21 Murphy Bed Ideas That Give You Back Your Space

Let’s be real—small spaces can be a huge challenge. I’ve been there, staring at my tiny apartment wondering how I’m supposed to fit both a bed AND have room to actually live my life! That’s where Murphy beds come in as absolute game-changers.

These fold-up marvels give you back your precious square footage during the day while still providing a comfy place to sleep at night. Ready to transform your small space? I’ve gathered 21 clever Murphy bed ideas that combine style, function, and smart design. Let’s dive in and discover how to make the most of every inch!

1. Bookshelf Murphy Bed Combo

Who doesn’t want their bedroom to double as a mini-library? A bookshelf Murphy bed combo gives you the best of both worlds—plenty of storage for your favorite reads when the bed is tucked away, and a cozy sleeping spot when it’s time to call it a night.

Step by Step:

1. Measure your available wall space carefully
2. Choose a Murphy bed system with built-in bookshelves on both sides
3. Install according to manufacturer instructions (or hire a professional)
4. Organize books and decorative items on shelves when bed is in the upright position
5. Add lighting fixtures above shelves for nighttime reading

Picture this: A sleek wall of bookshelves that mysteriously transforms into a comfortable bed at night. During the day, your favorite novels, framed photos, and small plants create an inviting reading nook. When evening comes, you simply pull down the center section to reveal a perfectly made bed, ready for sweet dreams.

Looking for more storage solutions in tight spaces? Check out these bookshelf ideas to maximize your vertical space!

2. Office Space Transformer

Working from home in a tiny apartment? An office-by-day, bedroom-by-night setup might be exactly what you need. This clever arrangement lets your home office transform into a bedroom with minimal effort.

Step by Step:

1. Select a Murphy bed with a built-in desk that remains level when the bed is lowered
2. Install the unit on a wall that has enough clearance for both bed and desk functions
3. Set up your work essentials on the desk portion
4. Use wall-mounted organizers for office supplies to keep the desk surface clear
5. Add a comfortable office chair that can be easily moved when transitioning to bed mode

Picture this: A productive workspace with your laptop, notebook, and coffee mug arranged just the way you like it. When the workday ends, you simply clear the desk, pull down the bed, and your office magically becomes a cozy bedroom. The desk stays perfectly level (with everything on it!) as the bed descends, making the transition smooth and hassle-free.

For more ways to maximize small living areas, explore these minimalist living room ideas that complement your transformable space!

3. Living Room Disguise

A Murphy bed that blends seamlessly into your living room when closed is perfect for studio apartments or guest spaces. This option looks like regular cabinetry when closed but transforms into a sleeping area when needed.

Step by Step:

1. Select a Murphy bed system with cabinet-style doors or panels
2. Choose finishes that match your existing living room furniture
3. Install in a location that allows enough floor space when the bed is down
4. Add decorative elements like artwork or a TV mount to the outside panel
5. Use accent lighting to highlight the unit as a design feature rather than just a practical element

Picture this: Guests entering your living room would never guess there’s a bed hidden in what looks like elegant built-in cabinetry. The panels blend perfectly with your décor, perhaps even showcasing artwork or a mounted TV. When overnight visitors arrive, you simply open the cabinet to reveal a fully made bed, transforming your living space into a welcoming guest room in seconds.

Need more inspiration for your living room? Check out these rectangle living room ideas to create a multi-functional space!

4. Side-Fold Murphy Bed

For rooms with limited wall space but more width available, a side-fold Murphy bed (that folds horizontally instead of vertically) can be the perfect solution. These beds work well under windows or in rooms with lower ceilings.

Step by Step:

1. Measure your available width carefully to ensure proper fit
2. Select a side-fold Murphy bed system that matches your space requirements
3. Consider a model with integrated nightstands for added functionality
4. Install according to manufacturer specifications
5. Add wall sconces on either side for reading light that doesn’t interfere with the bed’s operation

Picture this: A sleek cabinet running horizontally along your wall, perhaps under a window that would make a vertical Murphy bed impossible. When bedtime comes, you pull the bed out from the side rather than top-down, revealing a comfortable sleeping space that maximizes your room’s unique dimensions. During the day, the area becomes usable floor space again, with nothing to indicate a bed is hidden there.

For more cozy bedroom inspiration, explore these minimalist bedroom ideas that complement your space-saving Murphy bed!

5. Sofa Murphy Bed Combo

Why choose between a sofa and a bed when you can have both? A sofa Murphy bed combination offers seating during the day and comfortable sleeping at night—perfect for studio apartments or multipurpose rooms.

Step by Step:

1. Select a Murphy bed system that includes a built-in sofa at the base
2. Ensure you have enough clearance space for the bed to fold down over the sofa
3. Choose a model where the sofa remains in place when the bed is lowered
4. Add throw pillows and a coffee table that can be easily moved when converting to bed mode
5. Consider models with storage inside the sofa base for extra functionality

Picture this: During the day, you enjoy a comfortable sofa where you can relax, entertain friends, or watch TV. When night falls, you simply pull down the Murphy bed over the sofa (which may remain in place or fold flat, depending on the model). Your living area transforms into a bedroom without requiring you to move heavy furniture or compromise on comfort.

Looking to complete your living room look? Check out these coffee table decor ideas to complement your transformable space!

6. Kid’s Room Space-Saver

Children’s rooms often need to serve multiple purposes—sleep, play, study, and storage. A Murphy bed in a kid’s room can free up valuable floor space for daytime activities while ensuring a comfortable night’s sleep.

Step by Step:

1. Choose a Murphy bed system rated for children’s safety with easy operation
2. Select a model with a desk or play table that remains usable when the bed is closed
3. Add colorful decals or paint to make the Murphy bed a fun feature in the room
4. Install at a height appropriate for your child’s age
5. Consider magnetic or whiteboard surfaces on the exterior panel for added functionality

Picture this: During the day, your child’s room is a spacious play area with plenty of floor space for toys, games, and activities. The Murphy bed cabinet might feature a whiteboard for drawing or magnetic surface for displaying artwork. When bedtime arrives, the bed folds down to reveal fun-themed bedding, perhaps with string lights or a canopy attachment to make sleep time special and exciting.

Need more ideas for youth bedrooms? Explore these teen boys bedroom ideas for more inspiration!

7. Dual-Purpose Guest Room

Create a room that serves as your home office, craft room, or workout space most of the time, but transforms into a comfortable guest room when visitors arrive.

Step by Step:

1. Select a Murphy bed that complements the room’s primary function
2. Arrange furniture that can be easily moved or is outside the bed’s folding radius
3. Add dual-purpose accessories like ottomans that provide seating and storage
4. Install wall-mounted shelving instead of floor-standing units to maximize open space
5. Choose a Murphy bed with integrated USB ports and reading lights for guest convenience

Picture this: Your productive home office or serene yoga studio transforms into a welcoming guest room in minutes. When visitors arrive, you simply clear a small area, pull down the Murphy bed, and instantly create a comfortable sleeping space. Your guests will appreciate having a proper bedroom rather than a sofa bed, while you can maintain the room’s primary function most of the time.

For more multipurpose room inspiration, check out these apartment dining area ideas that make the most of limited space!

8. Murphy Bunk Beds

Perfect for kids’ rooms, vacation homes, or anywhere you need to accommodate multiple sleepers without sacrificing floor space. Murphy bunk beds fold into the wall just like a standard Murphy bed but provide two sleeping spaces.

Step by Step:

1. Ensure your ceiling height can accommodate stacked bunks when deployed
2. Choose a system with appropriate safety features, especially for the top bunk
3. Install according to weight requirements and specifications
4. Add individual reading lights for each bunk
5. Consider models with integrated ladders that store neatly when the unit is closed

Picture this: During the day, your kids have a spacious room to play and study. At night, you fold down the Murphy bunk beds to reveal two comfortable sleeping spaces complete with guard rails, individual reading lights, and perhaps even themed bedding. It’s the perfect solution for siblings sharing a room or for accommodating young guests during sleepovers.

Looking for more small bedroom solutions? Explore these tiny bedroom ideas to maximize every inch of space!

9. Murphy Bed With Closet Integration

Combine your Murphy bed with a closet system for the ultimate space-saving bedroom solution. This approach gives you a place to sleep and store your clothes without taking up precious floor space.

Step by Step:

1. Measure your available wall space to accommodate both bed and closet components
2. Select a Murphy bed system with integrated wardrobe components
3. Choose a configuration that allows access to at least part of the closet when the bed is down
4. Add mirror panels to closet doors to create a sense of space
5. Install good lighting inside closet compartments for visibility

Picture this: A wall of sleek cabinetry that contains both your Murphy bed and your entire wardrobe. When the bed is tucked away, you have full access to your clothing storage. When deployed, the bed fits perfectly into the design while still allowing access to essential closet sections. It’s a complete bedroom solution that takes up just one wall, leaving the rest of your space open for other activities.

For more bedroom storage solutions, check out these home bedroom aesthetic ideas that combine beauty and function!

10. Murphy Bed Desk Combo

This space-saving solution combines a comfortable bed with a functional desk, perfect for home offices that need to double as guest rooms.

Step by Step:

1. Select a Murphy bed with a desk surface that either folds down separately or remains intact when the bed is lowered
2. Choose a model where the desk contents stay in place during bed transformation
3. Add wall-mounted organizers to keep desk essentials accessible
4. Install adequate lighting for both desk and bed functions
5. Consider adding a comfortable chair that can be easily moved during transitions

Picture this: A productive workspace with your computer, documents, and supplies neatly arranged on a spacious desk. When guests arrive, you simply fold down the bed, which either incorporates the desk surface or fits over it depending on the model. Your office becomes a welcoming guest room without requiring you to clear your work materials or compromise your productive space.

Need more small space solutions? Explore these tiny house kitchen ideas for inspiration in other areas of your compact home!

11. Murphy Bed With Storage Cabinets

Maximize every inch by choosing a Murphy bed that’s surrounded by storage cabinets, drawers, and shelves to keep everything organized in your small space.

Step by Step:

1. Map out your storage needs and select a Murphy bed system with appropriate cabinet configurations
2. Choose a design with a mix of open shelving and closed storage
3. Add cabinet lighting to highlight displayed items
4. Organize contents by frequency of use, with daily items most accessible
5. Consider adding pull-out drawers beneath the bed section for additional storage

Picture this: A comprehensive wall unit that serves as the command center for your small space. When the Murphy bed is closed, you have access to bookshelves, display cabinets, drawers, and storage compartments for everything from clothing to entertainment. When opened, the bed fits perfectly into this organized system, revealing a comfortable sleeping space while keeping most of your items accessible.

For more storage-focused design inspiration, check out these scandinavian living room ideas that prioritize clean, functional spaces!

12. Rustic Style Murphy Bed

Incorporate the warmth and charm of rustic design with a Murphy bed that features natural wood finishes, iron hardware, and country-inspired details.

Step by Step:

1. Select a Murphy bed system that can be customized with rustic finishes
2. Choose distressed wood panels or barn door-style facades
3. Add wrought iron or aged bronze hardware for authentic character
4. Consider incorporating shiplap or reclaimed wood elements
5. Accentuate with vintage-inspired lighting fixtures

Picture this: A Murphy bed that looks like it belongs in a cozy mountain cabin, with warm wood tones and charming rustic details. When closed, it might resemble barn doors or a rustic armoire. When opened, it reveals a inviting bed with plaid flannel bedding and perhaps a faux fur throw. The entire unit brings a touch of countryside comfort to your space while still providing modern space-saving functionality.

For more rustic inspiration, explore these log home aesthetic ideas to complement your cozy Murphy bed design!

13. Modern Minimalist Murphy Bed

For lovers of clean lines and uncluttered spaces, a minimalist Murphy bed offers functionality without visual noise—perfect for contemporary small spaces.

Step by Step:

1. Select a Murphy bed with a sleek, handle-free design
2. Choose neutral finishes like white, gray, or natural light wood
3. Opt for hidden hardware and push-to-open mechanisms
4. Keep surrounding wall space clean and uncluttered
5. Add subtle integrated lighting that doesn’t disrupt the minimal aesthetic

Picture this: A nearly invisible addition to your minimalist space—a smooth wall panel in a clean white or subtle wood grain that gives no indication of its secret function. With a gentle push, it transforms into a comfortable sleeping space with crisp, simple bedding. The design is so streamlined that guests might not even realize it’s a Murphy bed until you reveal its transformation.

For more minimalist inspiration, check out these minimalistic bathroom ideas to maintain a cohesive aesthetic throughout your home!

14. Murphy Bed With Integrated Lighting

Smart lighting can make your Murphy bed both more functional and more attractive, creating ambiance while providing practical illumination.

Step by Step:

1. Select a Murphy bed system that includes built-in lighting features
2. Choose models with adjustable reading lights on the interior
3. Consider systems with LED lighting around the perimeter for ambient effect
4. Add motion-activated floor lighting for nighttime safety
5. Install dimmer controls for customizable brightness

Picture this: Your Murphy bed illuminates your space in layers—soft ambient lighting around the unit’s perimeter creates a welcoming glow, while adjustable reading lights inside the bed alcove provide perfect task lighting for nighttime reading. When you get up during the night, subtle floor-level lighting activates automatically to light your path. The thoughtful lighting transforms what could be just a practical furniture piece into a design feature.

For more lighting inspiration throughout your home, explore these sun-soaked spaces ideas to brighten every corner!

15. Murphy Bed With Seating

Incorporate built-in seating that works harmoniously with your Murphy bed to create a multi-functional space that transitions seamlessly from day to night.

Step by Step:

1. Choose a Murphy bed system that incorporates bench seating at the base
2. Select a model where the seating either folds away or becomes part of the bed frame
3. Add comfortable cushions that can be easily removed when converting to bed mode
4. Consider models with storage inside the seating area
5. Arrange additional furniture to create a conversation area that won’t need moving

Picture this: During the day, your room features a comfortable window seat or bench where you can relax with a book or chat with friends. When bedtime arrives, this seating either folds away or becomes incorporated into the Murphy bed frame as it descends from the wall. The transformation is effortless, requiring minimal rearrangement of your space while providing both comfortable seating and sleeping options.

Looking for more multipurpose furniture ideas? Check out these wood pallet furniture ideas for budget-friendly, versatile options!

16. Murphy Bed Entertainment Center

Combine your sleeping space and entertainment system in one clever unit that serves as the focal point of your room day and night.

Step by Step:

1. Select a Murphy bed system with space for a TV and media components
2. Choose a configuration where the TV either moves with the bed or remains stationary
3. Add cable management solutions for a clean look
4. Install surround sound speakers that won’t interfere with the bed’s operation
5. Consider adding accent lighting to highlight the entertainment features

Picture this: A comprehensive entertainment wall that houses your television, sound system, and media storage. The TV might be mounted on the Murphy bed panel itself, rotating smoothly as the bed descends, or it might be positioned to remain visible whether the bed is up or down. Either way, your room serves as both a comfortable place to watch movies and a restful place to sleep without compromising on either function.

For more living room entertainment solutions, explore these family room decor ideas to create a space everyone will enjoy!

17. Murphy Bed Room Divider

Use a freestanding Murphy bed unit as a room divider to create distinct zones in a studio apartment or loft space without permanent walls.

Step by Step:

1. Select a double-sided Murphy bed cabinet that looks finished from both sides
2. Position in your space to create natural divisions between living areas
3. Anchor properly to floor or ceiling for stability
4. Add decorative elements to both sides to integrate with adjacent areas
5. Consider models with pass-through shelving for a more open feel

Picture this: A beautiful cabinet unit standing proudly in the center of your open-concept space, dividing your living area from your dining zone or home office. From one side, it might showcase decorative items and books; from the other, perhaps a desk or media center. At night, the bed folds down on either side (depending on the model), transforming part of your space into a bedroom while maintaining the room division.

Need more ideas for open-concept living? Check out these gray and blue living room ideas to create cohesive but distinct zones!

18. Murphy Bed With Custom Facade

Personalize your Murphy bed with a custom facade that reflects your style—from custom artwork to textured panels to mirror surfaces.

Step by Step:

1. Select a Murphy bed system that allows for customizable exterior panels
2. Choose a design element that complements your decor—artwork, mirrors, textured panels
3. Work with a manufacturer or carpenter to create the custom surface
4. Ensure the customization doesn’t interfere with the bed’s mechanical function
5. Add complementary elements nearby to create a cohesive look

Picture this: When closed, your Murphy bed doesn’t look like a bed at all—it might appear as a stunning piece of framed artwork, a full-length mirror that brightens your space, or a textured wood panel that adds warmth and dimension to your room. This custom facade makes your Murphy bed a design feature rather than just a practical solution, adding personality and style to your small space.

For more ways to personalize your space, explore these preppy room decor ideas that showcase personal style!

19. Murphy Bed With Home Office

Create a comprehensive work-from-home solution that transforms into a comfortable bedroom without requiring you to pack up your office supplies.

Step by Step:

1. Select a Murphy bed system with a desk and comprehensive office storage
2. Choose a configuration where office materials remain in place during transformation
3. Add ergonomic features like adjustable lighting and proper chair height
4. Install cable management solutions for technology needs
5. Consider sound-absorbing panels for better work concentration and sleep quality

Picture this: A complete home office with everything you need for productivity—desk space, file storage, bookshelves, and technology connections. When work ends, you simply fold down the Murphy bed, which integrates perfectly with the office layout without requiring you to clear your workspace. Your computer and work materials remain in place, ready for the next workday, while you enjoy a comfortable, dedicated sleeping space.

For more space-efficient interior ideas, check out these small nordic cabin interior ideas that combine functionality and style!

20. Murphy Bed For Outdoor Spaces

Extend your living space by installing a weather-resistant Murphy bed on a covered porch, in a pool house, or in a converted garage for the ultimate indoor-outdoor living experience.

Step by Step:

1. Select a Murphy bed system rated for semi-outdoor or outdoor use
2. Choose weather-resistant materials and finishes
3. Ensure proper sealing and protection against moisture
4. Add outdoor-appropriate bedding that can withstand humidity
5. Install in a covered area with adequate protection from direct elements

Picture this: A covered patio or pool house that transforms into a charming guest room when needed. During the day, the space serves as a relaxing outdoor living area; at night, you fold down the specially designed outdoor Murphy bed to create a magical sleeping space under the stars (but protected from the elements). It’s perfect for summer sleepovers or creating extra guest accommodations during family gatherings.

For more creative outdoor space ideas, explore these backyard oasis ideas to extend your living space beyond your home’s walls!

21. Murphy Bed With Pet Integration

Design a Murphy bed system that includes special accommodations for your furry family members, like integrated pet beds, feeding stations, or toy storage.

Step by Step:

1. Select a Murphy bed system that can be customized with pet-friendly features
2. Add a built-in pet bed that remains accessible when your bed is either up or down
3. Include storage for pet supplies and toys
4. Consider a design with built-in feeding stations at pet-appropriate heights
5. Use pet-friendly, easy-to-clean materials and finishes

Picture this: A Murphy bed system that caters to both human and pet comfort. When the bed is closed, your pet might have a cozy built-in nook with their bed and toys. When your bed is down, perhaps their space converts or remains accessible from a different angle. The thoughtful integration means both you and your pets can enjoy comfort and convenience without sacrificing floor space, creating a harmonious small space living solution for the entire family.

For more ideas on creating pet-friendly spaces, check out these minimalist dining room ideas that create clean, open areas for both humans and pets to enjoy!

Small spaces have never looked so good! With these 21 Murphy bed ideas, you can reclaim your room during the day while still enjoying a comfortable sleep at night. Remember, the key to small space living isn’t just about fitting everything in—it’s about creating clever solutions that let your space adapt to your needs throughout the day. Which Murphy bed idea is calling your name? I’d love to know which one you’re planning to try first!