Tuesday 7 August 2012

Where to rest your head? Murphy bed solutions

Murphy beds are usually pictured in small apartments, but why not utilize such a fantastic idea in your own home?  It is especially practical if you do not have a guest room, but periodically still need a place for overnight visitors.

murphybeds.com

murphybeds.com

 An unused wall in a basement could be the perfect spot. When not in use, it can look like a wall unit or armoire.   

diyshowoff.com

Putting a murphy bed in a guest room can make the use of the space in your home more efficient. Most of the time the room can be used as a den or office, and when needed, converted to a guest room when the murphy bed is pulled down.  

murphybeds.com

The traditional look of a murphy bed is one that pulls down vertically. Since some basements have lower ceilings that may not work. Those that pull down horizontally are also available. That way you dont need as much clearance for the height of the bed. The following are two design ideas for those beds that fold out horizontally.

obsit.com

murphybeds.com


As with everything, murphy beds are being constantly improved.  A motorized version is also available.  Here the mattress is concealed behind the wall unit and gently rolls out to a full size bed. 

solutions4smallspaces.com


If you really want to save space, here is a design is stored in the ceiling and lowered when necessary. 

murphybedpros.com

I found this photo during my search, and love the idea of making the bed appear as a faux dresser.

homesteadsurvival.com
Murphy beds can be made to suit different styles.  While I have seen many built in a contemporary style, traditional and rustic styles also work well. 

closetfactory.com

4westcabinetry.com

Pets can also have their own hidden bed.  If your dog or cat has their own special spot in a high traffic area, rest assured your room will still be the epitome of neatness when it is folded up and out of the way.

apartmenttherapy.com
I have always appreciated interior design ideas that not only make the home more beautiful, but also  save space.  I find murphy beds to be a perfect example of this. 


Want to incorporate a hidden bed in your home?  Email me at linda@changesinteriordesign.ca if your would like some help with ideas.