There’s something satisfying about turning a compact space into something really special. This central London property, designed for short lets, gave us the perfect opportunity to do just that. We were asked to design three rooms, but one stood out — a dual purpose living room design that also needed to function as a bedroom.
It had to feel calm and inviting for guests, and make clever use of every inch. With bespoke joinery, a Murphy bed, and a carefully curated layout, we transformed the room into a multi-functional haven that doesn’t feel like it’s trying too hard.
Designing for Flexibility in a Compact Flat
image credit: House Designer
The brief was clear: create a calm, elegant space that feels like a living room by day and transforms effortlessly into a bedroom at night. As interior designers who regularly work on short let and Airbnb properties, we know how important it is for these homes to feel welcoming, stylish, and practical for every type of guest.
Designed to Disappear: Murphy Bed in a Dual Purpose Living Room
image credit: Strachan Furniture
One of our favourite features in this room is the Murphy bed. Folded away, it looks like a beautifully built-in storage unit. Pulled down, it becomes a full-sized sleeping area complete with integrated shelving and ambient lighting. This was key in making the room feel light and spacious, even with its dual purpose.
Bringing the Vision to Life: The Design Board
Before any furniture was ordered or walls painted, we created a moodboard to map out the look and feel of the room. This is always one of our favourite parts of the process. It’s where the vision starts to come together. From the soft grey sofa and layered lighting to the clean lines of the Murphy bed and sleek glass dining table, every piece was chosen for both style and practicality. The use of chrome, velvet, and marble textures adds just the right amount of interest without overwhelming the space.
The board also helped us map out the spatial layout, ensuring every item had its place. Even when the bed was pulled down. It’s an essential part of our process as designers, allowing us to test ideas, refine the layout, and communicate the vision clearly. It’s also a fantastic way to help clients visualise how the finished design will work in real life.
Neutral Tones with a Pop of Colour
image credit: House Designer
We kept the colour palette calm and neutral, focusing on soft greys, off-whites and pale flooring. To bring in a bit of personality, we added deep navy cushions and textured pouffes in a geometric print. Just enough to elevate the room without making it feel busy.
Glass and chrome details, like the elegant dining table and arc floor lamp, keep the design light and modern, while the velvet dining chairs and layered lighting add a touch of softness and luxury.
Zoning the Room for Living and Sleeping
Zoning was essential in this space. We used a large rug to ground the lounge area and positioned the sofa to act as a visual divider between the sleeping and dining zones. When the Murphy bed is in use, the furniture layout still allows for movement without feeling cramped.
The round mirror and abstract artwork give the space depth and personality, creating a finished look whether you’re sitting down to dinner or winding down for the night.
Interior Design for Short Let Properties in London
image credit: House Designer
This project is a great example of how smart furniture layout and dual-purpose pieces can completely transform a room. For short let interiors, it’s not just about aesthetics. It’s about comfort, practicality, and creating a memorable guest experience. Our client was delighted with how this multi-functional room turned out. It’s now ready to welcome guests who want to stay in the heart of London, with all the comforts of home in one well-designed space.
Looking to Make the Most of Your Rental Property?
If you’re thinking of refreshing your short let or need help designing a small space, we’d love to help. Whether it’s a full property revamp or a clever solution for a tricky room, our team of expert designers are here to bring your vision to life.