Queen Murphy Bed: Luxury Living, Cost Insights & Expert Choosing Tips

In today’s world, maximizing space in our homes is more important than ever. As homes and apartments become more compact, people are looking for smart solutions to make their spaces functional and comfortable. The queen Murphy bed is one of the best options for homeowners and apartment dwellers who want to save space without sacrificing comfort. A queen Murphy bed offers 33% more sleeping space than a full-sized option perfect for couples and guest rooms.

This article will provide you with everything you need to know about queen Murphy beds, their benefits, types, design options, installation tips, and why they could be the perfect addition to your home.

Table of Contents

What is a Queen Murphy Bed?

A queen Murphy bed, also known as a wall bed or pull-down bed, is a bed that can be folded up against the wall when not in use. This allows you to use the floor space for other activities during the day. Named after William L. Murphy, who patented the design in the early 1900s, Murphy beds have come a long way in design and functionality. A queen Murphy bed is larger than a standard Murphy bed and provides enough space for two people to sleep comfortably.

Benefits of a Queen Murphy Bed

Space Efficiency: Murphy beds free up valuable floor space, allowing you to use the room for multiple purposes. A queen Murphy bed is ideal for guest rooms, home offices, or small apartments where you need the bed to stay out of the way when not in use.
Multi-Functional Spaces: With a queen Murphy bed, you can create a dual-purpose room. For example, a guest room can double as a home office or a workout area. This flexibility is invaluable, especially in urban apartments where space is limited.
Comfort Comparable to Standard Beds: Unlike sofa beds or futons, a Murphy bed is typically equipped with a standard mattress, which provides better support and comfort for a restful night’s sleep.
Improved Aesthetics: Murphy beds come in various designs, finishes, and configurations. They can blend seamlessly with the room’s decor and look like a piece of furniture, such as a cabinet or wardrobe, when folded up.
Increased Property Value: Adding a Murphy bed can increase the functionality and appeal of your home, potentially raising its market value. Homes with adaptable and stylish space-saving solutions are often more attractive to buyers.

Types of Queen Murphy Beds

Traditional Murphy Beds: These beds fold up vertically against the wall, taking up minimal space when not in use. They can be equipped with shelving or cabinets on the sides for additional storage.
Horizontal Murphy Beds: Horizontal models fold up horizontally, making them a great option for rooms with low ceilings. They are ideal for spaces like basements or attics.
Murphy Bed with Desk or Table: Some queen Murphy beds come with a fold-down desk or table that appears when the bed is folded up. This setup is perfect for a home office or study room where you need a desk during the day and a bed at night.
Murphy Bed with Sofa: A Murphy bed with a sofa attached is an excellent choice for living rooms. When the bed is folded up, it leaves a comfortable sofa, making it ideal for studio apartments or multipurpose rooms.
Freestanding Murphy Beds: If you’re renting and cannot make modifications to the walls, a freestanding queen Murphy bed is an excellent choice. These units stand on their own and do not require wall mounting, making them portable and versatile.

Choosing the Right Queen Murphy Bed

When selecting a queen Murphy bed, it’s essential to consider several factors to ensure it meets your needs and preferences.

Room Dimensions: Measure the dimensions of the room, including ceiling height, to determine if a vertical or horizontal Murphy bed would fit best. Make sure there’s enough clearance for the bed to fold down and that it won’t block doorways or other essential furniture.
Style and Finish: Queen Murphy beds come in a variety of finishes, from sleek, modern designs to classic wood tones. Choose a style that complements your existing decor.
Functionality: Determine if you need additional features such as shelves, cabinets, or a desk. Some beds also come with built-in lighting, which is convenient if you’re reading or working at night.
Quality of Materials: Look for Murphy beds made with high-quality materials like solid wood or durable metals. This will ensure longevity and reduce the chances of sagging or malfunctioning over time.
Ease of Use: A good Murphy bed should be easy to pull down and put back up. Look for models with hydraulic or spring mechanisms that make it simple to operate, even for one person.

Installation Tips for a Queen Murphy Bed

Wall Mounting: Most Murphy beds require secure wall mounting. It’s essential to use wall anchors or screws that can hold the weight of the bed. If you’re not comfortable with DIY installation, it’s advisable to hire a professional to ensure safe and secure mounting.
Floor Protection: If your Murphy bed has legs that touch the floor, consider placing protective pads on them to prevent scratches or damage to your flooring.
Positioning: Place the Murphy bed in a spot where it won’t interfere with other furniture. Make sure there’s adequate space around it to walk when the bed is down.
Ventilation: If the Murphy bed will remain in the upright position for extended periods, ensure there’s adequate ventilation behind the bed to prevent mold or mildew buildup on the mattress.
Regular Maintenance: Periodically check the hinges, springs, and any moving parts to ensure they’re functioning properly. This will extend the life of your bed and prevent accidents.

Cost of a Queen Murphy Bed

The price of a queen Murphy bed can vary significantly based on its design, materials, and additional features. Here’s a general cost breakdown:

Basic Models: Basic queen Murphy beds without extra features start around $1,000 to $1,500.
Mid-Range Models: These usually cost between $1,500 and $3,000 and include additional storage options or integrated features like desks.
High-End Models: Custom or luxury Murphy beds with intricate designs, premium materials, and additional features like sofas or lighting can cost upwards of $5,000.

Investing in a high-quality Murphy bed can be worthwhile for those who plan to use it regularly and want a durable, stylish solution for their space.

Maintenance Tips for Longevity

Regular Dusting: Since Murphy beds stay folded up for extended periods, dust can accumulate on the surface. Regularly dust both the bed frame and mattress to keep them clean.
Rotate the Mattress: To ensure even wear, rotate the mattress every six months. This helps in maintaining comfort and prolonging mattress life.
Lubricate Moving Parts: Murphy beds have hinges, springs, or hydraulic mechanisms that may need lubrication over time. Use a light lubricant on moving parts to keep the bed easy to operate.
Check for Loose Screws: Over time, screws or bolts may loosen due to the movement of folding and unfolding. Check them periodically and tighten them as needed.

Design Ideas for Queen Murphy Beds

Modern Minimalist: Opt for a Murphy bed with a sleek, minimalist design in neutral colors like white or gray. This style is perfect for a contemporary apartment.
Rustic Charm: For a warm and cozy look, choose a Murphy bed with a wooden finish. Rustic Murphy beds can make a small room feel inviting and add a touch of natural charm.
Multipurpose Home Office: If you’re using the Murphy bed in a home office, consider adding a fold-out desk or built-in shelves. This transforms the room from an office by day to a comfortable guest bedroom by night.
Integrated Lighting: Some Murphy beds come with built-in LED lights, which can add a cozy ambiance when the bed is down. This is especially useful if the bed is in a room without adequate natural light.

Conclusion

A queen Murphy bed is a fantastic investment for anyone looking to maximize their living space without compromising on comfort. With various styles, materials, and configurations, there’s a Murphy bed to suit every taste and need. Whether you’re living in a small apartment or want to create a dual-purpose guest room, a Murphy bed can be the ideal solution. When choosing a Murphy bed, consider factors such as room dimensions, functionality, design, and ease of use to ensure you find the perfect fit for your home.