Pennsylvanian Paul DeLaurentis is the man responsible for the Ladder Bed, a bunk bed that features the ladder built into the frame. Each end of the bunks serves as a ladder to the top bunk, maximising the structural benefit to achieve a very sturdy set of bunks. These Ladder Beds come in many heights and configurations, including single over double, double over double and so on, even at different angles. There are even some designed specifically for the needs of the fire service, so you can be sure they will last a long time even with regular use.

The beds are built using White Fir from the Pacific North West. Left unstained, the wood has a beautiful light colour and lovely soft finish and it takes a stain well. Single, queen and double sized mattresses can be used on these bunks and because they are available as individual beds, you can add to them as needed. Some of the designs have play space underneath that also functions as a work area or storage space, depending on the person using it. They are a good idea for a multi purpose guest bedroom; fit a double ladder bed with a desk underneath and you have two rooms in one space.

An optional chest of drawers that double as stairs is available for younger children who may struggle with the ladder. These stairs are custom built for the height and width of the bed unit so they fit snugly in the space and offer extra storage space in a small room. There is a handrail available in case the stairs are not blocked in by a wall; the company suggests the stairs are set between a wall and the end of the bed to avoid the possibility of children falling off while climbing.

Paul’s personal service even extends to delivering and setting up the beds at a customer’s home. Although they are easy to put together at home, the solid wood construction means it can be a heavy task for a DIY novice, so DeLaurentis offers the installation service.

Shelves and other accessories can be ordered as well, so even the top berth can have a bedside table. The space under a Ladder Bed can be turned into a desk with a shelf and matching bedside units are available for the bottom berth. Because each order is custom built, Paul can add traditional wooden bunk bed ladders on demand. This furniture really works for the space it takes up, and is ideal for doubling the sleeping and working space available in any room. The custom built nature also means that any stain or paint can be used, and the beds could even be built to custom dimensions (although you would need specially made mattresses in a custom size frame).

Kids love the idea of climbing a ladder into bed and these Ladder Beds provide much more than a place to sleep; imaginations will run wild with thoughts of castles, boats, underground dens and pretty much anything a kid could think of. Even adults love these sturdy bunks, and they would make a great feature in a bedroom for when grown children come to visit. It certainly will be the most comfortable ladder you’ll ever climb.