She Hid A Guest Bed In Her Library (See How She Managed It)

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A guest bedroom definitely comes in handy, but it can feel like a waste of space when you don't have visitors. If you feel like you have to sacrifice your office or library just to host friends and family, think again! Sarah Baus on TikTok demonstrated a brilliant way to conceal a real bed behind rows of book shelving. This hack combines the technology of a Murphy bed with sliding shelving units. It's also proof that the Murphy bed is the perfect way to maximize your guest space – especially if you customize its surroundings.

Baus describes this transformation as "one of the best things we ever did," and we can see why. She used a simple frame, like this Wilding Wallbeds Murphy Bed Frame. Then, she installed a barn door-style track system to attach bookshelves that could move directly in front of the bed when it was collapsed against the wall. If you don't want to build your own sliding shelving unit, this Jujubon Shelf Storage Shelves Style Barn Door has a similar effect and comes in a wide range of sizes.

Another stylish option is this Meritline Folding Hidden Queen Murphy Bed, which has five rows of cubbies that can be used as a bookshelf or display feature. If you're working with a particularly compact space, there are even more space-conscious Murphy beds to consider. For example, this ijuicy Queen Murphy Bed Cabinet folds into a credenza, which you can also use to display items like books, table lamps, or meaningful decor.

There are tons of savvy ways to customize your Murphy bed according to your unique needs. You can add storage on the sides and above the bed with shelving, cabinets, or built-in compartments to maximize vertical space. If you need an office more than a library, consider adding a desk that folds out from the center of the closed Murphy bed, creating a multifunctional workspace without taking up additional floor space. For rooms with limited ceiling height, a horizontal Murphy bed may be a more practical alternative to a vertical model. This TooCust Queen Horizontal Murphy Bed Frame Kit utilizes the same technology as Baus' DIY, but works better for rooms with lower ceilings or less upper wall area. If you're still considering your options, visit the complete guide on how to find the perfect Murphy bed for your space.