Single Murphy Bed Ideas to Maximise Small Spaces

Save space with a single Murphy bed. It folds away to free the floor. Add storage, a desk, or a sofa. Great for small homes and daily use.

Introduction

A single Murphy bed is a space-saving solution for compact living. It folds away when unused, making it ideal for small flats, studio apartments, and multipurpose rooms. These beds come in various designs, offering functionality and style while maintaining comfort.

Why Choose a Single Murphy Bed?

Maximises Floor Space

A single Murphy bed folds flat to the wall. It clears the floor and opens the room. You get space for work, play, or extra storage.

Perfect for Compact Living

Every square metre counts in small homes. Use one room as a lounge by day and a bedroom by night. You save space without losing comfort.

Transforms Any Room

Turn a home office into a guest room in seconds. A lounge or playroom can double as a cosy sleep space. It’s a smart, flexible fix for modern living.

Maximising Small Spaces

How Murphy Beds Free Up Space

When folded, a single Murphy bed creates open floor space, allowing for easy movement and more room for furniture or storage.

Best Room Layouts

Placing the bed against the longest wall ensures an open feel. Corner placements work well in tight areas, while centre-wall installations blend into modern decor.

Smart Placement Ideas

Single Murphy beds fit into alcoves, blend into bookshelves, or act as dividers between living and sleeping areas. Some designs feature hidden storage for added practicality.

 

Types of Single Murphy Beds

·        Wall-Mounted

These beds attach to the wall and disappear into a sleek cabinet, creating a clean and modern aesthetic.

·        Freestanding

Freestanding Murphy beds require no installation and are easy to move, making them perfect for renters.

·        Murphy Beds with Storage

Some Murphy beds incorporate shelves, cupboards, or drawers, maximising storage in a small space.

Vertical vs. Horizontal Murphy Beds

When to Pick a Vertical Bed

Vertical Murphy beds are ideal for rooms with high ceilings, featuring a classic fold-up design.

Benefits of a Horizontal Bed

Horizontal Murphy beds fit well in low-ceiling spaces or narrow rooms, allowing easy accessibility.

Which Is Best for Small Rooms?

The choice depends on the room’s layout. Vertical beds suit tall, narrow spaces, while horizontal options fit wide, shallow rooms.

Storage Murphy Beds

Beds with Built-In Shelving

Shelving units provide extra storage for books, decor, or personal items.

Murphy Beds with Hidden Drawers

Some designs include pull-out drawers beneath the bed, adding concealed storage for bedding and essentials.

Beds with Wardrobe Space

A single Murphy bed with an attached wardrobe optimises organisation in compact bedrooms.

Multi-Functional Murphy Beds

Murphy Beds with Desks

These innovative designs are perfect for home offices or study rooms, allowing the same space to function efficiently throughout the day. When closed, the bed transforms into a desk, providing a spacious work surface.

Murphy Beds with Sofas

During the day, the space functions as a cosy living area at night, the bed easily folds down for sleeping. This dual-purpose design enhances comfort without sacrificing aesthetics or functionality.

Murphy Beds with Dining Tables

Ideal for studio flats and compact spaces, these Murphy beds incorporate a fold-out dining table that tucks away when the bed is in use. By day, it serves as a practical dining or work surface; at night, the table folds neatly to make room for a comfortable sleeping area.

Compact Murphy Bed Designs

·        Sleek Minimalist Murphy Beds

Designed for modern, space-conscious homes, these Murphy beds feature clean lines, neutral tones, and a clutter-free look. Their simple yet stylish aesthetic blends seamlessly with contemporary interiors, making small spaces feel open and airy.

·        Contemporary Murphy Bed Designs

These Murphy beds showcase sleek, modern features like hidden handles, glossy finishes, and smooth folding mechanisms. The streamlined design maximises space and enhances a room's overall aesthetic.

·        Timeless Classic Murphy Beds

Featuring rich wood tones, panelled detailing, and traditional craftsmanship, these Murphy beds add warmth and elegance to any space. Their classic design complements traditional and transitional interiors, offering style and practicality.

DIY Murphy Bed Ideas

Building a DIY Murphy Bed

Crafting your Murphy bed is a cost-effective way to maximize space while adding a personal touch to your home. DIY projects allow full customization. With the right tools and materials, you can create a functional and stylish bed that blends seamlessly into your space.

Choosing the Best Materials

Selecting durable materials is essential for a sturdy and long-lasting single Murphy bed. High-quality plywood or MDF ensures structural strength, while strong hinges and smooth folding mechanisms provide ease of use.

Budget-Friendly            

You don’t have to spend a fortune to build a functional Murphy bed. Repurposing old furniture, using ready-made kits, or opting for simple hardware can significantly cut costs. You can design a stylish, space-saving bed with creativity and resourcefulness without exceeding your budget.

Best Mattress for Murphy Beds

·        Memory Foam

Memory foam moulds to the body, relieving pressure points and ensuring restful sleep, making it an excellent choice for Murphy beds.

·        Hybrid Mattresses

Combining foam and innerspring coils, hybrid mattresses offer cushioning and firm support, which is ideal for daily use.

·        Lightweight Mattresses

Thin yet supportive mattresses, such as latex or specialised foam, make lifting and storing a Murphy bed effortless.

Easy Murphy Bed Mechanisms

Spring-Loaded Mechanisms

Spring systems provide balanced movement, making setup quick and hassle-free.

Gas Piston Lifts

Piston-assisted beds offer smooth lifting and lowering with minimal effort.

Between Manual and Automatic Beds

Manual options are affordable, while automatic models add convenience with push-button controls.

TV Beds with a Single Murphy Bed

Murphy Beds with Built-In TV Mounts

Integrated TV mounts provide a seamless entertainment setup without taking up extra space.

Space-Saving Adjustable TV Stands

Movable TV bed stands offer flexible viewing angles, whether the bed is up or down.

Ideal TV Sizes

Smaller screens (32–50 inches) ensure comfortable viewing without overpowering the room.

Murphy Beds for Renters

Renter-Friendly Murphy Bed Choices

Freestanding or non-permanent models offer flexibility without altering the space.

Removable vs. Fixed Installations

Wall-mounted options with detachable brackets prevent damage and are ideal for temporary stays.

Top Murphy Beds for Airbnb Rentals

Durable, space-saving, and visually appealing designs improve guest comfort and convenience.

Hidden Murphy Beds

Murphy Beds Designed as Cabinets

These beds are conveniently disguised as bookshelves or storage units and maintain a seamless and clutter-free look.

Panel Door Murphy Beds

Closed-panel designs resemble wardrobes or built-in units, blending effortlessly into the room’s decor.

Fold-Away Beds That Disappear

With innovative finishes and custom designs, these beds become nearly invisible when tucked away.

Best Murphy Bed Colours

·        Light Colours

Shades like white, beige, and soft grey reflect light, making small rooms feel larger and brighter.

·        Dark Tones

Deep colours like navy, charcoal, and espresso add depth, creating a snug and inviting space.

·        Neutral Shades

Soft greys, taupe, and off-white provide a timeless look that blends effortlessly with any decor.

Styling a Room with a Murphy Bed

Space-Saving Furniture

Foldable tables, compact sofas, and wall-mounted shelves optimise functionality in small rooms.

Decor Accents

Mirrors, light curtains, and multipurpose accessories enhance brightness and openness.

Designing a Stylish Multi-Use Room

A Murphy bed helps create a chic, adaptable space that balances comfort and practicality.

Creative Murphy Bed Placement

Beds in Alcoves

An alcove Murphy bed sits flush with the wall. It hides when closed and saves space. Add lights or shelves for a neat finish.

Using Murphy Beds as Room Dividers

Use the bed as a slim partition. Split sleep and living zones in one room. Keep clear walkways and access to sockets.

Corner Murphy Bed Ideas

Tuck the bed into a corner to free the centre. Rooms feel bigger and traffic flows better. Pick a horizontal fold for low ceilings.

Affordable Murphy Beds in the UK

Budget-Friendly Murphy Beds

Save space for less. Neat look, smart use, low cost. Choose sturdy parts and simple styles.

Where to Buy Cheap Murphy Beds

Shop online, outlets, and UK clearance sales. Compare size, hardware, delivery, and returns. Watch for flat-pack kits and bundle deals.

Are Second-Hand Murphy Beds Worth It?

Yes, if the build is sound. Test the lift and hinges; check fixings. Inspect the mattress or budget to replace it.

Closing Thoughts

A single Murphy bed saves space in small homes and studios. It folds away when not in use, so rooms stay open and comfy. Choose from many styles and storage options, even TV mounts. It blends with most decor and makes small rooms work better. A Murphy bed adds function, cuts clutter, and is a smart buy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the lifespan of a Murphy bed?

Most last 10–15 years. Good parts and a solid fit can add years. Check fittings and replace springs or gas lifts when worn.

Do Murphy beds damage mattresses?

Not if you pick the right one. Use a 20–30 cm deep mattress and strap it in. Turn it often and avoid heavy pillow-tops.

Do all Murphy beds need to be anchored to the wall?

Many do.
Some stand alone or fix to the floor. If wall-fixed, use studs or rated anchors.

Can I sleep on a Murphy bed every night?

Yes, if the frame is rated for daily use. Use a quality mattress that suits your body. Keep the mechanism smooth and the frame tight.

What are the hazards of Murphy beds?

Tip-over or a sudden close from poor install. Pinched fingers, fan strikes, or blocked space. Prevent with firm fixing, child locks, and checks.