Are There Sideways Murphy Beds Available In Queen Size?

Are there sideways Murphy beds available in queen size?

Quick answer and what to expect

Yes — you can get sideways (horizontal) Murphy beds in queen size, but they’re less common than vertical models and usually require more customization or a specialist manufacturer. If you’re thinking about a horizontal queen wall bed for your space, you’ll want to understand the trade-offs in cabinet depth, mechanism strength, mattress choices, and installation requirements before committing.

What is a sideways (horizontal) Murphy bed?

A sideways Murphy bed stores and pivots so the mattress lies with its long side against the wall when stored. Instead of folding down with the headboard against the wall (vertical orientation), the head and foot of the bed sit at the sides when stowed. This changes the cabinet footprint and the engineering behind the mechanism.

You’ll find this layout useful when the room’s height is limited, when you want the bed to look more like a sofa during the day, or when a horizontal orientation fits better with the room’s furniture arrangement.

How a sideways queen differs from a vertical queen

A sideways queen requires a cabinet that’s deep enough to hold the mattress width (about 60 inches for a standard queen) plus the frame and mechanism. A vertical queen needs a much taller cabinet but not nearly as deep. That difference drives most of the design, cost, and installation considerations.

Compared to a vertical bed, a sideways queen:

Requires more depth from the wall when closed.
Can be easier to integrate with built-in seating or shelving.
Often costs more due to larger cabinetry and stronger hardware.

Queen mattress dimensions — what you need to know

Understanding mattress measurements is crucial because the sideways cabinet must accommodate the mattress width and thickness.

Mattress type	Standard Queen dimensions (inches)
Standard Queen	60″ × 80″
Olympic Queen	66″ × 80″
California Queen	60″ × 84″

You’ll usually work with standard queen (60″ × 80″). For a sideways model, the cabinet must be at least slightly larger than 60″ deep internally, plus allowance for the bed frame and hardware. Thickness (height) matters too — most manufacturers recommend a mattress no thicker than 10–12 inches for smooth operation and to fit within cabinet doors and trim.

Are sideways queen Murphy beds commonly available?

Not as common as vertical models, but they are available. Mainstream furniture stores and big-box retailers tend to stock vertical wall beds because they fit most spaces and are easier to manufacture. Sideways queen models are more likely to be offered by:

Specialist wall-bed manufacturers.
Custom cabinetry shops.
Online companies that offer made-to-measure wall beds.
High-end space-saving furniture brands.

If you can’t find an off-the-shelf sideways queen, a custom maker or a company that adapts configurations is often the route to get a professional, safe installation.

Pros of choosing a sideways queen Murphy bed

You should weigh the benefits of this layout against its costs and space impact:

Fits low-ceiling rooms: If ceiling height is limited, a horizontal bed avoids the tall cabinet a vertical model needs.
Better day-use seating: The bed’s front panel can be designed as a sofa or bench while stored, making it a seamless daybed solution.
Cleaner visual lines: A horizontal cabinet can look like built-in shelving or a media unit when closed, creating a cohesive wall of furniture.
Flexible room layouts: If floor depth is available but wall height or sightlines are constrained, horizontal orientation often suits rooms arranged lengthwise.

These benefits make horizontal wall beds attractive for studio apartments, combined office/guest rooms, and multifunctional family rooms.

Cons and limitations of sideways queen Murphy beds

There are several trade-offs to consider before choosing a horizontal queen:

Deeper cabinet footprint: The closed unit will extend further out from the wall (roughly mattress width), which may reduce usable floor space in small rooms.
Heavier and more complex hardware: The larger profile usually requires stronger gas pistons or springs and reinforced frames, increasing cost and weight.
Fewer off-the-shelf options: You’ll likely pay more for a custom or specialty product than for a standard vertical wall bed.
Mattress restrictions: Thicker or very heavy mattresses may be incompatible, so you might need to buy a mattress specifically suited to a wall bed.
Installation complexity: You’ll usually need a professional installation anchored to studs or a mounting frame; you may also need to address floor loads and clearance.

Hardware and mechanism: what keeps the bed working safely

The mechanism is a central part of a sideways queen. You’ll encounter several common system types:

Counterbalanced spring systems: Provide mechanical assistance to lift and lower the bed. Older style but effective.
Gas pistons / hydraulic struts: Smooth, easy operation, common on modern wall beds.
Locking latches and safety pins: Keep the bed secured in the closed position.
Hinged platform frame: Keeps the mattress in place and provides a stable sleeping platform.

For a queen-size horizontal bed, manufacturers typically use heavier-duty pistons or stronger spring assemblies compared to a twin or full horizontal model. Ask the manufacturer about weight ratings, expected lifespan of the mechanism, and warranty coverage.

Mattress selection and bedding considerations

Choosing your mattress for a sideways Murphy bed affects comfort and longevity of the mechanism.

Recommended thickness: Typically 9–12 inches. Many manufacturers recommend up to 10–12 inches; some customizable systems allow deeper mattresses but require special hardware.
Best mattress types: Memory foam and latex often work well because they’re lighter and flexible in terms of pressure distribution. Pocket-coil innerspring mattresses can be fine if they’re not overly heavy.
Weight matters: Heavier mattresses put more strain on springs and pistons. Lighter mattresses reduce wear and improve ease of use.
Bedding storage: Decide if you want to leave bedding on the bed. Some horizontal designs allow you to keep a comforter and pillows in place if the front panel has straps or if the cabinet is deep enough. Otherwise, you’ll need to remove bulky bedding each time you close the bed.

Ask the vendor about mattress compatibility and whether they sell mattress models known to fit their horizontal units.

Installation requirements and structural considerations

A safe sideways queen installation involves planning and likely professional help.

Wall anchoring: Must anchor to studs, reinforced blocking, or a load-bearing wall. If studs aren’t conveniently placed, installers may mount the bed to a plywood backer attached across multiple studs.
Floor clearance: The bed will occupy a rectangular floor footprint when open. Ensure the room layout allows for the mattress footprint and any nightstand or walkway clearance.
Door and window interference: Check that doors, windows, radiators, and air returns won’t be blocked when the bed is open.
Ceiling height: Horizontal orientation is often favored for low ceilings, but confirm the required clearance for the front panels and hardware.
Building rules: If you live in a multi-unit building, check HOA or landlord rules for structural modifications and installation approvals.
Professional installation: For a queen-size sideways model, professional installation is strongly recommended to ensure safety and correct anchoring.

Space planning: how to position a sideways queen in various rooms

Think about how you want to use the room both when the bed is open and closed. Here are common room scenarios:

Studio apartment: Mount along a long wall so the bed folds down into the center; create a sofa front with built-in shelving for a cohesive look.
Guest room/home office: Place the bed so the closed cabinet functions as a desk backdrop or shelving unit; consider a combo design where the lower cabinet also serves as a work surface.
Living room / multipurpose space: Use the closed unit as a media cabinet; make sure TV and wiring can be integrated or relocated when the bed is used.

Plan for at least 24–36 inches of clearance in front of the bed for comfortable access when it’s open; more space will make the sleeping area feel less cramped.

Costs: how much should you expect to spend?

Cost varies widely based on configuration, materials, hardware, and whether you choose a stock model or custom work.

Item	Typical cost range (approximate)
Off-the-shelf vertical queen Murphy bed (basic)	$800 – $2,500
Stock horizontal (queen) from specialist	$2,000 – $6,000
Custom built-in horizontal queen	$4,000 – $12,000+
Professional installation	$200 – $1,000+ (depends on complexity)
Mattress suitable for wall bed	$400 – $1,500+

These are ballpark numbers. A sideways queen frequently costs more than a vertical queen due to larger cabinetry, heavier-duty mechanisms, and potential customization.

Comparing sideways vs vertical Murphy beds

A clear comparison can help you decide which orientation suits your needs.

Feature	Sideways (Horizontal) Queen	Vertical (Standard) Queen
Cabinet depth (closed)	Large — roughly mattress width + hardware	Smaller — usually 18–24″ deep
Cabinet height (closed)	Lower — good for low ceilings	Tall — requires more vertical clearance
Integration as seating/media unit	High — easier to design as sofa surface	Possible, but less natural
Installation complexity	Higher — heavier, stronger hardware required	Moderate
Cost	Usually higher (custom work common)	More affordable, widely available
Mattress thickness constraints	Moderate; often 10–12″ max	Similar constraints depending on design
Daytime usability as furniture	Very good	Good to fair depending on design

Use this table to match your space constraints and daily usage patterns to the bed orientation.

Practical tips before you buy

Follow this checklist to make the buying process smoother:

Measure the available wall length and depth, and note ceiling height.
Confirm the mattress size (standard queen vs Olympic or California queen).
Ask vendors for internal cabinet dimensions and recommended mattress thickness.
Check mechanism type, warranty, and weight capacity.
Verify whether the bed can be anchored to the wall studs available, or if plywood backing will be needed.
Request a site visit or ask for installation guidelines if you plan to DIY.
Ask about integrated storage, shelving, nightstands, and lighting options.
Compare delivery and installation costs among vendors.

Putting these questions in writing can prevent surprises and ensure the unit you buy will function safely in your home.

Customization and finishes

Sideways queen wall beds are often part of larger built-in solutions.

Finishes: You can usually choose paint, wood veneers, laminates, and hardware to match your décor.
Built-ins: Shelving, cabinets, and desks can be integrated around the bed for a seamless look.
Upholstery: Front panels can be upholstered to look like a headboard or sofa back, making the unit more attractive when closed.
Lighting and power: Ask about integrated lighting, USB ports, and cable management if the closed unit doubles as a media wall or work area.

Since horizontal queens often come via custom shops, you can get a design tailored to your aesthetic and functional needs.

Safety, maintenance, and longevity

You’ll want your wall bed to be safe and reliable long-term.

Annual checks: Inspect pistons, hinges, and fasteners yearly for wear and retorque mounting bolts.
Clean hardware: Keep mechanisms free from dust and debris; lubricate per manufacturer recommendations.
Replace parts: Pistons and springs wear over time. Keep the manufacturer’s contact for replacement parts.
Child safety: Use locking latches and ensure the bed is properly secured to the wall to prevent tipping.
Using bedding: If bedding is kept on, ensure it’s secure and won’t interfere with closing or latch systems.

Routine care will keep the mechanism smooth and extend the life of your investment.

Alternatives to a sideways queen Murphy bed

If a sideways queen doesn’t fit your budget or layout, consider these options:

Vertical Murphy bed: More common, more affordable, and simpler to install.
Sleeper sofa or daybed: Offers seating and a bed without changes to walls, though mattress comfort is often inferior.
Loft bed with desk below: Great for small rooms with high ceilings.
Trundle or platform bed with under-bed storage: Easier to install, but requires permanent floor space.

Each option trades off between convenience, comfort, aesthetics, and floor space usage.

Questions to ask any seller or installer

Make sure your vendor answers these before purchase:

Can you show examples of installed horizontal queen models?
What is the internal cabinet depth and height?
What is the maximum mattress thickness and weight?
What mechanism type is used, and what is its rated lifespan?
Are there photos or references from previous customers?
What are the delivery and installation terms?
What warranty covers hardware and cabinetry?
Does the installation require reinforcement of my wall or floor?

These questions help you judge the supplier’s experience with horizontal queens and verify compatibility with your home.

Common FAQs — answered

Q: Will a standard queen mattress fit in a sideways Murphy bed? A: Yes, standard queen (60″ × 80″) is typically the basis for a sideways queen design, but you must confirm internal cabinet dimensions and recommended mattress thickness with the manufacturer.

Q: Do you have to remove bedding before closing the bed? A: It depends on the design. Some models allow you to leave a thin blanket and pillows secured with straps; many models require removing bulky bedding for smooth closure.

Q: Can you build a sideways queen into an apartment wall? A: Yes, but you must confirm wall stud layout and building regulations. Professional installation is often recommended in apartments to ensure safe anchoring and no damage to shared structures.

Q: How heavy is a sideways queen unit? A: Quite heavy — the cabinet, hardware, and mattress together can weigh several hundred pounds. This is why professional installation and proper anchoring are crucial.

Q: What mechanisms are best for longevity? A: Gas pistons and quality counterbalance systems from reputable manufacturers generally provide smooth, long-lasting operation. Ask about warranties and expected cycle life.

Real-world use cases and layout ideas

Studio apartment: Mount a horizontal queen along the long wall and add a sofa-front panel so the bed becomes a seating area by day.
Home office/guest room: Have shelving and a desk integrated above or beside the closed bed so the wall functions as office storage when the bed is closed.
Family room: Conceal the bed behind cabinetry that matches other millwork, allowing the space to convert to a full guest room when needed.

Think through daily habits (do you frequently host guests? do you need a permanent living area?) and choose a design that supports both uses.

Final thoughts and next steps

If you’re interested in a sideways queen Murphy bed, start by measuring your room carefully and identifying the wall where the cabinet will be mounted. Contact specialist wall-bed manufacturers and custom cabinet shops to get quotes for horizontal queen configurations. Ask about internal cabinet dimensions, recommended mattress types, mechanism warranty, and installation services.

Choosing a horizontal queen can give you a stylish, practical, and space-saving solution — especially if you need to manage low ceilings or want a multifunctional wall unit. Just be prepared for higher costs, careful planning, and professional installation to make sure the bed functions safely and fits your lifestyle.

If you want, you can tell me your room dimensions (wall length, depth, ceiling height), mattress preference, and how you want the closed unit to look or function, and I’ll help you evaluate whether a sideways queen is the right choice and suggest design considerations tailored to your space.