The Murphy Bed: A Space-Saving Folding Bed That Looks Amazing Too

Published on March 26, 2025
Last update on March 26, 2025

The Murphy bed, or folding bed, has become an essential piece of space-saving furniture for modern, space-conscious living. Combining functionality with sleek design, Murphy beds offer an ideal solution for maximizing floor space without compromising style, making them a popular choice among designers and homeowners. 

This article will guide you through selecting the perfect Murphy bed to enhance your space, whether it’s a cozy studio, a guest room, or a multi-functional living area. If you’re interested in the origins of the Murphy Bed, read our article on The Timeless Appeal of the Murphy Bed.

Une chambre moderne et lumineuse avec un canapé-lit escamotable. Une femme aux cheveux blonds, portant un chemisier blanc, range le lit escamotable dans le mur. Le mur derrière le lit est revêtu de bois, ajoutant une touche chaleureuse. À gauche, un bureau blanc avec une chaise noire se trouve près d’une grande fenêtre qui laisse entrer la lumière naturelle. Le sol est en bois clair, complétant le style épuré de la pièce.

The Ultimate Blend of Style and Functionality for Modern Living

Murphy beds have surged in popularity as they cater perfectly to today’s diverse living spaces—from compact city apartments to larger homes seeking versatile design solutions. 

Ideal for multi-functional rooms, Murphy beds balance practicality with modern aesthetics, transforming any space into a flexible, dual-purpose area. The bed’s ability to fold away seamlessly maximizes floor space, making it perfect for home offices, guest rooms, and studios. 

Current design trends, including minimalist, classic, contemporary, and industrial styles, have embraced Murphy beds, incorporating sleek cabinetry, integrated shelving, and high-quality finishes that blend effortlessly into modern interiors, proving they’re both functional and stylish.

Trendy Designs and Aesthetic Options for Murphy Beds

Murphy beds have evolved far beyond simple fold-away units, offering stylish design innovations that cater to a wide range of tastes and interiors.

Custom Cabinetry Finishes

Murphy beds now come in an array of finishes, from sleek matte and high-gloss to rustic natural wood grains. These options allow homeowners to match the bed seamlessly with existing decor, ensuring it enhances rather than disrupts the room’s style.

Check out our photo gallery of our custom-made Murphy Beds.

Integrated Furniture Solutions

Murphy beds now combine with functional pieces like retractable desks, couches, and custom-made closets, optimizing space usage throughout the day. Popular options include desks or couches, allowing rooms to serve multiple purposes without sacrificing comfort.

Murphy beds are available in various configurations, such as horizontal and vertical models, catering to room layouts and personal preferences. They come in single, double, queen, and king sizes, making them suitable for any household need. Each bed can be customized to suit both modern and traditional interiors, making Murphy beds a versatile addition to any home.

Tips for Choosing the Right Murphy Bed for Different Spaces

Selecting the right wall bed can transform your space, whether it’s a compact studio, a guest room, or a multi-functional living area. Here’s how to choose the best fit for your needs.

Studio Apartments

In studios, where every square foot counts, look for a Murphy bed with integrated storage, such as shelving or cabinets. Models that fold over a sofa or desk, like a Murphy bed with desk or a Murphy bed with couch, let your bed double as a workspace or living area during the day.

Guest Rooms

For guest rooms, consider a wall-mounted Murphy bed that folds down with minimal effort and offers comfort equivalent to a traditional bed. A queen-sized option works well for accommodating couples, and if the room is used for other activities, choose a design that integrates seamlessly, like those with built-in bookcases or a table. 

Read our top 10 layout tips for guest rooms.

Multi-Functional Spaces

In home offices or gyms, sideways-mounted Murphy beds  work well since they require less vertical space. Some models include desks or cabinets that remain accessible when the bed is stored, allowing for a smooth transition between functions in the same room.

For more storage inspiration, explore our 20 storage ideas and tips to maximize small spaces.

Murphy Bed Add-ons and Customization Options

Modern Murphy beds go beyond just saving space—they now come equipped with features that enhance convenience and functionality, making them an ideal choice for any space.. 

Built-in lighting is a popular addition, adding soft lighting for a warm ambiance to any room. Many models also include storage solutions like drawers, shelves, or even cabinets, which provide extra room for essentials, from books to bedding, keeping everything within easy reach.

Murphy beds also boast adjustable features that allow them to fold or unfold without needing to move surrounding furniture. The high level of customization available—covering everything from finishes and hardware to integrated desks or sofas—means a Murphy bed can be tailored precisely to your style and practical needs, blending seamlessly into any home.

The springs, crafted in North America, support loads up to 2,000 lbs, ensuring durability and safe use. Learn more about Murphy Bed mechanisms here.

Maximizing Small Spaces with Murphy Beds

Murphy beds are perfect for optimizing small spaces, especially in apartments, tiny homes, and multi-functional rooms. Their ability to fold away instantly opens up precious floor space, transforming bedrooms into living rooms, home offices, or gyms in seconds. 

By incorporating a Murphy bed, you’re not just adding a place to sleep but creating a flexible, multi-purpose environment that adapts to your lifestyle. 

Ideal for compact spaces, Murphy beds allow you to enjoy an open, uncluttered room without sacrificing comfort or style, or ergonomics in the bedroom.

Murphy Beds as Sustainable, Long-Term Investments

Murphy beds are a smart, eco-friendly choice for those who want to maximize space without the environmental impact of excessive furniture consumption. Many modern Murphy beds are crafted from sustainable materials, such as recycled wood or responsibly sourced timber, and often feature low-emission finishes that reduce indoor pollutants. 

Designed for durability, these beds are built to withstand years of use, making them a lasting investment for evolving lifestyles and family needs. Unlike temporary or disposable furniture, a Murphy bed adapts to changing spaces over time, serving as a functional, stylish solution that supports the environment.

Transform Your Space with a Custom Murphy Bed Solution

The Murphy bed combines functionality with style, making it a versatile solution for any space—whether a compact studio, guest room, or multi-functional home. With options for customization in finishes, storage, and integrated features, it can be tailored to fit both your personal style and practical needs. 

Get in touch with us today to discover how a custom Murphy bed can transform your space, offering a beautiful and efficient way to maximize every square foot.