Leigh Robinson

The Complete Guide to Wall Beds in Australia

If you’ve started researching wall beds, chances are you’re trying to solve a very common problem in modern homes: how to make one room do more than one job.

Many houses today are designed with large open spaces, fewer separate rooms, and busy family lifestyles. A spare bedroom might double as a home office. A study might need to become a guest room when family visits. Sometimes you simply want a flexible space that can adapt as life changes.

This is where wall beds come in.

Wall beds — often called Murphy beds — are designed to fold neatly into a cabinet or wall unit when not in use. When you need the bed, it simply pulls down into a comfortable sleeping position. When the room needs to function for something else, the bed folds away again.

It sounds simple, and in many ways it is. But there are a few important things worth understanding before deciding if a wall bed is right for your home.

Why Wall Beds Are Becoming So Popular?

Modern homes are very different from older houses. Decades ago, homes often had several smaller rooms with doors between them. Today’s homes tend to have open-plan layouts where the kitchen, dining and living areas flow together.

While this openness feels spacious and bright, it can sometimes mean there are fewer dedicated rooms for things like guests or working from home.

A wall bed solves this by giving one room the ability to serve multiple purposes.

For example:

• A home office can become a guest bedroom when visitors stay.
• A craft room can double as a sleeping space for family.
• A study can transform into a private retreat.

Instead of building an extra room or leaving a guest bedroom unused most of the year, a wall bed allows the space to work harder for you.

What Exactly Is a Wall Bed?

A wall bed is a bed that stores vertically or horizontally inside a cabinet or wall structure. When folded up, it looks like part of the furniture or cabinetry in the room.

When you pull it down, it becomes a full-size bed ready for sleeping.

Modern wall beds are very different from the old fold-away beds people sometimes remember from decades ago. Today’s systems use carefully balanced mechanisms that allow the bed to open and close smoothly and safely.

Many people are surprised by how easy they are to operate.

Where Wall Beds Work Best

One of the best things about wall beds is their flexibility. They can work in many different types of rooms.

Some of the most common uses include:

Home offices
With so many people working from home now, spare bedrooms often become offices. A wall bed allows the room to remain functional for work while still accommodating overnight guests.

Guest rooms
Many guest bedrooms sit unused for most of the year. A wall bed allows the room to be used for hobbies, reading, or relaxation until visitors arrive.

Children visiting home
As families grow and children move out, parents often want space available when family returns for holidays or visits.

Downsizing homes
Many people moving to smaller homes still want occasional sleeping space for family without dedicating a full bedroom.

Do Wall Beds Feel Comfortable?

This is one of the most common questions people ask.

The simple answer is yes.

Wall beds use standard mattresses, just like regular beds. This means your guests can sleep comfortably without feeling like they’re on a fold-out couch or temporary solution.

In fact, many people find wall beds more comfortable than sofa beds because the mattress lies flat on a solid base.

How Much Space Do You Need?

Another question that often comes up during research is how much space a wall bed requires.

The good news is that wall beds don’t require a huge room.

When the bed is closed, it usually takes up about the same amount of space as a wardrobe or large cabinet. When opened, the room simply needs enough floor area for the bed itself.

In many cases, the same room can easily function as both an office and a bedroom without feeling cramped.

Are Wall Beds Safe?

Modern wall beds are designed with safety in mind. Properly installed systems are securely mounted and engineered to open and close smoothly.

The mechanism supports the weight of the mattress, which means you’re not lifting the full weight of the bed when you pull it down.

Once opened, the bed rests firmly in place just like a traditional bed.

This is one reason installation is important — a properly installed wall bed ensures the system performs safely and reliably for years.

Wall Beds vs Sofa Beds

Many people researching wall beds initially consider a sofa bed as another option.

Sofa beds can be convenient, but they often involve compromises in comfort. The mattress is usually thinner, and the folding mechanism can make sleeping less comfortable.

Wall beds, on the other hand, are designed primarily as beds that store away when not in use. Because they use proper mattresses, they tend to provide a much better sleeping experience for guests.

Making the Room Work Better

The real advantage of a wall bed isn’t just the bed itself. It’s the way it allows a room to adapt to different needs.

A room might function as a:

• study during the day
• quiet reading space in the evening
• guest room when family visits

Instead of building extra rooms or sacrificing space for occasional use, the room becomes flexible.

Many homeowners find this flexibility becomes one of their favourite features of the house.

A Practical Solution for Modern Living

Homes today are expected to serve many purposes. Work, family life, entertaining and relaxation often happen within the same spaces.

Wall beds offer a practical way to support that lifestyle. They allow a room to remain open, comfortable and useful without permanently dedicating it to a single function.

For many households across Australia, they provide a simple solution to one of the most common challenges in modern homes: making the most of the space you already have.

And once people start imagining how their home could work differently, the conversation often shifts from “Do we need a wall bed?” to “Why didn’t we do this sooner?”

Planning a Wall Bed? Let’s Talk About How You’ll Actually Use It

When people start looking at wall beds, the conversation usually focuses on saving space. And that’s absolutely one of their biggest advantages — they can transform how a room works.

But the most important thing to think about isn’t cabinetry or layout. It’s how the bed will fit into day-to-day life.

That’s the part most websites skip over, and it’s where the difference between a good outcome and a great one really shows up.

Let’s walk through the things worth considering.

How Often Will You Use It?

This is usually the first question people ask themselves.

Some households use their wall bed every day — in apartments, compact homes, or shared spaces. Others only open it when guests stay.

From an operation point of view, this isn’t something you need to worry about with modern systems. A properly designed wall bed should be smooth and easy for anyone to use, whether it’s opened once a year or twice a day.

Where frequency does matter is in planning the room around it — how furniture is arranged, how much clear space you maintain, and how the room transitions between uses.

Being clear about how the room will function helps shape a better layout.

How Often Do Guests Actually Stay?

A lot of people consider a wall bed “just in case”. That’s perfectly reasonable, but it helps to think practically.

• How many nights a year do you have visitors?
• How many people stay at once?
• How important is keeping the room open when it’s not in use?

If guests stay regularly, comfort and convenience may be the priority. If it’s occasional, flexibility might be the main benefit.

Understanding this helps design the space around the bed rather than guessing later.

Are You Working From Home in That Room?

This is very common across Geelong and Melbourne.

Many households want a home office that can convert into a bedroom when needed. That brings up practical considerations such as desk placement, power access, lighting, and how easy it is to transition between uses. Remember we do have a wall bed with a desk option that folds down with the bed without having to clear it.)

A wall bed shouldn’t disrupt daily workflow — it should complement it. Thoughtful planning ensures the room works comfortably in both roles.

Planning the Room, Not the Mechanism

Because modern wall beds are engineered for smooth operation, the real focus should be on spatial planning rather than physical effort.

Things to consider include walkway clearance, furniture positioning, storage zones, and how the room looks and functions when the bed is folded away.

This is where thoughtful design makes a noticeable difference to how natural the space feels.

Thinking Ahead — Ease of Use

Although operation itself isn’t an issue, good design still considers accessibility and comfort over time.

That includes sensible handle positioning, clear floor space, and safe movement around the bed. These decisions help ensure the installation remains practical for years to come.

What People Often Discover

One of the biggest differences between a well-planned installation and an average one isn’t the bed itself — it’s how naturally it fits into the room.

When the surrounding layout works, the bed becomes part of everyday living rather than something that feels like a compromise.

That’s always the goal.

And finally…

A wall bed isn’t just about reclaiming space. It’s about helping a room serve more than one purpose without friction.

Before focusing on finishes or configurations, it’s worth considering how often the space changes use, who will use it, what else the room needs to support, and how the layout adapts.

Having that conversation early usually leads to a solution that continues to work well long after installation.

Wall Beds in Tiny Homes, Heritage Homes and Other Unusual Places

Why Wall Beds Are Taking Over Small Australian Spaces

Across Australia, homeowners are rethinking the way they use space. From Melbourne’s laneway apartments to off-grid cabins in the bush, clever design has become essential. Enter the modern wall bed, a smart, stylish solution that helps Australians live large in small spaces.

Once considered a novelty, wall beds (also known as Murphy beds) have evolved into beautifully engineered pieces of furniture. Brands like Wall Beds R Us offer Australian-made systems that combine strength, safety and style, perfectly suited to both modern and traditional interiors.

Tiny Homes: Comfort Meets Clever Design

The tiny home movement has exploded in popularity across regional Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland. Builders and DIYers are discovering that a wall bed can completely change how these compact spaces function.

A floor-mounted system such as the NeXt Bed is ideal for tiny homes or cabins on wheels, as it bolts securely to the floor instead of relying on wall studs. When folded away, it takes up less than half a metre of depth, leaving room for a dining table, yoga mat or workspace.

Pair it with shelving or cabinetry for a genuine multi-purpose living area. It’s an elegant way to turn a single room into a full-time home.

Heritage Homes: Adding Function Without Losing Character

Australia’s older homes, from Federation cottages to Victorian terraces, are loved for their character, but they weren’t designed for modern flexibility. Small bedrooms, narrow hallways and quirky layouts can make furnishing a challenge.

That’s where the Alpha Bed comes in. This wall-mounted system is designed to blend into custom cabinetry, veneered to match existing trims and skirting boards. The result is a seamless, heritage-friendly installation that doesn’t disturb decorative plasterwork or cornices.

For inner-city homeowners renovating older properties in places like Ballarat, Carlton or Paddington, a wall bed is the perfect bridge between old-world charm and contemporary practicality.

Granny Flats and Multi-Generational Homes

As more Australians embrace multi-generational living, backyard studios and granny flats are becoming common. A well-designed wall bed transforms these smaller dwellings into flexible spaces that serve as guest rooms, home offices or creative studios.

For example, the Alpha Bed with Desk combines a sturdy workspace with a comfortable bed in one unit. When the bed folds down, the desk stays level, no need to clear paperwork or computers. It’s ideal for family members, guests, or even adult children returning home.

Holiday Rentals, Airbnbs and Short-Stay Apartments

Coastal and regional hosts, from Torquay to Noosa, are discovering that a wall bed adds serious value to their rental properties. It allows one-bedroom units or studios to accommodate more guests without cluttering the living area.

The convenience of a spring-balanced mechanism means guests can open or close the bed effortlessly. A quick wipe-down and a fresh set of linen between stays, and the space is ready for the next booking. It’s practical, comfortable and helps maximise return on investment.

Creative Commercial Spaces

Wall beds aren’t limited to homes. In fact, many Australian businesses are finding new ways to use them.

Design studios, medical clinics and emergency-response centres have installed wall beds to give staff a discreet rest area. They fold away during work hours and provide a private sleeping space for overnight shifts. The ability to integrate into cabinetry keeps the environment professional and uncluttered.

Other Unusual Places You’ll Find Wall Beds

– Converted garages and sheds – turning under-used outbuildings into modern guest suites.
– Mobile homes and caravans – lighter wall-mounted models help maximise limited space.
– Home gyms or studios – a hidden bed makes the room multi-functional.
– Office spaces in apartments – combining desk, shelves and guest accommodation in one neat setup.

Essentially, anywhere space is at a premium, a wall bed earns its keep.

Choosing the Right Wall Bed for Your Space

Not every wall bed suits every situation.

1. For tiny homes or transportable builds – choose a floor-mounted system like the NeXt Bed.
2. For traditional homes – opt for wall-mounted cabinetry such as the Alpha Bed, custom-finished to match décor.
3. For commercial or rental use – our wall beds meet Australian safety standards and comes with a reliable warranty.
4. For multi-use rooms – consider add-ons like fold-down desks, bookshelves, or cabinets for a complete storage system. (Check out our Library Wall Bed)

Wall beds have evolved far beyond the squeaky fold-ups of the past. Today, they’re precision-engineered pieces of furniture that add comfort, safety and sophistication to any space.

Whether you’re designing a tiny home in the hills, restoring a heritage cottage in Geelong, or maximising a coastal Airbnb, a wall bed helps you live smarter — proving that less really can be more.

For inspiration and installation advice talk to Leigh Robinson.

Wall Bed Accessories to Complete Your Space

At Wall Beds R Us we believe a wall bed should be more than just a clever way to save space. It should feel like an integrated part of your home. That is why we offer a wide range of accessories including side shelving, cupboards and cabinets, and overhead cabinets to make your wall bed as practical as it is stylish. When you combine smart design with high quality finishes you do not just add a bed to a room, you create a living space that works beautifully day after day.

Side Shelving That Works With You

One of our most popular accessories is side shelving. Adding shelves on either side of your wall bed turns an ordinary installation into a functional piece of furniture. Shelves can be open for displaying books, plants, or personal treasures, or they can be designed with doors to keep everything neatly tucked away. For guest rooms, shelves provide handy storage for towels and bedding. For home offices, they can double as storage for files or stationery. The flexibility is endless and it all comes down to how you want the space to work.

Cupboards and Cabinets for Extra Storage

Along with shelving, we also offer cupboards and cabinets that complement your wall bed. These can be built to match the bed perfectly, creating a seamless look across the entire wall. Cupboards are ideal for storing clothing, shoes, or household essentials, especially when space is limited. For families who need every bit of storage they can get, adding cabinets to a wall bed installation can make a huge difference. The best part is that everything is custom designed so you can choose the layout and configuration that suits your lifestyle.

Horizontal Wall Beds and Overhead Cabinets

While most people think of wall beds as vertical units, horizontal wall beds are an excellent choice when ceiling height is limited or when you want to make use of a wider wall. A popular addition to our horizontal wall bed designs is overhead cabinetry. By adding cupboards above the bed, you gain valuable storage space without making the room feel crowded. Overhead cabinets are perfect for seasonal items, spare linen, or even books and décor that you want kept safely out of the way. The combination of a horizontal wall bed with overhead storage is particularly well suited to apartments, studios, or multipurpose rooms where every inch matters.

A Wide Range of Finishes and Colours

We know that furniture is not just about function. It has to look good too. That is why we offer a wide selection of colours and finishes so your wall bed and accessories blend seamlessly into your home. Whether you prefer a modern high gloss finish, a classic woodgrain, or a neutral tone that complements the rest of your décor, we have an option that will work for you. Our finishes are durable, easy to clean, and designed to look just as good years down the track as they do on the day of installation. Matching accessories in the same finish ensure the entire wall unit feels cohesive and built-in, rather than an afterthought.

Creating a Cohesive Living Space

When you bring together a wall bed, side shelving, cupboards, and overhead cabinets you end up with more than just a bed in a wall. You create a piece of furniture that transforms the way you use your room. A guest bedroom can double as a home office. A small apartment can have both a living room and a bedroom in the same space. A teenager’s room can be fitted with a study area, storage, and a full bed without feeling cramped. (Check out our study desk option)

Built Around Your Needs

Every home is different and so are our clients. That is why we take the time to discuss what storage and accessories will actually make your life easier. For some it might be overhead cupboards for bulkier items. For others it could be open shelves to showcase photos and keepsakes. Whatever your needs, we can design a wall bed system that suits both your lifestyle and your style preferences.

At Wall Beds R Us we do not just install wall beds. We help create rooms that are practical, stylish, and tailored to the way you live. Accessories like shelving, cupboards, and overhead cabinets take a simple wall bed and turn it into a complete storage and sleeping solution. Add to that our wide range of colours and finishes and you have a system that looks as good as it performs.

If you are considering a wall bed, think about the accessories that could make it even more functional. With the right combination of shelving, cupboards, and cabinets you can transform your home into a space that feels bigger, works harder, and looks better. Call Leigh Robinson today for more wall bed advice.

Wall Beds Australia Wide

Wall Bed: Hobart

“I live in a small apartment, and the wall bed was a total game-changer. It gave me the freedom to have a comfortable bed for guests without sacrificing precious floor space. Now I can actually invite friends over without worrying about where they’ll sleep!” – Sarah, Hobart

Wall Bed: Pahran, Melbourne

“As a freelancer, my home office doubles as my bedroom. The wall bed transformed my space into a productive workspace during the day and a cozy sanctuary at night. It’s the perfect solution for my multi-purpose room. Also the bed is hidden in a cupboard so my office looks like a proper office rather than a bedroom with a desk in it which I like” – Mark, Pahran

Wall Bed: Rural Victoria

” We live in the country and have three adorable grandchildren that come to stay every school holidays. In our guest room we decided to install three single wall beds along one wall so the kids can fit into one room. It’s organised and easy and the kids love it as well. I don’t know why we didn’t do it sooner.” Marge, Camperdown VIC

Wall Bed: Ocean Grove

“I love hosting family gatherings, but I didn’t have a spare guest room. Getting a wall bed was the best decision ever. Now, when relatives visit, I can offer them a comfortable bed without the hassle of rearranging furniture or compromising on my own living space.” – Emma, Ocean Grove.

Wall Bed: Brunswick, Melbourne

“Living in a trendy loft meant I had limited space. A wall bed not only gave me the freedom to create an open and stylish living area but also added a modern touch to my apartment. It’s functional and looks fantastic!” – Alex, Brunswick VIC.

Wall Bed: Melbourne, Central

“I have a small home gym, and adding a wall bed was a game-changer. It allowed me to create a dedicated space for workouts without sacrificing the option of having a comfortable bed for guests. It’s like having a personal gym and a guest room all in one!” – Ryan, Melbourne.

Wall Bed: Perth

“I’m a minimalist, and having a wall bed was essential to maintain the clean and uncluttered look I wanted for my home. When folded up, it seamlessly blends into the wall next to the book shelves, leaving me with a spacious and serene living area. It’s the perfect fit for my minimalist lifestyle.” – Ava, Perth.

Wall Bed: Geelong

“We own an AirBnB property that we lease out to families. We get far more income the more beds we have so in two of the living areas we installed a wall bed to accommodate larger groups. This was one of the most successful modification we have done to the property and has increased the value as holiday home.” Jean, Geelong

These quotes reflect the experiences and perspectives of real people who found value in purchasing a wall bed Australia wide. Each person highlights the practical benefits, such as space-saving, versatility, and the ability to accommodate guests, while also mentioning the positive impact it had on their daily lives and living arrangements.

Wall beds are simply a great life investment.

Buying a Wall Bed: 10 Things You Need to Know Now (A Quick Guide for Homeowners)

Wall beds, also known as Murphy beds, are popping up in more Aussie homes these days, and for good reason. Buying a wall bed whether you’re trying to reclaim floor space, create a guest room, or make your home office more flexible, can be a clever solution. But before you rush out and order one, here are ten things you’ll want to know to make sure it fits your lifestyle, your space, and your budget. Just before you start though and to make it clear we sell Wall Beds across Australia but only provide professional installation here in Victoria.

1. Wall beds aren’t just for tiny apartments

Sure, they’re great in small spaces, but even larger homes can benefit. Think spare bedrooms, teenage retreats, or that underused rumpus room. A wall bed can turn any room into a multi-tasker: office by day, guest room by night.

2. They’re safer than they used to be

Forget the old slapstick movies where the bed folds up with someone inside. Modern wall beds have sturdy mechanisms and safety locks that keep things secure. When installed properly, they’re just as safe as any regular bed.

3. You don’t need a special mattress

Most wall beds fit a standard Australian mattress usually up to about 30cm thick. That means you can use your current mattress if it’s in good nick, or pick a comfy one that suits your sleep style. (We do supply amazing quality mattresses as well)

4. Quality matters (a lot)

This is not the place to skimp. A cheap wall bed might save you money upfront, but can end up being a hassle later hard to lift, noisy hinges, or wonky alignment. Look for strong hardware, solid cabinetry, and a proper warranty.

5. Professional installation is worth it

Technically, a handy person can install a wall bed themselves, but if you want it flush, safe and long-lasting, call in a pro. Most handy men could do it but it does require two people to be safe. In most cases, the bed gets fixed to the floor or skirting, not the wall itself.

6. Think beyond white

Wall beds come in all sorts of finishes, timber look, matte black, Hamptons style, or even with built-in shelving and desks. If it’s going in a visible room, choose a style that complements the rest of your home.

7. You can get extras

Some systems come with built-in wardrobes, bookshelves, or even hidden desks. If you’re working from home or want to stash away more than just the bed, it might be worth the upgrade.

8. It adds value to your home

Buyers love smart use of space. A well-designed wall bed setup can make a three-bedroom home feel more like a four especially if you’ve created a guest room or home office combo. It’s one of those features that can quietly impress at open for inspections.

9. Measure twice

Sounds obvious, but you’d be surprised how many people get caught out. Make sure there’s enough clearance to pull the bed down and walk around it comfortably. Don’t forget to measure ceiling height too — especially if you’re in an older home or converted space.

10. It’s more comfortable than a sofa bed

Let’s be honest, most sofa beds aren’t great for sleeping. A wall bed, on the other hand, gives you a proper mattress and a good night’s sleep, without taking up permanent space. It’s like having your cake and eating it too.

A wall bed can be a game-changer, especially if you’re looking to squeeze more function out of your home. Just make sure you choose quality over gimmicks, measure your space properly, and think about how you’ll actually use the room. Done right, it’s a feature you’ll enjoy for years to come and your guests will thank you for it.

Are Wall Beds Worth It? An Honest Cost-Benefit Breakdown (With Examples)

If you’re short on space or trying to get more out of your home, you’ve probably asked yourself: Are wall beds worth it? Once considered old-fashioned or gimmicky, wall beds—also known as Murphy beds—are making a serious comeback in Australian homes, particularly in apartments, studios, and multi-use spaces.

In this post, we’ll unpack the real-world pros and cons of wall beds, including actual cost comparisons, resale value impacts, and how they fit into different lifestyles—from home offices to tiny homes.

What Exactly Is a Wall Bed?

A wall bed is a bed that folds up vertically against the wall or into a cabinet when not in use. Unlike a sofa bed, a wall bed usually supports a full mattress and frame, making it more comfortable for regular sleep while freeing up floor space during the day.

The Cost of a Wall Bed (And What You Get)

Wall beds can cost anywhere from $2,500 to $6,000+ in Australia, depending on the design, cabinetry, and whether it’s a DIY install or professionally fitted.

What’s Included in the Cost?
• Bed frame and fold mechanism
• Cabinetry or wall mount system
• Optional shelving or desk combo
• Installation (if not DIY)

It’s not a small investment—but it’s a lot less than the cost of adding a new room or renting a bigger home.

Wall Bed Pros and Cons

Pros
1. Space-Saving Superpower
The biggest drawcard. You can reclaim 3–4 square metres of floor space instantly, turning a bedroom into an office, gym, or playroom.

2. Everyday Use Is Easy
Modern wall beds fold down with a light touch, and most allow you to leave your bedding on—making setup as fast as 30 seconds.

3. Guest-Ready Without Sacrificing Rooms
Perfect if you don’t want a full-time guest room. Just fold the bed away when not in use.

4. Can Add Resale Value
Buyers love functional storage and multi-use spaces. A good-quality, built-in wall bed can be a value-add, especially in smaller homes.

5. Customisable to Match Your Décor
From minimalist white cabinets to timber joinery with shelving and desks, wall beds can blend into almost any room style.

Cons
1. Upfront Cost
There’s no way around it—wall beds aren’t cheap, especially when custom cabinetry is involved but treat it as an investment.

2. Installation May Require Floor or Wall Fixing
Some models (like the NeXt Bed system) need to be attached to a floor or skirting board, which might limit placement or require permission in rentals.

3. Not Move-Friendly
Unlike freestanding beds, many wall beds are semi-permanent. If you move house, you may not take it with you easily – it still can be done but you will need handy man skills.

Lifestyle Examples: When a Wall Bed Really Makes Sense

Small Apartment in Melbourne
A couple in a one-bedroom inner-city apartment added a wall bed to their office. Now they have a full guest room and work-from-home setup in one.

Tiny Home in Tasmania
A retired couple installed a vertical wall bed with cabinetry, gaining back nearly half their living space for dining and yoga during the day.

Teenage Retreat in Geelong
Parents turned a spare room into a hangout space for their teenager. With the wall bed folded up, it’s now a music room and media space. But when Grandma visits? Bed’s down and ready.

Do Wall Beds Add Resale Value?

In many cases, yes. Especially in smaller homes, a professionally-installed wall bed is viewed as smart storage. Buyers increasingly want multi-functional spaces, and a wall bed can help your home stand out in competitive real estate markets like Melbourne, Sydney, or the Gold Coast.

That said, value is influenced by:
•Quality of the cabinetry
•Ease of use
•How well it integrates into the room

So, Are Wall Beds Worth It?

If you want to make better use of your space—whether for work, hobbies, guests or growing families—a wall bed is often a smart, long-term investment. The upfront cost pays off in daily functionality and can even add property appeal down the track.

They’re not for everyone, but for many Australians, the answer is a clear yes.

Thinking about adding a wall bed to your space?

Contact Leigh Robinson, Mr Wall Bed Australia, for tailored advice or explore our range of modern, space-saving wall bed systems today.