How to Style Your Space with a Murphy Bed

Balancing form and function is no small feat, especially when you’re working with a compact home or a space that needs to do double duty. Enter the Murphy bed: a clever solution that offers more than just space-saving. When styled well, it can become a standout design feature in your home.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through inspiring Murphy bed decorating ideas that help your wall bed blend beautifully into your space without sacrificing comfort, personality, or style.

Start with the Bed Frame Finish

Before you get to the fun of cushions and throws, start by thinking about how the Murphy bed will look when it’s folded up. The exterior panel finish becomes a part of your wall, so it’s worth making it count.

Do you want it to blend in or stand out? Here are a few key considerations:

For a minimalist look, opt for crisp white or soft grey tones that match your walls.
Love a warm, natural vibe? Timber finishes like oak can bring a grounded, organic feel to the space.
If you’re feeling bold, a painted pop of colour like forest green or navy blue can turn your Murphy bed into an accent piece.

Carefully considering these details allows you to tailor the look to match the rest of your room, ensuring a seamless, integrated feel.

Treat It Like a Feature Wall

When it’s folded away, a Murphy bed doesn’t need to hide; it can shine. Think of the wall bed unit as a feature wall. Add visual interest by framing it with a decorative element or building the bed into a statement piece using texture and contrast. Here are a few Murphy Bed Décor ideas to get you started:

Apply wallpaper or bold paint to the wall surrounding the bed to create a focal point.
Add sconces or mounted lights to frame the bed and add soft, ambient lighting.
Choose a panel design with inlaid moulding or decorative fronts for a furniture-like appearance.

When thoughtfully styled, your Murphy bed becomes more than a sleeping space; it becomes a highlight of the room.

Complement with Stylish Bedding and Cushions

Once the bed is folded down, it’s time to make it look and feel inviting. Bedding plays a big role in creating a sense of comfort and cohesion. Start with quality basics:

A well-fitted sheet and duvet in neutral tones help the space feel calm and clutter-free.
Add textured throws and layered cushions for depth and personality.
If your room has a specific colour scheme, echo it with your bedding to tie the whole space together.

One of the benefits of a Murphy bed is that it’s quick to pack away, so choose bedding that’s easy to fold and doesn’t require a lot of fuss. A few well-chosen textiles can make all the difference between functional and fabulous.

Style the Surrounding Space

What goes around your Murphy bed matters just as much as the bed itself. A tidy, well-considered surrounding layout helps the space feel intentional and welcoming. Try:

Floating shelves on either side of the bed to create symmetry and storage.
A compact side table or stool that can act as a nightstand.
Artwork or mirrors to enhance the sense of space and reflect natural light.

Just be careful not to overcrowd the room around it. One of the biggest benefits of a Murphy bed is the space it gives you back, so let the room breathe.

Lighting That Elevates the Look

Lighting is one of the easiest ways to set the mood and bring your décor together. With Murphy beds, it’s important to think about lighting that works whether the bed is up or down. Consider adding:

LED strip lighting along the top or underside of the cabinetry for a warm, modern glow.
Wall-mounted reading lights for nighttime functionality.
A statement ceiling pendant above the bed space for added character and visual height.

Great lighting helps your Murphy bed feel more like an intentional part of the room rather than a fold-out afterthought.

Make Your Murphy Bed Your Own

A Murphy bed is more than a clever way to save space; it’s a design opportunity. With a few creative touches, you can turn it into a beautiful, functional centerpiece that fits your lifestyle and your aesthetic.

Looking to create a space that works beautifully, day and night? Explore Mazon’s range of Murphy beds and find out where to buy them in New Zealand.