9 Creative Uses For Hidden Wall Beds Beyond The Bedroom

Hidden wall beds, or Murphy beds, are becoming increasingly popular in small homes and apartments due to their space-saving capabilities. These beds fold up into a wall or cabinet, allowing rooms to serve multiple functions throughout the day. 

Originally designed as a simple, practical solution, Murphy beds have now evolved into versatile and stylish pieces of furniture, offering modern designs that blend seamlessly into any home aesthetic. 

Whether you’re looking for extra storage, a sleek entertainment unit, or a dual-purpose office, a bed hidden in the wall provides the flexibility and functionality needed for today’s busy lifestyles.

 

What Are Bed Hidden In The Walls?

Hidden wall beds, commonly known as Murphy beds, are space-saving beds that fold away when not in use, often disguised as a cabinet, shelving unit, or other furniture. 

These beds have been around since the early 1900s, initially designed by William Murphy, but today they have evolved into a sleek, modern solution for small spaces and multipurpose rooms. 

Whether you’re looking to free up space in a studio apartment, home office, or guest room, hidden wall beds offer a flexible and practical option without requiring a complete home renovation.

How Hidden Wall Beds Work?

Hidden wall beds come in various styles, each tailored to different room configurations and user needs. The basic function involves a bed frame that pivots, folds, or slides into a vertical or horizontal storage space.

• Vertical Murphy Beds: 

  These are the most traditional style, where the bed folds up vertically into the wall. This type works best in rooms with high ceilings, like living rooms, studios, or offices, where it can be stored upright. 

  When unfolded, the vertical Murphy bed opens out into the room, providing a full or queen-size sleeping area.

• Horizontal Murphy Beds:

  In contrast, horizontal Murphy beds fold out from the side, making them perfect for rooms with lower ceilings, such as attics or basements. They can also be installed under windows or in narrower spaces where a vertical fold-out wouldn’t fit.

• Pivoting or Rotating Murphy Beds:

  Some advanced Murphy beds come with rotating or pivoting mechanisms.

  For example, a bed can rotate behind a bookshelf or cabinet, revealing hidden sleeping space without needing to move heavy furniture. This adds a wow factor while making it easy to switch between functions.

• Murphy Beds with Integrated Furniture:

  Modern designs often include built-in features like desks, shelving, or storage cabinets. When the bed is folded away, these elements remain functional, turning a guest bedroom into a home office or a gym in a matter of seconds.

  These multi-functional pieces are ideal for busy professionals who want to maximise space without compromising functionality.

 

9 Creative Ways To Use Hidden Wall Beds That Are Perfect For Any Room

Hidden wall beds offer a brilliant solution for homeowners who want to maximise space without compromising on functionality. From home offices to living rooms, Murphy beds can integrate seamlessly into a wide variety of rooms and aesthetics, providing both practicality and elegance.

#1. Home Office Transformation

One of the most popular uses for hidden wall beds is in home offices. Murphy beds with integrated desks are a prime example of how to blend functionality and style. When the bed is folded away, the desk remains fully accessible, providing you with a spacious and comfortable area to work. 

The beauty of this design lies in its ability to transform the space instantly, without needing to rearrange furniture. Some Murphy beds even come with a mechanism that allows the desk to stay horizontal, so you don’t have to clear your work items before pulling the bed down.

For example, a bed with a built-in shelving unit or cabinet can add both storage and charm to your home office. 

These designs offer ample room for decorative items, or office supplies while keeping the sleeping area neatly concealed when not in use. 

Imagine a sleek white or wooden Murphy bed that folds down from a wall of shelving—it blends into the decor when closed and provides a comfortable sleeping area for guests when open. 

Some advanced designs also feature pivoting bookcases or hidden storage compartments, allowing you to access office supplies without disturbing the bed.

Whether you're hosting overnight guests or just need a quiet place to work, transforming your home office with a Murphy bed is an ideal solution for new homeowners and professionals alike.

This setup is perfect for those who don't have the luxury of a separate guest bedroom but still want to accommodate visitors. It allows you to maintain a dedicated office space, ensuring your productivity while also being prepared for unexpected guests. 

Moreover, modern Murphy bed designs can match your home’s decor, whether you prefer a minimalist look or a more traditional aesthetic, making the room feel cohesive and well-planned.

#2. Murphy Bed With Rotating Bookshelves

A Murphy bed with rotating bookshelves is a truly innovative way to combine function with aesthetics. This design allows the bed to remain entirely hidden behind a stylish bookshelf when not in use, seamlessly blending into the room’s decor. 

The rotating bookshelf adds an element of surprise and creativity, providing not only practical storage but also a visually appealing focal point for any room.

One of the standout features of a rotating bookshelf Murphy bed is its ability to make the most of vertical space. By combining a bed and bookshelf into one compact unit, you’re able to use wall height for storage, leaving more floor space free for other furniture or activities. 

The bookshelf typically spans the full height of the wall, offering ample room for displaying books, ornaments, or even photo frames, while cleverly concealing the bed behind it. When it’s time to sleep, the bookshelf rotates on a central axis, smoothly revealing the hidden bed. 

This vertical integration is perfect for rooms with high ceilings or areas that require more storage space, like living rooms or home offices.

In terms of style, a rotating bookshelf Murphy bed can elevate the overall look of a room. The bookshelf itself can be customised to match your home’s aesthetic, whether you prefer a contemporary look with sleek, minimalist shelving, or a more traditional design with ornate wood finishes. 

This adds both practicality and a touch of elegance, making the bed an integral part of the room’s design rather than just a functional piece of furniture.

Despite its seemingly complex appearance, a rotating bookshelf Murphy bed is easy to use. Most designs feature a simple lever or handle to rotate the bookshelf, revealing the bed behind it. 

The rotation mechanism is often smooth and lightweight, ensuring that the bed can be accessed with minimal effort, making it an ideal option for frequent use. 

#3. Kids’ Playroom And Bedroom Combo

For families with young children, space can be a constant concern, especially when trying to balance areas for both play and sleep. A Murphy bed in a child’s playroom is the perfect solution, allowing the room to serve dual purposes as both a fun play area during the day and a comfortable sleeping area at night.

One of the biggest benefits of installing a Murphy bed in a child’s playroom is the ability to free up space for activities during the day. When the bed is folded up, it provides ample room for children to play, run around, or engage in creative activities without the clutter of a permanent bed taking up floor space. 

When it’s time for sleep, the bed can be easily folded down, transforming the playroom into a cosy bedroom in minutes. This flexibility is particularly useful for homes where space is at a premium, or for parents who want to make the most of a multipurpose room.

Having a Murphy bed in a playroom also simplifies the process of keeping the room tidy. Since the bed is stored vertically in the wall, it creates more floor space, making it easier to keep the room clean and organised. 

At the end of the day, toys, books, and crafts can be quickly stowed away, and the bed can be pulled down, ready for a comfortable night’s sleep. This setup makes it ideal for sleepovers or for families with multiple children sharing a space, as the room can transition smoothly from play to rest without much effort.

When considering a Murphy bed for a child’s room, safety is a top priority. Modern designs come equipped with child-friendly mechanisms that make operation safe and simple. 

Many Murphy beds designed for children include locking systems to prevent the bed from being pulled down accidentally, as well as soft-close features that ensure the bed doesn’t slam shut when folded back into the wall. 

Additionally, these beds are often built with rounded edges and durable materials to ensure that they are both safe and long-lasting in a child’s environment.

#4. Gym And Guest Room Hybrid

In small homes, making every square metre count is essential, and combining a home gym with a guest room is an ideal solution. 

A hidden wall bed allows homeowners to maintain their fitness area while easily transforming it into a comfortable guest room when needed. This flexibility is particularly useful for homes where space must serve multiple functions without permanent fixtures getting in the way.

When the bed is folded up, the room functions as a dedicated exercise zone, complete with space for yoga, weightlifting, or cardio equipment. This setup is perfect for fitness enthusiasts who want a home gym but also need the occasional guest room without sacrificing valuable floor space.

A hidden wall bed allows for a swift transition between gym and guest room, making it easy to accommodate visitors. With just a quick pull-down motion, the bed is ready for use, and once your guests have left, it folds back up, restoring the space to its fitness function. 

This dual-use approach is ideal for busy households that may not have the luxury of an extra guest room but still want to offer a comfortable sleeping area when needed.

When selecting a Murphy bed for a gym and guest room hybrid, it’s crucial to choose a design that’s easy to fold and store, ensuring that it doesn’t interfere with your workout routine. 

Look for beds with smooth, lightweight mechanisms, such as those with hydraulic or spring-assisted systems, which make the bed easy to open and close without much physical effort. 

Opt for beds with a slim profile, allowing them to fold neatly into the wall without taking up too much space, leaving plenty of room for your exercise equipment. Some designs also offer built-in shelving or storage, perfect for keeping workout gear or towels neatly tucked away when the bed is in use.

#5. Studio Apartment Space Maximisation

Murphy beds are an absolute game-changer for studio apartments, where every inch of space matters. These hidden beds allow you to make the most of your living area, transforming your room from a bedroom at night into a living room, dining area, or office during the day.

In a studio apartment, where space is often limited to a single room, a Murphy bed can provide a flexible living solution. Instead of dedicating floor space to a traditional bed that takes up room even when it’s not in use, a Murphy bed folds away, freeing up valuable square footage. 

Murphy beds can be seamlessly integrated into living areas to provide both function and style. Many designs feature hidden mechanisms that blend into the room’s decor, often disguised as a bookcase, cabinet, or even a sofa. During the day, the bed remains concealed, giving the room a clean, uncluttered look. 

When it’s time for bed, the hidden unit folds down effortlessly, turning the space into a cosy sleeping area. This versatility is especially helpful in homes where multiple functions need to coexist within a small space, such as an open-plan studio.

To further enhance functionality in a studio apartment, Murphy beds with built-in shelving and storage solutions are ideal. These designs often include cabinets or shelving units that flank the bed, providing additional storage for books, decor, or household items. 

Some Murphy beds even incorporate desks or tables, allowing the same unit to serve multiple purposes throughout the day. For example, a Murphy bed with a fold-down desk can act as a workspace during the day and a bedroom at night, making it a perfect solution for professionals who work from home. 

#6. Living Room Guest Bed

Murphy beds are a perfect addition to living rooms, allowing homeowners to stylishly integrate extra sleeping space without sacrificing aesthetics or functionality. When not in use, the bed can be concealed in a way that enhances the room's decor, blending seamlessly with the overall design.

Incorporating a Murphy bed into your living room requires thoughtful design. One popular option is a wall unit that disguises the bed as a bookshelf, cabinet, or entertainment centre. 

These units often feature a sophisticated, minimalist design that complements various interior styles, whether you prefer a modern, rustic, or traditional aesthetic. 

Many Murphy beds for living rooms come with dual-functionality, acting as both a sofa and a bed. When folded up, the Murphy bed functions as a stylish sofa with comfortable cushions, offering seating during the day. 

Some designs even incorporate a built-in entertainment unit with shelving for your TV, sound system, or decor. This type of multi-functional setup is ideal for homeowners looking to maximise space in smaller living rooms, particularly in flats or open-plan areas. 

To ensure a seamless transition from living room to guest room, consider how you place other pieces of furniture. A Murphy bed can be positioned against a wall with modular furniture, such as a coffee table or side tables on casters, allowing them to be easily moved when it's time to pull the bed down. 

Adding stylish throws, pillows, or artwork around the Murphy bed unit can also help it blend into the room’s overall design. Neutral tones or coordinating the wall bed's finishes with the rest of the furniture can further maintain a cohesive look. 

For example, a white Murphy bed with light wooden accents can match a Scandinavian living room, while a darker, more textured finish might complement a traditional or industrial-style space.

#7. Multipurpose Basement Or Attic

Transforming basements or attics into functional spaces can add tremendous value to your home, and Murphy beds play a pivotal role in making these underused areas both practical and stylish. 

Whether you want to create a guest room, hobby area, or additional living space, Murphy beds offer the versatility you need without the need for extensive renovations.

Murphy beds are perfect for basements or attics because they allow these spaces to serve multiple purposes. During the day, the room can be used for hobbies, a home gym, or an entertainment area, while at night, it transforms into a cosy guest room with the simple pull of a bed. 

For basements, which may often feel cramped or dark, a fold-away Murphy bed helps maximise the floor space, making the room feel larger and more open. 

In attics, where sloped ceilings can pose a challenge for furniture placement, Murphy beds offer a flexible solution by folding up into the wall, freeing up valuable headspace.

When selecting a Murphy bed for basements or attics, it's important to consider the architectural constraints of these spaces. For example, if your attic has a low or slanted ceiling, a horizontal Murphy bed is ideal, as it folds out from the side rather than the top, accommodating the room's unique dimensions. 

Similarly, in a basement with lower ceilings, a vertical Murphy bed may be more suitable, as it folds upward into the wall. Additionally, choosing a design that incorporates built-in storage or shelving can help make the most of the available wall space, especially in basements where square footage might be limited.

To fully maximise these often overlooked spaces, consider complementing the Murphy bed with modular or multi-functional furniture. For example, in a basement, you could add fold-out tables, stackable chairs, or cabinets on wheels that can easily be moved or stowed away when the bed is in use. 

In an attic, built-in storage solutions like under-bed drawers or wall-mounted shelving can help keep the space organised while maintaining a clean, minimalist look. 

Lighting is also key—basements tend to be darker, so opt for light-coloured finishes and plenty of ambient lighting to keep the room bright and welcoming.

#8. Murphy Bed In A Chest

Murphy beds hidden in chests or ottomans offer an innovative way to incorporate extra sleeping space without permanently occupying valuable floor area. 

These versatile beds are ideal for smaller homes or apartments where every inch counts, providing an emergency sleeping solution that blends seamlessly into the room’s decor when not in use.

A Murphy bed concealed in a chest or ottoman is one of the most discreet options available. The bed folds up into a compact, stylish piece of furniture that can serve as a coffee table or storage chest when not in use. 

The design prioritises convenience—when guests arrive, the bed can be pulled out effortlessly, providing a full or twin-sized mattress. Once your guests leave, the bed folds back into the chest, freeing up the room for other activities.

One of the most appealing features of a bed-in-a-chest design is its ease of use. Most models are equipped with simple fold-out mechanisms, often involving a hydraulic or spring-assisted lift, allowing the bed to be set up in just a few steps. 

The bed frame itself is typically lightweight, making it easy to manoeuvre, while the chest or ottoman acts as a stable base. This setup ensures that homeowners can quickly transition from a living space to a guest room without the need for heavy lifting or complicated assembly.

Given their compact and multi-functional design, Murphy beds in chests are ideal for placement in home offices, dens, or even living rooms. In a home office, for example, the chest can serve as extra storage for books or office supplies, while doubling as a hidden bed for unexpected overnight guests. 

In dens, the chest can act as an additional coffee table or footrest, ready to transform into a sleeping area when needed. These beds are a perfect option for homes with limited space, allowing you to maintain a clean, organised room while always being prepared for guests.

#9. Hidden Bed With Dining Table

One of the most creative Murphy bed designs on the market today is the hidden bed that converts into a dining table. This innovative piece of furniture serves multiple purposes, making it ideal for homeowners living in small spaces like studio apartments, tiny homes, or compact urban flats.

The concept behind a hidden bed with a dining table is simple yet incredibly practical. During the day, the bed remains hidden within a stylish table unit that serves as a functional dining area. 

When it’s time to sleep, the tabletop folds away, and the bed is revealed, allowing the room to transform from a dining space into a bedroom within minutes. 

In very small living spaces, it’s important that every piece of furniture serves more than one purpose. A Murphy bed that converts into a dining table achieves just that, allowing you to use the same floor space for both dining and sleeping. 

This is particularly useful for studio apartments, where you might not have room for separate dining and bedroom areas. By day, the dining table is a focal point for meals or working from home, and by night, it folds down to reveal a comfortable bed, ensuring that you get the most out of your limited square footage.

The mechanics behind these beds are often sleek and easy to operate. Many designs feature a drop-down mechanism that allows the tabletop to fold down smoothly without disrupting items on the table. 

Some models even incorporate storage drawers or shelves under the table, providing extra room for cutlery, plates, or bedding. When choosing decor for a room with a hidden bed dining table, it’s best to opt for flexible, lightweight furniture that can be easily moved when transforming the space. 

For instance, chairs on wheels or collapsible chairs can be stored away when the bed is in use, making the transition from dining area to bedroom as seamless as possible. 

Opting for neutral or multi-functional decor, such as a wall-mounted mirror that doubles as a coat rack, can also help maintain the room’s aesthetic while maximising functionality.

 

6 Benefits Of Hidden Wall Beds

Hidden wall beds offer several benefits, making them a great addition to homes where space is a premium, and versatility is key.

1. Maximising Space: 

   One of the most significant advantages of hidden wall beds is their ability to free up valuable floor space. 

   In a small flat or studio, where living, dining, and sleeping spaces overlap, having a bed that folds away during the day creates more room for daily activities. This is especially beneficial for homeowners who need to make the most of every inch of their space.

2. Improved Room Functionality:

   With hidden wall beds, a single room can serve multiple purposes. For instance, a home office can become a guest bedroom at a moment’s notice, or a living room can double as a playroom and a sleeping area for children during sleepovers.

   This adaptability is perfect for households where space needs change frequently, such as families with young children or professionals working from home.

3. Aesthetic Appeal:

   Hidden wall beds are no longer just functional; they are also designed with style in mind. Many Murphy beds are customisable, allowing homeowners to match them to the existing decor.
   Whether you prefer a minimalist look with clean lines or a more traditional aesthetic with wood finishes and intricate details, Murphy beds can blend seamlessly into the room when not in use.

4. Storage and Organisation:

   Some hidden wall beds come with additional built-in storage options, such as shelving, cabinets, or even drawers beneath the bed.

   This provides extra space for storing bedding, books, toys, or other household items, helping you keep your room organised and clutter-free.

5. Element of Surprise:

   There’s something delightful about the transformation of a room when you pull down a hidden bed. The novelty of a bed emerging from a seemingly normal wall or cabinet adds an element of surprise that can impress guests and create a sense of fun in your home.

6. Investment in Versatility:

   For new homeowners or those looking to do partial renovations, investing in a hidden wall bed is a practical, cost-effective way to upgrade a room without major structural changes.

   It offers the flexibility to create multipurpose spaces without the need for costly extensions or remodels.

 

Conclusion About Hidden Wall Beds

Hidden wall beds offer a smart, multifunctional solution for modern homes, especially when space is at a premium. These innovative designs not only maximise room functionality but also add a stylish touch to your interiors, providing both practicality and elegance. 

If you’re looking to enhance your space with a custom Murphy bed, Reroom is here to make the process seamless. Our modular cabinetry allows you to mix and match wall fixtures, wardrobes, and home office furniture to suit your needs. 

With a range of designs available on our website, all priced with delivery and installation included, we provide an easy, hassle-free carpentry experience. Our highly skilled team has over 40 years of experience, ensuring on-time, professional installations that are tailored to your space.

We invite you to visit our office to view sample sets and enjoy a free consultation. Based on your requirements, we will prepare a personalized quotation  Once confirmed, you can relax as we handle the rest, including site visits, custom measurements, and professional installation.

At Reroom, we don't just build furniture – we create beautifully designed, highly functional spaces that elevate the way you live.

Contact Reroom today for a free consultation and to explore our wide selection of customisable, space-saving Murphy beds. 

Let us help you create a beautifully designed, highly functional space in your home.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Hidden Wall Beds

How Much Weight Can A Bed Hidden In The Wall Support?

The weight capacity of a bed hidden in the wall, or Murphy bed, can vary depending on the model and manufacturer. Generally, most high-quality Murphy beds are designed to support between 227 to 272 kilograms (500 to 600 pounds), which includes the weight of the mattress and the sleeper. 

Always check the specific weight rating provided by the manufacturer to ensure the bed meets your needs, as some models are built with enhanced strength for larger loads.

Can A Bed Hidden In The Wall Be Customised To Match My Home Decor?

Yes, a bed hidden in the wall can be customised to seamlessly fit your home decor. Many Murphy bed providers offer a range of finishes, materials, and design options that allow you to choose everything from wood stains to modern laminate finishes, ensuring the bed blends with your existing furniture. 

Some designs also allow for custom cabinetry or additional shelving, offering homeowners the ability to personalise their Murphy bed to match both the aesthetic and functional needs of the room.

Does A Bed Hidden In The Wall Come With A Warranty?

Most beds hidden in the wall come with a warranty, but the length and terms of the warranty can vary by manufacturer. Typically, you can expect warranties ranging from 1 to 10 years, covering aspects such as the bed frame, mechanical parts, and installation. 

It’s important to verify the specific details with the manufacturer or retailer, as some warranties may cover defects in workmanship or materials, while others might also include coverage for wear and tear on the mechanisms over time.

Is A Bed Hidden In The Wall Easy To Move If I Relocate?

While a bed hidden in the wall is usually mounted to a wall, many models can be disassembled and reinstalled in a new location, making them relatively easy to move if you relocate. The ease of moving depends on the complexity of the bed’s installation and whether it is attached to the wall or floor. 

In most cases, it’s recommended to have a professional disassemble and reinstall the bed to ensure it is securely mounted and functions properly in its new location.