Unique Loft Beds for Kids

Types

• Loft beds come in three different "ceiling" heights -- measurements that reflect distance between the floor and the underside of the bed -- with a low-rise of 39 inches, a mid-rise of 44 inches or a high-rise of 60 inches. Lofts can hold twin/single, double, queen or king-size mattresses. Adding an extra bed in an L-shaped design or partially stacked makes it a twin loft, not to be confused with the mattress size. Some styles allow the bottom bed to stow away like a drawer.

Preschoolers

• The one- and two-story playhouse and castle styles come in the low-rise size for preschoolers. The playhouse bed, which comes in many colors, functions as an indoor playground, with a ladder, slide and a roomy play area below. The top holds a tent and the bottom has "walls" -- curtains with sewed-on windows and a door. The castle loft bed, a similar concept, turns the top tent into a tower and the bottom play area into a fort with patterned curtains.

School-Age and Preteens

• Most of the preschooler styles also come in mid-rise height, holding a single or twin mattress. Some designs have a two-bed configuration. A space shuttle theme employs one or two twin mattresses and a "cockpit" with a bench seat for two kids. Such beds may have a ladder and slide, or you can add a "wing" that acts as a stepping platform.

  An elaborate wooden castle bed, with a tower, stairs and a bookcase, uses a crackle paint job to give it an aged look. The wooden fortress bed looks like a miniature cabin, with a staircase and realistic detailing. The monster truck loft -- an elevated bed on fake wheels -- includes steps that lead to the "cab."

Customization

• Some stores sell extra-long, high-rise loft beds that have enough room underneath for a full-size sofa or futon. You can order a pre-made loft bed or have it build to your specifications, customized by size and style to fit the room and aesthetics of its owner.