The Goal

Maximize our available square feet so the kids have space to spread out, organize their books, toys and clothes.

Solution

After having our second child, we initially got an Ikea loft bed, but after less than a year of having it, we felt it took up way too much space.

To maximize our square feet (which currently costs around $1,200 / sqf), we decided to pull the trigger on a bunk wall bed.

The decision wasn’t easy and wasn’t influenced by COVID-19. I’m embarrassed to say, we first looked at one back in 2014, and it took us 6 freaking years to finally pull the trigger.

We finally justified the cost ($11K + delivery and install) and commitment by comparing the cost to moving to a bigger place, as well as the cost of how much square feet a regular bunk bed takes up.

Based on the dimensions of the $380 VITVAL Ikea bunk bed, it takes up about $25,000 worth of real estate.

What it’s like living with it

Before pulling the trigger, we were always wondering if we had in us to do the motions of making the bed, strapping the bedding down and folding it up every morning. I was worried we were just gonna leave it down all day after a few days of having it.

After a month of owning it, turns out, it’s super easy, takes about 2 minutes to have it all folded up and even the kids are helping to put away the ladder.

If you like the look, logic or both, follow downtown dad on instagram as I post interesting things that I think are helpful in raising a family in a small space.