Can You Customize a Murphy Bed Size?

What Customization Means for Murphy Beds

When you shop for a Murphy bed, the word "custom" can mean different things. For some makers, it means you can choose the finish, hardware, and built-ins. For others, it means the bed is built to your exact room dimensions. Understanding these differences helps you decide which option fits your space.

This article explains the two main paths to a custom fit: panel kits that you assemble yourself and made-to-order wall beds from a manufacturer. It also covers cabinet beds, which are usually fixed in size, and what to consider when your room has unusual dimensions.

Panel Kits: Flexibility Through DIY Assembly

Panel kits, such as those from Merax, are sold as a set of components that you assemble at home. These kits are designed for standard mattress sizes like twin, full, queen, and king. The flexibility comes from the installation: you decide where to mount the bed and how to configure the surrounding cabinetry.

With a panel kit, you can adjust the height of the bed frame to match your ceiling or the depth of the cabinet to fit a shallow wall. However, the mattress size is fixed by the kit. If your room has an odd shape, a kit lets you position the bed to work around windows, doors, or sloped ceilings.

Before buying a kit, measure your space carefully and compare it to the kit's dimensions. The maker's instructions will guide you on clearances and mounting requirements. For more on measuring, see our guide on measuring a room for a Murphy bed.

Made-to-Order Wall Beds: Built to Your Specs

Made-to-order wall beds are built specifically for your room. Wilding Wallbeds, for example, offers fully customizable beds in their Studio and HomeFront series. You can choose the size, style, wood type, and finish. This level of customization is ideal for nonstandard room dimensions, such as a wall that is shorter than a standard queen or a ceiling that is lower than typical.

These beds are built-to-order, meaning the manufacturer constructs the bed after you place your order. This allows for adjustments to the cabinet depth, height, and width to fit your space. For instance, a wall bed can be made narrower to fit between two windows, or taller to accommodate a high ceiling.

Made-to-order beds often come with a higher price tag and longer lead times, but they offer the best fit for unusual spaces. The maker's sales team can help you design a bed that meets your needs. For more on choosing a wall bed, see our best wall beds guide.

Cabinet Beds: Fixed Sizes and What That Means

Cabinet beds, also known as Murphy chests, are freestanding units that fold down into a bed. They are typically available in standard sizes like twin, full, and queen. Wilding Wallbeds' cabinet beds, for example, come in queen size only, while Night and Day Furniture offers twin and full options.

Because cabinet beds are self-contained, they are not customizable in the same way as wall beds. The cabinet depth and width are fixed by the model. This makes them a good choice for rooms with standard dimensions, but less suitable for nonstandard spaces.

If your room has an odd shape, a cabinet bed might still work if you can place it against a flat wall. However, you cannot adjust the cabinet to fit a specific alcove or under a low window. For more on cabinet beds, see our best Murphy cabinet beds guide.

What to Do for Nonstandard Room Dimensions

If your room has a sloped ceiling, a narrow wall, or an unusual height, you have a few options. A made-to-order wall bed can be built to match your exact dimensions, but this is the most expensive route. A panel kit offers some flexibility in installation, but the mattress size is fixed.

For a sloped ceiling, a horizontal wall bed might be a better fit because it folds sideways, requiring less ceiling height. For a narrow wall, a vertical bed in a twin or full size could work. Consider the fold direction and how it affects the open footprint. See our guide on vertical vs horizontal Murphy beds.

Another option is to use a cabinet bed that is compact enough to fit your space. For example, the Cube model from Wilding Wallbeds is smaller than other cabinet beds, making it suitable for tight areas. Always check the closed cabinet dimensions against your room's measurements.

Mattress Considerations for Custom Beds

When customizing a Murphy bed, the mattress is a key factor. Made-to-order wall beds can be designed to accommodate a specific mattress thickness, which affects the cabinet depth. Wilding Wallbeds offers mattresses specifically engineered to stand on-end without slumping, available in various heights.

For panel kits, you need a mattress that fits the bed frame and folds correctly. Most Murphy beds require a foam mattress, not an innerspring, because foam compresses and folds more easily. Check the maker's recommendations for mattress thickness and type.

If you are buying a made-to-order bed, you can often choose a mattress from the maker or use your own. Ensure the mattress dimensions match the bed size. For more on mattress compatibility, see our guide on Murphy bed mattress compatibility.

Cost and Lead Time: What to Expect

Customization affects both price and delivery time. Made-to-order wall beds are typically more expensive than standard models because they are built to your specifications. Wilding Wallbeds' Studio Series starts at a higher price point, reflecting the custom build.

Panel kits are generally more affordable, but you trade time and effort for the lower cost. You also need to factor in the cost of a mattress and any additional materials for installation.

Lead times for made-to-order beds can be longer, as the bed is constructed after you order. Panel kits ship faster, but assembly takes time. Consider your timeline and budget when deciding between the two.

Installation and Support for Custom Beds

Installation is a critical part of any Murphy bed, but especially for custom sizes. Made-to-order beds often come with detailed instructions and may offer professional installation. Wilding Wallbeds provides support via phone and offers free color samples to help you decide.

Panel kits require you to do the installation yourself. This means you need to be comfortable with tools and following instructions. The maker's instructions are the final authority on how to assemble and mount the bed safely.

If you are unsure about installation, consider hiring a professional. For more on installation, see our guide on Murphy bed DIY installation.

What to pick for your situation

Questions

Can I get a Murphy bed in a custom size?

Yes, made-to-order wall beds from makers like Wilding Wallbeds can be built to your specifications, including size, style, and finish. Panel kits are limited to standard mattress sizes but offer flexibility in installation.

Are cabinet beds customizable?

Cabinet beds are typically fixed in size, with models available in standard mattress sizes like twin, full, and queen. They are not usually built to custom dimensions.

What is the difference between a panel kit and a made-to-order bed?

A panel kit is a set of components you assemble yourself, offering flexibility in installation but fixed mattress sizes. A made-to-order bed is built by the manufacturer to your exact dimensions, offering full customization but at a higher cost.

Do I need a special mattress for a custom Murphy bed?

Yes, Murphy beds typically require a foam mattress that can fold and stand on-end without slumping. Made-to-order beds can be designed to accommodate a specific mattress thickness.

How long does it take to get a custom Murphy bed?

Made-to-order beds have longer lead times because they are built after you order. Panel kits ship faster but require assembly time.