- Measure carefully before building: Confirm your ceiling height and room dimensions to ensure the bed fits and can be assembled without issues.
- Build a strong, square inner frame: The bed must be perfectly square for the hardware to align and for smooth operation.
- Use a reliable hardware kit: Pivot plates and hydraulics are essential for safety and ease of use—choose a quality kit and install it accurately.
- Mirror the side panels, don’t duplicate them: Left and right panels must be mirrored so the hardware aligns correctly and the bed functions properly.
- Securely anchor the unit to wall studs: A Murphy bed is heavy, so proper mounting is crucial to prevent tipping and ensure safety.
- Add built-ins for a seamless look: Surrounding cabinets and faux doors help the bed blend into the room like custom cabinetry.
- Paint with light, multiple coats: Use a sprayer and apply several thin layers to avoid drips and achieve a professional finish.
If you’re trying to maximize space in a small home office or guest room, a Murphy bed is one of the best upgrades you can make. It turns a full-size sleeping area into a functional room during the day and a comfortable bedroom at night. Building a Murphy bed may sound intimidating, but with the right plan and tools, you can create a built-in-looking system that operates smoothly and looks professional.
This guide walks you through how to build a Murphy bed from start to finish, including frame construction, hardware installation, enclosure design, and built-in cabinetry for a seamless finish. You’ll also learn key mistakes to avoid, helpful tips, and how to make your bed look like a real piece of furniture rather than a DIY project.
Why Build a Murphy Bed Instead of Buying One?
A Murphy bed offers several advantages over buying a pre-made unit:
- Better customization: You can match your room’s style and storage needs.
- Cost savings: Building your own can be cheaper than high-end systems.
- More durability: DIY allows you to use better materials and stronger hardware.
- Built-in appearance: You can design the bed to blend with cabinets and shelving.
If your space is limited, a Murphy bed isn’t just a bed—it’s a space-saving solution that can completely change how your room functions.
What You Need to Know Before You Start
Before you begin, there are a few key decisions and measurements that will determine the success of your project:
Measure Your Space Accurately
A typical queen Murphy bed needs at least:
- 80–85 inches in height
- 60 inches in width
- 15–20 inches of depth for the frame
However, the actual dimensions can vary based on your hardware and design.
Check Your Ceiling Height
One of the most common mistakes is misjudging vertical clearance. Make sure your vertical panels can be lifted and installed without hitting the ceiling. It’s easier to trim boards before assembly than to rework the bed after it’s built.
Decide Between Wall-Mounted vs Floor-Mounted
Most modern Murphy beds use a wall-mounted frame for stability and easier lifting. However, you can also build a floor-mounted bed if your wall structure is weak or you prefer a different design.
Choose the Right Hardware
The hardware is what makes the bed operate smoothly and safely. Murphy bed kits typically include:
- Pivot plates
- Hydraulic pistons
- Upper and lower ball studs
- Mounting brackets
A reliable kit makes the process much easier and safer.
What Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Here’s a typical list of what you’ll need for a queen-size Murphy bed build:
Tools
- Circular saw or table saw
- Drill and driver
- 1-inch Forstner bit (for pivot holes)
- Framing square
- Clamps
- Tape measure
- Level
- Jigsaw (for rounded edges)
- Paint sprayer (optional)
Materials
- 1×2 lumber for the inner frame
- Plywood or MDF for face panels
- 2×4 or 2×6 for vertical supports
- Hardware kit (pivot plates + hydraulic pistons)
- Wood glue and screws
- Cabinet-grade paint
- Decorative trim for built-in look
Step 1: Building the Inner Frame
The inner frame is the skeleton of your Murphy bed. It supports the mattress and connects to the pivot hardware.
Why the Inner Frame Matters
The inner frame:
- Holds the bed together under weight
- Keeps the frame square and stable
- Ensures the bed opens and closes smoothly
How to Build the Inner Frame
- Cut 1×2 lumber into the correct lengths for the bed frame.
- Glue and pin the pieces into L-shaped corners, making sure the joints are strong.
- Use a framing square to confirm that all corners are square and the sides match.
A bed that isn’t square will not operate properly and can cause hardware misalignment.
Step 2: Creating Side Rails and Rounded Edges
A Murphy bed frame typically includes outer side rails. These rails support the mattress and connect to the pivot points.
Why Rounded Edges Matter
If the bed frame is close to a walkway or the room is tight, sharp corners can cause injuries. Rounded edges help prevent bruises and provide a more polished look.
How to Round the Rails
- Create a template for consistent rounding.
- Use a jigsaw or router to cut the rounded shape.
- Sand the edges smooth.
Drilling Pivot Holes
Use a 1-inch Forstner bit to drill pivot holes. This is a crucial step because:
- The pivot hardware must sit flush.
- The holes must be clean and precise.
Pro tip: Always use scrap wood backing when drilling to prevent blowout on the visible side. This keeps your bed looking clean and professional.
Step 3: Installing Hardware (Pivot Plates and Hydraulics)
This is the most critical part of the build. Hardware is what makes the bed lift smoothly and stay stable.
Hardware Components
A typical kit includes:
- Lower ball studs for hydraulics
- Pivot plates
- Upper mounting studs
- Mounting brackets
How to Install Hardware Correctly
- Install pivot plates on the side rails.
- Install the lower ball studs for the hydraulic pistons.
- Ensure all hardware is aligned perfectly before tightening.
Alignment Tips
- Make sure both sides are mirrored (not identical).
- If left and right sides are identical, the hardware won’t line up properly.
Step 4: Assembling the Bed Frame
Once the hardware is installed, you can assemble the frame.
Assembly Steps
- Attach the head and foot rails to the inner frame using wood screws and glue.
- Double-check the frame is square before tightening.
- Test the movement by lifting the frame and ensuring it pivots correctly.
Step 5: Building the Enclosure and Vertical Panels
The enclosure makes the bed look like a built-in cabinet. It also provides structural support for the hardware.
Face Panels and Structural Support
Face panels add strength and give a finished look.
- Glue and screw the frame to the face panels.
- Ensure the panels are secured well, as they support the entire unit.
Common Mistake: Forgetting Glue
A common issue is attaching the face panels with screws only. Glue adds structural integrity and prevents the panels from loosening over time.
Step 6: Building Vertical Supports and the Header Board
The vertical supports house the pivot plates and hydraulic studs. The header board connects the verticals and provides additional stability.
How to Build Vertical Supports
- Cut vertical side panels to fit your ceiling height.
- Install pivot plates and upper hydraulic studs into the vertical panels.
- Connect the verticals with a header board at the top.
Why the Header Board Is Important
The header board:
- Keeps the unit stable
- Distributes weight evenly
- Prevents wobbling or shifting
Step 7: Installing the Bed into the Wall
Once the frame is assembled, you’ll install the bed into your wall.
Safety First
A Murphy bed is heavy. If it’s not secured properly, it can tip over.
How to Install Safely
- Stand the unit upright.
- Locate wall studs using a stud finder.
- Bolt the unit securely into the studs.
Never rely on drywall alone to support a Murphy bed.
Step 8: Adding Built-Ins for a Seamless Look
A Murphy bed looks best when it blends with surrounding cabinetry.
What You Can Add
- Lower cabinets for storage
- Open shelving for books and decor
- Top cubbies for seasonal items
Why Built-Ins Make a Difference
Built-ins:
- Hide the bed’s structure
- Make the room feel cohesive
- Turn the bed into a furniture piece
Step 9: Installing Faux Doors and Decorative Panels
To make the bed look like a cabinet, you can add faux doors that don’t actually open.
Why Faux Doors Work
Faux doors:
- Match the look of real cabinets
- Keep the bed looking integrated
- Prevent complicated hinge systems
Key Tip for Handles
If you add handles to faux panels:
- Install handles before attaching trim
- Otherwise, you won’t be able to access the back of the panel later
Step 10: Painting and Finishing
A high-quality paint job makes your Murphy bed look like a custom installation.
Painting Tips for a Smooth Finish
- Use a sprayer for even coverage.
- Apply multiple light coats rather than one thick coat.
- Use masking film to protect corners instead of a handheld shield.
Avoiding Common Paint Issues
- Too much paint at once leads to drips and runs.
- Thin coats prevent streaks and uneven texture.
- Proper sanding between coats gives a professional finish.
Mistakes to Avoid When Building a Murphy Bed
Here are the most common pitfalls and how to avoid them:
1. Not Mirroring Panels
If the left and right panels are identical, hardware won’t align. Always mirror the side panels.
2. Misjudging Ceiling Height
Vertical boards that are too tall will not fit upright in the room. Measure and trim before assembly.
3. Forgetting Glue
Screws alone won’t hold the frame under constant weight and movement. Glue adds crucial stability.
4. Skipping Backing While Drilling
Drilling pivot holes without backing can cause blowout on the visible side. Always use scrap wood backing.
5. Installing Handles Too Late
If you add faux doors, install handles before attaching trim. Otherwise, you’ll lose access.
How to Customize Your Murphy Bed Design
Your Murphy bed doesn’t have to look like a standard wall bed. Here are some ideas to personalize it:
Style Ideas
- Shaker-style panels for a classic look
- Flat-panel modern design
- Shiplap or beadboard for a farmhouse feel
Functionality Upgrades
- Add hidden storage drawers
- Include a fold-out desk
- Add a shelf above the bed for books or decor
Mattress Options
Choose a mattress that fits your comfort needs and doesn’t overload the hardware:
- Foam mattresses are lighter
- Innerspring mattresses may feel firmer but heavier
- Hybrid mattresses can be a good balance
Final Thoughts: Is Building a Murphy Bed Worth It?
If you want to maximize space, add functionality, and create a custom-built look, building a Murphy bed is absolutely worth it. The project requires planning, precision, and patience—but the result is a dramatic transformation of your room.
A Murphy bed is not just a piece of furniture—it’s a space-saving solution that can turn a small office into a guest room instantly, while maintaining a clean and integrated aesthetic.
