- A loft bed functions as a regular bed that is raised to allow the space underneath the bed to be used. Picture a bunk bed without the bottom bunk, and you'll have a good idea of what a loft bed looks like. However, a loft bed need not be a single or twin bed like many children's bunk beds are. They can be larger to accommodate a double, queen or king size mattress. While loft beds are most common in children's bedrooms or college dorm rooms, they are also very acceptable options for adults who have space limitations in a small apartment or home.
- There are two basic types of loft beds, wooden or metal framed. Choosing the type of frame that is right for a particular room will depend on the cost of the frame and the decor of the room. Many loft beds, both wooden framed and metal framed, now come as part of a larger design. The bed may have a small computer desk and books shelves built into the frame or a chest of drawers attached to the legs. Other loft beds are simply a bed on a supportive frame. The bottom is left completely free to be used however it needs to be used in the space. Loft beds designed for children can come in a variety of styles. Panels can be hung from the bed portion down to the floor to make a private area under the bed that is designed to look like a fort or a club house.
- The main benefit of a loft bed is that of added space. With the room under the bed being available for a desk, bookshelves, chests of drawers, a chair or other items of furniture, the rest of the room is freed up to be used in another capacity. Loft beds can also make a small room more livable for more than one occupant. In a children's room or a college dorm, having two loft beds allows both occupants of the room to have a separate bed and defined private space underneath the bed. In a small, one room apartment, a loft bed allows for other furniture pieces such as a sofa to be placed under it, adding additional seating room to a cramped area. Loft beds can also be very stylish. If chosen correctly to go with the other pieces in the room, they can add to the room's decor in a positive way.
- If you are purchasing a loft bed for a child, special considerations should be taken. They are not recommended for children under the age of six, even with safety rails placed around them. Young children may be too tempted to jump from the top bunk and injure themselves. Older children and even adults should have safety rails around all four sides of the loft bed to avoid falling out of bed. Proper construction of the frame is essential. Do not sacrifice a quality frame to save some money. If the frame breaks, serious injuries could happen to anyone in the bed or anyone underneath the bed.
- Loft beds are a design element in a room and most designers will tell you that form should follow function, meaning that an item must be useful first and attractive second. Fortunately, loft beds can be both. A loft bed can be very useful in freeing up living space as already mentioned. Its form, however, can be seemlessly integrated into a room when the proper loft bed and accessories for the bed are chosen.
