Murphy beds, also known as wall beds or fold-down beds, are named after William Lawrence Murphy who invented them in the early 1900s. The phonetic transcription of "murphy" is /ˈmɜːrfi/, which is spelled with an 'h' but pronounced without it. Murphy initially patented and marketed his beds under the name "Murphy In-A-Dor Bed," but eventually, the name "Murphy bed" became the standard. This piece of furniture has become a popular space-saving solution in small apartments and guest rooms.
Murphy beds, also known as wall beds or fold-down beds, are convenient and space-saving pieces of furniture designed to be vertically stored against a wall or within a cabinet when not in use. The concept of a Murphy bed was invented by William Lawrence Murphy in the early 20th century as a solution to maximize space in small apartments and living spaces.
Murphy beds are typically hinged at one end and use a spring mechanism or a counterbalance system to make it easy for users to fold and unfold them. When needed for sleeping, the bed can be pulled down and extended, offering a comfortable sleeping surface. When not in use, it can be easily lifted back up, leaving the floor space free for other activities such as work or recreational purposes.
These beds provide a practical alternative to traditional beds, particularly in rooms where space is limited, such as studio apartments, cabins, or small bedrooms. They are often favored for guest rooms or home offices, as they allow multi-functionality in smaller areas.
Murphy beds come in various sizes, styles, and designs, allowing them to fit seamlessly into different interiors. They can be customized with additional features like built-in storage cabinets or desks to further enhance their functionality. With their clever design and space-saving capabilities, Murphy beds have become a popular choice for individuals seeking versatile and efficient furniture solutions.
The term "Murphy beds" is derived from the name of its inventor, William Lawrence Murphy. In the late 19th century, Murphy developed a creative space-saving solution for his small apartment in San Francisco. He designed a bed that could be vertically stored inside a closet or wall, allowing for more usable floor space during the day. As his invention gained popularity, it became commonly known as a "Murphy bed". The trademarked term "Murphy bed" has since become a genericized trademark and is used to refer to any type of wall bed or folding bed.