Pictured: Bunk beds design by Jenny Dina Kirschner; Photo by Ryan Dausch.
While bunk beds often inspire nostalgia from childhood memories of sleepaway camp or slumber parties, many of today’s styles are so large-scale and luxurious that even adults are drawn to their cozy aesthetic. Several leading interior designers share their thoughts about bunk beds they have installed in recent projects as well as other chic designs that set the bar ceiling-high.
Kevie Murphy | Creative Director & Principal of K.A. Murphy Interiors, Manhasset, NY
“I always associate bunk beds with good old-fashioned family fun. With four kids of my own, I have a new appreciation for the way they bring everyone together without too many tantrums about who is hogging the blankets.
The client for this project bought a beautiful log cabin to spend time in with his loved ones, as a respite from his life in Manhattan. This bunk room was intended for any children of his family and friends, and the design was a nod to the woods surrounding the property. The bunk-bed legs and ladder are log forms, adding a rustic texture to the luxe feel of the room. He loved the playful element the log bunk bed added and how complimentary it felt to the surrounding fish-covered wallpaper and cozy multicolored rug. We especially loved how the walnut-colored legs of the bunk beds brought out the matching color in the ceiling and all the details in the fish on the wall. It’s such a fun space, and the bed was essential to making it the perfect balance of playful luxury!”
Photo credit: Adam Macchia
“For the twin-over-full bunk, this client uses the space as the kid’s room in their Hamptons vacation home. Against the multicolored wallpaper, the white bunk pops, and the simple design lays in beautifully with the other elements in the room.”
Photo credit: Jacob Snavely
“The four-bunk room is so fun because as bright and airy as it is, the pops of yellow and blue make it feel like the playroom that it’s intended to be—elegant, but definitely fun. In this multigenerational family vacation home, our clients wanted a place where their children could make memories. The bunk beds are a functional way to have a communal room for sleepovers while making the best use of the space to allow for play. It also elevates the room and helps draw attention to the tall center window and all the light that comes in. The white bunks sleep six in a timeless design with a major plus: the storage underneath for toys, clothes and everything the kids would need for a family get-together!”
Photo credit: Jacob Snavely
James Hunter | Design Director for The Wiseman Group, San Francisco, CA
“This is a children’s bunk room for preteen children in a modern house with clean lines and simple geometries. The clear fir wooden elements with the black painted panels and red ladders echoes the palette of the architectural materials. The clients liked being able to have all the cousins (multifamily vacation house) together to bond with each other.”
Photo credit: Matthew Millman
“This room is a mixed adult and children’s bunk room that could accommodate adult couples with children, all children, or all adults. It is in a wine-country estate for extended family, friends and random guests. The stained wood frames, headboard and footboard are all inserted into a plaster-walled room. The clients liked that they could accommodate all the children to make other bedrooms available for adult guests who over-imbibe.”
Photo credit: Roger Davies
Paul Wiseman | Founder of The Wiseman Group, San Francisco, CA
“This is a bunk room with eight queen beds where the adult children can sleep overnight instead of driving a long way back to the city. Situated within a large country house, this room is appealing to adults because each bed is queen-size. The dark linen walls give the sense of childhood conspiracy!”
Photo credit: Stefano Scata
Kristin Dittmar | Creative Director and Owner, Kristin Dittmar Design, Aspen, CO
“I have so many fun memories of bunk beds from my childhood! As an adult, I sometimes look back and laugh at how thrilling—and a bit scary—it was to jump off the top bunk. The best part, though, was sharing that space with friends. Bunk beds always seemed to create a sense of adventure and camaraderie, making sleepovers even more memorable. It was where we shared stories, laughter, and a little bit of mischief!
This space was designed as a guest bedroom tailored for a couple’s older children who enjoy playing guitar. The clients wanted to create a cozy, inviting atmosphere that reflects the unique Colorado vibe. To achieve this, we incorporated Pelton blankets, which add a touch of warmth, texture and color. The beds feature a rustic aesthetic, combining natural wood and whitewashed beams, plus stylish bedding that complements the overall design. The clients particularly liked how the beds not only serve as functional sleeping areas but also enhance the room’s charm and character, making it a perfect retreat for family and friends.”
“In this photo, I’m particularly drawn to the rustic barnwood and the beautiful caramel tones mixed with shades of blue. This color palette creates an inviting atmosphere that enhances the charm of the bunk beds. The space was thoughtfully designed for older children, ensuring it meets their needs while also being stylish. Additionally, the layout allows the family to entertain guests comfortably, providing cozy areas for everyone to relax and stay overnight.”
“I love the bright and colorful design of these bunk beds. The playful wallpaper pattern, combined with the vibrant red accents in the bedding and throw, create a fun and energetic atmosphere. It truly brings the space to life! This bunk bed is store-bought, which is a fantastic option for those considering budget-friendly solutions without sacrificing style. Overall, it’s a cheerful addition that perfectly suits any child.”
Photos credit: Brooke Casillas
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