Life, Styled
When space is limited, it is valuable and greater thought is invested in creating a design that maximizes square footage to provide a functional space for the homeowner. Both manufacturers and designers alike are continuously thinking of new ways to give their clients the things they need, but using less space. One such item is the Murphy bed, yes, the one used in multiple comedy routines, but it has evolved into a stylish piece, yet remains as functional as ever. It is also comparable in price point to a traditional bed. Could the Murphy bed be the solution to your limited space problem? Let’s unpack exactly what it is and how it can help give you additional room in your home.
What Is A Murphy Bed?
This is the first question that needs to be answered. Dating back to 1911, the bed is named after its inventor, William L. Murphy, who was looking to maximize the space in his small studio apartment. By designing a bed that tucked neatly into the wall, Murphy was able to use the space as needed during the day and pull out the bed in the evening. Due to a rise in minimal living and small houses, Murphy beds are gaining in popularity once more.
Is A Murphy Bed Safe?
While we all get a laugh out of cartoons where the character finds themselves stuck between the wall and their mattress, safety is no laughing matter. Since it folds into the wall, some people have concerns about the safety of the Murphy bed, but there is no need to worry; proper installation means the bed will perform as it was designed. Also, when lying on the bed, your body weight ensures that it stays in place. Mounting it correctly to the wall also means that the bed will not fold down on top of you. Designed to fold away when not in use, a Murphy bed has several hinges, known as pinch points. When the bed is lowered, ensure that these hinges are locked in place before using the bed. Be sure to read and follow the assembly and installation directions, or you can hire professionals to have it done. Read more about safety here.
How Comfortable Is A Murphy Bed?
Comfort matters especially when it comes to getting a good night’s sleep. One might tend to put the Murphy bed in the same group as a sleeper couch. The comfort level is ultimately determined by the type of mattress used. When looking to purchase a mattress, it is best to consider who will be using the bed and for how long. Children will not need as deep a mattress as older children. If it will be used as a guest bed on occasion, the quality of the mattress might be less since it is for one to two nights; however, if this is meant to become your permanent bed, you might want to invest in a good, supportive mattress.
Choosing A Murphy Bed
When preparing to select your Murphy bed, there are a few things that should be taken into consideration before making your final choice.
- Purpose: The goal of a Murphy bed is to sleep on it, but it is not intended to be used all day, so think about what other functions it can serve in the room, such as storage.
- Layout: The size of the room will determine the length of the bed and which wall best suits it. Decide whether a vertical or horizontal bed will work better.
- Durability: A Murphy bed is not something that you will want to change out every few years, so take the time to look around and get the one with the best reviews.
- Style: Choose a bed that matches the style and design of your home. Some beds allow you to choose different finishes and colors.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions and read reviews from other clients before making your final selection. You should feel confident in your choice.
Benefits Of Having A Murphy Bed
While the most obvious is a convenient place to sleep when guests come over, there are several reasons why having a Murphy bed is beneficial.
- Storage: These beds can become bookshelves or storage areas when tucked inside the wall. Looking to store some extra books, games, or shoes? The answer can be found right inside the wall.
- Convenience: For those living in small homes, having the luxury of a bed that can be folded away makes it super easy, not to mention that there is no need to make the bed every day.
- More room: Tight quarters mean space that is used to the fullest potential, and that is what the Murphy bed provides. More floor space is available because it is neatly put inside the wall. It is also great for children when the rooms are small; it gives them a broader play area.
- Functional: When a space can serve more than one purpose, it is a great asset to the home. When the bed is not in use, the area can be used for other things, such as an office space or an entertainment area for guests.
- Custom: It’s not often you can customize a bed to your specifications and even include extras like shelving and storage.
A Murphy bed is more than just a place to put guests for the night. It can give a whole new meaning to your space and maximize it at the same time.
Walker Woodworking While these inspirational photos spark our imagination, they can also raise a common concern—will that beautiful design actually work for our lifestyle, especially with young children or busy households? The good news is that designing for function in mind doesn’t mean sacrificing style. A luxurious, classy home can also be highly practical and comfortable for everyday living. By thoughtfully blending form and function, you can create a space that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional. And the best part? Elevating your home’s style doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. Here are a few easy, functional ways to enhance your home while keeping it elegant and family-friendly.
Walker WoodworkingWhen it comes to most areas in the home, there are things that often get overlooked because they are thought to have little value or impact. The bathroom sink falls into this category, but it holds more value than you may realize. The right sink can add a touch of character to your bathroom space and enhance its overall appearance and style. We have come a long way since the caveman days, when sinks were made from whatever material was handy, such as wooden bowls or even a turtle shell. Today, there are numerous options available as manufacturers have explored various styles and materials to create sinks that suit each homeowner and serve different purposes. With such a wide variety, it can be challenging to determine which one is best for you and your specific needs. Today, we want to explore the selections offered and what they have to offer you.
Greenbrook Design Increasingly, homeowners are not only interested in using eco-friendly products and materials but also in designing their homes to have the least possible impact on the environment. This has led to a rise in zero waste kitchen concepts, with designers seeking to meet their clients’ requests in a way that provides a functional, environmentally friendly, yet stylish kitchen. We know that certain materials are better than others, and incorporating more natural elements into our home is beneficial, but what exactly does it mean to design a zero-waste kitchen or bathroom? We aim to answer that question, while also providing you with helpful tips for your upcoming renovation.
Greenbrook Design The bathroom is a critical part of the home; while we don’t gather for meals and conversation, it is the place we get ready for the day, and one of the last places we go before bed. This means that it should be designed to function in such a way that is beneficial to everyone who uses it. While a bathroom’s primary purpose is to be functional, that doesn’t mean it has to be boring. There are many ways to create a look that represents your unique style and personality, such as through tile and color choices. If you’re considering renovating your bathroom space and giving it some much-needed upgrades and updates, but are lacking inspiration, let us help you. There are several fun and beautiful bathroom trends for 2022. Let’s explore a few of them today.
Walker WoodworkingThere are many elements that make up a room, including color, layout, and decor style, but one key ingredient can add depth and tone to a space: texture. Like many design tools, texture often becomes an afterthought when creating a plan for a new area in the home. Many might even think it has little impact on a design, but that is not true. Texture provides balance, visual weight, and warmth to your home, which is why it should be a part of the planning stage from the start. Texture is not limited to fabrics and furniture, but can also include wallpaper, glass, and plants. Let’s discuss adding texture to your home and creating a space that is inviting to the touch for everyone.
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