Out of space and tired of tripping over furniture? A small room can feel even smaller when a big bed takes over the floor. You may feel stuck, but there is a better way to live. A horizontal Murphy bed gives you back control. It opens at night to give you comfort and support. It folds away during the day to create open space.
This smart furniture does more than save room. It adds style, function, and freedom. You do not need to choose between comfort and design.
You can have both. Homeowners across the country now use horizontal Murphy beds in studios, guest rooms, and even workspaces. These beds turn tight spaces into open, flexible areas that feel calm and clean.
You do not need to drag furniture or live in a crowded room. A horizontal Murphy bed clears the floor, improves the layout, and gives you the space to relax, work, or enjoy your day.
What Is a Horizontal Murphy Bed?
A horizontal Murphy bed folds down from the short end of the bed frame. This means the bed opens along the side, not from top to bottom like a vertical bed. The shape stays wide instead of tall. This setup fits better in rooms that do not have much height.
Low ceilings often make tall furniture feel too big. A horizontal Murphy bed avoids this problem. It fits under windows, light fixtures, or wall art without blocking them. You can place it in rooms where a vertical bed would not fit. It also works well in basements, lofts, or under sloped ceilings.
The lower height of the frame leaves space above the bed. You can hang shelves, add storage, or place decorations on the wall. This helps keep the room organized without losing style. The wide design also makes it easier to reach the bed and use the space around it.
A horizontal Murphy bed gives you more ways to arrange your room. It keeps things open, balanced, and easy to use.
Why Horizontal Murphy Beds Work So Well
A horizontal Murphy bed is more than a foldable bed. It offers several key advantages that make life easier, neater, and more comfortable:
Save Floor Space Efficiently
The main benefit of any Murphy bed is the space you save. When folded up, the bed becomes part of the wall.
This open the floor for other use during the day. You get more space to move, play, work, or relax. In small apartment, this make a big difference.
Get More Than Just a Bed
Many horizontal Murphy bed include extra feature. Some come with built-in desk, which let you turn your bedroom into a home office.
Other include drawer, cabinet, or shelving. These feature reduce the need for other furniture, giving you even more open space.
Match Your Room’s Style
You don’t have to give up design for function. These beds come in many style modern, rustic, minimalist, and classic.
Choose from materials like painted wood, stained maple, or sleek laminate. Whether your home looks warm and traditional or bold and modern, there’s a Murphy bed that fits.
Add Real Property Value
Installing a Murphy bed can make your home more valuable. Buyer like flexible, well-designed spaces.
A horizontal Murphy bed show that your home uses space wisely. If you rent, it can attract tenants looking for extra storage and sleeping space.
Use It With Little Effort
Most Murphy bed use gas springs or hydraulic systems. These tool make lifting or lowering the bed easy.
The bed opens and closes smoothly without strain. You can pull it down or push it up with just one hand.
Smart Design Solutions That Work With Murphy Beds
A horizontal Murphy bed solves many problems. But it works best when used with other space-saving ideas. Here are some ways to get more from your room:
Use a Fold-Down Desk
Attach a fold-down desk to the wall or the Murphy bed unit. This gives you a work area during the day.
When you fold it up, the space becomes clear again. It’s a great way to create a study or home office in a bedroom.
Add Wall-Mounted Shelves
Hang shelves high on the wall to store books, plants, or display items. This clears the floor and makes the room feel taller. You get storage without bulky furniture.
Build in Cabinets and Closets
Install cabinets around or above the Murphy bed. Store bedding, clothes, and gear out of sight. The bed stays clean, and the room stays organized. Many Murphy beds come with these features built in.
Install a Large Mirror
A mirror reflects light and gives the illusion of space. Place a large mirror near your Murphy bed to brighten the room. It also helps make small spaces feel twice as big.
Top Murphy Bed Models You Should Know About
Here are some popular and well-reviewed horizontal Murphy bed models:
Audet Queen Storage Murphy Bed
This model stands out for quality and looks. It offers both comfort and storage, with a modern design that fits most homes. Its queen size makes it suitable for couples or guests.
Ball & Cast Folding Hideaway Bed
If you want a solid Murphy bed at a lower price, this one delivers good value. It folds easily and doesn’t take up much space.
Latitude Run Cabinet Murphy Bed
This is perfect for apartment living. Its cabinet design keeps the bed hidden when not in use. It blends in with other furniture and doesn’t draw attention until it’s needed.
Creative Murphy Bed Designs to Inspire You
You can find Murphy beds in many looks and setups. Here are some creative styles worth exploring:
Minimalist Modern Beds
Go with clean lines, neutral tones, and smooth surfaces. These beds often use metal or painted wood and blend into modern homes without extra decoration.
Rustic and Reclaimed Wood Beds
Choose distressed wood finishes or raw textures for a rustic vibe. These beds create a cozy, warm feel and match farmhouse or vintage styles.
Beds With Hidden Storage
Some Murphy beds include shelves, drawers, or closets as part of the frame. You can store clothes, books, or supplies inside the unit, saving room and reducing clutter.
Combo Beds With Desks or Sofas
Many beds now include sofas on the front panel or built-in desks that fold away. These allow you to work, sit, or relax during the day and sleep comfortably at night.
How to Choose the Right Murphy Bed
Don’t rush your decision. You need a bed that fits your space, needs, and design. Here’s what to check before buying:
Measure Your Room
Measure the full length, width, and height of your space. Know how much room the bed will take when open. This ensures you can still walk around or move furniture.
Pick the Right Mattress Size
Twin beds work well for kids or single sleepers. Full and queen beds offer more room for adults or guests. Queen beds are most common and balance comfort and size.
Check the Build Quality
Choose beds made from solid materials like real wood or metal. Make sure the bed includes a safe, easy-to-use lifting system. A solid Murphy bed should last many years.
Review Setup Options
Some Murphy beds need a pro to install. Others come with instructions for easy home assembly. Choose a model that matches your skills and tools.
Murphy Bed Maintenance Tips
Once installed, a Murphy bed needs regular care to stay in good shape:
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Wipe the frame and surface with a soft cloth weekly.
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Check screw, bolt, or moving part every few month.
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Lubricate hinge or piston once a year with a safe spray.
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Use a mattres cover to prevent stain and protect the bed.
Should You Build or Buy a Murphy Bed?
You can build a Murphy bed if you have carpentry skill. This option may cost less than buying one. You will need wood, tools, and the right hardware. You must also follow a plan that gives clear steps. Some companies sell kits that include the frame and parts. These kitsmake the job easier but still take time and effort.
A homemade bed can work well if you know how to measure, cut, and assemble furniture. If you make a mistake, the bed may not open or close properly. You must check every part to make sure it stays safe and stable.
Buying a Murphy bed costs more, but it comes with many benefits. You do not need to build anything. You receive a finished product that has passed safety checks. Most models include instructions for fast setup. Some even offer professional installation.
If you want quick results, buying is a smart choice. It also helps if you have little or no experience with tools. You get a safe, strong bed without the risk of errors.
Are Murphy Beds Still Worth It in 2025?
Murphy beds are gaining attention in homes across the country. More people want furniture that saves space and looks good. Homeowners and designers both see the value in pieces that do more than one job. A Murphy bed meets this need. It works well in small rooms and adds style to any layout.
Experts like Liz Hoekzema of KLH Custom Homes say that Murphy beds now play a key role in smart home design. These beds no longer carry an old or outdated look. They fit in with modern tastes and clean lines. Many models use strong materials and simple finishes that blend with different styles.
Murphy beds now feel fresh and modern. You can find them in wood, metal, or painted surface. Some come with shelve, desk, or storage built into the frame. These feature make them more useful and more appealing.
People no longer view Murphy beds as old tricks to save space. Today, they stand out as smart choices for those who want comfort, style, and more room to move.
Bottom Lines
A horizontal Murphy bed gives you more control over your space. It opens up the floor and clears the room. You can walk freely, store your things, and enjoy a layout that feels open and simple. The bed gives you full comfort without taking up extra room. Some model include shelve, drawer, or a desk to add more use.
You can place this bed in any room. It fit well in small apartment, studio, guest room, or home office. You can pull it down when you need to rest. You can fold it up when you want more space. The process is quick and easy.
There are many style to choose from. Some bed look sleek and modern. Others include soft sofas or extra storage around the frame. You can match the bed to your room and your needs.
Choose a bed that fits your space. Set it up once, and enjoy a better room every day. A horizontal Murphy bed gives you more freedom and more use from every part of your home.