Is there any way to alter this bunk bed into sort of a loft?

Question

My kids have outgrown the uses for a bunk bed. Now they want to take out the bottom bunk and just sort of have a bed on stilts so desks and things can fit underneath. Is there any way to to that without compromising the stability? the bed is rated to 300 lbs, but my kids are on the hefty side. Would just leaving one of the bottom bars that holds the mattress up suffice? This is the one:

http://www.morebunkbeds.com/Powell-Country-Pine-and-Matte-Black-Twin-Futon-Bunk-Bed-938-199.htm

It's made to be able to take the two pieces apart, if that would matter for anything.

Thanks for reading

Answer 1

i do not think that would work as it appears to me from the picture that the bottom bed acftually holds the whole together..without  it i would expect the top unit to collaspe

Answer 2

To make it safe you have to put diagonal braces on each side of the bed, and I would put a horizontal brace across the back as well.  Then just stain to match.  

Answer 3

I would recommend putting two wood pieces in an "X" formation on the back side, and on one side you're not wanting to leave open (you can also use a diagonal brace, but it will brace only if pushed / twisted along the axis of the cross-brace).  That will give you stability in a number of directions; then you can remove the bottom bed part.

Answer 4

I'd say use braces and support beams as others mentioned, and then get the necessary hardware and mount the two legs to studs in the wall (the long way) for extra support.  

I'd also consider separating the ladder from the bunkbed frame so that it doesn't cause undue swaying or stress to the structure when they climb up to go to bed, but I'm always nervous about that so that might just be a me thing.  

Take your cues from this loft bed by the same manufacturer:

http://www.morebunkbeds.com/Common/Produ...