Murphy Beds

Having an extra bedroom for visiting friends and family is a huge plus when living in a city where hotels aren’t cheap.  But sometimes we don’t have the space for an extra room strictly designated for occasional guests. The Murphy bed, also known as a fold-down bed, is a great solution that offers a variety of options.

Using a foldaway or convertible furniture piece will maximize floor space and allow your room to boast multiple functions. Here are a few preliminary considerations:

1. Size

The first thing to consider is the amount of space you’ll need for the bed. Allow at leasttwo feet from the wall to house the bed, mattress, and hardware in the upright position. From there, depending what size bed you’d like to use, you’ll need an additional five to six feet out. 

Recent Murphy Bed/ Built-in Design by Habitar Design

2. Purpose

Besides a place to sleep, what other purpose should the room serve? Do you need extra cabinetry for storage space? Or or space for a built-in television? Or perhaps a pull down desk for a quiet study. Take these options into consideration when making your design and purchasing decision.

Recently Designed rendering By Habitar of this recessed Murphy Bed wall unit featuring a closet and plenty of storage.

3. Who to Hire

Habitar Design and Stratagem Construction! Many companies sell pre-fabricated Murphy beds. At Habitar/Stratagem we design and build our own to our client’s personalized specifications. Working with us to design and build your Murphy bed will allow you to integrate the unit in any area of your home as well as have the opportunity to have it completely customized to fit all of your needs.

Mackenzie Cain is Assistant Designer at Habitar Design, a leading Interior Design firm in Chicago. Habitar Specialize in luxury home, kitchen, and bathroom designs and remodels.