DIY Murphy Bed Kit

As economics push more and more people into smaller and smaller living spaces, Murphy beds continue to make sense. A home where space does double duty certainly appeals to them, and what better way to double up than to include a foldaway room.

Murphy beds do not come as ready-to-build kits, but you can create your own using a hardware package and some extra pieces of your own choice.

Hardware

Essentially, Murphy bed hardware consists of a hydraulic lift and some extra rods and pivots. This hardware is available for building a vertical or a horizontal Murphy bed. Each has advantages and disadvantages, and you should choose which one to build based on where you want to build it.

The vertical Murphy bed is what comes to mind for most people; the pivot point is located at the head of the bed, and you lift the foot to tilt it out of the way. Vertical Murphy beds require the least floor space for storage. If you choose a narrow mattress, you can put the vertical version in a variety of places. You can even turn a closet or a dead-end hallway into a spare bedroom.

Horizontal Murphy beds are useful for areas where there is limited headroom, like attics and other rooms with low ceilings. They require more floor space for storage because one long side of the bed serves as the pivot point. You can also stow narrow horizontal beds under a bar or in a room divider.

Different size beds require different size hardware packages. Make sure you know what size bed you intend to build before ordering.

Cabinetry

Most of the companies that provide hardware also make plans for the cabinets that store the bed. Some provide plans free of charge as an incentive to buy their hardware, while others charge for their plans. When you have to pay, you usually have a wider variety of styles available. You can also draw up your own plans, once you have your hardware.

With any of these options, you will need a source for construction materials. It does not pay to cut corners when building your bed because it is a major investment that will become a lasting part of your home, so find a good supplier.

Remember that cabinets can be much more than just a bed holder. Most builders will create built-ins that eliminate excess furnishings in the room--something you should consider when designing your cabinets. A Murphy bed makes life much easier unless you have to spend a lot of time rearranging your room every morning and every night. The less furniture you need to move when the bed is lowered or raised, the more you will enjoy its benefits. Build heavy furnishings like bookshelves and wardrobes as part of the cabinet.

Accessories

Consider other accessories that can be integrated into the cabinetry. For example, lamps and other lighting fixtures can be wired directly into the cabinets, and positioned where they will be most convenient. Small cubbies for devices like remotes and phones always prove useful.

You can also add decorative pieces, like framed pictures, to the underside of the bed; just build the frames right onto the platform. Tables and desks can also be added as fold-down units, creating extra workspace during the day.

References

• More Information About Murphy Beds
• AzWoodsman: Murphy Bed Hardware
• Murphy Beds Direct: Free Plans

Resources

• Create-A-Bed: Another Hardware Provider
• Plans Now: Murphy Bed Plans for Sale