighter colors for the top bunk and softer hues for the bottom bunk.
When building a bunk room from scratch, you should carefully consider the impact of the layout on your room. 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 features like windows, closets, or doors. This will give you an idea of how close the bed will be to the other furniture and will help you choose the best size frame for your space.
Once you've decided on a bunk design consider adding other elements that are functional. For example, Ms. Keenan often builds a reading light with a switch on each bunk. It's a great way to allow every child to read in peace without disturbing the person above them. She also has a small shelf on each bunk where kids can place glasses or books.
Comfortable Climbing
Even the most adventurous children will not sleep high up if climbing up and down is difficult or unsafe. Interior designer Brynne Flower, who is the founder of John Martine Salt Lake City, states that the most crucial thing to do is to make sure that the bunk bed is equipped with a sturdy ladder attached to the side. They may not be as space-efficient but they're the most secure option for children who are young.
The best option is a fixed ladder with simple rungs attached to the side of the bed. For older children and teens, angled ladders may be easier to climb. Be sure to test out the bunk with blue painter's tape to see how close it comes to any fixed elements like doors or windows and ensure that there's enough clearance to walk around.
Another option is a built-in staircase that is attached to the bottom bunk or under each mattress on the upper and lower levels. These are typically the safest and most large, however they may require more time to set up than an independent ladder. "Look for stairs that have broad, solid railings for stairways and an angled, low 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 prevent accidents.
Look for a bunk bed that has an adjustable trundle. This will allow you to have a second bed in your bedroom for sleepovers, guests or other occasions without occupying any more space. (Be aware that a trundle can only be able to fit if the bunk below is an individual twin, not a full.)
A popular choice for both Fenton and writer Alex Morris, the Oeuf Perch bunk is a contemporary option that is divided into an loft bed and a standard twin bed. It's the heaviest pick on our list, but Fenton describes it as "a tank" that's "built to last." The sleek design looks stylish and doesn't seem too childish for teens, and the beds can be separated if kids decide they don't want bunk beds for themselves anymore.
Flexibility
There are many options when it comes to creating bunk beds. You can easily add style and the practicality of the beds, no matter if you're designing for a kid room, a primary bedroom, or even a guest space. Bunk beds are a great way to create an area of focus, a play area, or even a storage solution. Depending on the overall aesthetic you're looking for the bunk beds could also be a statement piece that blends into your overall design.
Bunk beds come in a range of styles, finishes, colors and materials. In fact, many bunks come in styles that range from bohemian to the beach 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 the personality of your child.
The ladder on a bunk bed can be a significant factor in how the room looks. Most off-the-shelf bunks come with a fixed ladder however, some are available with the ladder set on either side of the short end of the bed. Bunks with the ladder positioned on the short end leave the lower bunk completely open, which is ideal for adults and can give the room a minimalist appearance.
Another option is to consider a different shape for your bunks, such as an L-shaped version. They take up less floor space and are ideal for rooms with low ceilings, explains Gil. These bunks can be fitted with a small desk underneath. best bunk beds for low ceilings is a great solution for children who want to study in the bed.
Alternatively, you can build a bunk with stairs built into the sides of the frame. These types of bunks are commonly used in hotels and are considered to be the most "grown-up" option available on the market. They're extremely sturdy and are available 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 option for older siblings who do not want to share their space or parents who host guests.
Storage
Bunk beds can provide plenty of space for bedding and clothing according to their design. Look for designs with shelves or drawers built into the structure, or standalone units that sit on either side of the beds. These options are especially helpful in smaller spaces, as they maximize space without making the bunks appear tight or cluttered.
Some manufacturers integrate storage into 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 siblings sharing bedrooms, since they let each child keep their personal items in close proximity, while avoiding the common "piles" of shared belongings.
Other innovative bunk bed designs In addition to drawers and shelves, include adding storage to headboards. Baskets or bins placed at the end of the headboards allow you to reach books, making reading before bedtime more enjoyable. This method is also useful in bedrooms that are shared, since kids can keep their favorite books in order and easily accessible.
Another option is integrating an integrated ladder into the bunks. This option removes the need for a separate furniture piece and gives it a more sleek appearance. However, it's important be aware that angled ladders can be more difficult for children younger than to climb, which is why this kind of bunk is typically reserved for older kids or teenagers.
Bunk beds can be a great option for any space, including attics and bonus rooms that have unusual shapes. In these rooms, a custom-built configuration might be the best choice to create a functional and stylish bunk room. If you're considering building the bunk from scratch, consider the height of the ceiling and the space above it. A higher ceiling will allow for a taller bunk, while a lower ceiling will restrict the size of the lower bunk.
The ideal bunk bed for a child is contingent on the age of the child. However, a bunk bed can also be an excellent choice for adults looking to reduce space and add a touch of elegance to a guest room. This chic bunk from Max & Lily is available in a variety of finishes. It can be divided into a twin-sized bed as well as a full-size bed, so it's a versatile alternative to conventional bedroom furniture.