Behind the Build: How Our Murphy Bed Brackets Work

When people see a finished van, they usually notice the big features, the layout, the cabinetry, the bed setup.

But what really makes a build work long-term?
The small, behind-the-scenes details.

Today we’re giving a closer look at one of those details: the bracket system behind our Murphy bed setup.

Why the Bracket Placement Matters

Murphy beds are one of our favorite features to include in a van build because they create flexibility, open living space during the day and a comfortable sleeping area at night.

But for that system to work smoothly and safely, the bracket placement has to be precise.

In this build, the top of the bracket needs to sit perfectly flush with the surrounding structure. That alignment ensures the bed operates cleanly and locks into place the way it should.

Working Around the Countertop

One of the challenges with this particular setup is the countertop thickness.

Because the countertop is about 1.5 inches thick, we needed to modify the material slightly to get everything to line up correctly.

The solution:
We routed out a groove so the bracket could sit exactly where it needed to.

This allows the bracket to:

• Sit flush

• Be securely fastened

• Maintain a clean, integrated look

Without that adjustment, the bracket wouldn’t align properly, which could affect how the bed moves and locks.

How the System Functions

Once installed, the bracket plays a key role in both positions of the bed:

When the bed is down:
The bracket rests securely across the metal frame, creating a stable and supportive sleeping surface.

When the bed is up:
The bracket locks into position within the frame, keeping everything secure and out of the way.

This dual function is what allows the Murphy bed to feel both solid and easy to use.

The Details You Don’t See (But Matter Most)

This is a perfect example of something most people will never notice in a finished van, but it makes all the difference.

Taking the time to:

• Align components correctly

• Adjust materials where needed

• Ensure everything is securely fastened

…is what turns a good-looking van into one that actually works well over time.

Why We Focus on Details Like This

Murphy beds are all about functionality and longevity.

When done right, they:

• Maximize usable space

• Provide a comfortable sleeping setup

• Hold up to repeated use over time

And that only happens when the small details, like bracket placement, are done correctly from the start.

If you’re considering a Murphy bed in your van build, these are the kinds of details that matter behind the scenes.

And they’re exactly what we focus on in every build we take on.

Need some help? Contact us!