Looking to combine your home office and spare bedroom into one multi-functional space?
Well you’ve come to the right place.
As someone who has worked from home for years, I know the struggles of trying to balance work and personal spaces in a home, especially when square footage is limited.
After much trial and error, I’ve discovered some clever ways to merge an office and extra bedroom that don’t compromise on style or functionality.
You’ll find ideas for small spaces, large rooms, budget-friendly options, and even high-end designer looks.
When you’re working with a relatively small spare room, convertible and multifunctional furniture is your best friend.
Murphy Bed Desk Combos
Murphy beds that fold vertically into the wall have been around for ages, but now you can find models that incorporate a desk or work surface below.
During the day, simply fold the bed up and out of the way, and you’ve got an instant workspace.
At night, lower the bed and you’ve got a comfortable sleeping spot.
It’s the ultimate efficient use of space!
I recommend looking for a Murphy bed desk unit that has nice detailing and materials for the work surface, like wood or metal.
The bed portion tends to be simpler, but a coordinating fabric and accent pillows can help tie it together.
Go for a compact yet comfy mattress too.
If you’re handy, there are even Murphy bed kits you can install yourself on any wall in the room!
Just make sure it’s sturdily mounted and has a strong lift mechanism for years of daily use.
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Convertible Desk or Table Beds
Along the same lines as Murphy beds, there are some ultra-practical desk and table designs that transform into a bed or daybed.
For example, look for a secretary desk or credenza that has a fold-down desk surface revealing a mattress inside.
Other options include nesting tables that pull apart into a bed frame or work tables with stools that convert into a sleeping space.
I’m currently eyeing the Ori Studio Bed that functions as a sofa, bed, and workstation all in one!
The multi-level cushions convert in different configurations – so cool.
Anything that saves space and wears multiple hats is a win in my book.
The key is finding convertible furniture that doesn’t feel gimmicky and actually functions well in both modes.
Focus on solid construction and materials so the piece will last.
Bonus points for extra storage too!
Stylish Sofa Beds
Let’s not forget about the classic sofa bed – a tried and true space saver in many studio apartments and shared homes.
Today’s sleeper sofas have come a long way in terms of style and comfort.
You can find chic mid-century and contemporary styles in addition to more traditional options.
I’d suggest investing in a quality sofa bed with inner spring or coil mattress.
Test them out in person if possible.
And make sure it’s something you genuinely like the look of, not just a utilitarian piece.
Choose a neutral color that works with your overall decor too.
Then just add some fun throw pillows and a blanket to dress it up.
Come bedtime, it takes just seconds to set up.
During the day, it provides ample extra seating for lounging, reading or even working.
Tip: Look for sofas with hidden storage like lift-top coffee tables.
Find Your Room’s Color Palette
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Use Separate Zones
One effective tactic is designating separate work, sleep, and lounge zones in the room.
Using area rugs in each zone helps define the spaces visually.
Floating screens or bookshelves also create natural divisions between functions.
💭 I Wrote a Book About My Biggest Decorating Mistakes!
When I decorated my first home, I thought I knew what I was doing. Spoiler: I didn’t. 😅
💸 I bought a sofa way too big for my living room. Paint colors that looked amazing in the store but terrible on my walls.
For example, you could put the desk on one side, sofa or reading chair on the other, and bed in between.
Or situate the bed in the corner with the work area nearby and a chair by the window.
Get creative with how you carve out and connect the zones!
Center on a Multipurpose Rug
For a studio vibe, use a large area rug as the starting point and central focus.
Choose a patterned rug with neutral colors that can transition from day to night.
Then arrange the main pieces like bed, desk and seating around the edges of the rug, using it to anchor and define the space.
Add potted plants, floor lamps and end tables around the periphery of the rug as well.
I love this approach because it makes the room feel polished and pulled together, while keeping an open and versatile layout.
What’s Your Decor Personality?
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Think in Threes
Ever heard that decorating in threes makes a pleasing, asymmetrical arrangement?
This rule of three approach works beautifully in a spare bedroom office too.
Start with your three main pieces: bed, desk, and a storage piece or seating.
Position them at different angles in the room rather than lining them up.
Then build upon that triangle shape with complementary decor like floor lamps, artwork and textiles.
The uneven arrangement will make the space feel more dynamic yet balanced.
And it allows you to naturally divide up areas of the room while maintaining an open feel.
Try it – I think you’ll be surprised how well it works!
Secret Desk Storage
When your workstation is also your guest sleeping quarters, you likely don’t want paperwork and supplies out on full display.
Seek out desks and hutches with hidden storage features.
Look for a writing desk with enclosed rather than open cubbies, or a flip-down front panel to conceal contents.
Other furniture pieces like armoires and cabinets often have built-in desk areas too.
I’m also partial to secretary desks where the drop-front conceals organizational nooks.
And I love utilizing the back of a desk that faces the wall to hold files, charging stations and electronics.
Get creative with stash spots!
This or That?
Pick your fave — see what other readers chose! 👀
Dual Purpose Accent Furniture
Small yet functional accent pieces make great additions to your office-bedroom.
I like to use stools and ottomans as side tables or extra guest seating, for example.
Patterned poufs also work well to stash blankets or as footstools when working.
And what about a desk chair that could pull double duty as a cozy reading chair when you unfold the ottoman?
Or a ladder bookshelf that leans attractively against the wall – while also providing open storage for extra linens, yoga mats, baskets etc.
Multipurpose is the name of the game when incorporating accent furniture in your space.
Focus on pieces with style and function..
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See the Room Planner →Warm Textures & Neutrals + Crisp Desk
Use warm, tactile textures and soothing neutrals like creams, taupes and wood tones to create a relaxing sleep space.
Think cozy linens, soft rugs, billowy throws and natural woven shades.
Then contrast this with a sleek, modern desk area.
A thin-legged metal and wood desk or glass-top worktable pairs nicely with the neutral bedroom palette.
Without looking overly utilitarian, it defines the work zone.
You can even add a modern desk lamp, patterned office chair and inspiration board above.
Quick Design Dilemma
Cast your vote — see what other readers think! 🤔
Textural Rug & Desk Mat
Use area rugs to designate each zone, while echoing the cozy vs.
sleek contrast.
In the slumber zone, opt for a plush high pile or shag rug you’ll love sinking your toes into.
Then ground the work area with a tight-loop wool or sisal rug.
Layer a textural desk mat on top for even more sound dampening.
💭 I Wrote a Book About My Biggest Decorating Mistakes!
When I decorated my first home, I thought I knew what I was doing. Spoiler: I didn’t. 😅
💸 I bought a sofa way too big for my living room. Paint colors that looked amazing in the store but terrible on my walls.
Mixing up the textures in this way defines each space while still tying the overall room together.
By getting creative with convertible and multifunctional pieces, thinking through deliberate room arrangements, and playing with contrasting textures, you really can have an attractive and practical workspace + guest sleeping quarter.
I hope you feel inspired to turn your spare room into the ultimate home office hybrid after reading this!
