Bed Made Out of Cabinets

Cabinet beds, as they are commonly known, utilize sturdy kitchen cabinets as the base while providing ample storage space underneath. Whether you're living in a small apartment or looking for a clever way to accommodate guests, a bed made out of cabinets is a practical and visually appealing option. These beds can be customized based on your room's dimensions, style preferences, and storage needs.

Several creative DIYers have successfully turned popular kitchen cabinets, such as IKEA's METOD line, into their own unique platform beds with storage. In addition, there are various online resources and tutorials available to help guide you through the process of making your own cabinet bed, ensuring you achieve the perfect blend of form, function, and style.

Types of Beds Made Out of Cabinets

Platform Bed

A platform bed is an excellent choice for those looking to maximize storage and floor space without compromising on comfort. Several DIY enthusiasts and platforms like IKEA offer innovative ways to create a platform bed using kitchen cabinets. These beds can be customized according to the available space and desired design, offering various storage options beneath the sleeping surface. Available in sizes ranging from twin to king, platform beds with cabinets can suit any room and living situation.

Murphy Bed

Murphy beds, also known as cabinet beds or wall beds, are a practical solution for small rooms or multi-functional spaces. These beds can be folded into a cabinet or wall unit when not in use, freeing up valuable floor space. Murphy beds are available in different sizes, from twin to queen, and can be customized to match the room's décor. Some Murphy beds even incorporate additional storage options like shelves, drawers, or pull-out nightstands, allowing users to maximize their storage while maintaining a stylish and uncluttered sleep space.

Trundle Beds

Another option for space-saving bed designs is trundle beds, which feature a hidden secondary bed stored beneath the primary sleeping surface. Trundle beds can be used for occasional guests or even as full-time sleeping arrangements, particularly in shared children's rooms or small apartments. By incorporating cabinets or storage units into the design, trundle beds can offer additional storage space for linens, clothes, or other belongings, further increasing their functionality. These beds can come in sizes ranging from twin to queen, making them a versatile option for various room sizes and arrangements.

In conclusion, beds made out of cabinets offer multiple options for incorporating storage and maximizing floor space in bedrooms. Whether you choose a platform bed, Murphy bed, or trundle bed, these innovative designs can provide practical, stylish, and space-efficient sleeping solutions to suit any room and lifestyle.

Materials and Tools

When constructing a bed made out of cabinets, a variety of materials and tools are essential for a successful project.

Materials

• Wood: A popular choice for cabinet construction, wood provides both durability and a pleasing aesthetic. Common types of wood used in cabinet making include oak, maple, and cherry.
• Plywood: As a more affordable option, plywood is often used for the cabinet bed frame and support structure. This material can be easily cut and shaped, making it ideal for custom designs.
• Wood glue: This adhesive is crucial for joining wood pieces securely in a cabinet bed construction. Using a quality wood glue ensures a long-lasting and sturdy final product.
• Paint or stain: Adding a paint or stain finish to the cabinet bed not only enhances its appearance but also provides a protective layer against wear and tear. Choose a color or stain that complements the existing décor of the bedroom.
• Hardware: Appropriate hardware, such as bed bolts and brackets, is required to ensure the bed's stability and functionality within the cabinet structure.

Tools

• Carpenter's tools: A skilled carpenter will use a variety of woodworking tools, such as saws, drills, chisels, and planes, to create the custom cabinet bed.
• Power tools: Cabinet making often involves the use of power tools like jigsaws for cutting complex shapes and a smooth finish. These aid in speeding up the process and achieving precise results.
• Clamps and vices: When assembling the cabinet bed, clamps and vices help hold wood pieces securely in place, while wood glue dries or while drilling and fastening hardware.
• Measuring and marking tools: Accurate measurements are crucial for a well-fitted cabinet bed. Essential measuring tools include a tape measure, ruler, square, and marking pens or pencils.

With the appropriate materials and tools, a well-constructed cabinet bed can provide both form and function in any bedroom space. Whether built from scratch or modified from existing cabinets, this unique furniture solution offers a creative and space-saving option for sleeping arrangements.

DIY Cabinet Bed Instructions

Building the Base

To create a DIY cabinet bed, start by measuring the space in your room and choosing the appropriate cabinets for the size of the bed you want to build. You can either purchase ready-made cabinets or build them from scratch using plywood, wood glue, screws, and a drill. First, cut the plywood pieces to size, following the dimensions of your chosen cabinets.

Assemble the cabinet carcasses and attach them to the base, ensuring that each piece is properly aligned and level. Wood glue is useful for reinforcing the joints of the base structure. It is essential to secure the base thoroughly because it will support the weight of the cabinets and the mattress.

Assembling the Cabinets

Now that you have a sturdy base, you can begin assembling the cabinets. You'll need additional plywood, screws, and wood glue for this step. Cut out the pieces for the cabinet's sides, back, and front, then set them up on the base accordingly. Attach the sides and back panels, using wood glue and screws for reinforcement. Moreover, you may want to paint or stain the cabinets as desired to match your room's aesthetic.

Remember to pay attention to squareness and plumbness during assembly, as this will affect the overall functionality of your cabinet bed. To check if the cabinets are square, compare the diagonal measurements from corner to corner – they should be equal.

Installing the Mattress Support

Once the cabinets have been successfully assembled, build the mattress support by cutting a 3/4" thick 4x8' sheet of pre-primed plywood to the appropriate dimensions for your mattress. Then, drill 1" ventilation holes 8" apart on the plywood sheet where the mattress will sit. This step ensures proper air flow and prevents your mattress from accumulating moisture.

Next, install the mattress support onto the top of the cabinets, ensuring it fits snugly and securely. Trim out the bed frame with 1x4's to match the 3/4" reveal on the cabinet facing for a polished and professional look. With everything in place, add your mattress and enjoy your new DIY cabinet bed!

Converting Existing Cabinets

When it comes to maximizing space and functionality in your home, creating a bed out of cabinets is an innovative approach. Two common types of cabinets that can be turned into beds include kitchen cabinets and closet cabinets. In this section, we will explore how to convert these existing cabinets into comfortable and functional sleeping spaces.

Kitchen Cabinets

Using kitchen cabinets as the base of a platform bed is an excellent option for those who need extra storage space. One example of how this can be done is by using IKEA kitchen cabinets to create a platform bed with storage underneath. To do this, you will need:

• Seven standard kitchen cabinets (e.g., IKEA's METOD cabinets)
• Plywood and supporting slats or boards for the mattress
• Screws and hardware for attaching the cabinets and platform

1. Arrange the kitchen cabinets in a rectangular shape to form the base of the bed. Ensure that the cabinets are sturdy and properly secured together using screws and hardware.
2. Once the cabinets are in place, lay the plywood over the top of the cabinets, creating a stable platform for your mattress.
3. Add supporting slats or boards across the width of the platform to provide additional support for the mattress.
4. Finish by placing your mattress on top of the platform, and you'll have a kitchen cabinet bed with ample storage space underneath.

Closet Cabinets

Another alternative is to make use of closet cabinets as the base for a Murphy bed, which can be folded up when not in use. This can be a great solution for homes with limited space or guest rooms that need to be multi-functional. Here's how to create a Murphy bed from closet cabinets:

• A Murphy bed mechanism kit
• Closet cabinets (e.g., IKEA PAX)
• Plywood or other sturdy material for bed platform
• Lifting mechanism (included in the Murphy bed kit)
• Screws and additional hardware for assembly

1. Begin by installing the lifting mechanism from the Murphy bed kit according to the manufacturer's instructions.
2. Insert the closet cabinets along the wall where you'd like your Murphy bed to be mounted. Make sure the cabinets are secured to the wall and aligned properly.
3. Attach the plywood or other sturdy material to the lifting mechanism to create a stable platform for the mattress.
4. Secure the platform to the closet cabinets using additional hardware and screws.
5. Place your mattress on the platform and fold the Murphy bed up into the closet cabinets when not in use.

Through these clever conversions, both kitchen cabinets and closet cabinets can offer functional and space-saving alternatives to traditional beds.

Adding Extra Features

Drawers

Incorporating drawers into a cabinet bed design adds significant storage space without taking up any additional floor space. There are several methods to achieve this, such as installing drawers directly into the base of the bed or adding them to the sides of the cabinets used to build the bed. These drawers can store clothing, extra bedding, or other items, decluttering the room and maximizing limited space.

One great example of using drawers in a cabinet bed design can be found in this IKEA Malm bed hack, where the bed is transformed into an elegant storage bed with ample storage space.

Stairs

For those looking to add a bit of creativity and practicality to their cabinet bed, consider integrating stairs into the design. Stairs not only serve as a functional feature, allowing easier access to the bed, but they can also provide additional storage by fitting drawers or shelves into the steps, creating a unique and space-saving design.

Trim

Adding trim to the cabinet bed can elevate the overall aesthetic and make it look more finished and polished. Trim can be applied to the edges of the cabinets, along the top of the cabinets, and around any drawers or stairs. A simple trim design can make a significant difference, transforming a basic cabinet bed into a more refined and pleasing piece of furniture.

By incorporating features such as drawers, stairs, and trim to the cabinet bed, you can create a highly functional and visually appealing piece. These features enhance the bed's usefulness, making the most out of available floor space and storage options.

Safety Considerations

When creating a bed out of cabinets, it is essential to prioritize safety at all stages of the project. This section will discuss key safety aspects, including ensuring the bed structure's stability, using wood glue, and drilling holes.

One crucial factor to consider when using cabinets as a bed base is the stability of the structure. Securing your DIY cabinet bed to the wall is not optional. Failure to do so can pose a significant safety risk, as well as compromise the bed's function, since it relies on the wall's strength during opening and closing ^thespruce. To ensure proper installation and stability, following the appropriate guidelines and using suitable anchors or brackets is necessary.

Wood glue plays a vital role in the construction of a cabinet bed. Choosing the right wood glue and using it correctly can increase the bed's overall strength and durability. Use a high-quality wood glue designed specifically for wood-to-wood bonding. When applying the adhesive, remember to spread it evenly across the entire surface and give it adequate time to cure, as specified by the glue's manufacturer. This precaution will help prevent the bed from collapsing or becoming unstable over time.

Drilling holes is another important aspect of the project, as it ensures that the various components of the cabinet bed are securely fastened together. When drilling holes, use the appropriate size drill bits and ensure that you do not drill too deeply, which may cause damage to the cabinets or compromise their strength. Always exercise caution while using power tools, and wear proper protective gear such as safety goggles and gloves. Additionally, avoid drilling near electrical outlets or pipes to prevent accidents.

In conclusion, making a bed out of cabinets is an innovative and practical idea. However, to guarantee the safety and longevity of the bed, it is essential to follow proper precautions and consider all aspects associated with the project. By addressing these safety considerations, you will be on your way to creating a sturdy and reliable bed for your living space.

Popular Cabinet Bed Brands

Cabinet beds have gained popularity due to their space-saving design and versatile functionality. When considering cabinet bed options for your home, it's important to explore the top brands available in the market. Some popular brands worth considering include Arason, Night and Day, Cabinet Bed Inc., and IKEA.

Arason is known for their attractive and functional cabinet beds, with a range of styles and finishes to suit various preferences. Their cabinet beds provide comfortable sleep solutions, and feature storage drawers for added convenience. Some options from Arason even have built-in electrical outlets, making them perfect for modern homes with multiple electronic devices.

Night and Day is another trusted brand, offering murphy cabinet beds in different designs and sizes. These beds often have added storage, helping to keep your space clutter-free. Night and Day's cabinet beds are easy to set up and transform, making them highly practical for any living situation.

Cabinet Bed Inc. specializes in producing murphy cabinet beds that are both stylish and functional. With various sizes and designs available, their beds cater to different tastes and room dimensions. Cabinet Bed Store offers a wide selection of Cabinet Bed Inc.'s products, so you can find one that fits your needs.

For those seeking a DIY option or more affordable alternatives, IKEA offers a cabinet bed solution using their METOD kitchen cabinets. This unique idea involves turning the cabinets into a bed base with built-in storage, offering a customizable and space-saving option for those with limited room.

When exploring cabinet bed brands, it's crucial to consider factors like size, design, storage options, and ease of transformation. By researching the top brands and their offerings, you'll find the perfect cabinet bed to suit your needs and enhance your living space.

The Murphy Bed Mechanism

Spring Mechanism

The Murphy bed, also known as a wall bed, is a space-saving solution that allows you to transform a living area into a temporary bedroom. One of the key features of a Murphy bed is its spring mechanism, which enables the bed to be easily folded away when not in use. This mechanism ensures the bed remains concealed and takes up little space when it's not required, making it an ideal option for those with limited living space.

The spring mechanism works together with a counterbalanced system that helps the user lift and lower the bed effortlessly. Depending on the model and design, some Murphy beds also come with a bi-fold system, which requires the cabinet doors to be opened before folding the bed down. You can learn more about how a bi-fold Murphy bed works from this video demonstration.

Building a DIY Murphy bed is a cost-effective and customizable option for those looking to create extra sleeping space without sacrificing style. In order to build a DIY Murphy bed, you will need the following:

• Murphy bed hardware kit
• Wood (cut to measurements)
• Crown molding
• Cabinet hardware
• Paint and primer
• Paintbrush
• Mattress

Once the materials are gathered, you can follow these general steps:

1. Assemble the Murphy bed frame with the hardware kit.
2. Construct a cabinet to encase the frame using wood and crown molding. The Home Depot guide provides detailed instructions on building the cabinet.
3. Install the spring mechanism and connect it to the bed frame and cabinet.
4. Add any additional features such as reading lights, electrical outlets, or USB ports as desired.
5. Paint and finish the cabinet to match the room's décor.
6. Insert the mattress and ensure the bed operates smoothly.

By incorporating a Murphy bed into your living space, you'll have a functional and stylish extra bed available whenever it's needed. With a little creativity and effort, you can create a versatile and space-saving solution that's both comfortable and practical.