California has always been a fertile spot for fresh ideas, including the ultimate space-savers and instant room transformers – Murphy wall beds. Invented around 1900 by San Francisco resident, William L. Murphy, as a way to create two rooms with two separate functions from his small, one-room apartment, these beds have had an avid following ever since.



Murphy wall beds are the ultimate in sleeping convenience. These beds are locked safely out of the way when the owner needs the space to work, entertain, or play. However, they are available instantly when it's bed time, and are quite comfortable. Standard or pillow-top mattresses are used, and can be of any size from twin to king. Even the pillows and bed linens are fastened securely in place in their wall or cupboard, ready to be curled up on when the bed is lowered to the horizontal position.

These beds have come a long way from the original bed, which was hidden in a closet when not in use. Now they are more than likely a part of an elegant built-in cabinet made of fine wood or gleaming stainless steel. The part of the wall that hides the bed in its vertical position may be recessed, but that is not necessary. Most walls are not deep enough to hold the entire depth of the mattress, so a cabinet makes the better choice.

The steel mechanism and hardware of the original bed has been vastly improved upon as well. A finger touch can lift or lower the bed, and the bed can be locked in either position. These features make Murphy wall beds safe and convenient for people of all ages and sizes. They are also popular as space savers and emergency beds in fire stations, emergency housing, and hospitals. These beds have become a fashionable way to have your room and sleep in it, too.