If you’re a homeowner struggling to make the most out of limited square footage, you’re not alone. Small spaces can feel cramped, especially when you’re trying to balance style and functionality. Enter Murphy beds—the ultimate solution for maximizing space without compromising comfort or design.
Why Murphy Beds Are Ideal for Small Spaces
Murphy beds, aka wall beds, fold up vertically and fit seamlessly into walls, cabinets, or closets. This clever design lets you transform any room into a multifunctional space, such as a guest room, home office, or playroom.
Key Benefits of Murphy Beds
- Space-saving solution. A Murphy bed frees up valuable floor space, making even the smallest room feel larger and more functional.
- Versatility. They’re ideal for studio apartments, guest rooms, and home offices, allowing one space to serve multiple purposes.
- Stylish designs. Modern Murphy beds come in sleek designs that blend with any decor, offering a stylish yet practical addition to your home.
- Comfortable sleeping experience. Unlike pull-out sofas or air mattresses, Murphy beds provide a sturdy base and quality mattress for a great night’s sleep.
- Increased property value. Adding a Murphy bed can enhance the functionality and appeal of your home. It makes it more attractive to buyers should you decide to put it up for sale.
Practical Tips for Choosing and Installing a Murphy Bed
Choosing and installing a space-saving Murphy bed involves more than picking a design that fits your taste. To ensure you get the most out of your investment, here are detailed tips on how to choose Murphy beds for small spaces, including some effective installation ideas.
1) Measure your space carefully
Before purchasing a queen-size bed frame, assess the room where it will be installed. This step ensures the Murphy bed will fit properly, both when folded up and when in use.
Here are important considerations:
- Wall height. Measure the height of the wall space to confirm it can accommodate the bed when folded vertically. For horizontal beds, measure the width of the wall instead.
- Floor clearance. Ensure there’s enough clearance in front of the wall for the bed to fold down without hitting furniture or walls.
- Room dimensions. Consider the overall room size. The bed should leave ample walking space and not overcrowd the area when in use.
Pro Tip: Sketch a rough floor plan of your room and mark where the Murphy bed will go. This visual guide can help you plan the layout better.
2) Choose the right Murphy bed style
Murphy beds come in various styles to suit different needs and preferences. Here are some popular options to consider:
- Standard vertical beds. Ideal for rooms with high ceilings, these beds fold up and down vertically.
- Horizontal Murphy Beds. Best for a sleeping space with low ceilings or narrow walls, as they fold out horizontally.
- Cabinet Murphy Beds. Designed to look like cabinets when folded up, a Murphy bed cabinet offers a seamless and stylish storage solution.
- Desk or Table Murphy Beds. Combine functionality by including a foldable desk or table attached to the bed. Perfect for home offices or multi-use rooms.
Pro Tip: If aesthetics are a priority, look for models that match your existing decor, such as wood finishes, painted surfaces, or modern laminate designs.
3) Prioritize mattress comfort
A Murphy bed allows for a standard mattress, offering better comfort than alternatives like pull-out sofas or futons. When selecting a mattress:
- Thickness. Most Murphy beds accommodate mattresses up to 12 inches thick. Double-check your bed’s specifications before purchasing.
- Material. Choose a high-quality mattress, such as memory foam or hybrid, for durability and long-term comfort.
- Weight. Ensure the mattress weight is compatible with the Murphy bed’s lifting mechanism to prevent strain or wear over time.
Pro Tip: Opt for a mattress designed for frequent use if the bed will serve as a primary sleeping surface. You may also consider getting the mattress perfectly fitted for the Murphy bed. For instance, purchase The Lori Mattress for The Lori Bed.
4) Evaluate storage and customization options
Many Murphy bed models often include built-in storage solutions. This makes them even more practical for small spaces. Look for options suitable for your specific needs, such as:
- Shelves or cabinets. Perfect for storing bedding, books, or decorative items.
- Wardrobe add-ons. Some models include wardrobe features, making them ideal for guest rooms.
- Lighting. Built-in LED lighting can enhance functionality and aesthetics.
Pro Tip: Customizable Murphy beds allow you to select finishes, hardware, and storage configurations to create a look that seamlessly integrates with your living space. Lori Beds, for instance, offer The Lori Bed with an additional desk or shelves.
5) Ensure sturdy and safe construction
Safety is paramount when choosing a modern or traditional bed, especially if you have children or pets at home.
- Quality materials. Look for beds made of durable materials like solid wood or metal. Avoid low-quality particleboard, which may warp or break over time.
- Safety features. Some beds come with safety locks to prevent accidental folding or collapsing.
Pro Tip: Check customer reviews and ratings to ensure the bed’s construction and mechanism are reliable.
6) Factor in weight distribution
Murphy beds can be heavy, so it’s essential to assess the weight-bearing capacity of your wall or floor.
- Wall mounting. Ensure the wall can support the bed’s weight, including the mattress and any additional features like shelving.
- Floor reinforcement. For floor-mounted models, verify that the flooring is level and strong enough to handle the weight.
Pro Tip: If you live in an older home or apartment, consult a contractor to assess the wall or floor before installation or trying several Murphy bed ideas.
7) Test before you buy
Whenever possible, visit a showroom to see and test Murphy bed models in person.
- Ease of use. Check how easily the bed folds up and down. A quality Murphy bed should operate smoothly without requiring excessive effort.
- Stability. Ensure the bed feels stable when folded down and doesn’t wobble or shift.
- Comfort. If the bed includes a mattress, lie down to gauge its comfort level.
Pro Tip: If you can’t visit a showroom, look for video demonstrations or virtual tours on the manufacturer’s website.
Conclusion
Murphy beds are more than just a space-saving solution; they’re a lifestyle upgrade for US homeowners looking to combine functionality with style. From studio apartments to guest rooms, these space-saving beds offer versatility, comfort, and a modern aesthetic that suits any home.
Whether you’re embracing minimalism or simply looking to make the most out of your small space, a Murphy bed is an investment you won’t regret.
