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.
We use it every day but hardly pay any attention to it, yet it can impact the overall design of the home. We are, of course, referring to your flooring, and its importance should not be overlooked or underestimated. It is the largest design element in the home, which means it tends to serve as the foundation of the look and feel in the room. It has the ability to make or break your space and is subconsciously the first thing we notice in a room. Since it is used consistently, it must be durable and functional for the particular area, whether slip-resistant or waterproof. Flooring should also complement the overall design style you choose and be carefully considered before finalizing your choice. Here are some aspects to remember when making your selection.
The kitchen backsplash tends to be overlooked during the planning session for a renovation, but it has a big impact on the overall look of the design, and it should not be underestimated. To many, it may seem like such a small element, but it has the power to bring style, class, and protection to the heart of the home. When walking through a model home or flipping pages in an interior design magazine, the kitchen always has a backsplash that often draws our eye. Coming in multiple sizes, styles, and shades, the kitchen backsplash has come a long way from being a simple surface to creating a glamorous highlight that immediately draws the eye.
Walker WoodworkingThis deficiency has led to a readjustment of space, a call to renovate the home, and to provide a more functional design for everyone. There are also other reasons motivating homeowners to reevaluate their current living situation, such as greater flexibility at home, an open concept, personal space, and plenty of storage. While kitchens and bathrooms are still among the most renovated areas in the home, new emphasis is being placed on four additional sections in the home, which we want to highlight today.
Walker WoodworkingYou love your home, but there are some areas that are no longer working for you, if they ever did at all. You have made the big decision to renovate your kitchen, to give yourself the space you have always envisioned, but it feels overwhelming. How do you know which layout will work best for you? Which style best represents you, and what wood type will pair perfectly with certain colors? The kitchen can be a more difficult renovation because it involves multiple facets, such as plumbing and electrical. Adding in the appliances, lighting, and cabinets decisions can be enough to make your head spin. Planning is a critical part of a kitchen renovation, making it a key area of focus, which is why an experienced designer can help you accomplish your dreams on time and on budget.
James Martin Vanities has not disappointed us but provided many of our clients with a bathroom vanity that suited their unique needs, and the shorter lead times have allowed them to get the upgrades they needed within their timeframe. Our goal will always remain to provide our clients with the best possible products that fit their project, whether that is a custom, semi-custom, or predone option like the James Martin Vanity. We are here to assist you in finding the vanity that works for you, which is why we offer a variety of options. Are you ready for a change? Come visit our showroom where we have multiple vanities available for you to browse, and if you like one, you can take it home with you.
Walker Woodworking 