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.
