What Is a Pyramid Bunk Bed?

Pyramid bunk beds earn their name for their near-triangular shape and gentle angle when placed against a wall. They are also known as a twin/full bunk bed as the parallel beds are different sizes. The bottom bed is a full size bed and the top bed is a standard twin size. The larger bottom bed as the wider base resembles a pyramid, thinning to the twin bed at the top.

Above Average

Like a standard bunk bed design, the second bed is reached with a ladder, built-in railings or shelves creating steps. The larger lower bed means the ladder is generally at the foot of the bed, as opposed to the side. Like traditional bunk beds, pyramid bunk beds can be found in a variety of materials. Wood and wrought iron are sturdy choices, and some come with drawers under the bottom bed or inside the built-ins for storage. Since bunk beds are often designed for children, the pyramid bunk bed is an excellent choice for parents who want a bed to “grow” with their kids.

Size Standards

The bottom bed is full size, with a standard dimension of 54 inches by 75 inches. Standard twin beds are 39 inches by 75 inches, a size that can accommodate a young child but may be uncomfortable for a growing teen. The pyramid bed is measured from the widest point of the bunk bed frame. Usually, this means the pyramid bed frame is 69 1/2 inches high, 81 inches long and 58 inches deep. Consider room measurements and proportions before any pyramid bed purchase.

Pros and Cons

Growing children aren’t the only ones who can enjoy a pyramid bunk bed. The full size sleeping space can be used for adults, perfect for a guest room. The twin space above can be used for storage, much like a functional loft space would be used. Children who outgrow the top bunk and do not have any younger siblings can use the bottom for sleeping and the top for storage. The cons to this are accessing the top bunk for storage; some parts of the top bunk may only be reachable by stepping all over the lower bunk.

Because of its unique size, rearranging a room with a pyramid bed may not be possible. Unless the ladder or railings are adjustable to fit on either end of the bed, the top bed may only be reached at the foot. Even in larger rooms, this leaves very little wiggle room for placements that do not block the ladder. Additionally, the larger bottom bed will take up more room than a traditional bunk bed, and may hinder the use of a trundle bed or access to room for storage underneath. On the plus side, with a larger bottom bed, the need for a trundle may not be necessary because children can share the ample bottom bunk.