Simpson
04. A $50 Freestanding Loft Bed
If you’re looking for a way to create more space in your bedroom without breaking the bank, building a partially freestanding loft bed under $50 might be the perfect solution. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Choose Your Design. Get creative with how you set this up, so feel free to embellish and add your upgrades in the comment section. (Follow the source to get a digital copy of the current design)
Step 2: Build the frame. Attach strips of wood on the wall to rest frame on while screwing into the wall. Hoist frame onto these ledges and screw a temporary 2×3 onto the opposite side of the frame for support until the ladder is added. Ensure frame is level and screw into the wall. Add mattress. Add ladder and/or cables.
Step 3: Build and Mount the Frame. Use 2x6s and 2x3s to create a strong, somewhat light, very affordable frame that can be screwed into the wall on two sides. Mount the 2x3s horizontally to create an additional 1.5″ of headroom. Reduce the distance between the end slats and the frame to eliminate mattress sag.
Step 4: Ladder Construction. Divide the ladder in two to create shelving. Choose a 12° angle that is easy to climb yet doesn’t protrude much into the rest of the room. Use pocket screws on both the frame and ladder to ensure no fasteners are visible.
Step 5: Improvements. Use a varnish and sander to improve the bed’s appearance. Use eyehooks for stability and/or curtains to block out light and sound. Use magnets to find and mark studs.
Step 6: Eyehooks for Stability And/or Curtains. Use 2″ eyehooks and 1/4″ coated cable for curtains that surround the bed and block out light and sound.
Step 7: More Enhancements. Install a draw curtain system to provide a sense of privacy and transform your loft into a dark and silent cave. Add a shelf next to the head of the bed to hold water, books, Advil, and smelling scents to help fall asleep and wake up.
By following these steps, you can create an additional 50 square feet of bedroom and promote better sleep.
