How to Choose the Best Bunk Bed Design

Bunk beds are a fun addition to a shared children bedroom or guest room. They can also offer additional storage and make the space appear larger.

Some bunks have ladders (which Fenton says are easier best places to buy bunk beds climb than stairs) and some have trundles that allow for additional sleepovers. Some bunks can fit twin XL beds and full mattresses, which makes them great for older children and adults.

1. Keeping It Simple

It's not required for a bunk bed to be the focal point of an area. In fact, it is often more beneficial to use it as a backdrop item and allow other elements such as artwork, storage and other furniture to be the main focus. This basic bunk designthat includes beds that have matching headboards and footboards -- is a great example.

Many bunk beds are constructed as part of the wall, which can make them appear less like an accessory and more of a permanent fixture in the room. But even though built-in bunks can look amazing, you can still find stunning freestanding designs. This one is made of wood, but uses pipe fittings for the railing and ladder. You can build similar structures using the Single Socket Tee, Flange Elbow and 90 Degree Elbow fittings from Kee Klamp.

Bunk beds are an ideal option for a bedroom that is shared, especially if you have smaller space in your home. Consider a staggered bed design that lets two people sleep in the top bunk, but provides ample space below for storage, play and studying. This l-shaped bunk bed, for instance, has plenty of space underneath the bed and offers enough nooks to set up a side table, something that might not be as effective with standard built-in bunks.

2. Adding Extra Storage

If you're building your own bunk beds or settling on a pre-built solution, innovative storage solutions can turn your sleeping space into a functional and stylish room. They include staircases which can be used to store clothes or other items without compromising the aesthetics of a bunkbed style. They also come with shelves that can be mounted on the wall for books, toys and other decorative objects.

Drawers that are able to fit under the frame are another fantastic way to add storage to a bunkbed. These compartments are perfect to store out-of-season clothing, extra bedding or even blankets and books. Since they are hidden from view, they won't hinder the design of the bedroom.

If you want to make your bunk bed more efficient, look for models that incorporate desk space into the bottom bunk. This is a great idea for bedrooms of teenagers, but also works well in smaller rooms. If you don't have enough desk space you can install a freestanding desk near the bunks to provide an extra place to work and study. You can also opt for a staggered bed that allows three kids to be accommodated in a tiny space by putting two twin beds over a full-size bed.

3. The addition of an Workstation

Bunk beds can be great for both adults and children. If done correctly, bunk beds can be practical and stylish, allowing you to make space and also add a fun element to the layout. You can personalize your bunk bed to fit the design of your bedroom by making some simple changes.

Bunk beds are great as they can double as a desk or workstation. This is an excellent alternative for children who are reaching school age and require a best place for bunk beds to work or study. Most bunk beds come with built-in desks, so all you have to do is roll it out when your child needs to complete some work, and then take it back to put it away when they're finished.

You might want to consider the Kee Klamp Kit to add modern workspaces to your bunk bed. This farmhouse-style bunk bed uses the twin over queen size loft bed with a black ladder, and an integrated workstation under, with a full length desk, a wood-look separator and handy shelving.

4. Add a bed with a princess theme

Bunk beds are a great accessory to any room for kids regardless of whether it's for siblings or the occasional guest. Since they are often the centerpiece of the room, you'll want them to be beautiful. Begin by measuring the room and determining what dimensions you're able to work within. Be sure to take into account ceiling height, especially if your kids will be in the top bunk since this could be risky for children (especially if a ceiling fan is nearby).

A majority of our favorite bunk bed options also convert into two beds to meet your growing child's needs. This twin-over full bed, for instance, is built of a solid, simple design and comes in four different finishes, so you can easily locate one that matches the decor of your child's room.

This twin-over-full-size bunk bed with a slide is fun and functional. You can also use the top bunk with an out-sliding TV stand to serve to serve as an entertainment center, or add a trundle to the bottom bunk for sleepovers. The solid wood construction and timeless design means that this bed will be stylish even after your children are tweens and teens, too.

5. Keep It Neutral

Bunk beds are the ideal chance to design a space that is both practical and child-friendly One of the easiest ways to do this is by keeping your colors neutral. This bunk bed is a combination of modern and traditional elements and is available in neutral colors like white, gray and blue. It will not date with your child's age. It also has an under-bed drawer beneath the lower bunk that can be used as a twin trundle bed to accommodate sleepovers which makes it an ideal option for a shared bedroom for two siblings.

Pastels are perfect for bunk rooms since they bring color and fun, but keep the room trendy and chic. This best price bunk beds free shipping room is created by Kelly from Hartley Home, uses a mix of light green, smoky grey and cloud white that creates a tranquil look. The bedding that is in the same color palette can be used to bring the room together. Kids (and parents) alike will appreciate the style.

When you're choosing a bunk bed, it's essential to think about how you will use the space. Pick a loft bed that has chairs and a desk built in underneath to give your children's beds a more sophisticated look. This classic wood bunk by @bluedreamslady has an storage space that's big enough to accommodate additional books and toys.

6. Add a splash of Color

Many kids' bunk bed designs are geared for elementary school age children however, that doesn't mean adults can't also enjoy the space-saving sleeping solution. A bunk bed is an excellent option for a sophisticated adult bedroom, particularly when the design is toned down and has a minimal color scheme. For example this West Elm x Pottery Barn mid-century modern twin bunk bed looks lovely in a neutral room with plenty of natural wood and white furniture.

Bunk beds are suitable for any room, including attics or bonus rooms with roofs that are slanted. A custom-built-in design such as this one designed by Marnie Custom Homes works best bunk bed design for rooms with an odd shape however, a DIY option can also be fashionable. Make sure you select a sturdy, custom-built bunk bed that has built-in railings to prevent bruises and bumps when you climb the stairs to the top.

A bunk bed can be used to create an exciting theme for a child's bedroom. Create a forest hideout for girls or boys with trees and woodland creatures, or add some vibrant color with a nautical look. In a color palette of blue, grey and white, a bed inspired by Scandi can appear sleek, modern and chic as seen in the gorgeous new holiday home created by Georgina Jeffreys.

7. Mixing It Up

Bunk beds aren't only for children's rooms. In fact, a fashionable bunk bed could be a perfect solution to an adult bedroom.

Be aware of the overall appearance of the space when choosing the ideal bunk beds. There are a variety of styles to choose from such as bohemian, classic and coastal, so take your time to choose the one that is most compatible with your personal style. Play around with the design of your room and see how you can incorporate the bunk bed into your room.

If you have a queen-over-queen bunk bed include a bench with an upholstered seat at the bottom of the mattress. This will provide a comfortable spot for reading or relaxing and help divide the two beds visually.

Another way to make your bunk bed appear more adult is to replace the ladder for a staircase. This will instantly give the room a more sophisticated look, and it's also an option that is safer for older children. You can also decorate the stairs to match your child's theme, such as this nautical bedroom from Raili Clasen.