How to Choose the Best Bunk Bed Design

Bunk beds can be a great addition to a shared kids' bedroom or a guest room. They can also add storage space and make the room seem larger.

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 are even able to accommodate twin and full size mattresses, making them ideal for older children and adults as well.

1. Keep It Simple

It isn't necessary for a bunk bed to be the main focal point of an area. In fact, it is often better to have it as a backdrop and allow other elements like storage, artwork and other furniture to take center stage. This basic bunk bed design, which features beds with matching footboards as well as headboards, is an excellent illustration.

Many bunk beds are built into walls. This could make them appear less like an addition and more like permanent fixtures in the room. However, even though built-in bunks can look amazing there are stunning freestanding designs. This one, for example is made of wood, but it makes use of pipe fittings to create the ladder and railing. You can create similar structures using Single Socket Tee, Flange Elbow and 90 Degree Elbow fittings from Kee Klamp.

Bunk beds are the perfect solution for sharing a child's bedroom, especially in a smaller house. You can consider a staggered design that lets two people sleep in the top bunk, but allows plenty of space below for play, storage and studying. This l-shaped bunk bed, for instance, has plenty of space underneath the bed and offers enough nooks for every child to set up a table, something that might not work as well with regular built-in bunk beds.

2. Adding Extra Storage

If you're building your own bunk beds or selecting a ready-made option, creative storage solutions can turn your sleeping space into a highly functional and stylish space. These include staircases which can be used to store clothes or other items without compromising the aesthetics of a bunkbed style. They also include shelves that can be mounted on the wall for books, toys and decorative objects.

Drawers that are able to fit under the frame are a fantastic way to add storage space to a bunk bed. These compartments are great for storing out-of-season clothes, extra bedding or even blankets and books. Since they are away from view, they won't hinder the design of the bedroom.

If you're looking to make your bunk bed even more efficient, consider models that have an office space in the bottom bunk. This is a great option for teens' bedrooms however, it also works in smaller spaces. If you don't have enough room for a desk put a desk that is freestanding near the bunks to provide an additional space to work or study. You can also choose a staggered bed that allows three kids to be accommodated in a tiny space by putting two twin beds over the full-size bed.

3. Incorporating the Workstation

Bunk beds aren't just for children they can also be ideal for adults too. When done right they can be stylish and functional and help you save space in your room and also add a fun element to the arrangement. You can personalize your bunk bed to match the design of your bedroom by making a few simple upgrades.

Bunk beds are fantastic because they can double as a desk or workstation. This is a great option for kids that are getting into school age and require a space to work or study. Most bunk beds come with an integrated desk that means all you have to do is take it out when your kid needs to do some work, and then take it back to put it away once they're finished.

If you're looking for a creative way to change the look of your bed into a bunk, consider using a Kee Klamp kit to add an elegant workstation to your set-up. This farmhouse-style bunk bed uses a twin over queen size loft bed that has a black ladder and an integrated workstation underneath, complete with a full length desk, a wood look divider and convenient shelving.

4. Make a bed with a princess theme

Bunk beds are an ideal addition to a kid's bedroom regardless of whether they're intended for guests or siblings. As they're usually the focal point of the room, you'll want them to look stunning. To ensure that your bunks fit into the space and aesthetic of the rest of the bedroom, start by measuring your space and determining the best bunk beds for low ceilings dimensions you can achieve. Make sure to take into account the ceiling's height especially if you have children who will be using the top bunk. This can be risky especially if you have a ceiling fan near by.

A lot of our favorite bunk bed options also convert into two beds to accommodate the needs of your growing child. This twin-over full bed for instance, is constructed of a sturdy, easy structure and is available in four different finishes, so you can easily locate one that matches your child's room decor.

If you're looking for a bed that's both playful and functional look into this twin-over-full version with a slide built-in. You can add a trundle on the bottom for sleepovers, or simply use the upper bunk as an entertainment area with an adjustable TV stand that can be pulled out. This bunk's solid wood construction, timeless design and timeless style will make it look stylish even when your children become teens or tweens.

5. Keep It Neutral

Bunk beds can be a great option to create a practical and kid-friendly room. One of the most effective ways to achieve this is to keep your colour 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 comes with a drawer underneath the lower best value bunk beds that can be used to store a twin trundle for sleepovers. This is an ideal choice for a shared space for two children.

Pastels are a great choice for bunk rooms, because they give you the pleasure of color, but keep things stylish and trendy. Kelly Hartley of Hartley Home designed this bunk room using a combination of light greens, smokey grays, and cloud whites to give the beds a tranquil appearance. A bed with bedding that is similar to the color scheme brings the room together to create a style that kids (and parents) will love.

It is important to consider the way you intend to use the space when choosing the bunk bed. If you'd like your child's beds to double as an office or study space, opt for the loft model with a built-in desk and chair beneath for a sleeker appearance. This classic wooden bunk from @bluedreamslady also has a storage compartment that's big enough to hold extra books and toys.

6. Add a splash of Color

A lot of bunk bed designs are geared for toddlers and elementary school-aged children, but that doesn't mean adults can't also enjoy the space-saving sleeping solution. The bunk bed could work in a sophisticated adult bedroom, especially if the look is tempered with a clean color scheme and a few accents. For example, this West Elm x Pottery Barn modern mid-century twin bunk bed looks gorgeous in a neutral bedroom with plenty of natural wood and white furniture.

Bunk beds can be used in any room, including attics as well as bonus spaces with low ceilings. Marnie Custom Homes' custom-built style is perfect for rooms that have an unusual shape. However, a DIY solution could be fashionable. Select a bunk bed that is custom-made with railings designed to protect you from bruises and bumps when walking up the stairs.

A bunk bed is a great opportunity to decorate your child's room with a fun theme. Create a forest hideout with woodland animals and trees for girls or boys, or choose bright colors with 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 stunning new holiday home by Georgina Jeffries.

7. Mixing It Up

Bunk beds are not just for children's rooms. A modern bunk bed is a fantastic option for an adult's bedroom.

Be aware of the overall appearance of the space when choosing the best bunk beds. Choose from a variety styles, such as classic, bohemian and coastal. Be sure to choose the one that best bunk bed reviews suits your style. Then, play around with the ways you can incorporate your bunk bed into the overall design of your room.

For instance, if you have a queen over queen bunk bed, you can add an upholstered bench at the foot of the bed below. This will provide a comfortable place to read or relax and help create a visual separation between the two beds.

Another option to make your bunk bed appear less juvenile is to replace the ladder for an escalator. This will instantly give your bedroom a more refined appearance and is a safe option for children who are older. You can also decorate the staircase to match the theme of your child's bedroom like this nautical bedroom from Raili Clasen.