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Twin Corner Beds System

twin corner beds
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Difficulty
Intermediate
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Shared rooms can be more creative than the awkward bunk bed or loft bed situation.  If you have the space, twin corner beds might be the perfect solution. It acts as a headboard for both beds and contain storage, and a surface - much like a built-in table or nightstand for resting a book or water bottle.

This is a space saving design compared with twin beds placed headboard to the wall - consuming the entire room!  This solution can work even in a room with limited space.

This is a DIY project with free step by step plans from Ana-White.com

We also have plans for twin storage or captains beds here, this is the perfect pairing with platform beds or beds with drawers, so you can build the entire set!

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Looking to transform your room into a snug oasis without sacrificing space? Look no further than twin corner beds – the solution you've been dreaming of! This smartly designed bed system is here to revolutionize your living space by maximizing comfort and functionality.

Corner Beds: A Space-Saving Marvel:

Imagine making the most out of those often-forgotten room corners. With twin corner beds, you can! These beds are expertly crafted to fit snugly into corners, freeing up valuable floor space and adding a touch of elegance to your room.

Style and Flexibility in One Package:

Twin corner beds aren't just about saving space; they're about style and adaptability too. Here's what you're in for:

  1. Personalized Style: Choose the perfect paint or stain to match your room's aesthetic, giving it a unique touch.

  2. Custom Arrangements: Whether you're designing for a shared space or a cozy guest room, twin corner beds allow for flexible arrangements that suit your needs.

  3. Say Goodbye to Clutter: Our twin corner bed system come equipped with built-in storage, ensuring your space stays organized and tidy.

Why Build it Yourself?

We love building everything ourselves, and this project is especially near and dear - you can save thousands of dollars, you can use high quality materials, you can customize it, you can take inspiration and make it reality on a budget. If you are looking to save money, long term durability, this is a great space saving solution!

How to Build a Twin Corner Bed System

How Much Space Do You Need?

To make this twin corner bed solution work, you'll need a room at least 10' x 10', considering doors and closets etc.

 

Ready to build it?  Go measure your room and make sure you've got 116-1/2" of space in two directions in a corner.  

 

Pin For Later!

Corner Hutch Plans for the Twin Storage Beds

Dimensions
dimensions diagram for corner unit for beds
Dimensions for corner unit shown in diagram. Consider twin beds runs about 75″ long to fit the space

Preparation

Shopping List
  • 7 – 2×2, 8′ Long, Furring Strips
  • 2 – 32″ High x 40 1/2″ Long (or longer) Wainscoting Panels OR 1 sheet of 1/4″ plywood or MDF
  • 2 – 1×8 Boards, 8′ Length (Pine is cheapest)
  • 1 – sheet of 3/4″ plywood or MDF
  • Edge Banding (if you are using plywood and staining the bed)
  • Wood Filler
  • Wood Glue
Common Materials
Elmer's Wood Glue
Elmer's Wood Filler
120 grit sandpaper
primer
wood conditioner
paint
paint brush
Cut List

CUT LIST FOR THE BOX

  • 4 – 2×2 @ 40 1/4″ (Tops and Bottoms Box Ends)
  • 4 – 2×2 @ 29″ (Legs for the Box Ends)
  • 6 – 2×2 @ 37 1/4″ (Supports)
  • 2 – 32″ High Wainscoting @ 40 1/2″ (Panels)

 

CUT LIST FOR THE TOP UNIT

  • 1 – 1×8 @ 40 1/2″ (End)
  • 2 – 1×8 @ 39 3/4″ (Long Dividers)
  • 1 – 1×8 @ 14 1/2″ (Short Divider)
  • 1 – 1×8 @ 24 1/2″ (Final Divider)
  • 1 -1×2 @ 24 1/2″ (Cleat for Support Lid, 1st one installed)
  • 1 – 1×2 @ 23 3/4″ (Cleat for Support Lid, 2nd one installed)
Tools
Tape Measure
Speed Square
Pencil
Safety Glasses
Hearing Protection
Drill
Circular Saw
Brad Nailer
Level
General Instructions

Work on a clean level surface with straight boards and check for square after each step. Always predrill and countersink every screw. If you are working with MDF, use Drywall screws and be sure to predrill the entire length of your screw. Use glue. Be safe and have fun.

Instructions

Step 1

BOX ENDS Build the box ends as shown above using 2″ screws and glue.

Step 2

SUPPORTS FOR THE BOX Add the box supports using 2″ screws and DO NOT GLUE. Make sure your project is square at this point. To relocate the bed, you can simply unscrew, disassemble, and then reassemble.

Step 3

WAINSCOTING Measure and cut your wainscoting to fit one side of the box. Then add the second piece. Attach with 1 1/4″ screws and DO NOT GLUE on all four edges. You want these pieces removeable so that you can move it in and out of a room. NOTE: If your doorways are larger than 32″ you can move this unit without disassembling, but just in case you move to a different home, I would still not glue this step.

Step 4

DIVIDERS Use 2″ screws and glue to build your dividers as shown above. Then add the 1×2 cleat (shown above in white) with 1 1/4″ screws and glue.

Step 5

Step 6

FINAL CLEAT Add the final cleat, using 1 1/4″ screws and glue. Then also attach from the outside of the project using 2″ screws and glue.

Step 7

BOTTOM Cut your bottom plywood and attach it to the bottom of your unit (cleats are on the top) as shown above. Use 2″ screws and glue. This is just like attaching a back to a bookcase.

Step 8

TOP Cut your top, as directed above. Attach only the white piece to the top of your project. The pink piece is removable for storage (might be scary in a teens room

Step 9

ASSEMBLY Attach from underneath the top unit to the base unit using 2″ screws. Don’t glue so that removal is easy to do. You may also wish at this point to drill holes in certain point to create a “Smart” storage unit. You could hide cords in the “secret compartment” and keep cell phone chargers, laptop cords, or cords for media units tucked away neatly.

Finishing Instructions
Preparation Instructions
You can add trim to make the piece nicer, but just remember that the base will most likely be covered by pillows from the beds. Use wood filler to fill all holes. If you are staining, iron on edge banding to any exposed plywood edges. Sand starting with a coarse grade sandpaper and work your way up to fine. Prime or add wood conditioner (if desired for staining pine). Paint or stain. Seal if necessary.
Project Type
Beds and Bed Frames
Room
Teens
Bedroom
Kids and Toys
Style
Children's and Kid's Room Furniture and Toy Plans

Comments

Teresa Pomerantz (not verified)

Mon, 06/21/2010 - 03:07

That was a great story to wake up to today Ana. Thank you for featuring my girlies beds and all the nice compliments- but don't forget to take credit because I couldn't have done it without your plans! I love your site and really appreciate your hard work. I should mention this was my first but not last woodworking project- Thanks for the Inspiration!

Barbara (not verified)

Mon, 06/21/2010 - 06:27

If I could make one suggestion:

My friend growing up had beds like these (they were common in the "old days") but one slid under the middle piece so the room could be "bigger". I think if you could make one slide under, it would be a nice option!!

Guest (not verified)

Wed, 04/06/2011 - 05:20

... one sliding under the other. I was thinking, with the space limitations in my boys' room, I had better think of another way to make this happen, as i love this plan and layout. and then i read your post. that is an awesome idea.

MomBrose (not verified)

Mon, 06/21/2010 - 06:57

Do you think a piece of molding added to the top of the platform would help the mattress stay in place?? I would be concerned about it slipping off the slick surface. Those are so beautiful though!!

Sarah (not verified)

Mon, 06/21/2010 - 09:59

I love that you can have a little storage compartment in the corner that is hidden away. Good place to put a bunch of blankets and bedding!

Teresa Pomerantz (not verified)

Mon, 06/21/2010 - 16:07

MomBrose- the mattresses haven't slid at all, which surprised me with 2 active 3 year olds. It hasn't been a problem- but someone suggested putting the nonslip rug mats under them, if it becomes a problem, that is what I will do.

bec (not verified)

Mon, 06/21/2010 - 17:34

I love your blog! There's something great about women using powertools!

I just wanted to add my two cents. We just finished making the storage day bed and we love it! But it would be sooo much easier if it was built like Teresa's green bed. If we had made two long rows of cubbies with long strips of trim, instead of three horizontal sets with individual trim (that has to match the one next to it!) it would have save us oh so much time!

Anyway thanks so much for all the great plans, we love them!!

Adriane (not verified)

Mon, 06/28/2010 - 23:55

Careful with the non-slip mats. We used the foam ones from Wally World and they are permanently stuck to the bed! I tried to pull one up when we moved and gave up- the foam was just tearing off. I guess it's okay, since it's still doing it's job, but I kinda wish we hadn't opted for black on an oak colored bed. :)

Brett (not verified)

Tue, 06/29/2010 - 04:51

How hard would it be to make the other headboard for this bed? The one that's not a corner unit

http://www.pbteen.com/products/stuff-your-stuff-headboard-and-store-it-…

My 2 year old daughter loves to sit in bed and "read", and insists on having a pile of books in bed with her. I'd like to make her a bed that has some storage by her head so the books wouldn't constantly fall out.

Thanks. I'm hoping to start on those open toy boxes soon!

Beth (not verified)

Wed, 09/29/2010 - 06:46

Woohoo!!! Thank you for these plans! I had requested them on your facebook page awhile ago and am beyond thrilled that you did them.

Shawn (not verified)

Sat, 12/11/2010 - 01:21

Teresa,

I want to make your exact beds, do you have plans for them?

Thanks
Shawn

Lynn (not verified)

Mon, 12/20/2010 - 19:09

I grew up with beds similar to these except ours had one big drawer under each bed. My sister and I shared a stereo that sat on the corner unit and since it opened, we had tons of space to stuff things when we were supposed to clean our room :) Thanks for sharing - these are really useful and easy to change colors when kids get bored.

Jenna (not verified)

Wed, 01/19/2011 - 06:00

I WOULD love these plans! Where can I find the plans for the bed?? Is it really hard? I've never built anything before and thinking this may eb my first project!
Could someone please email the plans? [email protected]
Thanks! :)

Heather W (not verified)

Wed, 02/16/2011 - 03:46

Yes, please add me to the list of people who'd love to see these plans, it would be perfect in my daughters' new room! Thanks so much.

angelajade1984

Sat, 05/14/2011 - 09:59

I am building my daughter and stepdaughter this bed when we move in a few weeks...but need the plans for the bed :( Can someone PLEASE email them to me? It would be greatly appreciated! I thank you in advance!

[email protected]

Thanks again

raajlss

Sun, 05/29/2011 - 10:10

I, too, would love to get the bed plans. We are expecting child #3 and the first two boys are going to start sharing a room. Expecting in August. Would love to get this project done asap. Please email me the plans for the bed construction...

Thanks a bunch!
Rebecca

mkkayla

Sun, 08/07/2011 - 10:48

I have never built anything in my life. The storage beds with the corner hutch will be my first project. I was wondering if the corner hutch would fit if I made 2 full size storage beds. Can someone help me please? Thanks in advance.

Teresa M Pomerantz (not verified)

Tue, 08/30/2011 - 07:19

Hi everyone- this is Teresa who built the green beds- I used the storage daybed plans- although it certainly works with the storage bed plans too.
Sorry so late in posting- didn't see your comments until now.

EmileeA (not verified)

Fri, 11/04/2011 - 12:48

Teresa,
I love the look of your beds, Did you use 1 solid piece of trim along the bottom or is it on each of the 3 individual pieces of the bed. Are there any changes that you made to the Storage Daybed Plan? Your beds look great and I would like to make mine look as close to yours as possible.
Thanks ~ Emilee

LBad (not verified)

Wed, 10/12/2011 - 13:34

I am also looking for the plans for these green beds. Teresa, you mention you use the dayced storage plans but in the picture it looks like your storage goes all the way to the wall, is that the case or is it only ~12" deep like the storage beds? I am trying to figure out structurally if I can make the storage bed but with storage cubbies running the entire width of the bed as ours are also up against the wall.
thanks!
p.s. LOVE the look of these beds!

Teresa M Pomerantz (not verified)

Fri, 11/04/2011 - 14:56

Emilie- the trim is actually two layered pieces of trim along the bottom- one on each bed. Then the top also has a piece of long trim on each bed- I hope that makes sense.
I used the storage daybed plans- and I did make the middle piece so it is 12" deep as the plans show- but the cubbies are huge. You could probably leave the middle piece out to make cubbies that go all the way to the wall- but you will want to use like a 1x2 spanning across the top as support for the weight of the mattress/kid. These boxes are super strong- my girls take the mattresses off sometimes and dance on them like they are a stage :)
If you want the same green- they are spring green from Benjamin Moore :)

Guest (not verified)

Tue, 12/13/2011 - 12:55

I love this bed! I need the bed plans asap. I am moving into a new house and want to build this in there before we get everything else moved in. Please email it to me ASAP! Thank you!

Guest (not verified)

Mon, 01/09/2012 - 16:51

I was curious as to what the cost of this bed plan was?

emcgraw16 (not verified)

Tue, 02/14/2012 - 09:20

We plan to make these beds with a trundle bed under one of the beds. Wonderful bed plans! Thank you for sharing!

Guest (not verified)

Fri, 02/17/2012 - 08:50

Hi,
I am newbie to this site. I love the twin storage bed with corner hutch. Are there plans for the twin storage bed? I couldn't find it.
Thanks

Stephanie (not verified)

Fri, 02/17/2012 - 11:35

I love this so much! i cannot wait to show this to my husband so that we can make it for my boys room!! We were going to bunk beds but these offer so much more! Love you stuff! Thank you!

Kandis (not verified)

Tue, 08/07/2012 - 10:29

I was looking at these and thinking why not add about a 4-6 inch head/foot board so the kids could orient themselves or if you were to put a tv on the middle they could have their pillows opposite so they could lay in bed and watch.

Tiff (not verified)

Sun, 10/14/2012 - 18:53

I love this bed and would like to make it into a double bunk. Can you help me figure out a way to hang a second bed above the first? Thanks so much!

AllyH (not verified)

Fri, 11/16/2012 - 14:32

Hi - I love this corner unit and storage beds but I am wondering if you can make the same for two full size beds instead of twins. My girl already have the full size beds and I don't want to have to buy new mattresses too.
Thanks!

Candacer28

Fri, 05/23/2014 - 08:32

Hi. My name is Candace and I love this project. I am a soon to be new step mom to 2girls ages 5 and 7. I saw this bed at pottery barn and feel in love but I knew paying $3000 was not going to happen. So I started searching online and I found this site. I would love to have the beds, corner unit and the hutch but I know I can not build this. I understand that it's easy but I am city girl and I wouldn't even know where to begin!!!!!!! Are there any builders in NC. Raleigh Durham Cary area that you know of? Thanks so much

Shenagh

Fri, 06/10/2016 - 01:16

Hiya i love this idea but what plans do you use for the beds cant seem to find it??

trishapro90

Fri, 07/29/2016 - 11:36

I'll start by saying I LOVEE THESE PLANS!!!! I started about a year ago, when my husband an i discovered the loft bed with the desk an shelfs underneath... that was the first thing we have ever built, an it came out AWESOME!!! However, now we would like to build the storage unit/ twin bed collection with the open spaces below the bed for more storage an the corner unit.... The problem is, i've searched all over the website and i still can't find the orginial plans for the twin beds, and the corner shelf... I printed the 20 pages out of the plan thinking it was the corner shelf and both of the twin beds... An it was just the corner shelf... COULD SOMEONE PLEASE HELP ME with the plans for the beds??? thank you so much..

go_eli

Thu, 04/05/2018 - 16:11

Hi, we are really enjoying your website! Your creations are beautiful! I particularly love this bed with corner hutch. Where can I can find the plans for the exact one in the picture (the green bed with the 3 cubbies in the bottom)? I seem to only be able to find the plans for the bed with two cubbies in the bottom and then the other two cubbies at the the end of the bed. I prefer the look of this green bed. I'd really appreciate it if you'd let me know if the plans for this exact bed are available.

Cheers!

Frequently Asked Questions

Wood Questions

What kind of wood should I use?
Most of our plans use standard construction lumber like pine or fir. It's affordable, easy to work with, and easy to find. It's also rapidly renewing and biodegradable, so a great eco friendly choice!

Can I use hardwoods instead?
Yes—just keep in mind they're heavier, cost more, and can be tougher on tools and harder to join together and finish. I recommend not tackling a hardwood project until after you have built several softwood projects.

What if my boards are warped?
Choose the straightest boards at the store. You can often work around slight warps by cutting them into shorter pieces.

What wood should I use for outdoor furniture?
Use red-toned or pressure-treated 2x lumber for framing, and cedar or cedar fence pickets for the decking. Outdoor furniture should be built like a deck—your local home center can help recommend the right wood for your climate.

Will my wood move or warp after I build?
Potentially, especially in humid climates. Let your wood acclimate indoors before building. Once acclimated and kept in a stable environment, movement should be minimal. Remember, most houses are built using framing lumber - it's all about keeping moisture down indoors.

Cutting Questions

Do I need a miter saw?
A miter saw is great, creating fast, safe, and precise cuts, even for beginners. But most plans can be built with a circular saw and a straight edge. If using a circular saw to cut, take time to practice, and get good at making cuts, before cutting your project boards.

How do I get clean cuts with a circular saw?
Clamp your board, measure twice, cut slow, and use a sharp blade. This takes practice, so spend some time making cuts. I go through becoming proficient at freehand cutting in my course, it is worth taking if you want to master this skill.

Will the store cut my wood?
Yes—most stores will do rough cuts to help you transport your materials home. But from store to store, the quality of cuts could greatly vary.

Joinery Questions

What screws should I use?
We recommend star-head self tapping screws for framing, most common sizes are 2-1/2", 1-3/4". Pre-drill if close to the edge or you find your wood is splitting.

Do I have to use pocket holes?
Pocket holes are the cheapest, easiest and fastest way to do some joints - like edge to edge or a hidden fastener joint. There are other methods, but these can be time consuming and expensive. We recommend using pocket holes as indicated in plans for best results.

How do I keep things square?
Use a speed square and measure diagonals after each step. Always clamp joints before screwing to keep them tight and flush.

Finishing Questions

Stain or paint before or after building?
A quick sand before and a full finish after gives the best results. Pre-finish if you're doing two-tone or detailed finishes.

What type of finish?
Use oil-based or water-based stain. For paint, cabinet-grade latex or enamel works great. High use surfaces on indoor projects should get a coat of polyurethane, I recommend a Helsman or Spar or other flexible poly that won't crack or peel with wood movement. For exterior projects, use a finish suitable for exterior fences.

How to get a smooth finish?
Start with a well sanded project. Sand between coats (220 grit), wipe clean, and apply light coats with a foam brush or roller.

Plan Questions

Can I change the size?
Many people do, and that's the great thing about building your own furniture! But do keep in mind going bigger might mean more supports are required, and often plans are optimized for minimal material waste.

Are these beginner-friendly?
Yes—plans are written with simple tools and clear steps in mind, with every effort to make plans as simple as possible.

Can I sell what I build?
Absolutely! Just don’t resell or repost the plans themselves.

General Questions

What tools do I really need?
A drill, circular saw, tape measure, square, and a few clamps will get you through most projects.

Do I need a workshop?
Nope! A driveway or small patio is plenty to get started, just make sure you have a level place to work. If you find you are building several projects a year, creating a small workbench is a great way to store tools and have a dedicated workspace.

What if I mess up?
Wood filler, sanding, or flipping boards goes a long way. Mistakes are part of the process!

What can I do to make my projects look more professional?
Start with straight boards, make accurate cuts, clamp all joints, and line up everything neatly. Sand thoroughly, use a neutral finish, and apply it in light coats for a clean look.

I've never built anything before. Where should I start?
Start with a few smaller softwood projects to get hands-on experience. Or if you're tackling a big project, buy a little extra lumber and practice your cuts and joints first. If possible, work with someone who has a bit of experience.

Care & Maintenance

How long will my furniture last?
With good joinery and regular care, your DIY furniture can last for decades. I have pieces in my own home that are over 20 years old and still going strong! One of the best parts about DIY furniture is that it’s easy to repaint, refinish, or repair—so your projects can grow and adapt with you.

How should I care for outdoor furniture?
Lightly pressure wash or hose it down once or twice a year. Tighten screws and reapply finish as needed to protect it—just like a deck or fence. A little upkeep goes a long way in extending the life of your furniture.

How about indoor furniture?
Regularly dust or wipe with a damp cloth. If it starts to look worn, a light sanding and touch-up paint or stain can refresh it in no time. DIY pieces are meant to be durable and fixable—so don’t be afraid to give them some love now and then.

Want to Build with Confidence?

Check out my ebook: 12 Skills to Build Your Own Furniture
It walks you through the core skills every builder needs—measuring, cutting, joinery, and finishing—so you can build beautiful furniture that lasts.

Still Have Questions?

Email us anytime at [email protected] and we’ll be happy to help!