How To Incorporate A Murphy Bed Into Your Home

As a homeowner, you might be seeking ways to optimize the space you have and make your living areas more functional. One perfect solution that has gained popularity in recent years is the Murphy bed. This versatile piece of furniture allows you to reclaim valuable floor space by seamlessly folding away into a wall or cabinet when not in use.

What is a Murphy Bed?

A Murphy bed, aka a wall bed, fold-down bed, or pull-out bed, was invented in the early 20th century by William Lawrence Murphy. The original concept was a simple folding bed that could be pulled down from a closet-like structure and then folded back up when not in use.

Today, Murphy beds have evolved and can be seamlessly integrated into walls or cabinets, offering a versatile and space-saving alternative to traditional beds.

Murphy beds allow you to customize them to fit any decor. They are available in twin, full, queen, and even king sizes and can be made from wood, metal, or upholstered fabrics. Some wall beds even include design elements like shelves for decoration or storage, as well as built-in lighting for added convenience and ambiance.

Advantages of Murphy Beds

Maximizing space and functionality

Murphy beds can maximize space and functionality. These space-saving beds are designed to transform any room into a multi-functional space. Whether you need a guest bedroom, a home office, a playroom, or a fitness center, a Murphy bed allows you to easily convert the small space to suit your needs.

When the bed is not in use, it seamlessly folds away, freeing up valuable floor space and making the room feel larger and more open.

Customizability to suit your style

Modern Murphy beds offer a high level of customizability. You can create a design that blends seamlessly with your existing decor. Whether you prefer a modern, minimalist look or a more traditional aesthetic, you can choose from a variety of finishes, materials, and design elements to create a Murphy bed that perfectly complements your style. Some companies even offer unfinished beds that can be tailored to match your desired color scheme.

Durability and longevity

The best Murphy bed is built to last. While older models may have had a reputation for being flimsy, today's Murphy beds, like Lori Beds, are constructed with high-quality materials and sturdy mechanisms.

Some models feature all-wood construction, ensuring durability and longevity even with repeated use. Investing in a Murphy bed means investing in a piece of furniture that will withstand the test of time and provide you with many years of comfortable sleep.

Multi-functionality

Many Murphy bed models come equipped with pull-out desks, storage cabinets, and shelving units, allowing you to make the most of the available space in your small bedroom. These additional features provide ample storage and workspace, making Murphy beds a practical choice for a small apartment, home office, or even your children's bedrooms.

Comfortable sleep solutions

One common concern when considering a Murphy bed is whether it will provide a comfortable sleeping experience. Rest assured, Murphy beds can accommodate a wide range of mattresses, including those up to 12 inches thick. While memory foam mattresses are not recommended due to their weight, standard mattresses of various materials and firmness levels can be used with Murphy beds. This ensures that everyone can enjoy a restful night's sleep without compromising on comfort.

Top Considerations When Choosing a Murphy Bed

When selecting a Murphy bed for your home, there are several factors to consider to ensure you choose the right option for your needs.

Room size and layout

Before investing in a Murphy bed, carefully assess the size and layout of the room where it will be installed. Ensure that you have sufficient wall space for the bed to fold down and enough clearance for it to extend fully. Take into account obstructions such as windows, doors, or light fixtures that may affect the bed's functionality.

Bed size and orientation

Consider the size of the bed that will best suit your needs. Murphy beds come in twin, full, queen, and king sizes. Choose a size that provides adequate sleeping space without overwhelming the room.

Additionally, consider the orientation of the bed. While traditional Murphy beds fold down vertically, some models can be oriented horizontally, which may be more suitable for rooms with limited vertical space.

Material and design

Select a Murphy bed that complements your existing decor and personal style. Choose from a range of materials such as wood, metal, or upholstered fabrics.

Consider the bed's overall design and aesthetics, including any additional features or storage options that may enhance its functionality and visual appeal.

Budget and installation

Murphy beds can vary significantly in price, depending on their size, material, and customization options. Set a budget that aligns with your financial constraints and explore different models within that range.

Additionally, consider the installation process. Murphy beds like those from Lori Beds can be installed as a DIY project. All you need is to follow the tutorial they provided on their site.

Tips for Incorporating a Murphy Bed into Your Home

Once you have chosen the perfect Murphy bed for your space, it's time to integrate it into your home. Here are some tips on how to make the most of your Murphy bed:

Multi-functional Guest Room

Transform a spare room into a multi-functional space by incorporating a Murphy bed.

During the day, the room can serve as a home office, a craft room, or a playroom. When guests arrive, simply fold down the Murphy bed to provide them with a comfortable sleeping space.

Home office conversion

If you work from home, a Murphy bed can be a great addition to your home office.

During the day, utilize the space as a workspace with a desk and storage. When it's time to relax or accommodate overnight guests, fold down the Murphy bed to create a cozy sleeping area.

Studio apartment solution

For those living in small studio apartments, a Murphy bed can be a game-changer.

Maximize your living space by folding away the bed during the day, allowing you to utilize the room for various activities such as exercising, entertaining, or working from home.

Children's room flexibility

Murphy beds are also an excellent option for children's bedrooms. By incorporating a Murphy bed, you can create more play space during the day, giving your child a room that can adapt to their changing needs as they grow.

Conclusion

Murphy beds are a practical and stylish solution for maximizing space and functionality in your home. With their ability to seamlessly fold away and blend into your existing decor, Murphy beds offer a versatile and customizable sleeping option that allows you to reclaim valuable floor space. Consider the factors mentioned in this guide, choose the right Murphy bed, and enjoy the benefits of a more functional and versatile living area.