A sideways Murphy bed is the perfect solution for saving space in your home. This innovative lateral design allows you to enjoy the comfort and convenience of a twin or queen-size bed while still having valuable floor space available.
Weigh the Pros & Cons of a Horizontal Murphy Bed:
A sideways Murphy bed, also known as a horizontal Murphy bed, has its own set of pros and cons. When shopping for your hideaway bed, keep these factors in mind:
Pros:
- Space Efficiency: They are well-suited for rooms with low ceilings or limited vertical space. They optimize floor space and can be an excellent solution for rooms where a traditional vertical wall bed may not be practical. Cabinet beds also offer another viable option.
- Modern Aesthetic: Hideaway beds often have a sleek and modern appearance. They can contribute to a contemporary design aesthetic, especially when integrated into custom cabinetry or furniture.
- Versatility in Room Arrangement: The sideways orientation allows for more flexibility in arranging furniture around the bed, as it takes up less vertical space when folded down.
Cons:
- Limited Size Options: Horizontal Murphy beds may have size limitations due to their sideways folding nature. Finding larger-sized mattresses for horizontal beds can be challenging compared to the more common vertical Murphy beds.
- Installation Challenges: Installing a sideways Murphy bed may require more lateral wall space compared to a vertical one.
- Design Limitations: Carefully evaluate furniture placement and room layout to accommodate the sideways folding mechanism, as there may be some constraints.
Top Picks for Sideways Twin – Queen Murphy Beds:
Choosing the Right Horizontal Wall Bed in 7 Steps:
When choosing the best horizontal Murphy bed, consider the following features, functions, and qualities to ensure you make a well-informed decision:
1. Room Size: Accurately measure the width and height of your available wall space to determine the appropriate bed size.
2. Wall Space: Doublecheck that you have enough clearance on either side of the bed when fully extended horizontally.
3. Bed Size: Choose a size that suits your needs, whether it’s twin, full/double or queen.
4. Quality and Durability: Invest in a high-quality bed made from sturdy materials with reliable mechanisms. For instance, the “Lori Wall Bed” boasts a solid wood construction, a strong foundation and carefully engineered hardware for smooth and effortless operation.
5. Functional Options: Look for additional features that enhance functionality, such as adjustable shelves or integrated lighting systems.
For instance, the RoomandLoft “Brentwood” not only offers a comfortable sleeping solution but also integrates a practical desk. This feature maximizes space efficiency, and it also helps to cleverly conceal the pull-down bed.
6. Style: Consider the overall style and design aesthetic of your room.
7. Price Range: Keep in mind that Murphy bed kits cost more than your traditional bed frame because you are “buying space”, convenience and additional function. Here’s what you can expect to pay:
- Twin Size:
- Basic kits: $800 to $1,500 on Amazon
- Kits with additional features (at Home Depot) or higher-quality materials: $1,500 to $3,000
- Full Size:
- Basic kits: $1,000 to $2,000
- Kits with additional features (at Bredabeds) or higher-quality materials: $2,000 to $4,000
- Queen Size:
- Basic kits: $1,200 to $2,500 (Lori Beds)
- Kits with additional features or higher-quality materials: $2,500 to $5,000
Follow these 7 steps and finding the perfect sideways Murphy bed is easy. And, according to the editor at Western Living Magazine, you gain a ton of space without having to give up comfort.