Murphy beds, or wall beds, have evolved far beyond their early days as simple fold-away sleeping solutions. Modern designs integrate an array of features, including shelves, desks, sofas, and tables, making these beds an extraordinary combination of form and function.
Whether you need to create a multipurpose area, save space in a smaller home, or add versatility to a guest room, high-end Murphy beds offer unmatched possibilities. Below, the experts at our modern furniture store in Vancouver suggested ten things to look for when selecting the right Murphy bed for your space.
1. Selecting the right-sized bed
Murphy beds come in a variety of sizes, making them suitable for different needs and spaces. Choosing the correct size depends on the household and the expected frequency of use.
- Single beds: Compact and practical, these work well in small rooms or part of a home office setup. They’re a great fit for children or occasional overnight guests.
- Queen beds: More spacious and comfortable, these are ideal for couples or households with frequent visitors. They provide ample room while maintaining a clean, uncluttered look.
- Bunk beds: A family favourite, Murphy bunk beds save space while accommodating multiple sleepers. These beds are perfect for children’s rooms or homes with regular overnight guests.
Before purchasing, measure the available space in your room carefully. It’s important to have both the wall dimensions and the clearance required for when you fully open the bed. This helps avoid any obstructions from occurring and keeps the layout of your space completely functional.
2. Choosing between vertical and horizontal layouts
Murphy beds come in two orientations: vertical and horizontal. Your choice depends largely on the room’s configuration.
- Vertical layouts: These are perfect for rooms with high ceilings. They create a sleek, modern look and stand out as a bold design element. With a vertically opening wall bed, the bed is accessible from both sides, making it an excellent solution for couples who value convenience and shared comfort.
- Horizontal layouts: These work best in rooms with lower ceilings or unconventional spaces, such as areas with sloped walls. They integrate seamlessly into existing interiors without overwhelming the space.
The orientation influences the bed’s overall appearance and how it fits within your home. Consider, as well, how the bed will look when both open and closed.
3. Understanding installation requirements
Proper installation is essential for a high-end Murphy bed to function both safely and efficiently. Most designs attach to wall studs for stability. Depending on your home’s construction, you may need to select a model that is compatible with your wall type.
Many high-end retailers provide professional installation services. This option is often advantageous for intricate designs or when working with premium materials that require precise alignment. If you prefer a do-it-yourself approach, detailed installation instructions are often included when purchasing a wall bed.
4. Selecting durable materials
Quality materials are the backbone of a well-crafted Murphy bed and ensure it will function seamlessly while maintaining its visual appeal with daily use. Choosing sustainably sourced options, like recycled wood panels, promotes responsible manufacturing practices, minimizing environmental harm and off-gassing.
High-end finishes add an element of elegance. Choices such as wood veneers, lacquered surfaces, or textured panels not only make your space more sophisticated, but also protect the bed from wear and tear.
Only the highest quality CARB2-certified materials and water-based lacquers are used on Resource Furniture wall beds, significantly reducing environmental impact and VOC emissions.
5. Prioritize smooth and reliable mechanisms
The mechanism that allows a Murphy bed to fold and unfold is a key component of its design. Advanced systems like piston or cable-based mechanisms provide effortless operation and are substantially quieter than older, spring-based mechanisms. These features improve the bed’s functionality while reducing the effort required to open or close it.
High-quality designs prioritize user convenience to ensure a seamless transition between stored and sleeping positions. Reliable mechanisms enhance safety and durability, making them ideal for daily use. At Resource Furniture, every wall bed mechanism is patented and backed by a lifetime warranty, guaranteeing effortless operations and peace of mind for years to come.
6. Evaluating comfort and mattress options
Comfort should never be compromised, even with space-saving furniture. Most Murphy beds can accommodate standard mattresses, although it’s important to confirm the maximum thickness and weight capacity for your chosen model. Investing in a premium mattress designed for Murphy beds can significantly improve your sleep quality.
Some models also include adjustable bases or integrated support systems. These additions provide greater comfort, whether the bed is used occasionally or as a primary sleeping arrangement.
7. Exploring additional features
Today’s Murphy beds often go beyond their basic function, and the modern versions incorporate many thoughtful features that add value and utility. Consider options such as:
- Shelving units: Built-in shelves offer an elegant solution for keeping books, decor, or daily essentials in one accessible place.
- Desks or tables: Beds with integrated work surfaces are ideal for home offices or small dining areas. They maximize utility without taking up any additional room.
- Sofas: In smaller living spaces or living rooms, a Murphy sofa bed provides dual functionality, serving as both seating by day and a bed at night.
8. Customizing the design
Customization adds personality, making the bed align with your room’s style. Many high-end models offer a variety of finishes, built-in lighting, or specialized storage solutions.
Customization also allows you to adapt the bed for specific purposes. For instance, a built-in desk can transform the bed into a central feature of your home office, combining practicality with style.
9. Researching manufacturer reputation
Investing in a high-end wall bed is a significant decision, making it essential to choose a reputable manufacturer. Established brands are known for expert craftsmanship, sustainable materials, and innovative designs to ensure lasting quality for your investment.
Due to their complex design, superior customer care is crucial for transforming furniture like Murphy beds. Look for companies that offer comprehensive support, including ongoing assistance after your purchase, robust warranties, and services like teardown and reinstallation if you ever decide to move your wall bed to a new home.
Researching customer reviews can be incredibly helpful, as they often provide valuable insights into the quality, usability, and real-world performance of specific Murphy beds.
10. Transforming your space with style and functionality
A Murphy bed offers more than just convenience; it’s a transformative piece of furniture that seamlessly blends style and functionality. Designed to optimize and enhance your living space, it provides a thoughtful solution for modern living. Whether you’re refining a compact apartment, elevating a guest room, or creating a dual-purpose home office and sleeping area, a high-end Murphy bed can adapt to your needs without sacrificing elegance.
Premium Murphy beds strike the perfect balance between sophistication and practicality. By choosing the right model, you can redefine both the form and function of your space, creating a home that feels polished, versatile, and uniquely tailored to your lifestyle.
Choose Resource Furniture for Your High-End Murphy Bed
At Resource Furniture, we bring timeless design and cutting-edge functionality to your living space. Our high-end Murphy beds, alongside our entire furniture collection, are 100% designed and crafted in Italy, combining elegance and adaptability to meet the demands of modern living.
From integrated shelving to luxurious finishes, our Murphy beds offer customizable solutions that align with your vision. We invite you to our Vancouver showroom or to schedule a consultation online to explore how our designs can elevate your home. Let our modern furniture store in Vancouver help you create a space that reflects your style and enhances your lifestyle.