How to Choose the Best Bunk Bed Design

Bunk beds are ideal for bedrooms shared by children or a guest room. They can also provide additional storage space and make the room appear larger.

Some bunks come with ladders (which Fenton says are easier to climb than stairs) and some even have trundles at the bottom which allow for sleepovers. Some are even able to accommodate twin and full size mattresses, so they're great for older children and adults too.

1. Keeping It Simple

A bunk bed does not have to be a major focal point in the room; in fact, it's usually better to keep it as a background piece that allows other elements like artwork, storage and other furnishings to be the center of attention. This basic bunk designthat includes beds that have matching headboards and footboards -- is a great example.

A lot of bunk beds are built into walls. This could make them appear less as an addition, and more like permanent fixtures in the room. But even though built-in bunks look stunning there are stunning freestanding designs. This one, for instance is constructed from wood but uses 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 can be the ideal solution for a shared child's bedroom, especially in a smaller house. To maximize space, think about a staggered layout that sleeps two people in the top bed, yet leaves plenty of floor space below for playing, studying and storage. This L-shaped bed, for instance has plenty of space under the lower bed. It also provides enough room for each child to set up a small side table.

2. Adding Extra Storage

Innovative storage solutions can transform your sleeping area into a stylish and functional space, whether you build bunk beds from scratch or purchase a pre-built model. They include staircases that can be used to store clothing and other items without compromising on the aesthetics of a bunkbed style. They also come with wall-mounted shelves for books, toys and other decorative things.

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

If you're looking to make your bunk bed even more efficient, look for models that include an office space in the bottom bunk. This is a great idea for bedrooms of teenagers, but also works well in smaller rooms. If you're short on desk space, 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, which is a well-liked option that lets children sleep three people in a small room by providing two twin beds above a full-size bottom bed.

3. The addition of a workstation

Bunk beds can be a great option for both adults and children. Bunk beds can be a great way to save space and provide a fun element to your space. With a few simple upgrades, you can make your bunk bed appear more personalized and fit in with the design style of your room.

Bunk beds are fantastic because they can double as an office desk or workstation. This is a great choice for children about to go to school and require an area to study or do their homework. A lot of bunk beds have tables built in which means you can roll it out for your child to work on, and then return it when they're done.

You might want to consider a Kee Klamp Kit to add a modern workspace to your bunk bed. This rustic-style bunk bed features a twin over queen size loft bed with a black ladder and a workstation under, with a full-length desk, a wood-look divider and convenient shelving.

4. Add a bed with a princess theme

Bunk beds can be a fun addition to any kid's room regardless of whether for siblings or just for guests who come in occasionally. And, as they're typically an important focal point in the room, you need them to look fantastic. Begin by measuring the space and determining the size you're able to work within. Make sure to consider the height of the ceiling especially if you have children who will use the top bunk. This can be risky especially if there's an overhead fan in the vicinity.

Many of our top bunk beds can be converted into two beds to accommodate the growing needs of your child. This twin-over full bed for instance, is made of a sturdy, simple construction and comes in four different finishes, making it easy to find one to match your child's room decor.

This twin-over-full bed with slide is both fun and practical. You can also use the top bunk with the pull-out TV stand as an entertainment center or add a trundle on the bottom bunk for sleepovers. The solid wood construction of this bunk with a timeless design and timeless style will make it appear cool even when your children reach teens or tweens.

5. Keep It Neutral

Bunk beds are the ideal opportunity to create a room that's both functional and kid-friendly and one of the most effective ways to do this is to keep your colour scheme neutral. This bunk bed blends traditional and modern features in neutral shades of gray, blue and white that won't change as your child gets older. It also features 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 for a shared bedroom for two kids.

Pastels are ideal for bunk rooms as they bring color and fun, but keep the room trendy and chic. Kelly Hartley from Hartley Home designed this bunk bed for kids room with a mix of light greens, smoky grays, and cloud whites to give the beds a tranquil appearance. The bedding that is similar to the color scheme makes the entire room look cohesive to create a style that kids (and parents) will appreciate.

When choosing a bunk bed, it's important to think about how you will use the space. If you want your children's beds to be used as an office or study area, choose an loft style with an integrated desk and chair beneath for a smarter look. This classic wooden bunk from @bluedreamslady has a storage compartment that's big enough to accommodate additional books and toys.

6. A little pop of Color

The majority of bunk beds are designed for children who are in elementary school. However, adults can also benefit from this space-saving solution. The bunk bed could work in a sophisticated adult bedroom, particularly if the look is tempered with a minimalist colour scheme and minimal accents. This West Elm x Pottery Bar modern mid-century twin bed will be perfect in a neutral bedroom with lots of natural wood and white furniture.

Bunk beds can work in any room, including attics and bonus spaces with high ceilings that are slanted. A custom-built design like this one created by Marnie Custom Homes works best rated bunk beds for rooms that have an odd shape, but a DIY solution can also be fashionable. Choose a custom-made bunkbed 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-themed hideout using trees and woodland animals for boys or girls, or use vibrant colors with a nautical theme. In a palette of grey, blue, and white, a bed with a Scandi theme can look modern, sleek and stylish as seen in the stunning new holiday home designed by Georgina Jeffreys.

7. Mixing it up

Bunk beds are not just for children's rooms. A chic bunk bed is an ideal option for an adult's bedroom.

Take into consideration the overall look of the space when picking the ideal bunk beds. Select from a range of styles, such as bohemian, classic and coastal. Take the time to pick the one that best suits your personal style. Try experimenting with the style of your room and consider how you can incorporate the bunk bed.

For instance, if have a queen-over-queen bunk bed, consider adding an upholstered bench at the bottom of the bed. This will provide a comfortable spot for reading or relaxing and can help to create a visual separation between the two beds.

Another way to make your bunk bed feel more adult is to switch out the ladder for an escalator. This instantly gives your bedroom a more refined appearance, and is a safer option for children who are older. Plus, you can easily decorate the staircase in a way that suits your child's room style, like this nautical bedroom by Raili Clasen.