Horizontal vs. Vertical Murphy Beds: Which Style Works Best for Your Space?

Looking to maximize your space for comfort and style? With urban apartments dominating housing construction and 51% of Americans wishing for more square footage, multi-functional furniture like Murphy beds is surging in popularity. 

When comparing a horizontal vs vertical Murphy bed, the orientation of the bed dramatically impacts how it fits in your space, from floor space usage to furniture layout and even ceiling height.

In this guide, we’ll explore the key differences between horizontal Murphy beds and vertical wall beds so that you can choose the best option for your home.

Key Takeaways:

• Vertical wall beds can be raised and lowered - best for rooms with high ceilings and limited width.
• Horizontal wall beds swing out side-to-side, working best in rooms with limited wall space or lower ceilings.
• Your best choice depends on ceiling height, room shape, windows, and whether you want additional storage.
• Lori Beds offers both configurations in beautiful, built-in furniture-style finishes that require no wall mounting.

Explore handcrafted Murphy beds in both styles.

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AT A GLANCE
What’s the Difference Between Horizontal and Vertical Murphy Beds?
When to Choose a Vertical Murphy Bed
When to Choose a Horizontal Murphy Bed
Measuring Your Space Before You Choose
Lori Beds’ Murphy Bed Options
The Right Murphy Bed for the Right Room

What’s the Difference Between Horizontal and Vertical Murphy Beds?

Each wall bed style has its advantages and trade-offs. Here's a side-by-side breakdown:

Both wall bed styles save floor space but serve different room types. Explore how each looks in real life with Lori Beds reviews.

When to Choose a Vertical Murphy Bed

Most people picture vertical beds when they think of a Murphy bed. They flip down like a standard bed from the headboard and give off a classic look.

Best For:

• Ceilings that are at least 84" (7 feet)
• Rooms that are longer than they are wide
• Spaces where the bed can be stowed away in the center of the room

Great For:

• Guest bedrooms
• Multi-use home offices
• Studio apartments

Because of their upright design, vertical beds allow access from both sides, making couples more comfortable. They also pair well with built-in furniture like bookshelves or cabinets on either side.

Lori Vertical Murphy Bed Features:

• Available in Twin and Queen sizes
• Clean, classic design
• Requires vertical clearance but minimal wall width

When to Choose a Horizontal Murphy Bed

Horizontal Murphy beds are a smart solution when the ceiling height is too low for a vertical option. These beds tuck away parallel to the floor from their long side.

Best For:

• Awkward overhead features, such as low ceilings, ceiling fans, or beams, can pose a challenge
• Wide, short rooms
• Spaces under windows, floating shelves, or built-in cabinets

Common Applications:

• Kids’ bedrooms
• Basement apartments or tiny homes
• Narrow guest spaces or hallway nooks

The biggest perk? When opened, horizontal beds usually require less floor space, which is great for high-traffic rooms.

Lori Horizontal Murphy Bed Features:

• Lower to the ground and easier access for both kids and seniors
• Can be disguised as shelving or cabinets when closed
• Works well in spaces where vertical beds won’t fit

All Lori Beds fit standard U.S. mattresses (up to 10” thick), so no custom bedding is required.

Shop for horizontal and vertical Murphy beds.

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Measuring Your Space Before You Choose

Don’t skip this step. Picking the right bed comes down to knowing your dimensions.

What to Measure:

• Ceiling height: 84–86" minimum for vertical counterparts
• Wall width: More space needed for horizontal styles
• Floor space: Leave 24–30" in front of the bed for easy movement
• Obstructions: Note window sills, vents, baseboards, outlets, or wall switches

Need help? Check our Murphy bed size guide here.

Lori Beds’ Murphy Bed Options

Brands like Lori Beds make it easy for shoppers to find the right style. We specialize in Murphy beds and offer vertical and horizontal models.

Our flagship Lori Bed is available in Queen or Twin sizes and in either orientation. We also sell versions with built-in desks or shelves for each style, such as “Lori Bed + Desk + Shelf Vertical Queen” and “Horizontal Queen.” We’ll let you choose an exact configuration that matches your space.

If you like the vertical/cabinet look, you might pick the vertical Lori Bed. If you have a low ceiling or want overhead cupboards, try a horizontal Lori Bed. Either way, our product pages clearly explain the differences, guiding you to the best fit for your room.

The Right Murphy Bed for the Right Room

Choosing between a horizontal vs vertical Murphy bed isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s about how your space flows.

• Have high ceilings and want a traditional look? A vertical Murphy bed might be best.

• Are you dealing with awkward windows, low ceilings, or tight layouts? A horizontal wall bed could be your answer.

Either way, Lori Beds offers elegant, functional options that turn any room into a comfortable and flexible space. Buy a Lori Bed to sleep smarter, not smaller.

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