Bunk beds and enclosed sleeping nooks satiate some of our most universal longings: our love for secret places, the feeling of being aloft, and the comfort of enclosure,” reveals author Laura Fenton in The Bunk Bed Book, recently published by Gibbs Smith. Bunks aren’t just for kids—we’re seeing them more and more in guest rooms here in Maine. They’re an efficient use of space and add a bit of whimsy. We’ll be using this bunk room designed by Dana Small for inspiration for our dream coastal cottage. The room feels pulled together and airy, with double built-in bunks and nickel-gap walls, while the painted lime green and blue floor adds just the right touch of rustic charm. Small played with different patterns and mixed textures: bright green ikat Roman shades, blue-striped folded duvets, and printed throw pillows pair nicely with an oversized rattan pendant light. A simple basket on the floor is an easy catchall for guests’ bedtime items. All that’s left to do is to grab a good book, crack the window, and settle in.

1. Hampton Bunk Bed // pbteen.com
2. Cameron Sconce // luluandgeorgia.com
3. Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland & Through the Looking Glass // longfellowbooks.com
4. Été Duvet Cover // us.hay.com
5. Playful Posies Multi Sheet Set // annieselke.com
6. Fringed Macrame Woven Basket // balinista.com
7. Picnic  // sherwin-williams.com
8. Avila Pendant // serenaandlily.com
9. Sand Beach Semi Abstraction | print on canvas // sarahmadeiraday.com