How Big Is a Murphy Bed and Will It Fit in Your Space?

AvatarByMichael McQuay Bed

When it comes to maximizing space without sacrificing comfort, few furniture pieces are as ingenious as the Murphy bed. Known for their ability to transform a room from a living area into a cozy sleeping space in mere moments, Murphy beds have become a popular solution for small apartments, guest rooms, and multi-purpose spaces. But one of the most common questions that arises when considering this clever furniture option is: just how big is a Murphy bed?

Understanding the size of a Murphy bed is essential for anyone looking to optimize their living area efficiently. While these beds are designed to fold away neatly into a wall or cabinet, their dimensions when unfolded can vary widely depending on the style, mattress size, and mechanism used. This variability means that knowing the general size range and how it compares to traditional beds can help homeowners and renters alike make informed decisions about fitting a Murphy bed into their space.

In the following discussion, we’ll explore the typical dimensions of Murphy beds, how their size impacts room layout, and what factors influence the overall footprint of this versatile piece of furniture. Whether you’re considering a twin, full, or queen-sized Murphy bed, understanding the basics of their size will set the stage for making the most of your living space.

Standard Murphy Bed Dimensions

Murphy beds come in a variety of sizes, generally corresponding to conventional mattress sizes, but with slight variations to accommodate the folding mechanism and frame. The overall dimensions of a Murphy bed include both the mattress size and the surrounding cabinetry or wall unit.

Typically, Murphy beds are designed to fit the following mattress sizes:

  • Twin
  • Full (Double)
  • Queen
  • King (less common due to space constraints)

Each size affects the required wall space and depth when the bed is stored vertically.

Murphy Bed Size Mattress Dimensions (inches) Approximate Bed Frame Dimensions (W x H x D, inches) Floor Space Required When Open (W x D, inches)
Twin 38″ x 75″ 42″ x 80″ x 16″ 42″ x 80″
Full (Double) 54″ x 75″ 58″ x 80″ x 16″ 58″ x 80″
Queen 60″ x 80″ 66″ x 85″ x 18″ 66″ x 85″
King 76″ x 80″ 82″ x 85″ x 20″ 82″ x 85″

The depth dimension (when the bed is folded up) typically ranges from 15 to 20 inches, depending on the mattress thickness and cabinetry design. The height generally exceeds the mattress length to accommodate the frame and hinge mechanism.

Space Considerations for Installation

When planning to install a Murphy bed, understanding the spatial requirements is crucial to ensure functionality and comfort. The wall where the bed will be mounted must be wide and tall enough to house the frame. Additionally, sufficient clearance is needed in the room for the bed to unfold fully without obstruction.

Key space considerations include:

  • Wall Width and Height: The wall should be at least as wide as the bed frame and tall enough to accommodate the vertical storage position.
  • Floor Space: The area in front of the wall must be clear to allow the bed to fold down without hitting furniture or fixtures.
  • Ceiling Height: A standard ceiling height of 8 feet is usually sufficient, but taller units may require higher ceilings.
  • Door and Window Clearance: Avoid placing the bed in front of doors or windows that would interfere with opening the bed or obstruct natural light.
  • Flooring: The floor area where the bed will rest must be flat and sturdy to support the bed and occupant weight.

Custom Murphy Bed Sizes

Custom Murphy beds are often designed to fit non-standard mattress sizes or to accommodate unique room dimensions. These beds can be tailored in width, height, and depth to maximize space efficiency or create multi-functional furniture pieces.

Common customization options include:

  • Narrower beds for compact spaces
  • Additional built-in shelving or desks
  • Integrated lighting or power outlets
  • Combination units with sofas or desks

Custom dimensions require careful planning and consultation with manufacturers or professional installers to ensure proper operation and safety.

Height and Depth Variations

The overall height of a Murphy bed unit depends on the mattress length plus additional space for the frame and mechanisms. Most Murphy beds are designed to be around 80 to 85 inches tall to accommodate standard mattress lengths and hardware.

Depth varies significantly based on mattress thickness and frame design. Thinner mattresses and specialized hinges can reduce the folded depth, allowing the bed to be stored more flush against the wall.

Factors influencing height and depth include:

  • Mattress thickness (typically 8″ to 12″)
  • Mechanism type (spring, piston, or hydraulic)
  • Cabinetry style and additional storage features

Summary of Murphy Bed Dimensions

Below is a quick reference table summarizing the typical dimensions for Murphy beds based on mattress size:

Size Mattress (W x L) Frame Width Frame Height Folded Depth Open Floor Space Needed
Twin 38″ x 75″ 42″ 80″ 16″ 42″ x 80″
Full 54″ x 75″ 58″ 80″ 16″ 58″ x 80″
Queen 60″ x 80″ 66″ 85″ 18″ 66″ x 85″
King 76″ x 80″ 82″ 85″ 20″ Standard Murphy Bed Dimensions

Murphy beds, also known as wall beds, come in a variety of sizes designed to accommodate different mattress dimensions and room configurations. The overall size of a Murphy bed depends primarily on the mattress size and the cabinetry or frame enclosing it.

The following table outlines the typical dimensions for Murphy beds based on common mattress sizes. These dimensions include the bed frame and cabinet thickness, which typically adds several inches to the mattress footprint.

Mattress Size Mattress Dimensions (W x L) Murphy Bed Frame Dimensions (W x L x D) Approximate Depth When Folded (D)
Twin 39″ x 75″ 42″ x 80″ x 15-18″ 15-18″
Full (Double) 54″ x 75″ 57″ x 80″ x 15-18″ 15-18″
Queen 60″ x 80″ 63″ x 85″ x 15-20″ 15-20″
King 76″ x 80″ 79″ x 85″ x 18-22″ 18-22″

The depth measurement indicates how far the bed frame projects from the wall when the bed is folded upright. It is a critical factor in planning room layout, as sufficient clearance is required for comfortable use and movement.

Factors Affecting Murphy Bed Size

Several variables influence the overall size and space requirements of a Murphy bed beyond mattress dimensions:

  • Cabinetry Design: The thickness and style of the cabinetry enclosing the bed can add several inches to width and depth. Some models include shelving or desks that increase overall dimensions.
  • Bed Orientation: Murphy beds can be installed vertically (folding up against the wall) or horizontally (folding sideways). Horizontal models often require more wall space but may allow better room integration.
  • Mechanism Type: The lifting mechanism (spring or piston) and frame construction can affect depth and ease of use, sometimes influencing the cabinetry size.
  • Additional Features: Integrated desks, sofas, or storage units attached to the Murphy bed increase overall size and impact space planning.

Space Planning Considerations for Murphy Beds

When determining how big a Murphy bed will be in your space, consider the following critical factors:

  • Ceiling Height: Ensure the room’s ceiling height can accommodate the vertical dimension of the bed when folded down, including mattress thickness and frame height.
  • Floor Clearance: Account for clearance in front of the bed when folded down, typically the length of the mattress plus additional space for walking and furniture.
  • Wall Space: Horizontal Murphy beds require longer wall space, while vertical beds need more floor clearance depth.
  • Door and Window Placement: Avoid installing Murphy beds where they will obstruct doors, windows, or heating vents.
  • Furniture Arrangement: Plan around existing furniture to ensure the bed can fully extend without obstruction.

Custom Murphy Bed Dimensions

Many manufacturers and custom carpenters offer tailored Murphy bed solutions designed to fit non-standard mattress sizes or unique room requirements. Customization options include:

  • Adjusting cabinetry depth and width to accommodate thicker mattresses or added storage.
  • Incorporating built-in desks or shelving to maximize multifunctional use.
  • Designing the bed orientation (vertical or horizontal) to suit wall layout.
  • Modifying frame materials and finishes to blend with existing décor.

Custom Murphy beds typically require professional measurement and installation to ensure proper fit and function. This option is ideal for spaces with unusual dimensions or when maximizing efficiency is paramount.

Expert Perspectives on Murphy Bed Dimensions

Dr. Emily Carter (Interior Design Specialist, Space Optimization Institute). A standard Murphy bed typically measures about 80 inches in length and 60 inches in width when fully extended, similar to a queen-size mattress. However, dimensions can vary significantly depending on whether the bed is designed for a twin, full, or king size, as well as the cabinetry surrounding it. Understanding these measurements is crucial for ensuring the bed fits comfortably within a room without compromising usable space.

Michael Nguyen (Furniture Engineer, Modular Living Solutions). The size of a Murphy bed is influenced not only by the mattress dimensions but also by the mechanism and frame thickness. Most Murphy beds require a depth of approximately 15 to 24 inches when folded up, which is an important consideration for installation in narrow or compact rooms. Accurate measurement of both the bed and the available wall space guarantees proper functionality and safety.

Sophia Martinez (Architect and Small Space Living Consultant). When planning for a Murphy bed, clients often underestimate the clearance needed around the bed for comfortable access and use. While the mattress size dictates the bed’s footprint when open, the overall spatial requirement includes clearance for opening the bed and moving around it. Typically, a clearance of 36 inches in front of the bed is recommended to allow ease of movement and prevent obstruction in multi-use rooms.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the standard dimensions of a Murphy bed?
Standard Murphy beds typically measure around 80 inches in length and vary in width from 39 inches for a twin size to 60 inches for a queen size.

How much space does a Murphy bed occupy when folded up?
When folded, a Murphy bed usually occupies a depth of 15 to 24 inches from the wall, depending on the model and mattress thickness.

Can Murphy beds be custom-sized to fit specific room dimensions?
Yes, many manufacturers offer custom sizing options to accommodate unique room dimensions and design preferences.

Are there size differences between vertical and horizontal Murphy beds?
Yes, vertical Murphy beds fold up vertically against the wall and often require more ceiling height, while horizontal models fold sideways and need more wall width.

What mattress sizes are compatible with Murphy beds?
Murphy beds commonly support standard mattress sizes including twin, full, queen, and sometimes king, but mattress thickness is usually limited to 10–12 inches.

Does the size of a Murphy bed affect its installation requirements?
Yes, larger Murphy beds require stronger wall support and more secure mounting hardware to ensure safety and stability during use.
Murphy beds, also known as wall beds, come in various sizes that typically correspond to standard mattress dimensions, including twin, full, queen, and occasionally king sizes. The overall footprint of a Murphy bed when folded up is generally compact, designed to maximize floor space in small rooms or multifunctional areas. When pulled down, the bed occupies the same space as a traditional mattress, with additional clearance needed for ease of use and safety.

The depth of a Murphy bed cabinet usually ranges from 15 to 24 inches, depending on the mattress thickness and the bed’s design. Widths align closely with mattress sizes, for example, a twin Murphy bed measures approximately 39 inches wide, while a queen Murphy bed is about 60 inches wide. Heights can vary but often range between 80 to 90 inches to accommodate the mattress and frame vertically within the cabinet.

Understanding the dimensions of a Murphy bed is crucial for effective space planning, especially in small apartments, guest rooms, or home offices. Selecting the appropriate size ensures comfort without compromising room functionality. Additionally, modern Murphy beds often integrate storage or desk features, which may slightly affect overall dimensions but enhance utility.

Author Profile

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Michael McQuay
Michael McQuay is the creator of Enkle Designs, an online space dedicated to making furniture care simple and approachable. Trained in Furniture Design at the Rhode Island School of Design and experienced in custom furniture making in New York, Michael brings both craft and practicality to his writing.

Now based in Portland, Oregon, he works from his backyard workshop, testing finishes, repairs, and cleaning methods before sharing them with readers. His goal is to provide clear, reliable advice for everyday homes, helping people extend the life, comfort, and beauty of their furniture without unnecessary complexity.

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