Posted on January 14th, 2026.

 

If you have ever walked into a room and wished for just a little more space, you are not alone. Many homes, large or small, can feel cramped once a bed takes over the floor.

That is where a Murphy bed, also called a wall bed, becomes an attractive option.

Instead of dedicating an entire room to sleeping, a Murphy bed lets you fold the bed up when you are not using it. The same room can function as an office, workout area, craft space, or playroom during the day.

At night, it converts back into a comfortable bedroom in a matter of seconds.

Before you commit, it helps to look at the full picture. Murphy beds offer clear benefits, but they also come with considerations around installation, cost, and daily use.

Knowing those pros and cons will help you decide whether this space-saving bed is the right fit for your home and lifestyle.

 

The Many Benefits of Murphy Beds

One of the biggest advantages of a Murphy bed is how effectively it frees up floor space. When the bed is folded against the wall, the room feels larger, lighter, and easier to move through. You can roll out an exercise mat, set up a temporary project table, or simply enjoy a more open layout. This is especially helpful in small apartments, studio spaces, and multipurpose rooms.

A wall bed also gives you flexibility in how you use each room across the week and throughout the year. A home office with a Murphy bed can double as a guest room without forcing you to choose one function over the other. A playroom can quickly convert into a sleep space for cousins or sleepovers. Instead of feeling locked into a single room label, you can adapt the space to what you need that day.

Modern Murphy beds are designed for comfort as well as convenience. Many models use standard mattresses rather than thin or folding versions, so the sleep experience feels similar to a regular bed. Quality mechanisms keep the bed level and secure, which matters if you plan to use it every night. For many households, a wall bed is not just a backup option; it becomes a primary sleeping solution.

There is also a strong design advantage. Today’s Murphy beds come in finishes and styles that can match existing cabinetry, flooring, and trim. When the bed is closed, it can look like a built-in closet, bookcase, or panel wall. This helps the room feel polished rather than improvised. Choosing colors and hardware that echo the rest of your home can make the bed feel intentional and custom.

Another benefit is how easily you can add storage and function around the bed. Many systems include side cabinets, drawers, or open shelves that provide space for bedding, books, or office supplies. Some Murphy beds integrate a fold-down desk or work surface on the front. That means you can work during the day, then store your laptop and turn the same wall into a cozy sleep spot at night.

For people who host guests, a Murphy bed is often more comfortable and convenient than an air mattress or sleeper sofa. You can have a real mattress available without keeping a full guest room empty most of the time. When friends or family visit, the bed pulls down in seconds and stows away just as easily after they leave. This balance of hospitality and everyday practicality is a big part of what makes Murphy beds so appealing.

 

Understanding Potential Drawbacks

Although Murphy beds are useful, there are some drawbacks to think through before you buy. The first is installation. Wall beds are secured to the wall or floor for safety, so the structure needs to be solid. If your walls are older, uneven, or built with certain materials, reinforcement may be required. That can add time and cost to the project, and it is generally not a good do-it-yourself option.

If you rent, you may need written permission before installing a wall bed. Landlords are sometimes cautious about large fixtures that mount into studs or concrete. Even with approval, you will want to understand who is responsible for patching or repairs if the bed is removed in the future. For people who move often, a freestanding guest bed may be a simpler short-term solution.

Ease of operation is another factor. High-quality Murphy beds include counterbalanced or gas-assisted mechanisms to make lifting and lowering smooth and light. However, some older or lower-quality systems can feel heavy or stiff, especially if they are not maintained. Before you purchase, it is smart to test the mechanism in person to ensure anyone in your household can use it comfortably.

Maintenance, while minimal, still matters. Over time, hardware can loosen slightly and need tightening, and moving parts benefit from periodic checks. Ignoring small issues can make the bed harder to operate or, in rare cases, less safe. Working with a reputable installer who can explain basic upkeep and offer service if needed goes a long way toward preventing problems.

There are also design limitations to consider. Although there are many finishes and layouts available, you may still feel more restricted than with a traditional bed frame and separate furniture. If you have a very specific style in mind, a fully custom Murphy bed that matches every detail can increase the price and extend the lead time. Patience and flexibility are helpful when you are aiming for a highly tailored look.

Once a Murphy bed is installed, it largely defines that wall and part of the room. You will need to keep the floor area in front of the bed clear enough to lower it safely. That can limit where you place rugs, coffee tables, or other pieces of furniture. For most people the tradeoff is worth it, but it is important to think through how you use the room so the bed supports your daily routine rather than complicating it.

 

Investing in a Murphy Bed: Costs and Purchase Tips

Cost is a major part of the decision to invest in a Murphy bed. Prices typically range from around $1,000 for simple, ready-to-assemble units to $5,000 or more for custom, built-in designs. The final number depends on the size of the bed, materials, design complexity, and whether professional installation is included. Planning a realistic budget at the start helps you compare options more clearly.

Materials make a noticeable difference in both feel and durability. Beds built with solid wood or high-quality plywood tend to be more stable and long-lasting than those made primarily from low-grade particleboard. Finishes such as painted surfaces, wood veneers, and custom hardware will also influence the cost. Choosing a durable, timeless look can help your wall bed stay attractive and functional for many years.

Size and layout are key considerations as well. A twin Murphy bed will usually be the most affordable and is ideal for small home offices or kids’ rooms. A full- or queen-size bed offers more sleeping comfort for adults and guests, though it requires more wall space. If you decide to add side cabinets, overhead storage, or an attached desk, those features will increase both the footprint and the investment.

Where you buy your Murphy bed matters too. Local specialists and custom cabinetry companies often provide higher-quality systems, professional installation, and better long-term support than generic big box options. Visiting a showroom lets you see how the mechanisms work, feel the materials, and ask detailed questions. Online reviews and photos can be helpful, but nothing replaces seeing the bed in person if you can.

As you compare vendors, pay close attention to warranties and service policies. A strong warranty on both the frame and the lifting mechanism indicates confidence in the product. Ask about installation practices, safety standards, and what support is available if something needs adjustment later. Clear communication at this stage can prevent surprises and give you peace of mind once the bed is in your home.

Before you order, measure your room carefully, including ceiling height, wall width, and the space needed to pull the bed down fully. Think about outlets, vents, windows, and existing furniture. Bringing photos and basic room dimensions to your consultation can help the design team suggest the best configuration. A thoughtful planning process ensures your Murphy bed looks built-in, functions smoothly, and truly enhances the way you use your space.

Related: Everything to Know About Thermally Fused Laminate (TFL)

 

Make Smart Use of Every Inch

Choosing a Murphy bed is really about making your home work harder for you. When you free up floor space and add flexible sleeping options, a single room can handle many roles without feeling crowded. The right wall bed lets you enjoy a tidy, open layout most of the time, then convert the room into a comfortable bedroom whenever you need it.

Intelligent Design specializes in space-saving solutions that blend custom wall beds with thoughtful storage, including our Inovabed Murphy Beds that are made in the USA. We focus on quality mechanisms, attractive cabinetry, and designs that coordinate with your closets and built-ins, so your new bed feels like a natural part of your home.

Get a quote for a Murphy bed installation today!

You can always reach out for assistance by giving us a call at (727) 626-4224.