What's the differnce between a horizontal and a verticle Murphy bed?

Vertical vs. Horizontal Murphy Beds: Which One Fits Your Space?

When it comes to maximizing your living space, Murphy beds are an absolute game changer. These nifty beds fold up against the wall when not in use, turning any room into a multi-functional space. But if you’re considering adding one to your home, you might be wondering about the difference between vertical and horizontal Murphy beds. Let’s dive into the details and see which might be the perfect fit for you!

Adonis Queen Murphy Bed

The Classic Vertical Murphy Bed

The vertical Murphy bed is the most traditional style you’ll come across. Picture this: when you open the cabinet, the bed folds down from the head, kind of like a giant wall-mounted picture frame. This style is also known as the “portrait” orientation because it’s taller than it is wide. The mattress is stored on its short end, which means the bed takes up less wall space.

Pros:

• Space Efficiency: Because it’s taller, it’s great for rooms with limited wall space. This means you can have a full-sized bed without it consuming too much of your precious wall area.
• Compact Design: When folded up, it’s compact and unobtrusive, which is perfect if you’re working with smaller rooms.

Cons:

• Ceiling Height Requirement: One of the significant drawbacks of the vertical Murphy bed is that it needs a decent amount of ceiling height. The cabinet plus the space required to attach the top of the bed to the wall can be a challenge in older homes, basements, or places with low ceilings or bulkheads.

Adonis Full Horizontal Murphy Bed

The Versatile Horizontal Murphy Bed

Enter the horizontal Murphy bed—a fantastic alternative if your space or ceiling height is limited. Instead of folding down from the head, this bed folds out from the side. It’s like the horizontal cousin of the vertical model. This design significantly reduces the ceiling height needed for installation and minimizes how far the bed extends into the room.

Pros:

• Lower Ceiling Requirement: With this model, you don’t need as much ceiling height, which makes it a fantastic option for rooms with lower ceilings or awkward architectural features.
• Space Saver: When deployed, it takes up less floor space because it doesn’t extend as far out into the room, making it ideal for smaller spaces.

Cons:

• Wall Space: It does require more wall space from side to side, so you might need to consider how it fits into your room’s layout.

You can view our full collection of horizontal Murphy beds HERE! 

Style and Functionality

Choosing a Murphy bed doesn’t mean you’re stuck with bland, utilitarian designs. Both vertical and horizontal options come in a range of styles that can complement your décor. Whether you’re looking for something sleek and modern or more traditional, there are plenty of options available.

Alegra Full Horizontal Murphy Bed

If you’re in need of a multifunctional solution, some Murphy beds come with built-in desks or additional storage. This is ideal if you’re setting up a home office or need extra space for books, gadgets, or office supplies.

Adonis Full Horizontal Murphy Bed with Desk

Making Your Choice

So, which Murphy bed is right for you? If you have ample ceiling height and want to save on wall space, a vertical Murphy bed could be your best bet. On the other hand, if you’re dealing with lower ceilings or need to maximize every inch of your room, a horizontal Murphy bed might be the smarter choice.

In the end, both styles offer the flexibility and functionality that can turn any room into a versatile living space. It’s all about assessing your room’s specific needs and choosing the design that will make the most of your space.