A Murphy bed, also known as a wall bed, is a bed that can fold up into a cabinet or wall to free up floor space when not in use. The beds are designed to swing down from a vertical position when needed, then swung back up into the cabinet or wall. This allows the room to easily convert between a bedroom and other uses, such as an office or living space.
Murphy beds traditionally fold down in a vertical orientation, with the head of the bed nearest the wall. However, some Murphy bed models can also be installed horizontally. In this orientation, the bed folds up sideways into the cabinet instead of swinging vertically.
So can a Murphy bed be sideways? The short answer is yes, Murphy beds can be installed horizontally to fold sideways into a cabinet or wall. This orientation is less common than the vertical setup, but is an option for certain Murphy bed models and installations.
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Advantages of a Sideways Murphy Bed
Installing a Murphy bed horizontally has some notable advantages:
Fits in Shallow Alcoves
Vertically folding Murphy beds need sufficient floor-to-ceiling height to fully open the bed. This height is typically around 60-65 inches minimum from floor to ceiling. Sideways Murphy beds only need enough depth (front to back) to accommodate the width of the mattress when opened. This makes a horizontal Murphy bed ideal for shallower alcoves or closets.
Easier Access
Since a horizontal Murphy bed does not lift you several feet in the air, it can be easier to get into and out of. This makes sideways Murphy beds ideal for anyone with mobility challenges or who wants an easier time getting in and out of bed.
Flexible Cabinet Design
With a vertical Murphy bed, the cabinet depth has to accommodate the entire mattress width. Horizontal Murphy beds only need cabinet depth equal to the mattress height. This allows more flexibility in cabinet design and can work better in rooms with limited space.
No Foot Clearance Needed
Vertical Murphy beds need open floor space at the foot of the bed to swing down. Sideways Murphy beds only require clearance in front to allow the bed to fold open. This means you can place furniture, shelving, or other items at the foot of a horizontal Murphy bed when closed.
Disadvantages of a Sideways Murphy Bed
While sideways Murphy beds have some perks, there are also a few potential disadvantages:
Width Requirements
You need sufficient wall width to accommodate a horizontal Murphy bed when open. This includes any nightstands or side tables. Make sure you have a wall wide enough to accommodate the required floor space before choosing a sideways Murphy bed.
Access Only From One Side
Since a horizontal Murphy bed opens along the wall, you can only get into bed from one side. This makes sideways Murphy beds impractical for larger mattress sizes that expect access from both sides.
Difficulty Securing to Wall Studs
Proper Murphy bed installation requires securing the bed cabinet into wall studs for stability and safety. Depending on the wall layout, it may be harder to line up the cabinet with suitable wall studs on a sideways installation.
Reduced Weight Capacity
The sideways cabinet configuration may result in lower weight capacities compared to vertical Murphy beds. Make sure to check the weight rating before purchasing to ensure the bed can accommodate you safely.
Is a Sideways Murphy Bed Right for You?
When considering a sideways Murphy bed, think about these factors:
– Do you have sufficient wall width and space for the bed when open? Measure the space carefully.
– Does the wall have suitable studs to anchor the bed horizontally? Inspect the wall before installing.
– Do you need access to the bed from both sides or is one-side access ok? Sideways beds only allow one-side access.
– Will the weight capacity accommodate you/your partner and mattress? Check ratings.
– Do you have mobility issues that make a vertical lift bed difficult to use? Sideways beds are easier to get into.
– Is the bed mainly for occasional use? Sideways Murphy beds maximize daytime space.
If you answer yes to most of these questions, a horizontal Murphy bed could be a great option. The sideways folding design can be perfect for certain small spaces that need a flexible sleeping solution.
Popular Brands of Sideways Murphy Beds
Some popular Murphy bed brands that offer sideways folding models include:
Wilding Wallbeds
Wilding Wallbeds has both vertical and horizontal Murphy bed models to fit different space needs. Their sideways Wallbed collections include:
– Side-by-Side Wallbeds: Two twin XL mattresses in a horizontal split configuration. Folds into a centered cabinet.
– The Alcove: Fits into shallow closet alcoves. Fold-down desk option available.
– Side Fold Cabinet Bed: Opens along the wall with hybrid cabinet storage.
Wayfair
Wayfair carries Murphy beds from several brands. Horizontal options include:
– Brentwood Home Sidney Side Cabinet Murphy Bed
– Zipcode Design Healdton Side Cabinet Murphy Bed
– Andover Mills Luper Side Cabinet Storage Murphy Bed
Murphy Bed USA
Murphy Bed USA offers custom vertical and horizontal Murphy beds. Their sideways models include:
– Horizontal Murphy beds: Single cabinet design in various widths.
– Corner horizontal Murphy beds: Fits into 90-degree corner space.
They also do full custom cabinets for both orientations.
Costs of Sideways Murphy Beds
Like vertical Murphy beds, prices for sideways folding models can range significantly based on:
– Size of the bed
– Materials used in the cabinetry
– Design features and customization
– Brand
– Where you purchase it
Here are some typical price ranges for sideways Murphy beds:
| Twin | $1,200 – $1,800 |
| Full | $1,400 – $2,200 |
| Queen | $1,600 – $2,500 |
| King | $1,800 – $3,000 |
Higher-end custom models with specialty features can cost $4,000 and up.
The cabinetry and hardware make up a significant portion of the total cost. Simple ready-to-assemble cabinets help keep costs lower. Custom wood cabinetry and integrated storage features add cost.
Shop around and get quotes from multiple brands to find the best pricing. Look for sales around holidays for potential savings on sideways Murphy beds.
Design Considerations for Horizontal Murphy Beds
If you plan to install a sideways Murphy bed, keep these design factors in mind:
– Measure the space carefully to ensure enough wall width for the bed when open. Include nightstands or other furniture.
– Look at the depth of the space. Sideways cabinets need less depth than vertical cabinets.
– Inspect the wall for suitable studs to anchor the bed into. Ideal spacing is every 16-24 inches.
– Consider weight capacity and if it works for you. Choose a higher rating if concerned.
– Sideways beds work best with just one or two sleepers. Not ideal for couples who need to get in from both sides.
– Make sure room is deep enough for cabinet depth plus clearance in front for opening the bed.
– Optimize cabinet storage space with drawers, shelves or closets. This maximizes function.
– Add lighting above or around the bed for better visibility at night.
– Incorporate electrical outlets and USB charging ports into the bed design.
With careful planning, a horizontal Murphy bed can be an excellent use of space while still offering comfortable sleeping accommodations at night.
Installation Tips for Sideways Murphy Beds
Proper installation is key to functionality and safety. Here are some tips for sideways Murphy bed installation:
– Carefully review manufacturer instructions for the model. Follow their guidelines closely.
– Two people make installation easier for lifting and fitting the cabinet into place.
– Ensure the cabinet is level and anchored securely into multiple studs. This prevents tipping when bed is down.
– Adjust the lift mechanism slowly and double check for smooth operation. Make sure safety catches engage properly.
– For cabinet doors, ensure they are mounted straight and have proper clearance to avoid rubbing.
– Make sure when folded down, the mattress sits flat with no gaps between cabinet and wall.
– Check that any lighting, outlets or other bed accessories function properly.
– Test safety features by partially opening the bed and ensuring it remains stable.
– Review all safety guidelines with any other household members.
Taking the time to properly install a sideways Murphy bed ensures maximum function, safety, and enjoyment of the space-saving design for years to come.
Conclusion
Sideways Murphy beds can be an excellent choice when floor space is limited and you want a room to pull double duty as both a bedroom and living area. By folding horizontally into a cabinet or wall instead of vertically, sideways Murphy beds can fit into shallower spaces and offer some ergonomic advantages. Brands like Wilding Wallbeds, Wayfair, and Murphy Bed USA offer sideways models to choose from. With careful planning and setup, a horizontal Murphy bed can provide space-saving sleeping accommodations without sacrificing comfort or function. Just be sure to measure carefully, inspect the wall, and follow installation directions for optimal safety and performance.