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 appear larger.

Some bunks are equipped with ladders (which Fenton says are easier to climb than the stairs) and some even have trundles which allow for sleepovers. Some are even able to accommodate twin and full XL mattresses, which makes them great for older kids and adults as well.

1. Keeping It Simple

A bunk bed does not have to be the centerpiece in the room. In fact, it's often better to keep it as a background item which allows other elements such as storage, artwork, and other furniture to be the center of attention. This simple bunk design -featuring beds with matching headboards and footboards -is a great example.

Many bunk beds are built in as part of the wall, which can make them feel less of an accessory and more like a permanent fixture in the space. However, even though built-in bunks look stunning, you can still find gorgeous freestanding designs. This one is constructed of wood, however it uses pipe fittings to build the railing and the ladder. Kee Klamp fittings like the Single Socket Tee and Flange Elbow can be used to create the same structure.

Bunk beds are the ideal solution for a shared child's bedroom, particularly in a smaller home. Consider a staggered bed design that lets two people sleep on the top bunk, but allows plenty of space below for play, storage, and study. This bunk bed with an L-shaped shape, for instance, has plenty of space underneath the bed and offers enough nooks for each kid to set up a table -- something that may not work as well with regular built-in bunks.

2. Adding Extra Storage

Creative storage solutions will transform your sleeping area into a chic and functional space, whether you choose to build bunk beds from scratch or purchase a pre-built model. These handy accessories include stair-side cabinets, which offer a convenient place to store clothes and other items without sacrificing the aesthetics of a bunk bed design, and shelves on the wall that are ideal for storing toys, books, and decorative items.

Drawers that are able to fit under the frame are another great way to add more storage to a bunkbed. These compartments are great for storing out-of-season clothes as well as bedding, blankets and books. They're also hidden from view, they won't interfere with the style of the bedroom.

Look for models with a desk integrated into the bottom bunk if you want your bunk bed to be even more efficient. This is a great idea for bedrooms for teenagers and also works in smaller spaces. And, if you're lacking desk space, think about installing a freestanding table near the bunks, to provide an extra spot to work and study. You can also opt for staggered bunks, which is a well-liked option that lets children sleep three people in a small room by offering two twin beds over the full-sized bottom bed.

3. The addition of a Workstation

Bunk beds aren't just for kids They can be ideal for adults too. If they are designed correctly, bunk beds can be practical and stylish and help you reduce space in your bedroom while also adding a fun element to the arrangement. You can make your bunk bed to match the style of your bedroom with a few simple upgrades.

One of the greatest advantages of bunk beds is that they can easily be used as a workstation or desk. This is a great choice for children about to start school and require an area where they can study or do their homework. A lot of bunk beds have tables built in which means you can put it out for your child to work on and put it back in the event that they are completed.

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

4. The bed can be made Princess-themed

Bunk beds can be a fun feature for any child's room regardless of whether it's for siblings or just for guests on occasion. Because they're usually the centerpiece of a room they must look beautiful. To ensure that your bunks fit within the space and look of the rest of the bedroom, start by measuring your space and determining the best dimensions you can achieve. Make sure to consider the ceiling's height especially in the case of children who will be using your top bunk. This could be risky, particularly if there is a ceiling fan near by.

Many of our top bunk beds can also be converted into two beds to accommodate your growing child's needs. This twin-over-full-bed is a good example. It has an easy, solid construction and four different finish colors, so it's easy to find one that is compatible with the decor of your child's room.

This twin-over-full-size bunk bed with slide is both entertaining and practical. You can use the upper bunk with the pull-out TV stand to serve as an entertainment center, or add a trundle on the bottom bunk for sleepovers. The solid wood construction of this bunk and timeless design style will make it look stylish even when your kids reach their tweens or teens.

5. Maintaining Neutrality

Bunk beds can be a great option to create a practical and a child-friendly room. One of the easiest ways to achieve this is to keep your colour palette neutral. This bunk bed is a blend of traditional and modern elements with neutral shades of blue, gray and white that won't be out of style as your child gets older. It has a drawer under the lower bunk that can be used to store a twin trundle for sleepovers. This is a great option for a shared room for two siblings.

Pastels are an excellent option for bunk rooms because they provide the excitement of color while keeping things cool and stylish. This bunk 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 in the same color scheme can be used to tie the room together. Kids (and parents) alike will love the style.

When you're choosing a bunk bed, it's essential to consider how you'll utilize the space. If you'd like your child's beds to double as a study or office space, opt for the loft model with a built-in desk and chair underneath for a smarter look. This classic wooden bunk bed designed by @bluedreamslady features an area for storage that is large enough to hold books and toys.

6. Add a splash of Color

The majority of bunk beds are designed for children in elementary school. However, adults can also benefit from the space-saving solution. A bunk bed can even fit into a chic adult bedroom, especially when the design is tempered by a simple color scheme and minimal accents. This West Elm x Pottery Bar modern-day mid-century twin bed would look great in an uncluttered bedroom with plenty of natural wood furniture and white.

Bunk beds can work in any type of room, including attics and bonus rooms with high ceilings that are slanted. A custom-built design like this one created by Marnie Custom Homes works best for rooms that have an odd shape however, a DIY option can also be fashionable. Choose a custom-made bunkbed with railings that are constructed to prevent bruises and bumps when walking up the stairs.

A bunk bed is an excellent opportunity to decorate your child's room with a theme that is fun. Create a woodland retreat for boys or girls with trees and woodland creatures, or add in some bright colors with a nautical style. A Scandi-inspired bunk bed could appear sleek and modern in the shades of grey, blue and white, as shown in this gorgeous new holiday home designed by Georgina Jeffries.

7. Mixing it up

Bunk beds are not just for rooms for children. A stylish bunk bed is a great solution for an adult's bedroom.

Be aware of the overall appearance of the space when choosing the best bunk beds. There are a variety of styles to choose from, including classic, bohemian and coastal, so take the time to select the one that works best with your personal style. Try experimenting with the style of your room and see 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 space to read or relax and help separate the two beds visually.

Another way to make your bunk bed seem less childish is to swap out an old ladder in favor of stairs. This will instantly give your bedroom a more refined appearance and is a better option for older children. Plus, you can easily decorate the staircase in a style that suits your child's room theme, such as this nautical bedroom by Raili Clasen.