How to Choose the Best Bunk Bed Design
Bunk beds are a wonderful addition to a shared kids' bedroom or a guest room. They can also add storage space and make the room seem bigger.
Some bunks come with ladders (which Fenton says are easier to climb than the stairs) and some have trundles at the bottom which allow for sleepovers. Some can even fit twin and full size mattresses, making them ideal for older kids and adults as well.
1. Keep It Simple
It isn't required for a bunk bed to be the primary focus of an area. In fact, it is often best to use it as a backdrop and allow other elements such as storage, artwork and other furniture to be the main focus. This simple bunk design- which features beds with headboards that match and footboards -- is a great example.
Many bunk beds are constructed as part of the wall, which can make them feel less like an accessory, and more like an integral part of the space. Although built-in beds may look stunning but there are also stunning freestanding designs. This one is constructed of wood, but uses pipe fittings to build the railing and ladder. Kee Klamp fittings such as the Single Socket Tee and Flange Elbow can be used to create similar structures.
Bunk beds can be the ideal solution for sharing a child's bedroom, especially in smaller homes. To maximize space, you can consider a staggered design that sleeps two in the top bed but leaves plenty of open floor space below for playing, studying and storage. This bunk bed with an L-shaped shape, for instance, offers plenty of space under the bed and also offers roomy enough nooks for every child to put up a table, something that might not be as effective with regular built-in bunks.
2. Adding Extra Storage
Whether you're creating your own bunk beds or settling on a pre-built option, creative storage solutions can transform your sleeping space into a highly functional and stylish space. These include staircases that can be used to store clothing or other things without compromising the look of a bunkbed design. They also come with shelves on the wall to store books, toys, and other decorative items.
Another excellent method of adding storage to the bunk bed is to use drawers that are designed to fit underneath the frame. These compartments are great to store clothes that aren't in season as well as bedding, blankets and books. They are concealed and do not affect the style of the bedroom.
Consider models with a desk integrated into the bottom bunk, if you want your bunk bed to be more efficient. This is a popular option for rooms for teens, but it's also a great way to maximize the use of small bedrooms. If you're a bit lacking desk space, think about installing a freestanding table next to the bunks, to provide an additional area to work and study. You can also consider a staggered bed, which allows three kids to be accommodated in a compact space by placing two twin beds over a full-size bed.
3. The addition of the Workstation
Bunk beds are great for both kids and adults. If done correctly, bunk beds can be practical and stylish and help you reduce space in your bedroom while adding an enjoyable element to the layout. You can make your bunk bed to fit the style of your bedroom with just a few minor changes.
Bunk beds are great as they can be used as an office desk or workstation. This is an excellent option for kids who are reaching school age and require a space to study or do homework. A lot of bunk beds have an integrated desk that means all you have to do is roll it out when your kid needs to do some work, and then take it back to take it back when 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 an elegant workstation to your setup. This rustic-style bunk bed features the twin over queen size loft bed, with a black ladder and an integrated workstation underneath, complete with a full-length desk, a wood look partition and a convenient shelf.
4. Adding a Princess-Themed Bed
Bunk beds are an excellent option for a bedroom for a child regardless of whether they're intended for guests or siblings. Because they're usually the focal point of a room, you'll want them to look beautiful. Begin by measuring the room and determining what dimensions you're able to work with. Be sure to take into account the height of your ceiling, particularly if your kids will be in the top bunk as this can be dangerous for little ones (especially if there is a ceiling fan in the vicinity).
A lot of our favorite bunk beds can be converted into two beds to accommodate your growing child's needs. This twin-over-full bed, for instance, is built of a solid, simple construction and comes in four different finishes, so you can easily choose one that will complement the decor of your child's bedroom.
This twin-over-full-size bunk bed with slide is fun and functional. You can also add a trundle on the bottom for sleepovers, or simply use the upper bunk as an entertainment center with the pull-out TV stand. The solid wood construction and timeless style means that this bunk will still look cool once your children are tweens and teens, too.
5. Keeping It Neutral
Bunk beds can be a great option to create a practical and kid-friendly room. One of the simplest ways to achieve this is to keep your color palette neutral. This bunk bed combines traditional and modern features with neutral shades of blue, gray, and white that won't date as your child grows older. It also has an under-bed drawer beneath the lower bunk that can be used as a twin trundle bed to accommodate sleepovers and is an ideal choice to share a bedroom with two children.
Pastels are ideal for bunk rooms as they add color and fun while keeping the space cool and stylish. This bunk room, created by Kelly from Hartley Home, uses a mix of light green, dark grey and cloud white that gives the beds a serene appearance. Topping the beds with bedding with a similar color pulls the whole room together to create a style that children (and parents) will love.
It is crucial to consider how you'll use the space when choosing the bunk bed. If you want your children's beds to function as a study or office space, you should choose an loft style with an built-in desk and chair beneath to create a more sophisticated look. This classic wood bunk bed from @bluedreamslady comes with an area for storage that is big enough to accommodate books and toys.
6. Add a Pop of Color
Many kids' bunk beds are designed for elementary school age children, but that doesn't mean adults can't benefit from the space-saving sleeping solution. A bunk bed is a great option for an adult's bedroom, especially when the design is streamlined and has a minimal color scheme. For instance, this West Elm x Pottery Barn mid-century modern twin bunk bed would look gorgeous in a neutral bedroom with lots of natural wood and white furnishings.
Bunk beds can be used in any type of space, including attics and bonus rooms with low ceilings. A custom built-in design like this one designed by Marnie Custom Homes works best for rooms with a strange shape however, a DIY option can also be stylish. Make sure to select a sturdy, custom-made 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 enjoyable theme for your child's bedroom. Create a forest hideout with trees and woodland animals for boys or girls, or add some bright colors and a nautical theme. A bunk bed inspired by Scandi can be sleek and modern with a palette of blue, grey, and white, as you can see in this gorgeous holiday home designed by Georgina Jeffries.
7. Mixing It Up
Bunk beds are not just intended for kids' rooms. In best place for bunk beds , a chic bunk bed could be a perfect solution to an adult bedroom.
When you choose the right bunk bed for your space, think about the overall design of the room. Pick from a variety of styles, including bohemian, classic and coastal. Be sure to pick the one that best suits your style. Play around with the design of your space and think about how you can incorporate the bunk bed.
For example, if you have a queen-over-queen bunk bed, try adding an upholstered bench at the foot of the bed. This will create a relaxing place to read or relax and will help create a visual separation between the two beds.
A staircase is a great option to make your bunk beds look less childish. This will instantly give the room a more elegant look, and it's also a safer option for children who are older. Plus, you can easily decorate the staircase in a style that matches your child's room style, like this nautical bedroom from Raili Clasen.