A bunk bed these days is becoming a real salvation for parents living in cramped city apartments with two or more children. However, the children's room must still meet the main requirements - a feeling of comfort and ease of use for children. The design of a room with a bunk bed must be thought out very carefully so as not to spoil the room or make it even cramped.
What is preferable - two separate beds in the nursery or one two-level? The answer to this question directly depends on the room and its dimensions. If two children share an area of less than 12 square meters, then it is more advisable to install a bunk bed. This choice will also have to be made if the room is not much more spacious, but part of it is allocated for a play or work area. Also, bunk beds may be needed when accommodating three or more children.
How to properly place a bunk bed in a small room, and what sleeping places to prefer - read our article today.
Choosing furniture for a children's room
Choosing furniture for a children's room is not as simple as it might seem at first glance. It is important to consider the many factors that may affect children. First of all, you need to decide on the required size and shape of the beds. At this point, it’s worth starting from the age of the children and how long the structure should last.
It is better to give preference to large and spacious models in advance. This two-tier design will take up little space and will delight any child.
The bed should be spacious and comfortable.
Every parent wants to ensure maximum safety for their child. Therefore, it is important to look at the design of the frame and the material from which the bed is made. Also, do not forget about the design and preferences of children. It is better to find out in advance what kind of bed they would like to see. Especially if the kids are of different sexes.
The design should be safe, and the design should appeal to both children.
Advice. It is important to find a compromise so that both people like the room with a bunk bed.
What materials are they made of?
For manufacturing, higher quality materials are chosen, for example:
- Wooden.
- Metal.
- Fiberboard.
- Chipboard.
In the photo there is a children's room for a girl and a boy and a bunk bed made of fiberboard.
Types of beds
There are many types of beds for two children. There are separate models of bunk beds for a small room and a more spacious one. The design includes various additional items for convenience and saving space. And there are also standard options.
Classical
This is the most common bed with two tiers, the standard option. The design consists of two beds, which are located on two levels. There are no additional elements. There is only a ladder for convenient movement to the second tier. It can be located either on the side or on the front. This model is inexpensive, but at the same time performs all the necessary functions. It is very convenient for children to use
The classic option is a regular bed without additional elements.
With work area
This option is perfect for small rooms. Due to the additional element in the form of a work area, it will be possible to fully equip the room. There are options when the work area is not built in initially, but is transformed, for example, from a bed or reclines.
The built-in work area saves free space in the room.
Not every tier is converted into a table, but only the bottom one. The advantage is the horizontal movement of the tabletop. That is, the table simply goes down, while it is possible not to remove all the necessary items from it. You can find options with two beds and two workstations.
With additional wardrobe
This is a Regular model, but only with an additional cabinet, which is placed on one side, or maybe on both sides at once. It is convenient to store things or any other accessories. There are many modifications of this design. In addition to the cabinet, it can be supplemented with open or closed shelves and drawers. The sizes of storage spaces vary. The advantage of such a bed is that you don’t have to buy additional cabinets.
The wardrobe can be placed on either side of the bed.
The space will be used more ergonomically; it will be possible, if necessary, to put other additional furniture in place of the cabinet.
With play area
This option is suitable for small and active children. The standard equipment consists of a wall bars, crossbars and horizontal bars, and hanging rings. Some include a swing, rope ladder or rope. For growing kids, this will be an excellent option to start maintaining their physical health from childhood.
Beds with a play area are suitable for active children.
With pull-out second bed
This model looks like a kind of nesting doll. Suitable for cases when children are afraid of heights, but it is not possible to place two separate beds. This is a transformable bed. One berth pulls out from the lower tier of the other. It differs from the others precisely in that the beds are located below, but do not take up much space and retain all the functions of two tiers.
A pull-out bed is suitable for children who are afraid of heights.
Types of children's bunk beds: photos of original models
One of the main advantages of bunk beds for children (the photos clearly confirm this) is the variety of types of designs. From among the existing models, you can choose the ideal option in accordance with the child’s ideas about personal space and the requirements of the parents.
The entire diverse range of bunk beds can be divided into separate groups: by the number of beds, by type of design, by material of manufacture, for children of different ages, for children of different sexes.
Bunk beds are popular in families with 2 or more children
Bunk beds can have from one to four sleeping places and, depending on this, are divided into 4 categories. The first includes two-tier structures intended for one child. Bed sizes vary. For small rooms you can equip a single bed. In a spacious room, it is recommended to install a one-and-a-half structure. If same-sex small children sleep on it, the bed can be a double bed.
The sleeping place is on the second tier. The first is reserved for a work or play area. There can be a comfortable desk and open shelves for toys. Part of the space or the entire area can be allocated to a storage system in the form of drawers, shelves, racks, cabinets and chests of drawers. The different models are clearly shown in the photo of bunk beds for children with a table, wardrobe and other furniture elements.
Wood remains the most popular material for making children's beds due to its environmental friendliness
Children are greatly delighted with models with a play complex, which is located under the upper tier. This option is preferred by families who pay attention to the physical education of the child.
Options for a two-level bed for two or more children
The second category is represented by classic designs with two separate beds, which can be placed parallel, perpendicular or offset relative to each other, which is clearly shown in the photo of children's rooms with bunk beds.
Models with a sofa on the lower tier, which transforms into a wide bed, look interesting and unusual. There may be a compartment for linen underneath. A children's bunk bed with a sofa below will be preferable for sociable children who often have guests.
A bunk bed is an excellent option for children of any age category.
Helpful advice! Parents can sleep on the lower tier sofa, which is an ideal solution for families living in a one-room apartment.
Transformable bunk beds that turn into sofas will look interesting and unusual. Such designs do not require much free space and are easy to manage.
The third category includes two-level beds for children with three sleeping places. The standard model of this design looks like an L-shaped non-demountable frame with two beds on top. The lower berth is adjacent to the play or work area. This design requires quite a lot of space. For small spaces, the most rational solution is a bed with three pull-out tiers.
The corner option for placing a bunk bed allows you to maximize the space of the room
There are models with three separate levels located perpendicular to each other. This option is suitable for apartments with high ceilings where children of high school age live.
Related article:
Do-it-yourself bunk bed: stages of assembling different design options. Varieties of designs. Optimal sizes. Material of manufacture. The sequence of assembling a bed made of wood, chipboard and metal.
A successful model is a bunk pull-out bed, in which the lower floor turns into a double bed, which is convenient for same-sex children.
The fourth category includes beds intended for large families. The sleeping places are united by a durable frame. Two beds are on the first floor, two on the second. Such models do not have a functional area.
Design options for bunk beds for children
There are four types of bunk beds for children:
- classic model;
- loft bed;
- transformable bed;
- design with additional functional elements.
The classic design is represented by a solid or prefabricated frame, in which the upper and lower tiers are located strictly parallel to each other. In this case, the sleeping places are separate. To reach the second floor, a staircase with steps or rungs is provided.
Classic bed models have parallel placement, but there are other options
There are several modifications of the classic design. Sleeping places can be shifted to the left or right side relative to each other. In this case, the freed up space can be used to organize a storage system. Interesting models are presented in the photo of bunk beds for children with a wardrobe, chest of drawers and pencil case.
Sleeping areas can be located perpendicular to each other or crosswise. This option gives free rein to your imagination for organizing a bedside space, which can easily be supplemented with other furniture modules. Here you can equip a work area with a desk, organize a storage system for books, toys, clothes and other things. Interesting ideas for arranging a bedside space are shown in the photo of children's rooms with a bunk bed.
Bunk beds with table and other furniture elements
The loft bed is intended for one child. The sleeping place is located on the second tier. Under it you can organize an open area or create a multifunctional storage system for toys and things. A retractable table would be useful here, where both preschoolers and schoolchildren can study. It is important that it is equipped with a good lighting system. Different versions of this design can be seen in the photo of children's bunk beds with a table below.
A living or sports corner is often set up in an open area. The side of the bed can be used to organize a wall bars, where the child can do morning exercises.
Helpful advice! A bunk children's bed with a ladder-drawers, the upper part of which are steps, will allow you to get a spacious storage system.
If there is one child in a family and the room is small, they often equip a sleeping place on the second tier, devoting the lower space to a play area
Currently, some manufacturers produce loft beds for two children. Such designs are represented by corner models. The sleeping places are equipped with a common side at the head. Below them are separate functional areas. Different design options can be seen in the photo of corner bunk beds for children.
Products with additional functional elements are the most complex headset. One or more sleeping places can be arranged here, various cabinets, pencil cases, open shelves, drawers and baskets can be installed, which is clearly shown in the photo of children's bunk beds with a table and other furniture elements. The staircase can be located anywhere.
Types of children's transformable bunk beds
Transformable beds can be presented in several designs. Such structures are additionally equipped with a mechanism, thanks to which its individual elements are pulled out and then hidden back. There are five types of multi-tier transformers:
- retractable;
- sliding;
- folding;
- folding;
- modular.
Bed models with perpendicular placement are suitable for small bedrooms - they can be installed either in the middle of the room or in the corner
A retractable children's bunk bed when folded takes up the space required for a single bed. Thanks to the simple roller mechanism on the bottom tier, you can create a double or triple bed by sliding one tier out from under the other. If the model has a roller mechanism, then the lower part will be located close to the upper part when unfolded. If gel wheels are installed, the lower bed can be moved to any place in the room.
Helpful advice! For families with three children, the most budget-friendly and practical option is a pull-out bed with three levels.
A sliding bed has a frame that can increase in length by 50-80 cm. A set of such a design must include a special mattress consisting of soft elements that are gradually added as the dimensions of the bed increase.
The folding design at night looks like a regular bed with parallel berths. During the daytime, the frame transforms into a vertical panel. All bed mechanisms are arranged in such a way that the structure can be folded and unfolded easily and safely for the child. An interesting modification of this type is a bed with a podium. In this case, the sleeping places are rolled out from under it. At the base of the podium you can organize a convenient storage system.
Helpful advice! A bed with a podium is suitable for rooms with high ceilings.
The folding design is similar to the previous version. The main difference of this type is the possibility of organizing a work area or storage system at its base.
It’s easy to keep a child’s bed in order if you store things in specially designed drawers
A modular bunk bed consists of independent elements that can be freely moved, combined, removed or added, thereby optimizing the interior space. Many of the components of such a constructor are interchangeable.
Pros and cons of bunk beds
Any bed design has its advantages and disadvantages. The two-tier model is no exception. Among the positive aspects of such a crib are the following:
- Compactness. Most models are designed specifically to save enough space in the room. Often, two high beds can take up even less space than one.
- Convenient accommodation. If you choose designs with additional elements, such as a work area, then placing this will be much easier than looking for separate places for a table and a bed.
- Wide variety of species. Nowadays, so many modifications have been invented that you can arrange a room for even the most picky children. The main thing is to carefully search and choose the appropriate option.
- Combination. The point again refers to varieties that include several zones. This is really very convenient and helps out in many situations. Plus it’s convenient to zone the space.
The advantage of a bunk bed is, first of all, its compactness and ease of placement.
There are many more positive characteristics, but still there are some negative ones:
- Some products are very tall. This can be dangerous for children if they do not follow safety precautions.
- Allergy sufferers should not use this design. This is due to the fact that the upper tier is located almost under the ceiling and air masses circulate poorly there. This may cause allergic reactions in the child.
A bed that is too high can be dangerous, and sleeping under the ceiling is contraindicated for allergy sufferers.
Note! To avoid unpleasant consequences, it is necessary to immediately explain to children all the rules and warn them against possible dangerous situations.
Feature of sofa with bunk bed
Many features of bunk beds in rooms are reflected in the advantages of this design. Separately, it is worth noting that this is a competent optimization of space. In addition to beds, the structure may also include a sofa. It is usually located below as an additional resting place. It may be awkward, meaning it cannot be straightened out for sleeping.
The lower bed can be in the form of a sofa.
But a Euro-book or a classic folding one is quite suitable for a second bed. This design can accommodate not two people, but three. There is also an option with a chair-bed. The seating area can be converted into an extra bed. This will save even more space and give the room a special style.
A folding sofa can be used as a second bed.
Note! If the crib is intended for a non-adult child. It may be difficult for him to lay out such a model every time.
Why is the second tier needed?
Dividing the room into 2 levels visually increases the space and increases the functionality of a small room with high ceilings. The height of the ceilings determines the possibility of using this zoning method. A full second level will be 4 meters high. If the distance to the ceiling is 3-3.5 meters, then the second level is made at least 1 meter high, and below there is a dressing room, bookcase, sleeping place or computer desk.
Such high ceilings remained in “Stalin” and pre-revolutionary apartments. Owners of average modern apartments with a ceiling height of 2.2-2.5 meters can only consider the option with a compartment folding bed.
In country houses, the second level can be planned during the construction stage. In this way, you can “extend” the living room when the first tier flows smoothly along the stairs to the second. On the additional tier you can arrange a comfortable area for guests with a bed and a dressing room. At the same time, in terms of costs, such a layout is more attractive than a full second floor.
Two-level zoning is used by creative people who want to create special harmony in the apartment. Historically, the idea developed along with the loft style during the development of non-residential premises of abandoned factories and workshops with high ceilings.
How to choose the right bed
The choice begins with the selection of suitable material. It should be durable and look aesthetically pleasing indoors. Wooden and steel meet these requirements. It’s also worth measuring in the store whether children will be comfortable on the tiers in a sitting position.
The optimal material for a bed is wood or metal.
You should not take beds without protective sides. The staircase should also be strong and preferably monolithic, the steps should be wide. The children’s opinions must be taken into account when choosing.
There must be protective sides and a durable ladder.
Important! You can check the documents for the bed to ensure it meets all standards while still in the store.
Recommendations for choosing beds
The following nuances need to be taken into account:
- It is not recommended to choose these models for a child under three years old.
- It is advisable not to skimp on the design, mattress and other bedding.
- The second tier must be equipped with sides.
- You should choose high-quality products made from natural and environmentally friendly materials that are not harmful to health.
How to choose a safe model for a child?
When purchasing this product, you need to pay attention to its stability, practicality, safety and build quality. There should also be a fairly strong and high fence and preferably wide steps. Various fasteners and bolts should not protrude from the structure.
Where to place it
Such structures are placed depending on the capabilities of the room and its features. If the structure is angular, then it is better to place it in a corner. The remaining models fit well along free walls. If there is a work or play area, they are placed closer to the windows, so that during the day everything is illuminated by natural light. The sofa should be able to unfold freely.
The location of the bed must be carefully considered.
Bunk bed for children of different genders and ages
Depending on the age and gender of your children, it is worth choosing different design solutions. Which ones exactly? Let's take a closer look. But we should not forget that the entire interior, first of all, should reflect the inner world and character of its inhabitant.
First of all, when decorating a children's room, do not forget that:
- the bed should fit organically into the interior design, which is decorated in neutral shades (several colors can be used);
- Moreover, both tiers must have an individual image that clearly reflects the character of its owner;
- you can also equip the space around the bed with shelves for small items, decorating them at the discretion of boys and girls;
- It is better to choose a modern style for the overall interior, using unobtrusive and laconic decorative elements; the bed can be the simplest, without any frills;
- by choosing textiles, you can clearly reflect your child’s lifestyle and worldview;
- But if you are decorating a room for teenagers, be sure to ask what they want - they are now at a specific age when they want to be heard - you can safely trust them, allowing you to build the entire design yourself.
The choice is a little more difficult when children are of different genders. After all, a boy wants one thing, and a girl wants something completely different.
For one child
If the nursery is small and you have only one child, then the best option would be to choose a bunk bed - where on the first tier there is a workplace or lockers, and on the second there is a sleeping place. Also, depending on the gender of the child, you should select a color scheme for the model that will fit well into the overall design of the child’s bedroom. For girls, light tones of peach-pink are preferred, and for boys, blue-green or gray shades are preferred.
For two children
For two children, you need a very durable bed so that it can support them during play and sleep. You need to select it based on the taste preferences of both your children, but, again, pay attention to its functionality. For example, the bed can even have a third tier, the lowest one having a pull-out extra bed. This is very convenient if your children like to invite friends over for a sleepover.
For two children of different genders
The choice is a little more difficult when children are of different genders. After all, the boy wants one thing, and the girl wants something completely different. But there are also cases when children are very friendly and it is easy to agree with them on the overall design of the bed. For example, the bed will be made of dark wood (so that there are no pink or blue colors), but one half of the room and the lower tier are decorated in full accordance with the girl’s taste, while the second and upper tier are designed based on the boy’s preferences.
For two children of different ages
When children have a small age difference, this is not particularly noticeable, but when it’s the other way around, it’s worth thinking about the fact that everyone should have their own workplace, and the bed can also be bunk - the eldest child will sleep on the first floor, and the youngest on the second.
Basic options for bunk beds
The design of bunk beds depends on who they are intended for. There are many variations and there is a model for everyone.
For a child with a parent
Beds are provided for the child and parent, when the lower tier is made as a double, and the upper as a single. This arrangement may be an ideal option for studio apartments, where it is difficult to accommodate several beds at once. The design can be anything from classic to techno. This design looks very neat and aesthetically pleasing.
For a child with a parent, the lower bed is made wider than the upper one.
For two boys
Boys will be delighted with a double bed in the shape of a ship or car. Usually they choose a cool color scheme - these are blue, light blue, and green shades. You can use orange. And of course, you can’t go without classic white.
For boys, cool colors are usually chosen.
For boys, the option with a play area or a work area is perfect. In addition to a specific bed theme, you can simply choose a beautiful color with decent fittings.
You can choose the option with a sports play area.
For girls
Girls often choose beds in a certain style. It can be shabby chic with lots of flowers and beautiful patterns, Provence or Art Nouveau. It is better to choose a design in a light shade: white, pink, purple, peach and any other pastel colors.
Girls often prefer shades of pink and pastel colors.
A wall bars design is unlikely to be suitable for girls. Therefore, it is better to give preference to a closet or work area. And the game room is designed separately.
For children of different sexes
For people of different sexes, a discreet and universal option is better. You can choose minimalism or classic style. The color palette in this case is a little limited. The best option would be inconspicuous white, gray or black. If the design does not belong to one of the genders, then you can mark whose sleeping place is with the help of bed linen.
For children of different sexes, it is better to choose a neutral color option, and designate areas for each child using bedding and other elements.
For children of different ages
The design of a bunk bed for children of different ages is designed in two ways. The first is the choice of a restrained style (minimalism or classic). And the second one is more rational. Special models have been invented for people of different ages.
One bed is calmer and has no frills in the form of a sofa, intended for an older child. Most often it is located below. And the second one was made specifically for the younger one with various additions that indicate this. That is, two completely different models are combined into one.
The older child is usually placed downstairs on the sofa, and the youngest is upstairs.
For teenagers
For teenagers, a model is selected taking into account growing up. That is, it is better not to choose multi-colored ones in the form of cars. Preference is given to functionality and a laconic design that will suit both children. You can choose an option with two work areas so that everyone has their own separate space, even though it is in the same room and same structure.
For teenagers, functionality and laconic design taking into account the age of children are more suitable.
Design examples of bunk beds
Photo of the design of two-tier structures.
Bed-bus
It provides not only a cozy place to sleep, but also for active games. A bus bed can come in a huge variety of different designs, such as a school bus or fantasy cartoon models.
Car bed
Sometimes a car bed is equipped with lighting, drawers, shelves and other elements. Such models have both open and closed versions with windows and doors.
House
This product has a truly fabulous, unusual look and radically changes the environment of the nursery, both boys and girls.
In the form of a ship
A ship bed equipped with movable anchors, ropes, a rotating helm, lowering and rising sails, a real pirate flag or other special details will make spending time in the nursery even more interesting and exciting.
Forged
They are distinguished by a strong frame and reliable sides that ensure safe sleep for the child. In addition, these iron products can have a more laconic design or be made with elements of artistic forging with amazing curls and patterns.
The photo shows a black wrought-iron bunk bed in a Scandinavian-style children's interior.
With canopy
Thanks to such a spectacular addition as a canopy, it is possible to give the nursery’s interior a special charm and create a secluded, cozy and calm atmosphere.
In the form of a castle
Most often, a castle bed is used to decorate a girls’ room. This design has special stairs, high towers and playgrounds that will create an ideal sleeping area for little princesses.
With drawings
They will become a real interior decoration and will add a certain mood and originality to the nursery environment.
How to make a bed with your own hands
Note! It is necessary to make a bed according to all the rules, since the design is intended for children. It must be highly durable and reliable. Particular attention is paid to fasteners and the upper tier.
It is better to make a classic design yourself. A preliminary view of the bed is being designed. This is done through a drawing. All dimensions are marked on it: height, width and depth. The staircase and its mounting location are carefully drawn. After which the necessary material is selected.
The first step is to draw up a drawing that will indicate all the dimensions of the product.
It's better to choose a tree. It is more reliable and easier to use in construction. The boards are attached to each other with wood screws. It is not recommended to use black self-tapping screws, as they are not reliable. You can secure everything with dowels. But this will make the process more complicated, take longer, and require special tools.
Wood is most suitable for making a bed.
There is no need to fasten all the parts together right away. First, the appearance is also checked, and only then complete installation takes place. First, a frame for a standard bed is made separately in two copies. Then the support is built. Afterwards everything is connected and the ladder is attached. Finishing is carried out in accordance with the interior design.
First the frame is made, then the staircase.
The design of a children's room with a bunk bed always looks very stylish and interesting. This is a great way to save space in the room, but at the same time accommodate all the children, giving each their own place. The design will help zone the space if it contains additional compartments not intended for sleeping and will create a cozy and comfortable atmosphere.
Design ideas in various styles
The appearance and design of the structure must correspond to the overall style of the nursery. For example, for classics and Provence, products made from environmentally friendly natural solids are suitable, and metal structures will perfectly complement loft, hi-tech or modern style.
The photo shows a bunk bed made of natural wood in a children's room in Provence style.
Models made of MDF or chipboard will decorate almost any interior, as they can differ in a variety of shapes and colors. For example, a ship-like bed or a boat will fit perfectly into a nautical-style nursery.
