DIY Murphy Bunk Beds - Maximize Your Bedroom Space
Do you wish you could fit more beds into your kids' small bedroom? Are you looking for a cool space-saving solution for a shared guest room? If so, a DIY Murphy bunk bed may be the perfect project for you! Murphy bunk beds are ingenious space-savers, allowing two beds to fold vertically into the wall to free up valuable floor space when not in use. Building your own Murphy bunks is a great weekend project for an experienced DIYer.
A DIY Murphy bunk merges the functionality of a Murphy bed with a classic bunk bed design. With some basic tools, materials, and carpentry skills, you can construct side-by-side bunks that disappear together as one unit when folded up and concealed in the wall. Murphy bunks are ideal for kid's shared bedrooms, guest rooms, studio apartments, offices, and other small spaces. Follow the steps below to create the ultimate space-saving sleeping solution.
Things to Consider Before Starting Your Project
Space Requirements
First things first - measure your available wall space. You'll need a minimum of 7-8 feet of clear, usable wall to accommodate a standard twin-over-twin Murphy bunk bed when opened. Make sure there is adequate space in the room for the bunk to fold down fully perpendicular to the wall without obstruction. Your measurements will determine the ultimate size and configuration options for your DIY bed.
Weight Considerations
Murphy bunks are heavy! The wall you choose needs to comfortably support the weight of two adult-sized beds plus mattresses. Consider constructing with light materials like thin plywood to reduce the load. Plan for at least 500-600 lbs of total weight for a twin-over-twin setup. Reinforced wall attachment points are crucial.
Choosing a Wall
Mounting your DIY Murphy bunk on a load-bearing wall is vital. Load-bearing walls have studs that extend all the way down to the foundation, giving them the strength the handle the torsional force created each time you fold up the bed. Non-load bearing interior walls won't cut it. Locate studs 16" on center for securing the bed frame using a stud finder. Having wall access behind drywall is helpful.
Safety Considerations
Safety is paramount with any Murphy bed design. Proper overall construction and reinforcement provides stability and reduces swaying and shifting when in use. Include guardrails on the top bunk to prevent falls and only allow older, taller children on the upper bed. Teach kids safe habits like no roughhousing or jumping on the beds.
Planning Your Design
Layout Options
The most common Murphy bunk layout places two same-sized mattresses side-by-side horizontally so they fold together vertically. But you can also opt for a staggered configuration with one bed above the other to save even more floor space when folded. Integrated stairs, cabinets, and storage compartments are popular for added functionality.
Bed Size
Standard twin sizes work great for maximizing space savings with Murphy bunks. But you can go bigger with full, queen or even mixed twin/full bunks if you have the wall length. Just remember, the larger the mattresses, the heavier your DIY bed will be.
Folding Mechanism
The key to a Murphy bunk is the folding mechanism that allows the bed to lift up and store away. Sturdy hinges or lift assists like gas springs or pistons make opening and closing smooth and easy. Choose hardware rated for the total weight of your bunk bed.
Material Choices
Lightweight plywood, solid wood, or metal framing can all work for DIY Murphy bunks. Choose materials that match the existing decor of the room. Hardwood plywood pairs nicely with solid wood accents. Metal and wood gives an industrial vibe.
Murphy Bed Hardware
Hinges
Heavy duty hinges are essential for joining the Murphy bed frame to the wall. Look for weight rated hinges designed for vertical lift murphy beds. Concealed hinges provide a streamlined look. Allow for 90 degrees or greater swing clearance.
Pistons
Gas springs or pneumatic pistons can assist with lifting and slowly lowering heavy Murphy bunk beds. They act as counterbalance springs to help raise the bed and control the speed of descent. Choose pistons rated at least 1.5X your overall bed weight.
Bed Stops
Bed stops mounted to the base of the bed frame prevent the bunk beds from closing accidentally. Stops set the maximum close angle. Floor mounts ensure the bed doesn't collide with the wall. Position them to your desired lowered bed angle.
Construction Basics
Building the Bed Frame
Construct a basic bed frame for each mattress using 2x4s or 2x6s secured with screws and corner bracing. Use a pocket hole jig to hide screw holes. Thick plywood ripped to size makes a suitable platform base. Sand and finish with non-toxic sealant.
Mounting Cabinetry/Shelving
Take advantage of the void space to integrate shelving, cabinets, and compartments for extra storage. Build boxes from plywood secured between wall studs. Make interior shelves removable to allow Murphy hardware access.
Installing Folding Mechanism
With the twin bed frames built, mount your hinges, pistons, and hardware using manufacturer instructions and making sure everything is plumb and square. Solid connection to multiple studs is vital. Attach the bed frames and test raising/closing.
Finishing Touches
Add final touches like safety rails, ladders, trim pieces and molding to give your DIY Murphy bunk a built-in look. Paint or stain as desired. Include closed cabinet fronts to conceal the beds when in the upright stored position.
Final Safety Checks
Before letting the kids start bunking, verify your DIY Murphy bunk bed is safe and stable. Confirm it does not exceed weight limits. Check for any wobbling or shifting when the beds are lowered. Open and close the beds multiple times to test smooth operation. Your creative Murphy bunk is ready for lights out!
With some planning and elbow grease, you can build your own space-maximizing Murphy bunk beds tailored to your needs. Proper preparation and construction techniques will ensure a safe, functional finished product. Your DIY Murphy bunk becomes the ideal multi-purpose sleeping solution for both kids and overnight guests. Now you can comfortably accommodate extra sleepers without expanding your home's footprint!
DIY Murphy Bunk Bed with Built-In Storage
If you have a small bedroom or want to maximize space, consider adding built-in storage to your DIY Murphy bunk bed. This can include shelves, cabinets, or drawers that are incorporated into the design of the bed frame. This will not only save space but also provide additional storage for clothes, toys, or bedding.
Adjustable Height Options
To accommodate different heights and preferences, consider adding adjustable height options to your DIY Murphy bunk bed. This can include adjustable legs or a hydraulic lift system that allows you to adjust the height of the bed frame. This will ensure a comfortable sleeping experience for all users, regardless of their height.
Safety Features
When designing a DIY Murphy bunk bed, it's essential to prioritize safety. Consider adding safety features such as sturdy support brackets, safety rails, and a weight capacity that exceeds the combined weight of the users. Additionally, ensure that the ladder is securely attached and that there is adequate clearance around the bed.
Customizable Design Options
To cater to individual preferences and needs, consider adding customizable design options to your DIY Murphy bunk bed. This can include adjustable headboards, different mattress thickness options, and a variety of color and finish choices. This will allow users to personalize their bed to their liking and make it more comfortable and functional.
Easy Installation and Maintenance
To ensure that your DIY Murphy bunk bed is easy to install and maintain, consider adding features such as pre-cut pieces, clear instructions, and high-quality hardware. Additionally, provide regular maintenance tips to ensure that the bed stays in good condition and continues to function properly over time.
Eco-Friendly Materials
To minimize the environmental impact of your DIY Murphy bunk bed, consider using eco-friendly materials such as sustainable wood, recycled metal, and low-VOC paints. This will not only make the bed more sustainable but also improve indoor air quality and reduce waste.
To make your DIY Murphy bunk bed more versatile, consider adding options such as a desk or a seating area that can be folded away when not in use. This will allow users to make the most of their space and have a more functional and versatile bedroom.