I Love This Nostalgic $250 Bedroom Find (It’s Perfect for Small Spaces!)

I grew up sharing a room with my older sister, and I vividly remember our childhood bedroom and the wooden low bunk bed we shared. I claimed the bottom bunk, and she chose the top. Back then, I didn’t understand why we had bunks instead of individual beds, but looking back I realize it was to save space in our small New York City apartment. 

Bunk beds are a staple for families living in small spaces, especially when you need to make the most of limited bedroom space, and while they’re a sensible solution, growing up, to me, there was also something magical about them too. The bed felt comforting each night as I fell asleep, knowing my sister was right above me and we were safe in our home. I’ve never forgotten that feeling. So when I saw Liz Everett’s 745-square-foot New York City apartment and the bunk beds in her kids’ shared bedroom, it immediately resonated with me. 

This bedroom proves that what might initially seem like a design challenge can lead to a practical and aesthetically pleasing solution. Liz decided on two of the MERITLINE Metal Twin Size L-Shaped Loft bunk beds, and they’re so cute and incredible for storage. Having both bunks elevated (rather than a traditional top and bottom sleeping area) provides so much more floor space, which Liz filled with dressers for storage. 

“We decided on bunk beds because they were the perfect solution for maximizing space in a shared room,” Liz said at the time of the tour. “The room is large, but we wanted to make sure there was still plenty of room for both kids to play, and the bunk beds allowed us to do that by freeing up floor space.” 

Storage isn’t the only cool element of these bunk beds. Oftentimes, I feel like bunk beds are considered more kid-friendly furniture pieces. But this type of furniture piece can be a game-changer for anyone living in a small space, regardless of your age. If you live in a studio apartment, you can use this bunk bed to free up floor space and combine it with a working area or vanity because of the desk underneath. For Liz’s space, she said the bunk bed design was “practical, space-saving, and still fun and functional.” 

And the best part? The bunk beds Liz bought are under $250. For a reasonable price, Liz was able to give her kids’ bedroom a makeover and allow them the freedom to play. It maximizes space and allows for more room to play, work, or get ready.

Whether you’re looking to save space in your kids’ room or need a more efficient layout for your home, bunk beds are more than just for kids — they’re a small-space dweller’s best friend and are designed to open up more possibilities without sacrificing comfort or style. To see more of how Liz got creative with her space, visit the full House Tour.