Many people were quick to switch their guest room into a home office when they needed to start working from home (and thanks to Zoom, you can tell). Making the most of your livable space doesn't mean sacrificing productivity and hospitality, but finding a system that does the heavy lifting isn't always easy. For many, a custom design is worth it to help a temporary space become a permanent feature. If you're tired of the guest bed in your "home office" being in the background of every important meeting, consider upgrading to Murphy bed.

California Closets has long been a staple used to maximize functionality in walk-in closets, but we love how they've gotten creative to help re envision other spaces in your home. From their custom Murphy bed systems to custom lighting options, their professional design consultants focus on all the design details and make spaces more versatile.

Alejandro Hernandez, a designer with California Closets Orange County, highlights their practicality and popularity:

“Our Murphy beds or wall beds are designed to integrate seamlessly within our custom home office designs to create a guest suite whenever it’s needed. With Twin, Full, and Queen sizing, our Murphy beds provide a space-saving solution that can transform a home office into a serene and multi-purpose room.”

If you need a harder sell, here are the main reasons people like replacing the guest room bed in their home office with a Murphy bed:

  • Space Efficiency: Free up floor space when the bed isn't in use, and keep your office functional.
  • Style Integration: Murphy beds blend with the aesthetic of your office, so be sure to ask about the variety of finishes. A high-end finish without sacrificing the workspace enhances the everyday.
  • Comfort for Guests: Provides a comfortable bed that rivals a traditional guest bedroom setup.

Can California Closets integrate a desk or custom storage system within the Murphy bed design?

Votes for functionality! Yes, California Closets can include integrated desks, file drawers, a book rack and additional shelving, and storage spaces alongside a Murphy bed. This integration is perfect for many spaces, especially small guest rooms-turned-home offices. Keep your space organized and clutter-free, and learn how you can easily convert the room into a guest suite when needed.

Home Office Lighting Matters, Too

As I consider my own home office/guest room, one of the aspects I've definitely ignored is lighting. California Closets chimed in with a solution for that, too. “Thoughtful illumination is a feature that a home office design needs but may be overlooked when considering an inviting guest suite," shared Hernandez. "Our lighting features such as gooseneck lights, cubby, and strip lights are excellent elevating enhancements.”

Proper cabinet lighting and task fixtures can set the tone for both work and relaxation. You can't master dual-purpose without considering how the lighting flows in your space. As you consider your space, pay attention to:

  • Power outlets: You can't put lights where there aren't outlets (unless you're ready to hire an electrician and install a few more). If outlets aren't an option, consider well-placed puck lights.
  • Customizable lighting solutions: Options like dimmable or programmable lights allow you to set the perfect mood, whether you’re working late or creating a welcoming space for guests.

Wooden desk tray and monitor stand.
WFH: New Accessories That Will Elevate His Home Office
It’s back-to-school time for the grown-ups.
Read More

How long does it take to design and install a custom home office with California Closets?

The timeline for designing and installing a custom home office or guest suite varies based on the complexity of your design, space size, and specific customization options chosen. Generally speaking, the design process can be completed within a few weeks, followed by the installation, which can take anywhere from a few days to a week depending on the specific elements being installed.