How to Choose the Best Bunk Bed Design

Bunk beds are an excellent addition to a shared children's bedroom or guest room. They can also add storage space and make the room appear larger.

Some bunks have ladders (which Fenton says are easier to climb than the stairs) and some have trundles on the bottom that allow for additional sleepovers. Some bunks are able to accommodate twin XL and full mattresses, making them great for older children and adults.

1. Keep It Simple

A bunk bed doesn't have 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 furniture to be the center of attention. This simple bunk designthat includes beds that have matching headboards and footboards -is a great illustration.

A lot of bunk beds are built as part of the wall, which makes them appear less like an accessory and more like an element that is a permanent fixture in the space. Even though built-in beds can appear stunning however, there are beautiful freestanding designs. This one, for instance is constructed from wood but uses pipe fittings to construct the ladder and railing. You can construct similar structures using 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 particularly if you live in a smaller space in your home. To maximize space, think about a staggered layout that sleeps two in the top bed, but leaves plenty of open floor space below for playing and studying as well as storage. This l-shaped bunk bed, for example, provides ample space underneath the bed and also offers roomy enough nooks for every child to set up a side table -- something that might not work as well with standard built-in bunks.

2. Adding Extra Storage

If you're building your own bunk beds or settling on a pre-built alternative, clever storage solutions can transform your bedroom into a functional and stylish space. These include staircases that can be used to store clothing or other items without compromising on the look of a bunkbed design. They also have shelves on the wall to store books, toys and other decorative objects.

Drawers that are able to fit under the frame are a fantastic way to add storage space to a bunkbed. These compartments are ideal to store clothes that aren't in season as well as bedding, blankets and books. They are hidden and won't hinder the design of the bedroom.

If you want to make your bunk bed more efficient, look for models that have an office space in the bottom bunk. This is a great option for bedrooms of teenagers, but also works well in smaller spaces. If you do not have enough space for a desk you can install a freestanding desk close to the bunks as an additional space to work and study. You can also choose a staggered bunk, which is a popular choice that lets children sleep three in a tiny room by offering two twin beds above an entire bottom bed.

3. The addition of an Workstation

Bunk beds aren't just for kids; they can be ideal for adults, too. When done right they can be practical and stylish, allowing you to reduce space in your bedroom while adding a fun element to the arrangement. You can make your bunk bed to fit the style of your bedroom with a few simple upgrades.

One of the best trundle bunk beds advantages of bunk beds is that they can be used as a workstation or desk. This is a fantastic option for kids that are getting into school age and require a place to study or do homework. Many bunk beds have tables built in and you can roll it out for your child to work on, and then put it back when they're finished.

Think about using the Kee Klamp Kit to add an elegant workspace to your bunk bed. This farmhouse-style loft bed features a twin-over-queen size loft bed with a black ladder and an integrated workspace underneath. complete a full length table and divider made of wood, and convenient shelving.

4. Add a bed with a princess theme

Bunk beds can be a great option for a bedroom for a child regardless of whether they're intended for guests or siblings. As they are usually the central point of a room they must be attractive. Start by measuring the room and determining the size you're able to work within. Make sure to consider the ceiling's height especially if you have children who will be using the top bunk. This can be risky especially if you have an overhead fan in the vicinity.

Many of our favorite bunk beds can be converted into two separate beds, to accommodate the needs of your growing child. This twin-over-full-bed is a good example. It has an easy, solid construction and four different finishes making it easy to find one that will complement the decor of your child's room.

If you're looking for a bunk that is both fun and functional look into this twin-over-full version that features a built-in slide. You can also add a trundle on the bottom for sleepovers, or simply use the upper bunk as an entertainment center with an adjustable TV stand that can be pulled out. The solid wood construction and timeless design means that this bed will look great even after your children are tweens and teens, too.

5. Keep It Neutral

Bunk beds can be a great option to create a practical 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 combination of modern and traditional elements and is available in neutral colors such as gray, white and blue. It won't change with your child's age. It has a drawer under the lower bunk which can be used to store a twin trundle that can be used for sleepovers. This is a great choice to share a room with two children.

Pastels are ideal for bunk rooms since they bring color and fun and keep the room stylish and cool. Kelly Hartley from Hartley Home designed this bunk room with a mix of light greens, smoky grays, and cloud whites to create a calm appearance. A bed with bedding in a similar palette pulls the whole room together to create a style that children (and parents) will appreciate.

When selecting a bunk bed, it's essential to think about how you will use the space. 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 underneath for a smarter look. This classic wood bunk bed designed by @bluedreamslady features an area of storage that is large enough to hold books and toys.

6. Give a pop of Color

The majority of bunk beds are created for children in elementary school. However adults too can benefit from the space-saving solution. A bunk bed is a fantastic option for an adult's bedroom, especially when the design is toned down and has a simple color scheme. For example, this West Elm x Pottery Barn mid-century modern twin bunk bed would look lovely in a neutral room with plenty of natural wood and white furnishings.

Bunk beds work well in any room, even attics or bonus rooms with roofs that slope. A custom-built design like this one crafted by Marnie Custom Homes works best place for bunk beds for rooms with an odd shape, but a DIY solution can also be fashionable. Make sure you select a sturdy, custom-built bunk bed with built-in railings to prevent bruises and bumps while climbing the stairs to the top.

A bunk bed is a great opportunity to decorate your child's room with a theme that is fun. Create a forest hideout with trees and woodland animals for girls or boys, or add some bright colors and a nautical theme. In a palette of blue, grey and white, a bed inspired by Scandi can appear sleek, modern and chic, as shown in the stunning new holiday home designed by Georgina Jeffreys.

7. Mixing It Up

While bunk beds are great for rooms for children however, they shouldn't be restricted to the same demographic. In fact, a chic bunk bed can be a great option to an adult bedroom.

Be aware of the overall appearance of the best space saving bunk beds when choosing the best bunk beds. Choose from a variety styles, including traditional, bohemian and coastal. Make sure you select the one that best double bunk beds fits your style. Try experimenting with the style of your room and consider how you can incorporate the bunk bed into your room.

If you have a queen-over-queen bunk bed, put an upholstered bench at the bottom of the mattress below. This will give you a place to read, relax or both. It can also assist in visually divide the two bunk beds.

Another option to make your bunk bed feel less juvenile is to swap out a ladder for an escalator. This will instantly give the room a more sophisticated appearance, and it's an option that is safer for older children. Plus, you can easily decorate the staircase in a style that matches your child's room style, like this nautical bedroom from Raili Clasen.