How to Choose the Right Queen Murphy Bed for Your Space
A well-chosen queen Murphy bed can greatly change a space. It is both useful and beautiful for small apartments, guest rooms, or home offices that need to be many things in one. But picking the ideal is more than just picking a design you like.
This guide will walk you through the most important factors to consider before buying, supported by research and expert recommendations to help you make a confident decision.
Start With Accurate Measurements
Before looking at styles or finishes, measure your space carefully. This step determines everything else.
You should measure:
● Wall width and height
● Floor clearance when the bed is fully open
● Ceiling height
● Distance from nearby furniture or doors
A queen murphy bed typically accommodates a 60” x 80” mattress, but the cabinet structure itself will be larger. Vertical models require more ceiling height, while horizontal versions need more wall width.
According to one housing research, efficient space planning significantly improves functionality in smaller living environments. Choosing properly scaled furniture is one of the most effective ways to maximize limited square footage.
Taking the time to measure accurately saves money and ensures that the bed fits comfortably in the room layout.
Understand Vertical vs. Horizontal Designs
Not all Murphy beds function the same way. The two primary configurations serve different spatial needs.
| Feature | Vertical Murphy Bed | Horizontal Murphy Bed |
| Best For | Standard ceiling heights | Lower ceilings or wide walls |
| Wall Space Needed | Narrower width | Wider wall area |
| Visual Impact | Tall cabinet appearance | Lower, wider cabinet look |
| Ideal Placement | Bedrooms, offices | Under windows, small rooms |
The most typical design is vertical, and it works well in areas with ceilings that are 8 feet or higher. In rooms with limited vertical space, like basements, a horizontal version can be better.
Your decision should align with how the room is shaped and how you plan to use the surrounding space.
Consider How the Room Will Function Daily
One of the biggest advantages of a queen murphy bed is flexibility. However, the way you use the room should influence the type you select.
Think about:
Will this be your primary bed or just for guests?
Does the room serve another purpose (office, gym, playroom)?
How often will you open and close the bed?
If you plan to use it every day, make sure it’s comfortable and will last. You might want to focus more on design and storage if it’s mostly for guests who come over once in a while.
Multifunctional furniture makes small houses more comfortable by making them easier to use and less cluttered. People say they are more comfortable and efficient in their daily lives when their furniture can do more than one thing.
Don’t Overlook the Mattress Quality
The mattress is critical to comfort. A good frame won’t make up for bad sleep support.
Think about the following when picking out a mattress for your queen murphy bed:
● Thickness (most models can only have a certain height)
● The kind of mattress you have (memory foam, innerspring, or hybrid)
● Help that lasts a long time and is the right kind of help
The quality of your sleep directly affects your health, emotions, and mental performance. A mattress that supports you not only makes you more comfortable, but it also helps you do better at work and feel better in general.
Always check the manufacturer’s recommended requirements before you buy a mattress.
Evaluate the Mechanism and Build Quality
The lifting system of a murphy bed tells you how easy and safe it is to use. High-quality hardware makes sure that everything move smoothly and last a long time.
There are usually two typical ways to do this:
● Systems that use springs
● Systems with pistons (hydraulic)
Piston systems usually work more smoothly, but classic spring systems have been around for a long time and are very strong. No matter what kind it is, the bed should open and close easily, without any abrupt resistance.
Think About Storage and Integrated Features
Many modern murphy beds come with extra built-in features that make them more useful.
Some common built-in features are:
● Units for shelving
● Drawers or cabinets
● Light built in
● Attachments for the desk
If your room doesn’t have a lot of storage, a model with shelves can make it more useful without needing more furniture. But don’t make the design too crowded. The idea is not to seem heavy, but to be efficient.
Match the Design to Your Interior Style
A queen murphy bed should feel like a natural extension of your room. Today’s designs range from minimalist modern panels to classic wood cabinetry.
Light finishes may make tiny rooms feel bigger. Darker colors can make a room feel warmer and more elegant, but they can also make small rooms look smaller.
A murphy bed doesn’t look like a hidden bed if you pick it out well. Instead, it looks like unique cabinetry that adds to the overall design.
Set a Realistic Budget
Pricing varies widely depending on materials, hardware quality, and added features.
Generally speaking:
● Entry-level models are suitable for occasional use.
● Mid-range options balance durability and design.
● Premium models are ideal for everyday sleeping and long-term value.
Buying good things often means more comfort, smoother operation, and longer life.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right queen murphy bed requires thoughtful planning, accurate measurements, and attention to both comfort and construction. When selected carefully, it becomes more than furniture—it becomes a smart architectural solution for modern living.
You can choose a model that improves both your space and your lifestyle by focusing on proper sizing, mattress compatibility, dependable hardware, and room functionality.
