Our kids were over the moon when we moved from our 1950s 3-bedroom semi to a newly-built 4-bedroom detached house, because it meant the twins could have their own bedrooms. At 6 they were developing very different personalities and interests and they wanted their personal space to reflect this. Gemma was becoming a stereotypical girly girl and loved everything pink and fluffy while George was into football, cars and...more football. Sharing a room made accommodating their preferences very difficult.
The problem of course was that room sizes in modern houses seem to shrink every year! Overall we were really only gaining a few extra square metres of floor space in our new house, which called for some creativity when it came to furnishing it. The twins’ rooms were pretty similar in size, but both definitely only singles, whilst their older brother’s room required a stretch of the imagination to fit the label ‘double’.
Looking online at the range of children’s beds available, we hit upon the ideal solution for all three: cabin beds. These are sometimes called mid-sleepers and are a really great space saving device for those tight, modern bedrooms. Because the sleeping area is raised (though nothing like as high as bunk beds), all the lower area is given over to storage, play areas, or useful additions like study desks or bookshelves.
Cabin beds come in a huge variety of designs and are incredibly practical. Although they take up more floor space than bunk beds, they incorporate so much storage space that they actually free up space in the room. Added to this they allow a child much more privacy and independence, which is very desirable. When we suggested cabin beds to the children, they were thrilled.
The oldest child knew exactly what he wanted. At 10 his whole life seems to revolve around computers so his storage needs were dictated by cupboards and shelves in which to store his precious console equipment and software. He wanted a natural wood finish for warmth and space under the cabin bed to store a couple of beanbags for when his friends visit.
The children finally decided on beds with swivel-out desks, shelving, drawers and proper steps in a painted wood finish. Of course I was pleased because all that extra shelving meant their toys could be rehoused from their current home, which was invariably the floor. Finally I might get to see the carpet in their bedroom!
Because we had to assemble the beds ourselves we were able to familiarise ourselves with all the points we would check periodically to make sure they remained solid and secure. Cabin beds are much safer than bunk beds, but being a bit of a worrier, my motto is always better safe than sorry.I was pleasantly surprised at just how strong and sturdy these beds were.
The kids are really contented with their rooms and so far have stuck to their word to keep them tidy. They love spending time in there and inviting their friends to play. I definitely think cabin beds were the best possible idea for their rooms, and I know the kids agree with me.
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If you are looking for some great space saving ideas for the kids bedrooms, check out these fantastic Cabin Beds from this online store.
Super ideas and designs that save space and money let alone looking great in the kids room.
A wide range is available within their Childrens bedroom Furniture section and with the winter sales, theres never been a better time to buy.