You've probably seen the old movie comedy routine where the Murphy bed folds up with someone in it. In reality, Murphy beds are a practical way to expand a small space into comfortable overnight accommodations. With the right measurements and installation, you could have your home office pulling double duty as the guestroom. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Measure your room. Decide where the Murphy bed will fit best when it's open. Consider what size mattress you want based on the size of the room and your needs. Remember to measure the height of the ceiling, as well, since that will effect the Murphy bed when it's in an upright position.
2. Decide on a closet or cabinet model. Some Murphy beds fold into a closet, out of the way until they're needed. If there's no closet on the wall where you want to store the bed, you should look into a cabinet model. This version of the Murphy bed comes with its own storage cabinet. It looks like a large piece of furniture when the bed is stored, and then opens to let the bed fold down.
3. Find a design you like and check the dimensions. If you decide on a closet model, measure the dimensions of your closet carefully. A cabinet model affords more flexibility, but you must know the size of the wall you intend to put it on and the height of the ceiling. Check these dimensions with the specs from your Murphy bed dealer to determine which model will fit.
4. Ask about installation. Discuss installation with your Murphy bed dealer. Find out what they charge for closet installation, and whether they recommend it for the model you've chosen. If you intend to install the Murphy bed yourself, get installation instructions.
Tags: cabinet model, height ceiling, Murphy beds, Murphy dealer, where Murphy