This project was built and designed by Nick Starrett. It’s a complete wall-to-wall Murphy bed setup featuring full-size functionality and side cabinets that maximize space and style.
Murphy beds are an excellent solution for anyone needing to convert a home office, guest room, or small space into something more functional. With thoughtful design and durable materials, this project balances storage and sleeping space seamlessly.
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Planning the Build
Before starting construction, Nick planned out the full layout of the bed and cabinetry. Since the design spans wall to wall, the dimensions and placement of every piece had to be precise.
The project begins with the main bed frame, which forms the central structure. Getting this part right ensures a smooth fit for everything that follows, including the hardware and cabinetry.
Constructing the Bed Frame
Using 3/4-inch birch plywood, Nick assembles the outer bed frame, attaching the header and footer to the side rails. This structure supports the mattress and connects directly to the face panel.
Two plywood sheets are attached to the frame to form the bed’s face, which remains visible when folded up. These are secured using glue and screws to maintain alignment and rigidity.
Additional sheets are added to support the mattress and give the bed a solid feel. This layered approach adds durability and improves the weight distribution.
Applying Edge Banding
To give the plywood a cleaner finish, edge banding is added to all visible cuts. A heated iron activates the adhesive backing, bonding the banding to the plywood edges.
Once in place, Nick trims the excess using a razor blade and sands the seams flush. This step helps create a more professional and polished appearance before paint is applied.
Building the Side Cabinets
The two side cabinets are built using the same birch plywood as the bed frame. This keeps the look consistent and simplifies the materials list.
Each cabinet starts with a basic carcass, made from vertical panels and shelves. After assembling the carcass, a face frame is attached using pocket hole joinery for quick and secure placement.
Creating the Cabinet Doors
The cabinet doors are built with inset panels so they don’t interfere with the sliding bookshelves. Poplar is used for the rails and stiles because it sands well and takes paint evenly.
Grooves are routed into the frame pieces to hold the panel inserts. The parts are glued together and clamped, allowing some movement for seasonal wood expansion.
Painting and Assembly
Once everything is constructed, Nick moves on to the painting phase. Several coats are applied to create a clean, durable finish that complements the rest of the room.
As the paint dries, it’s time to install the Murphy bed hardware. Gas springs are used to assist with lifting and lowering the bed smoothly and safely.
Installing the Murphy Bed
Before setting the bed in place, Nick removes the existing baseboard trim so the unit fits flush against the wall. The entire structure includes the bed frame flanked by two cabinets on each side.
Installation requires aligning the left cabinet, then the bed, followed by the right cabinet. With everything in place, the structure is leveled and secured into wall studs for maximum support.
Adding the Sliding Bookshelves
The last major step is mounting the tracks and rollers for the sliding shelves. Nick installs the roller hardware in advance, which makes alignment and movement smoother once everything is assembled.
Covering the tracks with trim gives the installation a clean, finished appearance. This also hides the hardware and keeps the aesthetic uniform across the entire piece.
Why Consider a Murphy Bed Like This
Murphy beds are ideal for multi-use spaces. They offer full sleeping functionality while disappearing when not in use, making them perfect for small homes or flexible living arrangements.
Adding side cabinets and sliding bookshelves creates more storage and increases the unit’s overall value. The final piece is more than just a bed—it’s a full-feature wall unit.
Want to See the Full Build?
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