I avoid designing spaces in homes without purpose.

Based on what you have described, you want an office that can be used as a bedroom.

So that's what you design. Be sure there is plenty of lighting for office tasks, and plenty of securable storage for office paperwork (don't want those guests rummaging through the files you left on the desk!)

You need to sit down & make a list of things you do or would like to do, that this room could support, vs. if you find up with nothing, or come up with idea that some other room of space should be re- configured for better function.

I understand the idea of “ wasted “ guest rooms, and motel option, and we expect to use tgd motel option for any large groups, or parent ms wanting a getaway, but even though we only have guests 3-4 times a year also, it is useful because my grandchildren are still small enough that being on- site is important ( bedtime routines and early mornings!), also an elderly relative that can’t drive back & forth, another relative that visits & we enjoy sitting up late talking & then can crash. So I use it for my exercise room, can leave my stuff out to encourage sticking to routine. But can then put things away when needed. I do a different type of routine than DH, who keeps his own equipment in another room!

We already had a queen bed and while I wish it didn’t take up so much space, it’s a comfortable bed so have not been motivated to get a less- comfortable sofa- bed option. The door and window placement is not good for a Murphy. When the movers were setting up the bed, they wanted to center it on the logical wall for that, but we had them place it against a wall, which gives me more floor space.

I also love using a spare bed for laying out stuff for packing for trips. I’m not saying buy or build a room just for that, but that’s another way I use the room and really enjoy it. Also consider whether you need an “ away room” for TV. DH is still working so we have a home office with a small sofa and a TV.

Don't get a Murphy bed. My parents did, and sprung for the best mattress, but I hate sleeping on that bed. Last time I took a twin airbed to use instead. There are better sofa beds.

Our Murphy bed is very comfortable. I know that because my DH sleeps there when either of us are not feeling well. Just make sure to get a quality one.

I also have a queen sleeper sofa in my office. Either would work for an office area.

cpartist, what kind of bed do you have in your Murphy bed system?

Our Murphy bed was from the Amish. Its a stand alone unit where the bed pulls down.

@kathy feste I'm struggling with this idea too. We are empty nesters with three bedrooms. He needs office space. We have two pieces of exercise equipment. We need a sick room option. I really hope someday we have guests. I want them to be comfortable.

I am thinking of putting his office in our primary bedroom, because we don't want guests going through his things. And he doesn't seem capable of decluttering office space.

I am thinking of putting one piece of exercise equipment in each of the two secondary bedrooms. His and hers exercise rooms.

I found this ottoman that unfolds to a chair or single bed. I am hoping it is comfortable with a mattress pad.

https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home-products/g44099116/best-sleeper-chairs/#product-1b466e8f-20c9-4928-bf12-bb415496f094

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08BJ67ZZM?linkCode=ogi&tag=ghk-lift-20&ascsubtag=[artid|10055.g.44099116[src|arb_ga_ghk_m_bm_comm_org_us_g44099116[ch|0f22d7ab1f4148eb33072fee3dc84fb3[lt|sale_t[pid|1b466e8f-20c9-4928-bf12-bb415496f094[ofsxid|button_poc[ofsvid|lt_t[ofsxid|product_explorer[ofsvid|on[ofsxid|show_header_search[ofsvid|show_search[ofsxid|subx_vs_jam[ofsvid|subx&btn_ref=srctok-9eac3ac0aada9184

what did you end up with your flex room. I have one and trying to do something

I failed at the flex room concept. Hubby's room has his office in it. I have my room. The third room is a dedicated exercise room with bookshelves in it. Maybe I didn't totally fail, because one room is for exercise AND storage.There's no "guest room" capability unless I temporarily move in with Hubby while a guest has my room. I pinned my hopes on sleeper furniture in our family room with a 3/4 bathroom next to it. Sigh...

Consider a daybed with a pull out trundle that stores underneath with a regular mattress. Add a desk with lockable drawers, yet clear desktop for guests. End tables with drawers provide a place for guests to unpack.Do not fill with your own stuff. We had the ottomans that unfold to a bed, just awful. How many need sleeping space? young kids can do fine with blow up mattress on the floor. Older than 10 llike a bed.