The Murphy bed from A to Z

Welcome to our Murphy bed guide. Through several comprehensive sections, we'll guide you step by step in your search for the perfect Murphy bed. From exploring the different models to choosing the right upholstery and configuring your furniture, you can count on our expert advice and guidance to help you choose the best Murphy bed for your needs.

How the Murphy Bed Works in Detail

Folding bed, wall bed, lift-up bed, bed cabinet, there are many names for this space-saving 2-in-1 piece of furniture . But do you really know how a Murphy bed works? We present all the different facets of this ingenious and innovative piece of furniture, which revolutionizes your home and enhances your space. A real asset in your bedroom, living room, office or studio, the Murphy bed never ceases to seduce.

Overview of the Murphy Bed

It is important to understand what is behind the words. When we talk about a Murphy bed, we are referring to a bed that retracts, that is to say, disappears. This simple concept is at the origin of this piece of furniture with its clever mechanism . The idea is to install the bed at night and enjoy a truly comfortable sleeping experience . And the next morning, with a single movement, the box spring and mattress disappear inside a large wooden structure and become completely invisible in the room.

The Murphy Bed Wardrobe

In a Murphy bed , we first find a large melamine wood frame with a front: this is the wardrobe. It is in this structure that the bedding is then integrated. This large wooden box is fixed to a load-bearing wall. It is this part that ensures the solidity and stability of the entire structure. The design can be completely personalized. Indeed, melamine wood offers a multitude of aesthetic possibilities, from the most sober appearance in matte white to the most elaborate effect with a textured wood print.

The mechanism of the Murphy bed

The mechanism plays a major role in the Murphy bed. It is what ensures the proper use of your folding bed . It is a system of jacks that allows the bedding to be lowered and raised. Then, thanks to a handle attached to the front, the bed can be deployed and folded down. The whole thing is completely secure so that the descent is smooth and there is no risk of accidental opening.

The bedding of the Murphy bed

This is one of the main strengths of the Murphy bed : this type of furniture allows you to integrate real bedding, like a classic bed. Inside your structure, you will therefore have access to a wooden slatted base. On this base, it is up to you to install the mattress of your choice . For example, you can choose a foam or latex mattress, which will provide you with a good quality of sleep in tandem with the slatted base. The spring mattress is also possible but you should know that it is heavier and that it forms a less good tandem with the slatted base.

Murphy Bed Options

Then, different pieces of furniture can be added to complement the basic structure of the Murphy bed . This can be furniture integrated into the front (sofa, desk, table, etc.) or an extension on the sides or in height. The options of your Murphy bed allow you to optimize space by offering you several functions in the same space. Thanks to the numerous storage possibilities, your room is always in order.

The Murphy bed: horizontal or vertical opening

Wall-mounted beds can offer a horizontal opening system . This is a piece of furniture that is positioned fully width-wise against the wall. This model unfolds parallel to the wall. Conversely, the vertical Murphy bed offers sleeping space perpendicular to the wall. The advantage? It takes up less space on the wall since it will instead occupy the height of the room. Provided your ceiling is high enough!

All the different models of Murphy beds

When it comes to the types of Murphy beds, you'll be spoiled for choice. The goal is to select a product that meets your expectations in terms of comfort , design , dimensions , and options . We present in detail the essential models of Murphy beds, for children or adults.

The classic lifting bed

In its simplest form, the Murphy bed offers a comfortable sleeping environment. Simple and discreet, this piece of furniture consists of a large wooden box fixed to the wall with a hinged front. By pulling the handle, you install your bed and conversely, you simply lift the bedding to close the module. Simple, practical and efficient , this model is also the most economical. It does not have any storage options.

The bed that transforms into a sofa

This 2-in-1 model offers two high-quality pieces of furniture, integrated into one. When the bed cabinet is closed, you have access to a real, comfortable sofa . It can be made to the size you want and can be finished with the upholstery and color of your choice. By lowering the front of the cabinet, the bedding can be placed over your sofa. You don't have to move your furniture: a real time saver . This way, you can also enjoy a real bed at night, with personalized comfort.

The bed table

In a studio apartment or in the living room of a small apartment, the table bed completely transforms your room and your daily life! It gives you the opportunity to have a real dining area and a comfortable sleeping space, even in a cramped space. This foldaway bed cabinet comes with a real table, for 4 or 6 people, directly attached to the front of the structure. Mounted on a retractable leg, the tabletop disappears under your bedding when you open the bed cabinet.

The Murphy bed with integrated desk

The wall bed desk is one of the most popular models. This practical fold-away bed is suitable for both adults and children. A large wooden top is integrated into the front of your wall bed, providing you with a functional office space. After a hard day's work, the bed unfolds effortlessly, allowing you to enjoy a comfortable mattress for a good night's sleep.

The Murphy bunk bed

With the bunk bed , space saving is maximized in a bedroom. With a reduced footprint, this product offers you two completely independent beds, which are stacked on top of each other. Depending on the model chosen, the two beds can be used separately: you can then deploy only one bed if you wish. This piece of furniture, very popular with children, can then be enhanced with a desk at the front and/or storage spaces.

Murphy beds with bookcases

Need more storage space in a room? Choose a Murphy bed with a bookcase . The bookcase can be integrated above the bed, on the sides, or even on the front. The goal is to create a complete and harmonious unit with multiple storage options all around your bedding. Niches, drawers, shelves, cupboards, TV stands: the options are endless.

The combined island bed

Finally, the combination bed is also a good solution for optimizing space in your home. In a child's or teenager's bedroom, this piece of furniture takes the form of a large block with a sleeping area above and a desk below. The set also includes other options, such as storage and/or a dressing room.

Our ideas for furnishing your interior with a Murphy bed

Arranging a room to install a folding bed is a real pleasure! Soon, you will be able to enjoy a modular and designer piece of furniture , which will enhance your space. In a house, in an apartment or even in a studio, the folding bed is always a smart space-saving solution . We offer you some tips for arranging each room well.

How to furnish a studio with a folding bed?

In a studio apartment, the layout is never easy. How can you fit multiple spaces for eating, sleeping, working, or entertaining into a single room? All with added storage furniture. A Murphy bed is a complete module that will allow you to gain comfort in your daily life. Choose a vertical Murphy bed to take up as much wall space as possible, and add storage options on the sides. Integrate a sofa or desk into the front according to your needs. Prefer a dining area? Opt for a wall bed that converts into a table.

Arrange a teenager's bedroom with a Murphy bed

Adolescence is an important period in your child's life. At this age, they will be spending more and more time in their room. To make sure they feel comfortable there, it's up to you to arrange it accordingly. Choose a Murphy bed with a built-in desk . A Murphy bunk bed is also a good option, which will give them the opportunity to accommodate a friend to sleep over. In a larger room, you can also consider a Murphy bed with a desk on the side and a bench seat in front.

Installing the Murphy bed from A to Z

Installing a Murphy bed is an important step. Once installed, this piece of furniture will remain in place for the long term. It must be practical and easy to use , while providing you with the greatest security . To install it, start with the wardrobe, then the lifting mechanism and finally, the bedding section.

In which room of the house should the Murphy bed be installed?

Your Murphy bed can be placed in a bedroom, office, or living room. Just remember to install it against a load-bearing wall . Also check the ceiling height of your room. Finally, consider the dimensions of the bed, both closed and open. Movement around the bed should remain fluid.

How to ensure the safety of the Murphy bed?

As a heavy piece of furniture, the Murphy bed must be securely attached to the wall. Attaching the wardrobe should be done first, even before installing the bed base. As for the mattress, to keep it securely in place, don't forget to strap it to the bed base.

Properly maintaining your Murphy bed

Another important point in the life of your furniture: the maintenance of the Murphy bed. Like any classic bedding, it must be given special care. The mattress should ideally be changed every ten years . This is an average, but it will mainly depend on the use of your Murphy bed. Pay attention to signs of weakness in your mattress to ensure continued sleeping comfort.

Practical information for buying a Murphy bed

You're about to buy a Murphy bed, but do you know how much to budget for this project? And where can you find one ? This final section provides all the essential information you need to complete your purchase.

How much does a Murphy bed cost?

For the cost of a wall bed, you should expect to pay between €1,000 and €1,500 for a classic single Murphy bed, without options. As soon as you add additional furniture, the price doubles or triples. For example, for a Murphy bed with a desk, the budget is around €3,000 . The Murphy bed can cost up to €5,000 if you add storage space on the sides.

Where to buy a Murphy bed?

For your Murphy bed, we recommend you go directly to the store . This will make your choice easier, benefiting from expert advice. On site, you will also have plenty of time to personalize your furniture, in order to obtain a custom-made Murphy bed. You have just discovered a summary of our guide on the Murphy bed. Now it's up to you to refine your knowledge by consulting all the sections that interest you!