What Is a Bed That Folds Into the Wall Called?
You’re wondering what a bed that folds into the wall is called. That’s a Murphy bed, named after inventor William L. Murphy from the early 1900s. It’s designed with a pivoting frame and a secure locking mechanism to save space in tight apartments. Obviously, it’s a clever solution for turning a bedroom into a living area, and understanding its history shows you why it’s still so popular. That clarity opens up a whole world of smart design options.
The Quick Answer: It’s a Murphy Bed
What Is a Bed That Folds Into the Wall Called?
The Quick Answer: It’s a Murphy Bed
If you’re wondering what that space-saving bed that folds into the wall is called, you’ve landed on the right term. You call it a Murphy bed. The name comes from its inventor’s company history, but it’s entered common language so you’ll also hear “wall bed” or “fold-down bed.” Modern innovations mean today’s versions use gas pistons for smooth lifting and often double as desks or sofas when upright, maximizing a room’s function. They’re a staple in studios and home offices, transforming your space in seconds. For seamless integration, they can be built into custom cabinetry that matches your room’s stylish aesthetic. Obviously, you’re researching, not buying yet. So, your quick takeaway: when a bed stores vertically against a wall, you’re looking at a Murphy bed. It was invented by William Lawrence Murphy in the early 20th century to maximize small urban apartments. The design later experienced a post-war decline as larger suburban homes became the norm. Next, you’ll likely want to know how it got that name.
The Man Behind the Name: William L. Murphy’s Story
So, his clever personal anecdotes involved experimentation. He needed to hide his bed to turn that single room into a presentable parlor. Murphy famously rigged a prototype using door hinges and his closet doorjamb. This pivot design, patented in 1918, solved his immediate problem and launched his company, but the basic concept of a collapsible wooden frame had been evolving for nearly a century before. He married that singer, Gladys, in 1901. His practical need permanently changed small-space living. His invention provides flexible room configurations that hotels now use to maximize space. This story shares much with the obscure tale of the Lou Wall Bed, whose own history and design remain a subject for dedicated sleuths. Next, let’s clear up a common point of confusion about what defines his invention.
Murphy Bed vs. Wall Bed: Is There a Difference?
Clarifying the difference between a Murphy bed and a wall bed is a subtle but essential piece of home-furnishing know-how. At its core, “Murphy bed” is now a generic term for the concept. The key distinction often lies in the material science and integration. A true wall bed is typically a wooden framework with built-in cabinetry, designed as a permanent furniture piece. You’ll find variance in mechanism types, from spring-loaded lifts to gas pistons, across both categories, with many modern models using reliable piston counterbalance systems. Your overall space requirements will significantly influence which design is more practical for your room. Now, the integrated storage of a wall bed system saves more wall space. For a comprehensive look at all available styles, you can explore options like sofa‑bed hybrids and desk‑integrated units. So your choice hinges on whether you prioritize a simpler fold-up unit or a thorough, custom look. That clarity guides your next research step.
【Dual Functionalit】Bed & Storage Cabinet, maximize your space effortlessly with our Murphy bed's dual functionality. Use it as storage cabinets when folded, or unfold it into a comfortable bed when needed, ensuring clutter-free spaces
Farmhouse Style Murphy Bed: Our farmhouse queen size Murphy bed features a unique wood grain finish metal trim and convenient handles. Wall Murphy bed queen size combines farmhouse style and modernity, adding a beautiful, elegant touch to your room, and can fit a bedroom, home office, guest room, and study room.
【Space-saving design】: the Murphy queen bed folds down and up against the wall, freeing up floor space in any room. The wall bed is the ideal space-saving piece of furniture for a multi-purpose guest room, home office or home gym.
How a Modern Murphy Bed Works and What It’s Made Of
The bed’s sturdy frame mounts securely to your wall. Hinges let it pivot up for storage, and the platform holds your mattress—no box spring needed. Non-slip straps or bars keep your mattress, typically up to 12 inches thick, firmly in place during folding. This practical solution is a staple for multi-use rooms and small apartments.
Safety is key. Built-in locks and controlled descent prevent unexpected drops. So, a modern Murphy bed combines a reliable lifting system, a solid frame, and integrated safety. For a wall-mounted unit, proper installation requires locating solid wall studs and ensuring they meet the mechanism’s load capacity. Wall beds come in different styles to best fit your room layout, such as vertical and horizontal orientations. The lifting mechanism often utilizes either a spring-loaded system or a piston lift system for smoother operation. That’s your foundational understanding.
Complete Murphy Bed Kit: Unlike many other wall bed kits, our wall bed frame hardware kits include a sturdy steel platform with comfortable cambered wood slats to support your mattress.
Horizontal Mount Queen Size Full Size Twin size Deluxe Murphy Bed Hardware Kit(for the small size bed,just reduce the springs in the housing if they are too strong)
Complete Murphy Bed Kit: Unlike many other wall bed kits, our wall bed frame hardware kits include a sturdy steel platform with comfortable cambered wood slats to support your mattress.
Creative Murphy Bed Ideas to Maximize Your Space
Other clever ideas combine a bed with a sofa for daily lounging or integrate extensive shelving and wardrobes for organization. You can even find bunk-style versions that stack two beds, perfect for kids’ rooms. It’s crucial to adhere to the manufacturer’s specified weight limits to prevent mechanism failure. For a stacked model, always calculate the combined weight of both sleepers and their bedding. The best part is their stylish customization; they can blend seamlessly into your wall with panels matching your décor. When selecting one, be sure to assess your available space and wall structure to ensure a proper fit and safe installation. These aren’t just beds; they’re complete room solutions that reclaim your floor space the moment you fold them up.
[Sturdy solid wood murphy bed] Made of high-quality solid pine wood and MDF with reliable construction, this Queen murphy bed frame can last for long time use and ensure strong stability and durability.
【Sturdy Construction】- Made of high-quality solid pine wood and MDF with reliable construction, this murphy bed frame can last for long time use and ensure strong stability and durability.
[Full Size Murphy Bed] Crafted from durable industrial-grade laminated MDF and plywood, it includes a dual piston metal folding mechanism for smooth and easy lifting and lowering.
How to Choose a Murphy Bed: 5 Key Factors
Selecting a Murphy bed is more than picking furniture—it’s planning a room transformation. You’ve got five key factors to weigh.
First, measure meticulously. You’ll need about 90 inches of ceiling height for a queen. Your budget planning must include potential professional installation for safety. A smooth installation also relies on gathering all necessary hardware and tools beforehand.
Material quality is non-negotiable. You want solid wood or quality plywood for durability. Pair it with a proper 10-inch mattress for comfort. Consider aesthetic integration to ensure the bed complements your existing small‑room décor.
Storage considerations are vital. Does the cabinet offer shelving? What floor space remains when the bed is down? Your room’s function dictates everything.
Finally, test the lifting mechanism. Gas pistons should operate smoothly. Your choice balances space, quality, and cost. Get these right, and you’ll transform any room. Always verify frame depth when folded against your room’s dimensions, as this affects how far the unit projects from the wall.
【Space-saving design】The Murphy queen bed folds down and up against the wall, freeing up floor space in any room. The wall bed is the ideal space-saving piece of furniture for a multi-purpose guest room, home office or home gym.
【Space-saving design】The Murphy queen bed folds down and up against the wall, freeing up floor space in any room. The wall bed is the ideal space-saving piece of furniture for a multi-purpose guest room, home office or home gym.
[Multi-function] This Murphy bed can be folded away into a cabinet to open up floor space in any room. A wall bed is the ideal space-saving furniture for a multi-use guest room, home office, or home gym.
Where to Buy Your Murphy Bed
So you’re wondering where to actually buy one of these space-saving beds? Your best options are online retailers, big-box stores, specialty sites, and physical showrooms.
You’ll find excellent online discounts from retailers like Wayfair, Amazon, and Home Depot. Their range is vast, from $400 DIY kits to high-end $6,000 units. Always read product descriptions and reviews carefully here. In Japan, domestic e-commerce sites are a primary source for these space-saving solutions.
For a dedicated source, consider specialized retailers like Murphy Bed Depot for a wide range of trusted models. For in-person inspection, seek out regional showrooms. These aren’t common in national chains but offer a pivotal trial before you commit. Companies like WallBedsByWilding operate them.
Now, your choice depends on needing a hands-on look versus hunting the best deal online. Either path leads you to a smarter, more functional room.
Farmhouse Style Murphy Bed: Our farmhouse queen size Murphy bed features a unique wood grain finish metal trim and convenient handles. Wall Murphy bed queen size combines farmhouse style and modernity, adding a beautiful, elegant touch to your room, and can fit a bedroom, home office, guest room, and study room.
【Space-saving design】: the Murphy queen bed folds down and up against the wall, freeing up floor space in any room. The wall bed is the ideal space-saving piece of furniture for a multi-purpose guest room, home office or home gym.
【Space-saving design】The Murphy queen bed folds down and up against the wall, freeing up floor space in any room. The wall bed is the ideal space-saving piece of furniture for a multi-purpose guest room, home office or home gym.
