What is the difference between a vertical and a horizontal desk bed?

A vertical Murphy desk bed stores the bed upright, requiring less wall width. It features a 60" wide by 23" deep stay-level desk, making it an excellent choice for narrower rooms or spaces where you'd like to maximize storage with additional cabinets on either side.

A horizontal Murphy desk bed stores the bed lengthwise, requiring more wall width. It features a larger 82" wide by 23" deep stay-level desk, providing additional workspace for larger projects, multiple monitors, or shared work areas. It's also available without the upper shelf, making it an excellent option for rooms with lower ceilings.

How deep is the desk and how much weight can it hold?

The desk is 23.5" deep, providing plenty of workspace for laptops, and everyday office essentials. A gap between the back of the desk and the cabinet allows electrical cords to pass through, helping keep your workspace organized.

While the desk is structurally capable of supporting hundreds of pounds, we recommend limiting the weight to 50 pounds during normal use. This helps ensure the bed opens and closes smoothly and provides the best long-term performance.

What mattress do I need?​

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Our desk beds accept a standard queen mattress up to 10 inches deep.  Unlike competing beds that require a thin fold-up mattress, our beds accept a real 10" queen mattress.  The mattress sits in a wood surround so you can store your bed fully made.

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Do I need a professional to install it?​

Most customers install their beds themselves with a helper. Every order includes a detailed installation guide. We offer factory help over the phone should you need it. The cabinet must be secured into wall studs. If you'd prefer professional help, third-party installation services are available in most areas.

Do I have to clear the desk before opening the bed?​

No. Our exclusive stay-level desk allows you to leave most office items in place when opening the bed. Depending on the model, items up to 15"-16"" tall can remain on the desktop. Models with decorative trim accommodate items up to 15" tall, while models without decorative trim allow items up to 16" tall.

What makes your desk beds different from other brands?​

Our Murphy desk beds are designed and manufactured in California with a focus on durability, functionality, and everyday use. Key differences include:

• Real hardwood maple veneer construction—not laminate over particleboard.

• Vertical and horizontal models available. Most manufacturers offer only horizontal Murphy desk beds.

• Exclusive stay-level desk. Depending on the model, items up to 15"-16" tall can remain on the desk when opening the bed, compared to some competing designs that accommodate only about 8".

• Larger, stronger desktop. Our spacious 23.5" deep desk is designed for everyday use. While it is structurally capable of supporting hundreds of pounds, we recommend limiting the load to 50 lbs. during operation for smooth opening and closing. Some competing designs recommend significantly lower weight limits.​

• Commercial-grade through-bolt construction for long-term durability.

• Made in California since 1990. Over 50,000 beds sold. Our furniture is manufactured in California using environmentally responsible materials and finishes while complying with some of the strictest environmental and air quality regulations in the United States.

How much wall space is required?​

The Horizontal Murphy Desk Bed requires a minimum of 88.25" of wall width and a 96" ceiling height. Horizontal models require more wall width but are available without the upper shelf for rooms with lower ceilings. These models are only 76" high. f you're unsure which model will fit your room, contact us and we'll be happy to help.