How to Choose the Best Bunk Bed Design
Bunk beds are a comfortable, space-efficient sleeping solution for children's rooms. They're ideal for guest rooms and vacation homes where ceilings are high but the floor space is small.
Addition of the right details transforms bunk beds into stylish sleeping areas. The bunks in this ocean-themed bedroom were handpainted with Porter's Paints 'Mariner', which was a perfect match for the room's color scheme.
Space-Saving
If they're used to accommodate an entire family or a pair of children in the same room, bunk beds are a great way to save space by stacking a bed frame on top of another. This arrangement gives 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. best bunk beds for heavy adults come in a variety of styles, from sleek modern metal to classic wood designs. Some also have an inbuilt staircase that reduces the footprint of the structure. A curving ladder is a great alternative for those who have smaller bedrooms, and an integrated set of steep stairs is perfect for homes with limited storage.
Bunk beds can be a part of the aesthetic of a room, too when you select the right color scheme and styling. Bunk beds look great in neutral hues like navy and light grey. For a little more style you can spice up the neutral color scheme with themed decor. For instance, a bunk room that is inspired by adventure could be decorated to resemble a forest hideout or a space inspired by clouds. If best bunk beds for heavy adults looking to mix in a few bright colors, try choosing brighter shades for the top bunk and softer shades for the bottom bunk.
If you're building a bunk space from scratch, you need to consider how the layout will impact your space. Draw the outline 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 windows, closets and doors. This will help you determine the size of the frame and how close it will be to other furniture.
Once you've decided on a bunk design Consider adding other elements that are functional. For instance Ms. Keenan often builds a reading light with a switch on each bunk. It lets each child read without disturbing the person on top. She also likes having small ledges on each bunk, where kids can set their books or glasses.
Comfortable Climbing
Even the most adventurous kids will not sleep high up if climbing up and down feels difficult or unsafe. Interior designer Brynne Flower, founder of John Martine Salt Lake City, says that the most important factor to consider 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 safest option for children who are young.
A fixed ladder with simple rungs that are attached to the side of the bunk is usually the most secure option. Angled ladders, which may be more attainable than straight ones, may be more suitable for older children and teens. Make sure you test out the bunk with blue painter's adhesive to see how close it is to any fixed elements like windows or doors and also to ensure there's enough clearance to walk around.
Another alternative is a built-in staircase that attaches to the bottom bunk, or under each mattress on the upper and lower levels. These are the most spacious and safest, but they take longer to set up than a ladder that stands alone. Dr. Moriarty recommends looking for stairs with solid, wide rails and a low, circular step. He also suggests that bunk beds are anchored by wood slats, rather than thin boards or wires to avoid accidents.
For a bunk that will grow with kids, look for one that has an adjustable trundle. This lets you add an extra twin bed to accommodate guests or sleepovers, without taking up space on the floor. (Be aware that a trundle is only going to be able to fit if the bunk below is twin and not a full.)
A favorite of both Fenton and writer Alex Morris, the Oeuf Perch bunk is a contemporary option that separates into a loft bed and a standard twin bed. Fenton says it's the "heaviest" option on our list. It's "built to last." The sleek design is stylish and does not feel too babyish. It's also not too babyish for teens. And the beds can be removed later on if they decide they no longer need bunk beds.
Flexibility
There are plenty of options to consider when designing bunk beds. You can easily add style without sacrificing functionality to these beds, regardless of whether you're designing for a kid room, a primary bedroom, or a guest room. Bunk beds are an excellent option to create a focal point, a play space, or a storage solution. Your bunk beds can become a focal piece, depending on the overall style of your room.
A lot of bunk beds today offer a range of styles, materials, finishes and colors that can be matched to any design. In fact, a variety of bunks are available in designs that range from bohemian, the beach and even moody. Choose a color theme or fabric, and then combine it with curtains, pillows and artwork to give your kids' bedrooms an appearance that matches their individual style.
The ladder on a bunk bed could be a significant factor in the way the room appears. Most off-the-shelf bunks come with a fixed ladder but there are some that can be purchased with the ladder set on either side of the short end of the bed. Bunks with the ladder on the short side can leave the lower bunk open which makes it suitable for adults. It also provides the room with an uncluttered look.
You could consider a bunk bed with the shape that isn't traditional, such as a L-shaped one. Gil notes that these bunks are ideal for rooms with low-ceilings and make use of less space. They can be fitted with a small desk beneath. This is a great solution for kids who prefer to study in their bed.
best bunk bed for teens can also build a 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. Room & Board offers a assortment of colors and durable bunk beds.
There are also convertible bunks, which can be transformed from twin-overtwins to a full-size bed, or reverse. These are a great option for older children who do not wish to share their rooms or parents who have to accommodate guests.
Storage
Depending on the style, bunk beds can offer plenty of storage space for clothes and bedding. Find designs that feature drawers or shelving built into the structure or even standalone units either side of the bunks. These kinds of options are especially beneficial in smaller rooms since they maximize the space and ensure that the bunks don't feel overcrowded or cramped.
Some manufacturers offer built-in storage within the bed, like this Oeuf Perch loft that has two large storage spaces on both on the upper level. These designs are perfect for siblings sharing a room, as each kid can keep their personal belongings close to hand while also helping to prevent the usual piles of shared belongings.
In addition to drawers and shelves, other clever bunk bed ideas are to incorporate storage in the headboards. Adding bins or baskets to the ends of the headboards keep books in easy reach, which makes reading at night much more enjoyable and more enjoyable. This option also works well in bedrooms that are shared, since kids can keep their favorite books in order and easily accessible.
Another option is to incorporate an integrated ladder into the bunks. This solution removes the need for an extra furniture piece and gives it a sleeker look. It's important to note that angled ladders are difficult for children of a younger age to climb. This type of bunk bed is usually reserved for older children or teens.
Bunk beds can work in any kind of space, including attics and bonus rooms that are often awkwardly shaped. In these spaces, a custom-built configuration might be the best option to create a functional and stylish bunk room. If you're planning to build a bunk from the ground up consider the height of the ceiling as well as the height of the ceiling that will be above. A higher ceiling can allow for a higher-quality bunk, while a lower ceiling will limit the size of the bunk below it.
While the ideal bunk for a child's needs will depend on the child's age, a bunk can also be a good option for adults who want to make space and add a bit of class to their guest bedroom. 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 an extra-large bed, so it can serve as a versatile alternative to traditional bedroom furniture.