Have you ever found yourself in dire need of extra space at home? Maybe you’re dealing with a small room or just want to maximize your living area without compromising on comfort.
Well, I’ve been there too, and that’s why I’m excited to share with you a fantastic solution: the DIY Murphy Bed.
This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring a seamless blend of style and functionality in your home.
DIY Murphy Bed
A Murphy Bed, also known as a wall bed, is a bed that can be folded up against the wall when not in use, saving valuable floor space.
It’s ideal for small apartments or rooms that need to serve multiple purposes. When folded up, it usually looks like a regular cabinet.
It’s a practical option for those who need a guest bed but don’t want it to take up space all the time.
1. Classic Murphy Bed
Begin with a classic Murphy bed design that offers simplicity and elegance. Utilize a sturdy wood frame paired with a reliable wall mount mechanism.
If you’re a novice in woodworking, opting for a hardware kit can streamline the installation process.
Personalize the bed’s exterior with paint or wood stain to blend seamlessly with your room’s décor.
This design is practical and doesn’t skimp on style, making it a timeless solution for any home. Its straightforward construction ensures durability and long-term use.
2. Murphy Bed with Desk
Elevate the functionality of your office or study room with a Murphy bed that includes a desk.
When folded up, the bed discretely hides behind a spacious desk that remains horizontal. This means you can leave your work materials undisturbed even when the bed is in use.
Ideal for studio apartments or multi-purpose rooms, this design allows you to transition quickly from work mode to relaxation without sacrificing comfort or productivity. It’s an excellent choice for maximizing small spaces.
3. Murphy Bunk Beds
Perfect for kids’ rooms or guest accommodations, DIY Murphy bunk beds offer exceptional space-saving benefits. Craft two twin-sized beds that neatly fold into a compact cabinet.
Ensure that the structure is robust and that the folding mechanism operates seamlessly for safety.
Engaging in this project can be enjoyable for the whole family, and your kids will appreciate the novelty of their beds.
This design also simplifies hosting sleepovers, making overnight guests a breeze to accommodate.
4. Murphy Bed with Storage Solutions
Address storage challenges with a Murphy bed design that incorporates shelving, drawers, or cabinets.
This approach maximizes the utility of the bed’s frame, providing storage for books, clothes, or other essentials when the bed is not in use.
Perfect for small living spaces, this design merges sleeping arrangements with practical storage, contributing to an organized and clutter-free environment.
It’s a smart solution for anyone looking to enhance functionality without compromising on space.
5. Hidden Murphy Bed
Achieve a covert and stylish solution with a hidden Murphy bed designed to resemble a bookshelf or entertainment center.
This sophisticated design demands creativity and advanced carpentry skills but results in an impressive piece that remains inconspicuous until unfolded.
Your guests will be surprised to discover that what appears to be regular furniture doubles as a bed.
This innovative approach not only maximizes space but also adds a touch of intrigue and sophistication to your home décor.
6. Modern Farmhouse Murphy Bed
Integrate the warmth of modern farmhouse style into your Murphy bed design by using reclaimed wood or applying a distressed finish.
This technique infuses character and rustic charm into your space, making the bed a standout feature in the room.
Pair the textured wood with soft linens and complementary farmhouse decor elements for a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
This design is perfect if you’re seeking a blend of contemporary comfort and traditional charm in your living spaces.
7. Vertical Sliding Murphy Bed
For a sleek and contemporary touch, consider a vertical sliding Murphy bed. This design employs rails to effortlessly slide the bed up and down behind a faux wall or cabinet.
It’s an innovative alternative to the traditional swing-down mechanism, offering space-saving advantages and a modern aesthetic.
Ideal for homes looking to incorporate cutting-edge design, this Murphy bed adds elegance and functionality in a compact footprint, making it a sophisticated addition to any modern living area.
8. Murphy Bed for Tiny Homes
In tiny homes where every square inch counts, a compact Murphy bed is indispensable. Design a smaller, lightweight version that’s easy to manage and perfect for limited spaces.
Combine this bed with multi-functional furniture, such as convertible sofas or foldable dining tables, to maximize functionality.
This efficient design ensures that you make the most of your available space without sacrificing comfort, making it an essential component of any well-designed tiny home.
9. DIY Murphy Bed for Pets
Humans aren’t the only ones who can benefit from a Murphy bed! Create a mini Murphy bed for your pets to give them their cozy retreat.
This delightful and whimsical addition will be adored by your furry companions.
You can even match the pet bed to your own Murphy bed for a cohesive look throughout your home.
This project is not only fun but also provides a practical and stylish solution for pet owners looking to accommodate their pets without taking up too much space.
10. Murphy Bed with Mirrored Panels
Infuse a touch of glamour and functionality with a Murphy bed adorned with mirrored panels.
When folded up, the mirrors can create an illusion of a larger and more open space, enhancing your room’s aesthetic appeal.
This stylish twist combines practicality with sophistication, making it an ideal choice for those looking to add a bit of elegance to their living space.
The mirrored panels help reflect light and give the room a fresh, airy feel while concealing the bed’s presence.
11. Artistic Murphy Bed
Transform your Murphy bed into a dynamic piece of art by turning the underside into a mural.
When the bed is stored, it functions as a stunning art piece, offering endless possibilities such as a painted scenic view, an intricate graphic design, or even a versatile chalkboard for daily notes and creative drawings.
This idea is perfect for artists or anyone who loves to infuse their living space with a personal and unique touch.
Enhanced by the ability to frequently update the artwork, this concept turns a functional piece of furniture into an expressive focal point.
12. Nautical-Themed Murphy Bed
Bring the essence of the ocean into your home with a nautical-themed Murphy bed. Utilizing a soothing palette of blues and whites along with rope handles and marine-inspired hardware, this design evokes the serene atmosphere of a seaside retreat.
Ideal for beach houses or rooms with coastal decor themes, this style incorporates elements like anchor motifs, ship wheels, and maritime textiles.
Enhance the aesthetic further with weathered wood finishes and sea-inspired accessories.
This thematic approach not only adds a touch of whimsy but also creates a calming, vacation-like ambiance in your space.
13. Minimalist Murphy Bed
Embrace simplicity and sophistication with a minimalist Murphy bed design. Focus on clean lines, sleek surfaces, and a neutral color palette to achieve a modern, clutter-free environment.
This style is perfect for contemporary apartments and individuals who appreciate a tidy, organized living space.
By eliminating excessive decoration and focusing on functional design, the minimalist Murphy bed seamlessly integrates into any room.
Opt for materials like smooth wood, metal, or laminate finishes, and couple them with concealed storage solutions to maintain the minimalist ethos.
This approach not only exudes elegance but also enhances the sense of tranquility and order in your home.
14. Murphy Bed with Adjustable Lighting
Enhance the functionality of your Murphy bed by incorporating built-in lighting. Adding LED strip lights or small, integrated lamps to the bed frame can provide essential illumination for reading or working while in bed.
This feature not only improves the usability of the bed but also adds a touch of modernity and convenience.
The adjustable lighting can be customized to suit different needs, from bright task lighting to soft, ambient glow for a relaxing atmosphere.
Ideal for bedrooms or guest rooms, this thoughtful addition ensures your Murphy bed is a practical and stylish solution for any living space.
15. Industrial Style Murphy Bed
Embrace the raw, edgy aesthetic of urban living with an industrial-style Murphy bed.
Incorporate materials such as metal and dark wood to create a design that mimics the look of a renovated warehouse or loft.
Elements like exposed bolts, a metallic frame, and distressed wood finishes capture the essence of industrial design.
This style is perfect for loft-style apartments or anyone who appreciates the rugged appeal of industrial decor.
Enhance the look with utilitarian accessories like metal shelving and vintage lighting fixtures.
The industrial Murphy bed not only serves as a functional furniture piece but also adds a distinctive, robust character to your space.
16. Library Murphy Bed
Combine your love for books with the practicality of a Murphy bed by designing a library Murphy bed.
This innovative concept integrates a full-scale bookshelf with the bed, offering a perfect solution for small spaces where both a bed and a bookcase may not fit.
When the bed is folded up, the bookshelf remains accessible, creating a dedicated reading corner.
Customize the shelves to accommodate your book collection, and consider adding decorative elements like bookends and small plants.
This dual-purpose design not only maximizes space but also creates a literary haven for avid readers.
17. Slide-Out Murphy Bed
Reimagine traditional Murphy bed functionality with a slide-out design. This inventive approach allows the bed to be stored discreetly under a platform and pulled out horizontally when needed.
Ideal for extremely small spaces, the slide-out Murphy bed frees up floor space during the day while providing a comfortable sleeping area at night.
The platform can be utilized as a seating area or additional storage, enhancing the room’s overall functionality.
This innovative design not only maximizes space efficiency but also adds a modern, unexpected twist to conventional Murphy beds, making it a versatile and stylish solution for compact living areas.
18. Vibrant Color Murphy Bed
Inject personality and vibrancy into your room with a brightly colored Murphy bed. Choosing a bold hue that complements or contrasts with your room’s decor can make the bed a standout feature. Opt for colors like fiery red, electric blue, or sunny yellow to create a lively focal point.
This approach is perfect for adding a touch of fun and energy to your space, reflecting your unique style and preferences.
Pair the vibrant bed with colorful bedding and accessories to create a cohesive, spirited look.
This idea not only brightens up the room but also makes your Murphy bed an eye-catching centerpiece.
19. Murphy Bed with Fold-Out Table
Increase the versatility of your living space by incorporating a fold-out table into your Murphy bed design.
This multifunctional table can serve as a dining area, workspace, or craft station when the bed is not in use.
Perfect for small apartments or multifunctional rooms, this design maximizes space efficiency without sacrificing style or convenience.
The table can be seamlessly integrated into the bed frame, ensuring it is easily accessible yet neatly stored when not needed.
This practical addition transforms your Murphy bed into a dynamic, multifunctional piece of furniture, enhancing the overall usability and aesthetic of your space.
20. Eco-Friendly Murphy Bed
Adopt an environmentally conscious approach by building your Murphy bed using sustainable materials like bamboo or recycled wood.
This eco-friendly design not only minimizes your carbon footprint but also adds a natural, organic touch to your living space.
Pair the bed with organic linens, natural decor items, and energy-efficient lighting to create a green, sustainable living environment.
This idea is perfect for eco-conscious individuals who prioritize sustainability without compromising on style.
The eco-friendly Murphy bed not only reflects a commitment to the environment but also fosters a serene, healthy atmosphere in your home.
21. Murphy Bed with Sound System
Integrate a state-of-the-art sound system directly into your Murphy bed for an unparalleled audio experience.
Strategically installed speakers within the bed frame allow you to enjoy crystal-clear music, podcasts, or audiobooks from the comfort of your bed.
Whether you’re winding down after a long day or starting your morning with your favorite tunes, this luxurious upgrade enhances relaxation and entertainment.
Choose from a variety of sound systems, from basic stereo setups to advanced surround sound options.
Some systems come with Bluetooth connectivity, enabling seamless streaming from your smart devices.
Elevate your bedroom to a new level of sophistication and comfort with a built-in sound system that caters to audiophiles and casual listeners alike.
22. Gothic Style Murphy Bed
Transform your bedroom into a regal retreat with a Gothic Style Murphy Bed. Crafted from dark, sumptuous wood and featuring intricate carvings, this bed reflects the grandeur and elegance of Gothic architecture.
Luxurious fabrics and elaborate details bring a sense of opulence, making the room feel like a stately manor.
This dramatic style is perfect for those who appreciate bold and historically rich decor.
Complement the bed with matching furniture and velvet drapes to create a cohesive aesthetic.
The Gothic Style Murphy Bed is not just a piece of furniture but a statement-making centerpiece that captures the imagination and transports you to an era of medieval elegance and mystery.
23. Murphy Bed with a Slide
Infuse your home with fun and creativity by adding a slide to your Murphy bed. Ideal for children or the young at heart, this whimsical addition transforms a simple bedroom into a playful wonderland.
When the bed is unfolded, a sturdy slide securely attaches to the side, offering a thrilling way to start or end the day. It’s more than just a bed; it’s an adventure waiting to happen.
This imaginative design encourages active play and makes bedtime something to look forward to.
Perfect for kid’s rooms, it’s also a hit with guests, making sleepovers an exciting experience.
The Murphy Bed with a Slide turns a functional piece of furniture into a source of endless enjoyment.
24. Convertible Murphy Bed
Maximize your living space with a Convertible Murphy Bed that doubles as a stylish sofa.
When folded up, the lower part of the bed flips out to create a comfortable seating area, making it an ideal solution for studio apartments or multi-functional rooms.
This innovative design ensures that no square inch is wasted, providing both a cozy place to lounge during the day and a restful sleep environment at night.
The transformation is smooth and effortless, allowing for quick changes between modes.
The Convertible Murphy Bed blends practicality with style, offering versatile functionality without compromising on aesthetics. It’s the perfect addition to a modern home where space is at a premium.
25. Murphy Bed with Articulated Arms
Enhance the versatility of your sleeping space with a Murphy Bed with Articulated Arms.
These adjustable arms allow you to modify the position of the bed to various heights and angles, making it suitable for a wide range of activities.
Whether you need to sit up for reading, lower the bed for sleeping, or recline for watching television, the articulated arms provide unparalleled flexibility.
This adaptable design caters to your comfort preferences and lifestyle needs, making it perfect for a multipurpose room. It’s not just a bed; it’s a customizable relaxation zone.
The Murphy Bed with Articulated Arms adapts to your daily routine, transforming your living space into a dynamic and ergonomic haven.
Jose M. Lemon is a prolific writer and enthusiastic DIY enthusiast with a deep passion for all things related to do-it-yourself projects. With an extensive background in crafting and building, Jose has dedicated his career to exploring and sharing innovative DIY ideas across various platforms.