Ultimate Murphy Bed Guide: All You Need to Know for Smart, Space-Saving Living
Ever feel like your home could use a little extra space without knocking down walls? The answer might be right in front of you—or behind it!
Welcome to the world of Murphy beds, the ultimate space-saving solution that’s been changing homes since the early 1900s.
I’m excited to share this comprehensive Murphy bed guide. We’ll cover everything from their clever design to the different types available, helping you decide if a wall bed is right for your space-saving needs.
Key Takeaways
- Murphy beds are versatile space-saving furniture solutions
- They come in various sizes and styles to fit different room layouts
- Vertical Murphy beds are most common and suitable for high-ceiling rooms
- Horizontal options work well in spaces with lower ceilings
- Professional installation is recommended for safety and proper functionality
- Murphy beds can be customized to match your room’s decor
- They’re ideal for small apartments, home offices, and guest rooms.
What is a Murphy Bed?
Let’s explore the fascinating world of Murphy beds! These innovative compact living solutions have revolutionized flexible bedroom designs. They offer a smart way to maximize space in any home.
The Clever Concept
A Murphy bed is a bed that folds up against the wall when not in use. This design allows you to use the floor space during the day, turning your bedroom into a room for many purposes—a yoga studio, a home office, etc. ( For more general tips on living in a small space, check out our guide.)
A Brief History
The Murphy bed was named after William Lawrence Murphy, who invented it in the early 1900s. Murphy lived in a tiny San Francisco apartment and needed a way to hide his bed, so he invented a bed that folds up against the wall.
Many Names, One Great Idea
While “Murphy bed” is the most common term, these designs have other names too:
- Wall beds
- Pull-down bed
- Fold-down bed
No matter what you call it, this bed is a smart way to save space in small living areas.
Whether you live in a cozy studio or want a guest room that does double duty, a Murphy bed could be a perfect idea.
How Murphy Beds Work
These folding beds help make the most of small spaces in apartments or dual-purpose rooms.
The Folding Mechanism
Every Murphy bed features a folding mechanism that allows it to transform into a wall-mounted cabinet. This clever design uses a pivot and counterbalance system to make lifting and lowering the bed easy and smooth. Even one person can do it without trouble.
Springs, Hinges, and Counterweights
Most Murphy beds rely on springs or pistons to lift and lower the bed smoothly. These mechanisms work alongside hinges and counterweights to balance the bed’s weight, making it easy to fold up and down.
Newer designs simplify the process even further. Some use minimalist mechanisms, eliminating the need for metal springs while still ensuring easy and reliable operation.
Vertical and Horizontal Options
Murphy beds fold in two ways: vertical and horizontal. Vertical models fit rooms with high ceilings. Horizontal folding beds are better for rooms with lower ceilings or wider walls.
Both types save space. You can choose the best one for your room’s layout. Consider your room’s size and what you like when picking a folding bed.
Types of Murphy Beds
Murphy beds are great for saving space in different rooms.
Vertical Murphy Beds
Vertical Murphy beds are the most common. They fold up against the wall, saving floor space. They’re perfect for rooms with high ceilings and little floor area.
Horizontal Murphy Beds
Horizontal Murphy beds are great for rooms with lower ceilings. They fold sideways, which is ideal for attics or spaces with height limits. They’re also good for studio apartments or small bedrooms.
Corner Murphy Beds
Corner Murphy beds fit into room corners, using often-wasted space. They’re perfect for oddly shaped rooms or areas where regular beds don’t fit.
Murphy Bed Combos
Murphy bed combos are beds that come with other furniture. Some popular ones include:
- Murphy bed with sofa: Great for guest rooms or living areas
- Murphy bed with desk: Ideal for home offices or student dorms
- Murphy bed with storage: Perfect for small apartments
These designs are the ultimate in space-saving. They allow you to create spaces that do more than one thing. With more people living in cities, Murphy beds are becoming very popular.
Benefits of Murphy Beds
Murphy beds are great for those who want to save space. They are perfect for making the most of small areas and can change the use of a room, making it more flexible.
Space-Saving Marvels
Murphy beds save a lot of floor space. They can turn a room into something else during the day. I’ve seen rooms become offices, gyms, or even art studios.
Comfort Without Compromise
Murphy beds are as comfy as regular beds. For great sleep, choose a mattress up to 12 inches thick. They fold up securely with straps, so you won’t have to worry.
Versatile Design Options
Murphy beds come in various styles and sizes to suit any home. You can choose wood, metal, or upholstered designs to match your decor. Some models even include built-in desks or shelves, making them a versatile solution for multifunctional spaces.
Long-Term Value
Though they cost around $1,000, or more, Murphy beds are worth it. They last for many years, making them a good choice for saving space.
Murphy beds are perfect for city living, small homes, or anyone who wants to use their space more effectively. They offer both function and style, making them a great choice.
Choosing the Right Murphy Bed
Finding the right Murphy bed is key for compact living. First, measure your room to see what fits.
Room Assessment
Measure your room carefully. Consider the bed’s size when it’s open and closed. Also, remember to check for door swings, windows, and outlets. This will help your Murphy bed fit perfectly.
Mattress Matters
Most Murphy beds fit standard mattress sizes. Choose a mattress that’s 12 inches thick or less. Memory foam mattresses might not work well for vertical beds. For a queen-size bed, look for mattresses under 80 pounds.
Durability and Weight Capacity
Consider the bed’s weight limit, especially if you use it often. Solid hardwood is more durable and supportive. The mechanism for opening the bed is also important. Systems with pistons make it easy to move the bed up and down.
- Cabinet-style Murphy beds offer extra storage
- Horizontal models are good for rooms with low ceilings.
- Vertical designs save space in taller rooms
Remember, Murphy beds come in many sizes and styles. By assessing your needs, you’ll find the perfect hideaway bed for your space.
Murphy Beds for Different Lifestyles
Murphy beds are great for saving space and fit many lifestyles. They can also smartly change living areas.
Families
Murphy beds are perfect for families. They quickly transform a playroom into a guest room, which is great for families who need to use every inch of space.
Students
College students in dorms or small apartments love Murphy beds. They save floor space for studying or hanging out.
Seniors
Seniors enjoy Murphy beds for their ease and space-saving. In retirement homes, they make small spaces feel bigger. Some Murphy beds, like the Bestar Pur Queen, hold up to 1,000 pounds, ensuring safety and comfort.
Urban Living
Murphy beds are a great choice for people living in small city apartments. With homes getting smaller, they offer storage like shelves and drawers.
Murphy beds are a smart choice for families, students, seniors, and city dwellers. There is a Murphy bed for everyone’s lifestyle and space needs.
Installation and Maintenance
Setting up a wall bed can be tough, but it is very important that the folding bed stays safe and works well for years.
Professional vs. DIY Installation
DIY installation might save money, but it comes with risks. Pros have the tools and know-how to install wall beds right. They know to place beds 16 inches apart for a solid fit.
Safety First
Safety is key with Murphy beds. Make sure your ceiling is at least 8 feet high for vertical beds. Use the right screws to attach the bed frame securely.
After setting it up, test the bed. Check if it moves smoothly and locks properly.
Maintenance Tips
Keep your folding bed in great shape with regular care. Tighten screws now and then to keep the bed in place. Add padding to protect walls and floors from scratches.
Most importantly, don’t exceed the weight limit – usually 350 pounds for Murphy beds.
Whether you hire a pro or do it yourself, safety and following the manufacturer’s guide are crucial. With the right setup and care, your Murphy bed will save space for years.
Cost Considerations
A Murphy bed guide must discuss costs when researching space-saving furniture. I’ve researched different prices to help you decide on this compact living option.
Price Ranges
Murphy bed prices change a lot based on size, quality, and features. Here’s a quick overview:
- Basic models: $300 – $1,000
- Mid-range options: $1,000 – $3,000
- High-end custom designs: $3,000 – $6,000+
Costs are influenced by materials, size, and extra storage.
Long-term Value
Murphy beds might cost more upfront than regular beds, but they save space and make rooms more versatile. This is especially true in cities where space is limited.
When thinking about value, remember these points:
- Durability and warranty
- Potential to increase home value
- Versatility for changing lifestyle needs
Choosing a quality murphy bed means years of good sleep. It also keeps your living space open and flexible during the day. It’s a wise pick for those wanting efficient, compact living.
Design and Customization Options
I love how convertible beds offer endless possibilities for personalization. The design and customization options for Murphy beds are truly impressive. They allow you to create flexible bedroom designs that match your style and needs.
Cabinet Styles and Finishes
When it comes to cabinet styles, there are many choices. From sleek modern designs to classic traditional looks, there’s something for every taste. The popular brand Lori Bed offers finishes like Natural, White, Walnut, and Paint-Ready.
This variety lets you seamlessly blend your Murphy bed with existing decor or make it a standout piece.
Additional Features
Murphy beds aren’t just about saving space but enhancing functionality. Many models come with built-in lighting, perfect for late-night reading. Storage solutions are a big plus, with options for shelving and drawers.
For those who need a home office, some transformable furniture designs incorporate desks or workstations.
- Integrated lighting for ambiance and functionality
- Storage compartments to maximize space
- Office components like desks or shelving
- Custom headboards for a personalized touch
- Side cabinets for extra storage
The Lori Bed stands out with its impressive 1,000-pound weight capacity and 24/7 functionality. It’s available in various sizes, including Queen Vertical, Queen Horizontal, Twin Vertical, and Twin Horizontal, which perfectly suit different room layouts.
With these customization options, your Murphy bed can be more than just a space-saver. It can also reflect your personal style and be a key element in creating flexible bedroom designs that work for you.
In this guide, we’ve looked at many types of Murphy beds, from traditional vertical beds to horizontal ones and even beds with desks or sofas.
Murphy beds are perfect for many lifestyles and spaces. They come in sizes from twin to king.
They also come with extra features, such as shelves and storage, making them the best choice for saving space in modern homes.
