Friday, May 29, 2009

Bunk Beds Are Not Just For Children

When people think about bunk beds they probably remember sharing a room with their brother or sister when they were very young. However, that does not mean that this type of bed is only for children. They are a great option for anyone sharing a room that needs to create some extra space. College dorm rooms, summer cabins, and small apartments are all great places to take advantage of this style of bed.

The two main styles that can benefit teenagers and adults the most are loft and futon bunks. A loft bed is simply a regular bunk without the bottom bed. This saves space by allowing you to put storage units or desks below. The futon bunk uses the popular futon style of bed on the bottom. This gives you the functionality of having both a bed and a couch in the same area.

If you have ever been to a college dormitory you know that space is a precious commodity. In my first year of college I had to share an 18' by 14' room with two other people. Not only did we need to find room for all of our beds, but we each needed a space to do our schoolwork.

It took some careful planning to finally figure out how to make it work, but with the use of bunk beds we did just that. A futon bunk was placed against the back wall, while a loft bunk was placed against the wall perpendicular to the first. A computer desk was placed under the loft, and the other two were put up on the opposite wall. We made the most out of the space we had, and it could not have been done without creative use of bunk beds.

The loft or futon bunk is perfect for someone with their own room that wants to maximize the available space. Not all bedrooms have enough space to place both a bed, computer desk, and a couch. However, these two styles of bunk beds make that a reality, even in very small rooms. If you share an apartment with a few other people, or still live with your parents, this option allows you to make a room your own private domain.

The bunk bed is something anyone can use to open up space in a room. We need to stop thinking about it as something for children, and see all the possibilities it makes available for everyone.

Thursday, May 21, 2009

Getting the Best Deals on Your Favorite Bunk Beds

Bunk beds are trendy and easy on space. If you are suffering from the problem of limited floor space or you just want to buy a bed for your kid's room and don't have any idea on how to go about fitting it then bunk beds are your best option.

Some cool variants are available in the market at affordable prices. Some of the more popular ones and their salient features are mentioned below.

Making the Right Choice: - The most popular bunk beds are either wooden or are made of metal. The wooden one is a great option if you are planning to change the beds of your ever growing children. You can choose from a variety of materials such as teak and plywood. Make sure that the ply is well treated and does not emit toxins such as formaldehyde.

Metal beds are more useful if they are being used in public dormitories or at places where they are bound to be used carelessly. Buy only beds with metal resistance to corrosion and rusting.

Other Varieties: - These include beds such as twin bunk beds, ladder beds, L-shaped bunk beds available in both wood and metal variations. Make sure that you make an appropriate choice. Try and match up colors and change the way your room or your kids' room will look. Foldable versions are also available to make more space for the day.
Another quality to look out for is the Pine bunk bed. These beds are sturdy, trendy, and are available in a variety of shades. Your children are going to love them!

Shopping Options: - All varieties of bunk beds can be bought online. There are a number of companies hosting web portals and giving excellent customer services and great discounts. You can always visit your local furniture market in case you can't find anything appropriate and would like to have your bunk bed made to order but you won't get those discounts.

Frugality can be Beautiful: - OK, let's get real about the price. Bunk beds are a costly option but there are cheaper, durable versions available in the nearest market as well as online. Try not to go for the branded ones. They are generally overpriced. While buying a wooden bunk bed, go for the plywood instead of exotic woods. This way you can cut cost to a considerable extent. Metal bunk beds are generally cheaper than their wooden counterpart and can be made as good-looking as them.

The royalty and ecstasy of beds adds a lot of glamour to the interiors of your bedroom and that is why a relevant choice in terms of unique beds makes a whole lot of a difference.

Make the most of this information and chose a bed that is beautiful, sturdy, and would not burn a hole in your pocket.

Saturday, May 2, 2009

How to Be a Smart Sofa Shopper

Are you in the market for the perfect sofa? Whether you call it a sofa, davenport or couch, buying just the right one can be a major challenge for you. To select a quality, well-constructed and comfortable sofa, you will need to follow five simple steps.

Step 1: Sturdy Frame
A sturdy frame made of hardwood like oak may cost more, but it will last much longer. A frame made of softwood like pine may warp over time. Always avoid frames made of particle-board, plastic or metal as they may warp or crack. Legs should be part of the frame attached with screws and/or pegs. The legs should never be held on with glue alone.

Step 2: Secure Joints
The frame is only as good as the joints that connect the frame together properly. Secure joints and frame will give you a well-constructed sofa. Using wooden dowels, double wooden dowels, corner blocks or metal screws and brackets means a well-made sofa. Never purchase a sofa that is secured by staples and glue alone.

Step 3: Supportive Springs
Try out the sofa and test the springs through the upholstery. It is best when the springs are firm and close together for the most comfy feel. The serpentine springs are the most supportive and should last for years. Avoid sofas with webbing or mesh only and no springs as they are flimsy and uncomfortable.

Step 4: Cushion Care
The most easy care cushion filling is the Polyurethane foam. The Polyester fiber is inexpensive but in a short time will flatten. Goose Down cushions are more expensive and will require constant fluffing. Combining a high-density type of Polyurethane foam with a layer of Down gives the most comfortable feel.

Step 5: Durable Fabric Upholstry
For sofas that are used everyday, a durable fabric upholstry will be necessary. Cotton and linen fabrics work the best and are even better when the fabric has been treated with a stain resistant. Leather and wool upholstery has an elegant appearance, but is more expensive.

Use these five steps to help you make the best purchase on a well-constructed and comfy sofa and keep the ouch out of couch for years to come.