How to Choose the Best Bunk Bed Design
Bunk beds can be an excellent addition to bedrooms shared by children or a guest room. They can also add storage and make the room seem bigger.
Some bunks are equipped with ladders (which Fenton says what are the best bunk beds easier to climb than stairs) and some have trundles at the bottom that allow for additional sleepovers. Some even have full and twin XL mattresses, so they're great for older kids and adults too.
1. Keeping It Simple
A bunk bed doesn't need to be the centerpiece in the room; in fact, it's often better to use it as a background feature that allows other elements such as artwork, storage and other furnishings to be the center of attention. This basic bunk bed design, which features beds that have matching footboards and headboards, is a great example.
A lot of bunk beds are built in as part of the wall, which makes them feel less of an accessory, and more like an element that is a permanent fixture in the space. But even though built-in bunks can look amazing but you can also find gorgeous freestanding designs. For instance, this one, is made from wood, but it makes use of pipe fittings to create the ladder and railing. You can build a similar structure using the Single Socket Tee, Flange Elbow and 90 Degree Elbow fittings from Kee Klamp.
Bunk beds are the ideal solution for sharing a child's bedroom, particularly in a smaller home. To maximize space, consider a staggered design that sleeps two on the top bed but leaves plenty of open floor space below for playing or studying, as well as storage. This L-shaped bed, for instance, offers ample space underneath the lower bed. It also has enough space for each child to put up a small table.
2. Adding Extra Storage
Innovative storage solutions can transform your bedroom into a chic and functional space, regardless of whether you build your own bunk beds or purchase a ready-made model. These include stair cabinets which can be used to store clothing or other items without compromising on the aesthetics of a bunkbed design. They also include shelves that can be mounted on the wall for books, toys and decorative things.
Another way to add extra storage space to bunk beds is to install drawers that are designed to fit underneath the frame. These compartments are great to store out-of-season clothing as well as bedding, blankets and books. They are hidden and don't affect the style of the bedroom.
If you want to make your bunk bed even more efficient, you should look for models that include an office space in the bottom bunk. This is a great choice for bedrooms of teenagers and also works in smaller rooms. If you're a bit lacking desk space, you could consider installing a freestanding table next to the bunks, to provide an additional area to work or study. You can also consider a staggered bunk. This is a popular option that lets children sleep three in a small room by providing two twin beds over the full-sized bottom bed.
3. Adding the Workstation
Bunk beds aren't just for children They can be ideal for adults too. Bunk beds are a great option to reduce space and provide a fun element to your living space. You can customize your bunk bed to suit the style of your bedroom with a few simple upgrades.
Bunk beds are fantastic because they can be used as a desk or workstation. This is an excellent option for children about to go to school and require an area where they can study or complete their homework. Many bunk beds have tables built in, so you can simply lay it out for your child to work on and put it back in the event that they're done.
If you're looking for a creative way to transform your bed into a bunk, consider using a Kee Klamp kit to add modern workstations to your set-up. This farmhouse-style loft bed features twin-over-queen loft beds with black ladder, and an integrated workspace underneath. complete with a full-length table, wood look divider, and convenient shelving.
4. Add a bed with a princess theme
Bunk beds can be a fun accessory to any room for kids, whether for siblings or just for guests who come in occasionally. They're also an important focal point in the room, you'll want them to look amazing. Start by measuring the room and determining the dimensions you can work within. Make sure to take into account the ceiling's height especially if you have children who will be using the top bunk. This could be risky, particularly if there is a ceiling fan nearby.
A lot of our favorite bunk beds can be converted into two beds to accommodate the needs of your growing child. This twin-over-full bed for instance, comes with a simple, sturdy build and four different finish colors which makes it easy to find one that will complement the decor of your child's room.
If you want a bunk that is both functional and fun look into this twin-over-full version that features a built-in slide. You can also use the top bunk with a pull-out TV stand as an entertainment center or add a trundle on the bottom bunk for sleepovers. This bunk's solid wood construction and timeless design style will make it appear cool even when your kids become teens or tweens.
5. Keep It Neutral
Bunk beds can be a great option to create a functional and child-friendly space. One of the most effective ways to achieve this is to keep your color palette neutral. This bunk bed is a blend of traditional and modern features in neutral shades of blue, gray and white that won't date as your child grows older. There is a drawer beneath the lower bunk which can be used to store a twin trundle for sleepovers. This is a great choice to share a room with two kids.
Pastels are great for bunk rooms as they bring color and fun, but keep the room cool and stylish. This bunk room is designed by Kelly from Hartley Home, uses a blend of light green, smoky grey and cloud white that gives the beds a peaceful look. The bedding in the same color scheme can be used to bring the room together. Kids (and parents) alike will enjoy the design.
When choosing a bunk bed, it's important to consider how you'll utilize the space. If you'd like your children's beds to double as an office or study space, opt for a loft design with an integrated desk and chair beneath for a sleeker appearance. This classic wooden bunk from @bluedreamslady has an area for storage that's large enough to hold extra books and toys.
6. Give a pop of Color
The majority of bunk beds are created for children in elementary school. However, adults can also benefit from the space-saving solution. A bunk bed is an excellent option for an elegant adult bedroom, particularly when the design is streamlined and has a minimal color scheme. For example, this West Elm x Pottery Barn modern-day twin bunk bed looks lovely in a neutral room with plenty of natural wood and white furnishings.
Bunk beds work well in any space, including attics or bonus rooms with roofs that are slanted. Marnie Custom Homes' custom-built design is best l shaped bunk beds for rooms that have an odd shape. However, a DIY solution could be attractive. Pick a bunk bed made to order with railings built in to avoid bruises and bumps when walking up the stairs.
A bunk bed can be used to create a fun theme for your child's bedroom. Create a forest hideout with trees and woodland animals for boys or girls, or use bright colors and a nautical theme. In a palette of blue, grey, and white, a bed with a Scandi theme can look sleek, modern, and stylish as seen in the gorgeous new home for the holidays designed by Georgina Jeffreys.
7. Mixing It Up
While bunk beds are great for kids' rooms however, they shouldn't be limited to this particular population. A modern bunk bed is an ideal option for an adult's bedroom.
Consider the overall aesthetics of the space when choosing the right bunk beds. Pick from a variety of styles, including classic, bohemian and coastal. Take the time to select the one that best low bunk beds suits your style. You can then play around with the ways you can integrate your bunk bed into the overall design of your room.
If you have a queen-over-queen bunk bed add an upholstered bench at the foot of the mattress. This will give you a place for relaxing, reading or both. It can also help visually divide the two bunk beds.
Another option to make your bunk bed feel less childish is to switch out a ladder for stairs. This instantly gives your room a more elegant appearance and is a safe choice for older children. Additionally, you can decorate the staircase in a manner that is in keeping with your child's bedroom theme, like this nautical bedroom designed by Raili Clasen.