How to Choose the Best Bunk Bed Design
Bunk beds are a comfortable and space-efficient solution to sleep in kids' rooms. They're also a great choice for guest rooms or vacation homes where the ceilings are high but the floor space is limited.
The right accessories can transform bunk beds into stylish sleeping spaces. For instance, the bunks in this bedroom with an ocean theme are painted by hand using Porter's Paints 'Mariner' to complement the room's palette.
Space-Saving

Bunk beds are great to accommodate an entire family or two children in the same space. They save space by stacking bed frames on top another. This arrangement frees floor space to play and other furniture which makes it a perfect solution for cramped rooms or lofted areas that need more sleeping arrangements. Bunk beds come in various designs, from sleek contemporary metal to classic wood designs. Many bunk beds come with an integrated stairwell that minimizes the footprint. A curving staircase is an excellent alternative for those who have an enviable bedroom. A set of integrated steep steps is perfect for homes with a limited space in storage space.
Bunk beds are an excellent way to add design and color to an space. Neutral colors such as navy and light grey are a stylish option for bunk beds. To add some style you can jazz up the neutral scheme with themed decor. For example an area inspired by adventure could be decorated to look like a woodland hideout or a space inspired by clouds. If you want to add a few pops of color, try choosing brighter shades for the top bunk and softer hues for the bottom bunk.
If you're building a bunk room from scratch, you need to think about the way that the layout will affect your room. Use blue painter's tape to draw out the silhouette of your bunk beds on the wall and then take measurements of the distance between the beds and any fixed features such as 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.
After you've decided on a design for your bunk, think about adding other elements that are functional. Ms. Keenan, for example often puts a 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 an extra ledge on each bunk, where children can set books or glasses.
Comfortable Climbing
Even the most adventurous kids won't sleep in a high-rise if climbing up and down is difficult or unsafe. "The most important thing is to make sure the bunk bed is equipped with an adequate ladder that's connected to the bunk's side," says interior designer Brynne Flowers, founder of John Martine in Salt Lake City. They might not be as efficient in space but they are the safest option for young children.
A fixed ladder with simple rungs that are attached to the side of the bunk is typically the most secure option. For teenagers and older children, angled ladders may be more comfortable to climb. Make sure you test the bunk using blue painter's tape to see how close it is to any fixed elements, such as windows or doors and also to ensure there's enough room to walk around.
Another great alternative is a built-in staircase that is attached to the bottom bunk or runs under each mattress on the top and lower levels. These are the biggest and secure, however they take longer to put up than a ladder that stands alone. "Look for stairs that have wide, solid stair rails and an angled, low step," advises child safety expert Dr. Moriarty, who also recommends that bunk beds be supported by wood slats instead of wire or thin boards to prevent accidents.
If you are looking for a bunk that can develop with children, search for one with a removable trundle. This lets you create an extra twin bed to accommodate guests or sleepovers without taking up floor space in the room. (Be aware that a trundle can only be suitable if the bunk on the bottom is twin and not a full.)
Fenton and Alex Morris both love the Oeuf Perch Bunk. It is a stylish option that can be converted into a loft or an additional bed for twins. It's the most heavy option on our list, but Fenton calls it "a tank" that's "built to last." The sleek design is stylish and does not feel too babyish. It's also not too childish for teenagers. And the beds can be removed later on if they decide they don't require a bunk bed.
Flexibility
When it comes to bunk design, the possibilities are endless. Whether you're designing a kids room, primary bedroom or guest space it is possible to add style to these beds without sacrificing function. Bunk beds are an excellent option to create a focal point, a play space, or storage solution. Your bunk beds can be a striking piece, depending on the overall style of your room.
Bunk beds are available in a range of designs, finishes, colors and materials. In fact, a variety of bunks are available in designs ranging from bohemian to coastal and even sombre. To give your children's bedroom a bunk bed look that matches their personalities, choose a theme or color and pair it with accessories such as curtains, pillows and artwork.
The ladder of a bunk bed can make a significant impact on the look of a room. The majority of bunks that are available off the shelf 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 on the short end can leave the lower bunk unlocked, making it ideal for adults. It also gives the room an uncluttered look.
Another option is to think about an alternative shape for your bunks, for instance an L-shaped version. These bunks occupy less floor space and are ideal for rooms with low ceilings, explains Gil. They can be fitted with a small desk underneath. This is a great solution for kids who wish to study in bed.
You can also select a custom-built bunk with stairs built right into the frame. These types of bunks are typically employed in hotels and are considered to be the most "grown-up" option on the market. They're extremely durable and available in a variety of colors from Room & Board.
If you're looking for a more temporary solution, there are also convertible bunks that can be converted from twin-over-twin beds into full-size beds, and reverse. They can be a great option for older siblings who do not wish to share their rooms or parents who need to accommodate guests.
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Based on the design the bunk beds will provide plenty of storage space for clothing and bedding. Find designs that feature shelves or drawers that are built into the structure or add standalone units on either side of the bunks. These are particularly useful in small rooms, as they can maximize space without making the bunks appear unorganized or cramped.
Some manufacturers have built-in storage within the bed, such as this Oeuf Perch loft that has two large storage compartments on both on the upper level. These designs are great for siblings who share the bedroom, as they let each child keep their personal items close to hand while avoiding the common "piles" of shared belongings.
Other clever bunk bed ideas, in addition to drawers and shelves, include incorporating storage into headboards. Baskets or bins at the ends of headboards make it easy to access books, making reading before bed more enjoyable. This is also great for bedrooms that are shared because it lets kids keep their favourite books easily accessible and organized.
A ladder can be incorporated into the bunks. This option eliminates an extra piece of furniture, and gives it a an elegant appearance. 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 teenagers or older children.
Bunk beds are a great option for any space, including attics and bonus rooms that have unusual shapes. A custom-built bunk bed configuration could be the best option for these rooms. If you're planning to build a bunk from scratch, take into consideration the ceiling's height as well as what will be above. A higher ceiling can permit a loftier bunk, whereas a lower ceiling will restrict the size of the lower bunk.
The right bunk bed for a child will depend on the child's age. However it can also be a good option for adults who wish to save some space and add some style to a guest room. This elegant Max & Lily bunk is available in a variety of finishes and can be separated into a twin bed and a full bed. It's a great alternative to standard bedroom furniture.