TL;DR

A Brooklyn homeowner converted her 100-year-old condo’s dining room into a multi-functional space using a custom Murphy bed. The renovation emphasizes style and practicality, creating an elegant, versatile room. The project highlights innovative space-saving solutions for small homes.

A Brooklyn homeowner has transformed her 100-year-old condo’s dining room into a multi-functional space featuring a custom-designed Murphy bed that conceals elegant cabinetry. This renovation highlights innovative space-saving solutions, blending Art Deco aesthetics with practical design, making the room adaptable for guests, work, and everyday living.

The homeowner, Mika Ottman, collaborated with a Murphy bed company to create a concealed, queen-size Murphy bed integrated into built-in cabinetry. The project aimed to maximize functionality in a small, historic condo, allowing the space to serve as an office, guest room, and dining area. The design incorporates walnut shelving, brass hardware, and a floral mural behind the bed, blending Art Deco and modern Victorian styles.

Construction faced challenges due to the condo’s age, with uneven floors and walls requiring precise measurements and careful installation. Mika involved herself in the finishing process, reducing costs and gaining construction skills. The final result is a sleek, elegant space that surprises guests with its hidden bed and personal style, transforming the homeowner’s relationship with her home.

At a glance
reportWhen: completed recently, with the installati…
The developmentA homeowner installed a custom Murphy bed in her historic Brooklyn condo, transforming her dining room into an Art Deco-inspired multi-purpose space.

Innovative Space Optimization in Small Historic Homes

This renovation demonstrates how custom furniture and thoughtful design can maximize limited space without sacrificing style. It offers a model for homeowners seeking multi-functional solutions that reflect personal taste, especially in older buildings where structural challenges are common. The project also highlights the trend of integrating hidden features like Murphy beds into stylish, cohesive interiors, making small homes more adaptable and inviting.

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Mjkone Murphy Bed, Queen Hidden Cabinet Bed with Built-in USB Charging Station and 2 Storage Drawers, Murphy Wall Beds Cabinet Beds for Living Room, Guest Room, Apartment, Natural Wood (No Mattress)

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Historical Homes and Modern Multi-Functionality

Historically, century-old condos often feature structural limitations that complicate renovations. As urban living spaces shrink, homeowners increasingly turn to creative solutions like Murphy beds to enhance functionality. Mika Ottman’s project reflects a broader movement toward personalized, multi-use interiors that blend style and practicality, particularly in older buildings where space is at a premium.

“I wanted the Murphy bed to be completely concealed, like an elegant built-in bookshelf wall that just so happened to hide a queen-size bed.”

— Mika Ottman

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Details Still Unclear About Long-Term Durability

It is not yet confirmed how the custom cabinetry and Murphy bed will hold up over time, especially considering the age of the building and the custom materials used. Long-term durability and maintenance requirements remain to be seen as the space is used more extensively.

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Future Use and Potential for Replication in Similar Spaces

The homeowner plans to host guests and utilize the space regularly, providing feedback on its functionality. The project could serve as an example for others in similar older buildings seeking versatile, stylish solutions. Further updates may include refinements based on daily use and guest experiences.

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Key Questions

How does the Murphy bed conceal itself in the cabinetry?

The Murphy bed is integrated into custom-built cabinets with brass hardware, designed to look like decorative shelving until pulled down. When in use, it seamlessly transforms the space into a guest bedroom.

What style influences are incorporated into the design?

The space blends Art Deco and modern Victorian elements, with walnut shelving, brass hardware, and floral murals creating an elegant, timeless aesthetic.

What challenges did the project face due to the condo’s age?

The main challenges involved uneven floors and walls, requiring precise measurements and careful installation to ensure the cabinets and bed fit perfectly and are safely mounted.

Can this type of renovation be replicated in other historic homes?

Yes, although structural considerations must be addressed. Custom Murphy beds and cabinetry can be adapted to various spaces, but consulting professionals is recommended to handle unique building constraints.

What are the benefits of using a Murphy bed in small spaces?

Murphy beds maximize available space by providing a comfortable sleeping area that can be hidden away when not in use, freeing up room for daily activities and entertaining.

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