Styles of Wall Beds

Styles of Wall Beds

Wall beds have evolved into a plethora of different types that can match any living style and space.  From the most basic hide-away that can be tucked into a closet, to the more elaborate European styles that incorporate seating and shelving, wall beds are an attractive design option.  No longer are they simply used to increase space- they can quite dramatically enhance the style of any room.  In this article we’ll explore many of the different styles of wall beds made available by wall bed manufacturers, and provide links for easy access.

 

Classic Wall Bed Units:

These wall bed units are made of classic design.  When you think of a wall bed or a Murphy bed, these are probably what come to mind.  Their classic style with beautiful wood finishes are sure to bring an elegant touch to any room.

The Basic Armoire

 

  • Features:

The most classic type of wall bed is the armoire.  It easily fits into many different room styles and adds a classy, elegant touch with its fine wood finish.  There is a wide variety of armoires available, all in different wood finishes, colors, and sizes.

 

One of the great benefits of going with an armoire-style wall bed is its flexibility: it can fit into any room with minimal hassle over making sure it blends in with the rest of the decor.  

 

The vertical armoire is best for rooms with higher ceilings but narrower walls.  By having the bed be vertical, you will take up less width along the wall.

 

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The Horizontal Armoire

  • Features:

Another classic design is the horizontal armoire.  While it shares the same features as the vertical armoire, with broad range of wood types, finishes, and shapes, the horizontal armoire is best for rooms with slightly lower ceilings and wider wall space.

 

Another feature that both the vertical and horizontal armoire sets share is their relatively low cost, compared to other designs.

 

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The Mirrored Cabinet

 

  • Features:

The mirrored cabinet wall bed adds an element of functionality.  While the vertical armoire can easily fit into many rooms and compacts itself nicely, there is still the slight problem of wasted space: the armoire isn’t functional.

 

The mirrored cabinet wall takes care of this problem by incorporating a large, nearly floor to ceiling mirror into its design.  The large mirror is both functional and it gives the illusion of greater space.  When properly placed in a room, mirrors can help dramatically increase the appearance of open space and bring a nice, airy feel to any room.

 

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Side Shelving

 

  • Features:

Like the mirrored cabinet wall bed, side shelving tackles the problem of functionality head on.  Side shelving can be added to any kind of armoire-style wall bed, including the mirrored cabinet.  By adding side shelving, you can increase the look, efficiency, and style of your wall bed dramatically.  As well, the side shelves can be used as night stands even when the bed is in use.

 

While many wall bed manufacturers produce specially designed side shelves to fit with the wood, design, and finish of your wall bed, you can also incorporate your own shelving to an existing wall bed.  Places like IKEA or other furniture stores have a wide variety of shelving styles.

 

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Creative Wall Bed Units:

While the classic wall bed units mostly consist of an armoire concealment with the addition perhaps of side shelving, there are some units that are little bit different in their design approach.  These often surprising styles add a bit of wonder and whimsy to a room.

Shoji Door Bed

 

 

  • Features:

The Shoji Door Bed is a perfect example of a room design that incorporates a wall bed seamlessly.  Rather than just shoving a wall bed into an existing room design without much thought, this room was designed specifically with the wall bed in mind.  Rice-paper like walls hide both wall beds, shelving, and other surprises in this Zen style.  By incorporating the wall bed directly into the wall, the room feels even more spacious.

 

Even if you do not care for the Japanese style, this is a good example to look into simply for the way it creatively uses space.  We suggest that before getting a wall bed, you start to think about what kind of room you would like to design, with the wall bed as a critical component.

The Computer Bed

 

  • Features:

We like this design because it features both a incredible amount of concealment and extreme functionality.  Any room can seamlessly switch between an office and a bedroom with this style.  

 

A great design for students or anyone with limited space.

 

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The Sofa Wall Bed

  • Manufacturer:  Italian Murphy Beds
  • Website:  https://www.italianmurphybeds.com/product/dile-sofa-murphy-bed

  • Features:

While the “Computer Bed” is great for switching between a bedroom and an office, the “Sofa Wall Bed” does the same for any living room.  Unlike traditional sofa beds that feature incredibly uncomfortable mattresses that have to fold and hard springs, the “Sofa Wall Bed” is stored vertically flat and can hold any mattress you choose.  As well, this design includes a wall shelf for easy storage of books and things, so absolutely no space is wasted.

 

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The Vertical Bunk Bed

 

  • Features:

For those looking to maximize space even more, the Double Bunk Wall Bed is a perfect choice.  Great for transforming any kids bedroom into a playroom and back again.  While bunk beds help save space for siblings sharing a room, having the ability to fold both of those beds vertically against the wall is incredible.  

 

A great pick for those families with not a whole of space, but a lot of kids.

 

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The TV Bed

 

  • Features:

This design basically takes the principles of the mirrored wall cabinet and replaces the mirror with a television.  The above unit is just one example of how a television can be incorporated into a wall bed converter.  

 

A great pick for those that want to transform a living room into a guest bedroom, or a studio space into both a living room and a bedroom.