How to Choose the Best Bunk Bed Design

Bunk beds can be a great option for a shared kids bedroom or guest room. They can also add storage space and make the room appear bigger.

Some bunk beds have ladders, which Fenton claims are more comfortable to climb than stairs. Some have trundles at the bottom for sleepovers. Some bunks are able to accommodate twin XL beds and full mattresses, making them ideal for older children and adults.

1. Keep It Simple

It's not required for bunk beds to be the focal point of the room. In fact, it's often best made bunk beds to use it as a backdrop item and allow other elements like storage, artwork, and other furnishings to take centre stage. This simple bunk design -featuring beds with matching headboards and footboards -is a great example.

Many 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 room. However, even though built-in bunks look stunning there are gorgeous freestanding designs. This one, for example is constructed from wood, but it makes use of pipe fittings to construct the ladder and railing. You can build similar structures using Single Socket Tee, Flange Elbow and 90 Degree Elbow fittings from Kee Klamp.

Bunk beds are the perfect solution for a shared child's bedroom, especially in a smaller home. You can consider a staggered design that allows two people to sleep on the top bunk, but provides ample space below for play, storage and studying. This bunk bed with an L-shaped shape, for example, provides ample space under the bed, and provides enough nooks for every child to set up a side table -- something that may not work as well with regular built-in bunks.

2. Adding Extra Storage

If you're creating your own bunk beds or selecting a ready-made solution, innovative storage solutions can turn your bedroom into a practical and stylish space. These handy accessories include staircases, which offer a convenient storage space for clothes and other items without sacrificing the aesthetics of a bunk bed, and shelves on the wall that are ideal for storing toys, books and other items of decor.

Drawers that fit under the frame are a great way to add more storage space to a bunk bed. These compartments are great to store clothes that aren't in season and bedding, or even blankets and books. They are concealed and do not affect the style of the bedroom.

Look for models with a desk built into the bottom bunk, if you want your bunk bed to be more efficient. This is a common choice for rooms for teens however, it's also a great method to maximize the use of smaller bedrooms. If you're a bit 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 a staggered bunk, which is a well-liked option that lets children sleep three people in a small space by putting two twin beds above a full-size bottom bed.

3. Addition of a Workstation

Bunk beds aren't just reserved for kids they can also be great for adults, too. Bunk beds can be a great option to reduce space and add a fun element to your room. You can make your bunk bed to match the style of your bedroom with some simple changes.

Bunk beds are great as they can be used as a desk or workstation. This is a fantastic option for kids that are reaching school age and need a place to do their homework or study. Most bunk beds come with tables built in and you can lay it out for your child to work on and put it back when they are done.

If you're looking for a unique method to make your bunk bed, consider using a Kee Klamp kit to add modern workstations to your set-up. This farmhouse-style bunk bed uses a twin over queen loft bed that has a black ladder and a workstation under, with an entire length desk, a wood-look partition and a convenient shelf.

4. Adding a Princess-Themed Bed

Bunk beds are a great option for a bedroom for a child, whether they are intended for guests or siblings. And, as they're typically the focal point of the room, you want them to look stunning. Start by measuring the room and determining the size you're able to work with. Make sure you consider the ceiling's height particularly in the case of children who will use the top bunk. This could be risky especially if there's a ceiling fan nearby.

Many of our favorite bunk beds can be made into two beds to accommodate the growing needs of your child. This twin-over full bed for instance, is constructed of a best solid wood bunk beds, simple structure and is available in four different finishes so you can easily choose one that will complement your child's room decor.

This twin-over-full-size bunk bed with slide is fun and functional. You can also add an extra trundle to the bottom for sleepovers or simply use the upper bunk as an entertainment area with a pullout TV stand. The solid wood construction and timeless design ensures that this bunk will still look cool once your kids reach tweens or teens, too.

5. Keep It Neutral

Bunk beds offer the opportunity to create a functional and child-friendly space. One of the easiest methods to achieve this is to keep your colors neutral. This bunk bed blends modern and traditional elements in neutral shades of blue, gray, and white that won't change as your child gets older. It also has a drawer under the lower bunk, which can accommodate a twin trundle bed for sleepovers and is an ideal choice to share a bedroom with two siblings.

Pastels are ideal for bunk rooms as they add color and fun, but keep the room trendy and chic. This bunk room is designed by Kelly from Hartley Home, uses a blend of light green, dark grey, and cloud white that creates a tranquil style. The bedding in a similar palette pulls the whole room together for a look that children (and parents) will love.

When selecting a bunk bed, it's essential to think about how you will use the space. If you'd like your children's beds to function as an office or study space, opt for an loft style with an integrated desk and chair underneath for a sleeker appearance. This classic wooden bunk bed by @bluedreamslady has an area for storage that is large enough to store extra books and toys.

6. Adding a 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 option. A bunk bed is a great option for an elegant adult bedroom, particularly when the design is toned down and has a simple color scheme. This West Elm x Pottery Bar modern-day mid-century twin bed would be perfect in an uncluttered bedroom with plenty of natural wood furniture and white.

Bunk beds are suitable for any room, including attics or bonus rooms with roofs that are slanted. A custom-built design like this one crafted by Marnie Custom Homes works best bunk beds with storage for rooms that have an odd shape however, a DIY design can also be stylish. Pick a bunk bed made to order with railings constructed to prevent bumps and bruises while walking up the stairs.

A bunk bed is a great chance to decorate a child's room with a fun theme. Make a hideaway for the forest with woodland animals and trees for boys or girls, or choose bright colors with a nautical theme. In a color palette of blue, grey and white, a bed with a Scandi theme can appear sleek, modern and chic, as shown in the stunning new home for the holidays designed by Georgina Jeffreys.

7. Mixing It Up

Bunk beds are not just for children's rooms. In fact, a stylish bunk bed can also be a perfect solution to an adult bedroom.

When choosing the best bunk bed in the world bunk bed for your space, take into consideration the overall style of the room. There are a variety of styles to pick from such as bohemian, classic, and coastal, so take the time to choose the one that is most compatible for your style. You can then play around with how you can integrate your bunk bed into the overall design of your room.

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

A staircase can be utilized to make your bunk beds look less childish. This instantly gives your room a more sophisticated appearance and is a safe option for older children. You can also decorate the staircase to match your child's theme, such as this nautical bedroom by Raili Clasen.