Having finished a murphy bed, this is now the biggest thing I have ever made and possibly the biggest I ever will make. And just like anything else, it’s easier after the first time. I’m confident that if I have to do this again, it will take 50% less time to do.
I used a kit made by Easy DIY Murphy Bed, a Canada based company. I chose this because they have the z-shaped bracket that combined the hinge and the gas spring brackets. I felt like this design is sturdier than any other options. I also like that their design does not rely on door stoppers to keep the bed frame from falling too far into the cabinet. Instead, they guide you use real cabinet techniques that result in a more professional product.
The guest bed is now roomier and can now be used as a home office. I really like that you can add a rounded edge where the legs attach. It looks so much better than just keeping it square. The front of the cabinet can be designed however you want so I just used some waste pieces to make it look less bare. Instead of using handles, I opted to make a picture ledge to add a little more flair and it can function as a handle.