A Murphy bed with bookshelves needs careful space planning. The depth and height of each bookcase affect how the furniture fits beside a desk, doorway, or other room features. Three bookcase styles offer different options: standard, flush-front, and outset. Their depths are 11⅞, 13⅞, and 17⅞ inches, respectively. Understanding these differences helps buyers plan a bookcase wall bed that suits their room and storage needs.
Why Bookcase Depth Matters
Bookcase depth measures the distance from the back of the cabinet to its front edge. A deeper unit takes up more floor space, while its height affects how it lines up with the bed cabinet.
When planning the layout, consider:
- Available floor space
- Distance from nearby furniture and doorways
- Desired shelf and drawer storage
- Alignment with the bed and its lighting
Standard Bookcases: A Shallower Profile
Standard bookcases are 11⅞ inches deep and stand five inches shorter than the Murphy bed. Common widths are 16, 18, 24, and 30 inches.
This style suits rooms where a shallower storage unit is preferred. Lower sections can include:
- Open shelves
- One or more doors
- Two or three drawers
The standard depth is not recommended for file drawers.
Flush-Front Bookcases: Matching the Bed Height
Flush-front bookcases are 13⅞ inches deep and match the bed’s height. This creates a more even vertical line across the furniture arrangement. They come in the same common widths as standard bookcases. Storage options include open shelves, doors, and two or three drawers. File drawers are available in selected widths.
Outset Bookcases: More Depth for Storage
Outset bookcases are 17⅞ inches deep and match the Murphy bed’s height. They normally align with the front of outset lights and can also be used with standard headers and lights.
Their deeper profile supports several storage choices, including:
- Open shelving for books and display items
- Doors for concealed storage
- Two or three drawers
- File drawers
Measure the available floor depth before selecting this style.
Comparing Bookcase Dimensions and Widths
The three bookcase styles differ in depth and height:
- Standard bookcases: 11⅞ inches deep and 5 inches shorter than the Murphy bed.
- Flush-front bookcases: 13⅞ inches deep and the same height as the bed.
- Outset bookcases: 17⅞ inches deep and the same height as the bed.
All three styles come in common widths of 16, 18, 24, and 30 inches. These options allow buyers to plan the storage layout around their available wall and floor space.
How Shelves, Drawers, and Doors Affect the Layout
Storage choices affect how the furniture is arranged. Open shelves keep books visible, while doors conceal belongings. Drawers store smaller items, and file drawers suit documents when the chosen bookcase supports them.
Measuring the Full Footprint of a Bookcase Wall Bed
The bed cabinet’s dimensions do not represent the full furniture arrangement. Side bookcases, corner cabinets, and crown or base molding can increase its overall size. For pivoting bookcase designs, check both the closed and open widths to plan enough room for the moving sections.
Choosing the Right Configuration
Before ordering, measure the wall and floor space, then check nearby doors, windows, and furniture. Review the full width, height, and depth, including any side or corner bookcases. Custom drawings provide a scale rendering and dimensions for reviewing the planned arrangement before manufacturing begins.
Making Space for the Right Fit
The right bookcase wall bed balances storage with available room space. Standard bookcases provide the shallowest profile, flush-front models match the bed’s height, and outset bookcases offer the greatest depth. Comparing these measurements and storage options helps buyers select a layout that fits their room.
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