Got just the thing for you X and your wife will love it! I did this in my apartment when in College. I shared a 3 bdrm apartment with 2 other guys so all of my wordly possesions were in my bedroom which was 10x12 (Desk, Full Bed, Computer, Dresser). I bought my first Dillon Press using most of my Pell Grant and then built my first Bunk Bed! There's your answer my friend....go UP with the bed. I raised my bed on a platform with 4, 4x4 posts as legs and 2x6 framework. Underneath the footprint of a Full bed was a complete reloading shop! It was awesome and made for some occasionally interesting encounters with a few Co-eds!! LOL!!
Now I will admit to it being a tough situation when coming home from those all night study sessions at the local Pub. Sometimes negotiating a ladder at altitude can be a bit tough but you'll get used to it. Your wife will love it!