Introduction
For those of us living in small apartments or homes, finding space-efficient ways to furnish our living spaces has become a necessity. Many city apartments and studio flats do not have the room for large pieces of furniture, let alone a traditional bed. For those that have similar concerns, there exists an inventive and space-saving solution: the Murphy bed.
In this article, we will explore the history and evolution of Murphy beds, how they compare with traditional beds, and how to create a custom Murphy bed of your own. We will also showcase the versatility of Murphy beds by showcasing some of the most creative designs, and highlight the practical and aesthetic benefits of investing in a Murphy bed.
Space-saving Tips for Small Homes: The Convenience of Murphy Beds
Murphy beds, also known as wall beds, have been around for over a century and have long been used as a smart space-saving solution in small dwellings. They are designed to fold neatly into a wall when not in use, freeing up valuable floor space that can then be used for other purposes.
What sets a Murphy bed apart from other space-saving beds is not just its foldaway design but also its convenience. Unlike traditional sofa beds or futons, Murphy beds are designed to be easily transformed without having to move heavy furniture around. They can be lowered down smoothly, without much resistance, and once you have finished using them, they can be raised and fitted back into a tight space in your wall or cabinet.
The choice of a Murphy bed solves the problem of a bed occupying the majority of a cramped bedroom, especially one that doesn’t get too much sunlight. They allow for greater flexibility and efficiency, so you can benefit from every inch of usable space in your home.
A Brief History of the Murphy Bed
The Murphy bed was invented by William Lawrence Murphy in the early 1900s. Murphy was a young man living in a one-room apartment in San Francisco and had a crush on a woman but could not ask her to his apartment since it was improper for a woman to enter a man’s bedroom. He began to experiment with space-saving solutions, which led him to develop the first Murphy bed.
Today, Murphy beds represent a well-developed and highly flexible piece of furniture that suits any type of space and home décor. The addition of new materials and contemporary designs has taken them beyond just being a bed to saving and adding style to the homes they’re installed in. Now, they’re a symbol of how every necessity in life can be turned into art, design, and innovation.
Murphy Beds vs. Traditional Beds: Which is Better?
While traditional beds will always be the preferred choice for many, Murphy beds have many benefits that make them worth considering for small homes.
One of the main advantages of Murphy beds is that they save space. Traditional beds take up a lot of room, leaving little space for anything else and making a small room feel even smaller. Murphy beds fold neatly away when not in use, freeing up valuable floor space that can be used for other purposes.
Murphy beds not only save space but they also enhance the practicality of your home. They can be employed as flexible units that can serve as both a bed and storage. For instance, in a small home office, you can install one with bookshelves, shelves, and drawers built into its design. This can help you maximize the benefits of your small space.
Additionally, if you’re someone who loves to rearrange your living space, a Murphy bed offers the freedom and flexibility to do so. With traditional beds, it can be a challenge to move them around or rearrange them with other furniture, but with a Murphy bed, the transformation can be easily made, as you can re-arrange your things with ease.
DIY Murphy Bed Projects: How to Build Your Own Space-Saving Bed
Building a Murphy bed can be a fun and rewarding experience. You can tailor the bed to your specific needs and taste, and it’s also a great way to save money.
Here are some steps to follow:
- Decide on the bed size and design.
- Buy a Murphy bed hardware kit. This includes the mechanism that enables the bed to fold up and down, as well as detailed instructions for building a frame.
- Choose your wood and start to build the frame. Use quality wood to ensure your bed will be sturdy. You can customize it to match your existing décor or opt for a unique design.
- Once the frame is built, install the hardware kit as instructed by the manufacturer. This will include connecting the gas springs and the lift mechanism to the frame.
- Finally, attach the mattress support slats and bedding, then test your Murphy bed to make sure it works properly.
The Top 10 Most Creative Murphy Bed Designs
For those looking for some inspiration, here are some of the most creative and innovative Murphy bed designs:
- Bookcase Murphy Bed: This design combines bookshelves and Murphy bed to create a functional and stylish addition to any home office or living space.
- Table Murphy Bed: This Murphy bed is incorporated into a dining table, creating a multi-functional piece of furniture perfect for small apartments and homes.
- Office Murphy Bed: This Murphy bed doubles as a work area, making it an ideal choice for those who live in small apartments or who have limited home office space.
- Library Murphy Bed: This design features a full bookshelf on one side, and a Murphy bed that folds down on the other, making it a perfect addition to any library, guest room, or any other room where space is a concern.
- Wall-Mounted Murphy Bed: A wall-mounted Murphy bed is an ideal solution if you’re looking for a simple and efficient space-saving solution, and it’s also easy to install.
- Horizontal Murphy Bed: If vertical space is limited in your room, consider a horizontal Murphy bed. This option also allows for additional storage above the bed.
- Cat Murphy Bed: Your furry friend can also benefit from the space-saving convenience of a Murphy bed. This cat-sized Murphy bed is perfect for your feline companion.
- Closet Murphy Bed: As the name implies, this Murphy bed design doubles as a closet, creating a functional and stylish addition to any bedroom.
- Minimalist Murphy Bed: A minimalist Murphy bed is perfect for those who prefer a simple, clean look for their home. This design is sleek and modern.
- Trampoline Murphy Bed: For those who want a bit of fun with their Murphy bed, this trampoline bed design provides the perfect solution. Not only is it fun, but it’s also a great exercise tool!
The Benefits of a Murphy Bed for Homeowners
Installing a Murphy bed can provide homeowners with some significant benefits:
- Maximizing Space: Murphy beds are perfect for smaller homes where space is a premium. They can free up precious square footage and make a room feel more spacious.
- Saving Money: Murphy beds are a smart investment for homeowners looking to create a multifunctional space without a completely remodeled interior or additions.
- Functional Flexibility: Murphy beds not only save space but also come in many different designs, adding functionality and style to any room.
- Aesthetic Boost: Murphy beds have been known to add value to homes, enhance the aesthetic look of any room, and create a sense of innovation, artistry, and creativity.
- Lasting Comfort: A Murphy bed designed with high-quality parts gives permanent comfort both to the back and body.
The Growing Trend of Multi-Functional Furniture: The Murphy Bed Revolution
The Murphy bed is just one example of the broader trend towards multi-functional furniture. Homeowners are now more open to the idea of merging room functions while maintaining the home’s reserved aesthetic. Multi-functional furniture can, therefore, play the role of decluttering, enhancing the overall aesthetic, and maximizing space.
The prevalence of space-saving furniture is a product of our changing lifestyle demands and the economy. Murphy beds, since their introduction, are a symbol of innovation and the blending of functionality and artistic expression, and reflect our current attitudes towards space-saving designs. The Murphy bed has continued to inspire other designs, inspiring furniture makers to think outside the box.
Conclusion
The Murphy bed is a versatile and innovative design solution suitable for small spaces and multi-functional rooms. Compared to traditional beds, they offer flexibility and help maximize living spaces’ potential, creating livable, inspiring environments. Whether you’re living in a compact studio or looking to transform a guest room into a dual-purpose space, a Murphy bed can be an excellent addition to your home.