A Rewind What People Talked About Best Bunk Bed Design 20 Years Ago

How to Choose the Best Bunk Bed Design

Bunk beds are a space-saving, comfortable option for sleeping in children's bedrooms. They can also be a great option for guest bedrooms and vacation homes in which ceilings are high and there is a limited amount of floor space.

Addition of the right features transforms bunk beds into elegant sleeping spaces. For instance the bunks in this ocean-themed bedroom are handpainted with Porter's Paints 'Mariner' to complement the room's palette.

Space-Saving

Bunk beds are ideal for accommodating an entire family or two children in the same space. They reduce space by stacking a bed frame top another. This configuration allows for more floor space to be used for furniture and play. It's a great solution for small spaces or lofted spaces that require more sleeping arrangements. Bunk beds are available in different designs, from sleek contemporary metal to classic wood designs. Some also have an integrated staircase that reduces the footprint of the structure. A spiral staircase is a good alternative for those who have small bedrooms, while an integrated set of steep staircases is great for homes with limited storage space.

Bunk beds can be a part of the aesthetic of a room, too when you pick the right color scheme and design. Neutral colors such as navy and light grey are a stylish option for bunk beds. The neutral hues can be dressed up with themed decor to add some extra style, like an adventure-themed bunk space that evokes the forest hideout or a dreamy cloud-themed space. If you're looking to add some pops of color, try selecting brighter colors for the top bunk and lighter shades for the bottom bunk.

If you're building a bunk area from scratch, you need to consider the way that the layout will affect your space. 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 features such as windows, closets, and doors. This will give you an idea of how close the bed will be to the other furniture and will help you select the best size frame for your space.

Once you've decided on a design for your bunk consider adding additional functional elements. For instance Ms. Keenan often builds a reading light with a switch on every bunk. It's a great way to allow every child to read without disturbing the person who is above them.  best childrens bunk beds  includes a small shelf in each bunk where children can place books or glasses.

Comfortable Climbing

Even the most adventurous kids aren't likely to sleep on top if climbing up and down feels a challenge or unsafe. "The most important thing to do is make sure the bunk bed is equipped with a sturdy ladder that's attached to the side of the bunk," says interior designer Brynne Flowers, who is the founder of John Martine in Salt Lake City. The stairs aren't as space-efficient, but they are the safest option for children.

The best option is a fixed ladder that has simple rungs attached to the bed's side. For teens and older children inclined ladders might be more comfortable to climb. Make sure you test the bunk using blue painter's adhesive to see how close it comes to any fixed features, such as doors or windows and also to ensure there's enough clearance to move around.

Another great alternative is a built-in staircase that attaches to the bottom bunk or runs under every mattress on the top and lower levels. These are the biggest and safest, but they require more time to construct than a ladder that stands alone. "Look for stairs with wide, solid stair rails and a low, rounded step," advises child safety expert Dr. Moriarty, who also suggests bunk beds be supported by wood slats instead of wire or thin boards to avoid accidents.

Look for a bunk bed that has a removable trundle. This lets you add an extra twin bed to accommodate guests or sleepovers, without taking up more floor space in the room. (Be aware that a trundle can only be able to fit if the bunk below is twin and not a full.)

A favourite of both Fenton and writer Alex Morris, the Oeuf Perch bunk is a modern option that can be divided into an loft bed and a standard twin bed. Fenton describes it as the "heaviest" pick on our list. It's "built to last." The sleek design looks elegant and doesn't feel childish for teens and the beds can be separated later if children decide that they don't require bunk beds for themselves anymore.

Flexibility

When it comes to bunk bed design, the options are endless. You can easily add style without sacrificing the functionality of these beds, whether you're designing for a kids room, a primary bedroom, or even a guest space. Bunk beds can provide a focal point in the room, create an imaginative playspace, or serve as a useful storage solution. Depending on the overall aesthetic you're looking for, your bunk beds can also be a statement piece that can be a part of 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, coastal and even sombre. If you want to give your kids' bedroom a look of bunk beds that matches their personalities, choose a color or fabric theme and pair it with accessories like pillows, curtains and artwork.

The ladder on a bunk bed could be a significant factor in the appearance of the room. Most bunk beds have a fixed ladder. However, some beds can be ordered with the ladder on either side of the short end. Bunks with the ladder positioned on the short end leave the lower bunk unopened and is perfect for adults and can give the room a minimalist design.

Another option is to consider an alternative shape for your bunks, for instance an L-shaped model. They take up less area and are perfect for rooms with low ceilings, says Gil. They can also come with a desk underneath which makes them the ideal choice for children who want to study in their beds.

You can also choose a custom-built bunk with stairs 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 available in a variety of colors from Room & Board.

If you're looking for a temporary solution, there are also convertible bunks that convert from twin-over-twin beds into full-size beds and vice versa. These are a great choice for older siblings who don't want to share their room or parents who need to accommodate guests.

Storage

Bunk beds can offer plenty of space for bedding and clothing in accordance with their design. Choose designs that have shelves or drawers that are built into the structure, or standalone units on either side of the beds. These kinds of options are especially beneficial in small rooms as they make the most of space and don't make the bunks feel unorganized or cramped.

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 loft. These designs are perfect for siblings sharing the bedroom, as they let each child keep their personal belongings close by while also preventing the dreaded "piles" of belongings shared.

Other innovative bunk bed designs, in addition to drawers and shelves, include adding storage to headboards. Bins or baskets at the ends of headboards make it easy to reach books, making reading before bedtime more enjoyable. This option also works well in shared bedrooms, as children can keep their favorite books in order and easily accessible.

Another option is to incorporate an integrated ladder into the bunks. This option eliminates an extra piece of furniture and gives it a more sleek appearance. It's important to note that angled ladders can be difficult for younger children to climb. This kind of bunk bed is typically reserved for teens or older children.

Bunk beds can be a great option for any space, including attics or bonus rooms with strange shapes. A custom-built bunk bed could be the best option for these spaces. If you plan to build a bunk from the ground up be aware of the ceiling's height as well as what will be above. A higher ceiling will allow for a higher-quality bunk, whereas a lower ceiling will restrict the size of the bunk below it.

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 class to their guest bedroom. This chic Max & Lily bunk is available in various finishes and can be separated into a twin bed and a full bed. It's a great alternative to standard bedroom furniture.