Hello! I'm August from Yechen Furniture, your guide to smarter living in small spaces. I specialize in finding furniture that works as hard as you do, and nothing does that better than a horizontal Murphy bed. These side-folding wonders are perfect for rooms with low ceilings (under 8 feet), narrow layouts, or any area where you need to reclaim your floor space.
Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or looking for a ready-to-install unit, there's a budget-friendly solution for you. I’ve curated this list of 12 of my favorite horizontal Murphy beds that prove you don't have to spend a fortune to live large in a small home.
Here are my top picks for studios, guest rooms, kids' rooms, and even RVs.
1. The Essential DIY Kit
This is the most budget-friendly path to a custom wall bed. You purchase a hardware kit containing the essential piston-lift mechanism and instructions, and source the wood (like plywood or MDF) yourself. It's a rewarding project for anyone comfortable with basic woodworking.
- Estimated Cost: $300 - $500 (for hardware kit + materials)
- Key Features: Piston-lift system for safe and easy operation, fully customizable dimensions, compatible with standard twin or full mattresses.
- Ideal Application: Basements, attics, or any room with a low ceiling where a custom fit is needed on a tight budget.
2. The Workspace Wonder
My favorite for home offices, this solution features a horizontal bed with a desk integrated into its front panel. The clever mechanism keeps the desk surface level as you lower the bed, so you don't even have to clear your laptop off.
- Estimated Cost: $850 - $1,000
- Key Features: Patented balancing mechanism, large desk surface, often includes small shelves or cord management grommets.
-
Ideal Application: A home office that doubles as a guest room, a student's dorm, or a studio apartment.
3. The Playroom Liberator
Designed specifically for children's rooms, this compact, twin-sized horizontal bed is built for safety and ease of use. It folds away effortlessly to free up critical floor space for playtime.
- Estimated Cost: $500 - $700
- Key Features: Lightweight design, safety lock to prevent accidental opening, rounded corners, and a durable, easy-to-clean laminate finish.
-
Ideal Application: Narrow kids' bedrooms, shared siblings' rooms, or playrooms.
4. The Studio Dweller's Dream
This simple, panel-style horizontal bed is designed for minimalist aesthetics. It closes to look like a clean, flat wall panel or a shallow cabinet, preserving the open, airy feel of a studio apartment.
- Estimated Cost: $600 - $800
- Key Features: Low-profile design (often under 15" deep), simple pull-down handle, available in full or queen sizes.
-
Ideal Application: Studio apartments under 500 sq ft where maintaining a sense of openness is the top priority.
5. The Narrow Space Navigator
When your room is more hallway than square, this is the solution. The bed folds out horizontally[^1], requiring minimal depth. I recommend pairing a basic kit with a custom-built, shallow cabinet[^2] to perfectly fit the slim space.
- Estimated Cost: $400 - $650 (for a hardware kit and custom cabinet materials)
- Key Features: Sideways orientation fits rooms as narrow as 7 feet, customizable cabinet front (e.g., frosted glass, paint, or wood veneer).
-
Ideal Application: Converted hallways, long and narrow dens, or attic bonus rooms.
6. The Freestanding Chest Bed
A brilliant solution for renters or anyone who wants to avoid wall mounting. This unit looks like a handsome sideboard or chest but unfolds horizontally into a comfortable bed. The mattress is typically included and stored inside.
- Estimated Cost: $700 - $950
- Key Features: No wall installation required, includes a tri-fold memory foam mattress, often has a functional storage drawer at the base.
-
Ideal Application: Guest rooms, RVs, or any space where you need flexibility without commitment.
7. The Bookshelf Bed Combo
Get two functions in one footprint. This pre-built unit frames a horizontal Murphy bed with open shelving piers on one or both sides. It’s perfect for storing books, decor, or bedside essentials.
- Estimated Cost: $800 - $1,000
- Key Features: Integrated side shelving, often includes a top "bridge" shelf, combines sleeping and storage in one piece.
-
Ideal Application: Living rooms or dens that need a guest bed without sacrificing storage or display space.
8. The Modern ADU Solution
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) require smart, compact furniture. A pre-assembled horizontal bed placed under a wide window maximizes natural light and makes the small space feel larger and more intentional.
- Estimated Cost: $900 - $1,000 (often on sale)
- Key Features: Professional, clean look; often includes a small fold-down desk or nightstand; durable construction for daily use.
-
Ideal Application: ADUs, tiny homes, backyard guest cottages, and pool houses.
9. The Living Room Transformer
This ingenious design mounts on the wall *above* your existing sofa. The bed folds down horizontally over the sofa cushions (which often don't need to be moved), instantly converting your living room into a bedroom.
- Estimated Cost: $650 - $900
- Key Features: Space-saving over-sofa design, compatible with most standard sofas under a certain height, made from durable laminated MDF.
-
Ideal Application: Studio apartments or single-room layouts where the living room must also function as the bedroom.
10. The Micro-Loft Feature Wall
For a truly custom look in a tiny loft, I suggest a DIY approach. Build a simple wooden frame for a horizontal bed and clad the front with reclaimed wood or a unique finish. When closed, it becomes a beautiful, warm accent wall.
- Estimated Cost: $400 - $600 (for hardware and finishing materials)
- Key Features: Completely custom aesthetic, acts as a design feature, maximizes every inch in micro-apartments (under 200 sq ft).
-
Ideal Application: Micro-lofts, tiny homes, and spaces where you want the bed to be a hidden piece of art.
11. The Kitchen Nook Innovator
This is a fantastic solution for very tight quarters. It's a horizontal wall bed system that includes a small, fold-down table perfect for dining, prep space, or working in a narrow kitchen or alcove.
- Estimated Cost: $950 - $1,100
- Key Features: Integrated fold-down table, may include small drawers or shelves, compact footprint for multifunctional zones.
-
Ideal Application: Small kitchens needing a temporary dining spot, narrow niches, or studio apartments without a dedicated dining area.
12. The Nomad's Nook
Specifically for RVs, vans, or tiny cottages, this solution uses a hardware-only kit to save on weight and space. The ultra-lightweight frame can be concealed with a simple curtain or a decorative woven panel door.
- Estimated Cost: $160 - $400 (for hardware kit and a lightweight frame)
- Key Features: Low cost, minimal weight, highly portable and adaptable, fits in extremely low-clearance environments.
-
Ideal Application: RVs, camper vans, tiny cottages, and boats where space and weight are critical.
Conclusion: Your Space, Reimagined
As you can see, a horizontal Murphy bed is more than just a piece of furniture; it's a strategic tool for reclaiming your home. From DIY kits that empower your creativity to all-in-one desk and storage units, there is an affordable solution that fits your specific needs. The key is to first measure your room, define its primary function, and then choose the design that will best serve you. With a little planning, you can transform a cramped room into a versatile, stylish, and highly functional space. At Yechen, we believe that’s what smart design is all about.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Are horizontal Murphy beds safe?
Yes, when installed correctly. Modern kits use reliable piston-lift or spring mechanisms that make lifting and lowering the bed smooth and controlled. Always ensure the unit is securely anchored to wall studs as per the manufacturer's instructions.
2. Can I use my own mattress?
Usually, yes. However, you must adhere to the manufacturer's specifications for mattress thickness (typically 8-12 inches) and weight. Using a mattress that is too heavy can strain the lift mechanism. A box spring is not needed.
3. How difficult is the installation?
For a DIY kit, you should be comfortable with basic woodworking and accurately locating wall studs. Pre-built units are easier but still require at least two people for safe assembly and mounting. If you're not confident, hiring a handyman is a wise investment.
4. What is the typical weight capacity of a Murphy bed?
Most Murphy beds, when properly installed, can hold between 800 to 1,000 pounds, which is comparable to a standard platform bed.
5. Why choose a horizontal bed over a vertical one?
The primary reason is ceiling height. Horizontal beds are ideal for rooms with ceilings under 8 feet, such as basements, lofts, or attics. They are also better for long, narrow rooms where a vertical bed's projection would block pathways.
6. Are these beds comfortable enough for daily use?
Absolutely. The comfort of a Murphy bed is determined by the quality of the mattress you choose, not the frame itself. With a good mattress, it can be just as comfortable as any conventional bed.
7. Do all horizontal Murphy beds have to be mounted to the wall?
Most do for safety and stability. The main exception is the "chest bed" or "cabinet bed" (like solution #6), which is a freestanding unit that unfolds.
8. How much space do I save?
A queen-sized bed takes up about 45 square feet. A closed horizontal Murphy bed cabinet takes up only 10-12 square feet, freeing up over 30 square feet of usable floor space.
9. Can I leave the bedding on when I close the bed?
Yes, most designs allow you to leave sheets, blankets, and thin pillows on the bed. A strap system is typically included to hold everything in place when the bed is folded away.
Relate
[^1]: Explore this link to understand how horizontally folding beds can maximize space and enhance room functionality →
[^2]: Discover expert tips on designing custom cabinets that optimize storage in tight areas, making your space more efficient →