Transformers, their advantages, application
Transformable upholstered furniture has a place in any home. A transformable sofa in a small apartment is the main piece of furniture. The living room in such housing usually performs additional functions of a bedroom. In the evenings, the sofa folds out into a comfortable bed. During the day, when folded, it does not take up much space, ideally complements the interior, provides an opportunity to organize a family vacation, sit down with guests for a pleasant conversation, etc.
Such sofas are also purchased for housing, in which everyone has a separate room. Transformable furniture allows you to comfortably accommodate visiting guests and create a comfortable place to sleep.
The transformable sofa turns into a comfortable bed.
Furniture manufacturers now offer an extensive range of designs, allowing the consumer to choose a transformable sofa, taking into account:
- specifics of operation;
- purpose;
- room area;
- interior features;
- personal preferences;
- financial opportunities.
Transformer sofas have a wide range of models
In addition to traditional, familiar models, in the assortment of upholstered furniture you can find original options that appeared as a result of the introduction of new technologies and materials in the production of these products. These include transformable sofas with a table, 3-in-1 models, etc.
Why are transformers so convenient?
Transformable furniture is a good solution for small apartments. It does not disturb the owners during the day and turns into a full-fledged sleeping place at night.
Folding models are also a lifesaver during friendly gatherings, allowing you to accommodate guests comfortably.
When purchasing a transformable sofa, take into account:
- room dimensions;
- amount of funds;
- interior;
- purpose.
The furniture market has long gone beyond ordinary soft models. In the photo of transformable sofas you can find unusual products created thanks to new technologies and materials. For example, 3 in 1, with a countertop, and others.
Folding models
The oldest in this category of furniture are books. These sofas were very popular in the last century. Despite the emergence of new designs, such models are still in demand today. The simplicity of the mechanism guarantees its strength and durability. The folding design has several advantages:
- book sofas with wide seats are a comfortable place to sleep and when folded, which creates ease of use;
- these models are equipped with a spacious box, which is an excellent storage for linen and other things;
- when folded, the furniture takes up a small space;
- Smooth surfaces create good sleeping conditions.
The mechanism of the sofa book is strong and durable
The disadvantage of such structures is the need to move them during the unfolding process. There is a risk of damaging the floor covering.
A modification of the book are models called “click-clack” because of the characteristic sounds during transformation. The peculiarity of the design is the ability to assign several positions to the backrest, providing the most comfortable conditions during daytime and evening relaxation. In the photo of transformable sofas in this category you can see many interesting models.
The click-clack mechanism has several positions for the back of the sofa
Roll-out structures
Roll-out models are durable and strong. One of the most popular options is the Eurobook. In these designs, the seat is equipped with wheels, it easily rolls away, and the back fits into the resulting space. The advantages of these sofas include:
- convenient folding, reducing the risk of damage to the floor;
- spacious sleeping area with a flat, comfortable surface;
- spacious drawer for linen;
- a large assortment, including models with different dimensions.
Transformable sofa with roll-out mechanism
The model range includes products equipped with orthopedic armor. Seats of structures differ in the types of fillers and degree of rigidity. Manufacturers use different materials for upholstery. There are many photos of transformable sofas of this type on the Internet; you can appreciate their attractiveness in the interior.
Tick-tock sofas are considered a type of Eurobook. They have a specific folding mechanism. When extended, the seat describes a semicircle in the air and is mounted on legs. The advantage of this transformation is that there is no possibility of damage to the floor covering. In addition, when unfolded, the sofa takes up less space than a traditional Eurobook.
Tick-tock sofa design
Retractable (roll-out) sofas
Transformable sofas with a retractable mechanism are firmly strengthening their position in the furniture market. Products in this series are also distinguished by high-quality filling; you can choose a comfortable sleeping place of different hardness. More expensive models for small apartments are based on polyurethane foam or orthopedic armor, which are much more comfortable and better for the back than spring blocks, from which transformers with a folding mechanism are usually made.
“A roll-out sofa for a small room is designed for frequent unfolding, therefore it is considered the most durable and durable”
Retractable designs include:
- “Eurobook”;
- “tick-tock”;
- "dolphin";
- “puma”;
- “conrad”.
“Eurobook”
“Eurobook” has a reliable and easy-to-use design. When folded it is quite compact, but when transformed it turns into a large double bed. The seat of this model is located on a special roller base, which, to transform the sofa into a sleeping place, you just need to pull it towards you. Thanks to the rollers, this won’t require much effort. After the seat, when pulled out, hits the limiters, you will need to lower the backrest and the berth is ready.
Pros:
- compactness;
- when transformed, a large sleeping place is obtained;
- when opened, the sofa extends to one side, there is no need to move it further;
- large box for linen;
- reliability, the mechanism is so simple that there is nothing to break in it.
The only downside of this model can be the price, since you have to pay for modern models, reliable mechanisms and high-quality filler.
“Tick-tock” or “Pantograph”
This model of transforming sofas is an improved “Eurobook”. The only difference is in the method of transformation. This mechanism does not have a roller base, since when this model is unfolded, the seat does not roll, it extends along a semicircle trajectory.
“The main advantage of “Tick-Tock” is that when unfolding the seat, you don’t need to roll or pull it along the floor, which will save the floor covering from damage.”
Dolphin
“Dolphin” is distinguished by its ease of transformation. It will be enough to roll out the retractable part towards you by pulling a special fabric loop sewn to the bottom. Typically, the “Dolphin” mechanism is used in corner sofas, so the price for such models is quite high.
Pros:
- convenient transformation mechanism;
- large box for linen;
- compact transformation mechanism.
Minuses:
- price;
- transformers with such a mechanism can be quite bulky;
- If the frame of the product is made of low-quality wood, the sofa will not last long.
Puma
Sofas with the “Puma” mechanism have gained popularity among buyers who want to combine a living room and a bedroom. They take up little space, but can accommodate up to 6 people in a sitting position. After transformation, such a sofa increases significantly in size, forming a spacious and comfortable sleeping place.
Pros:
- durable roll-out mechanism;
- modern design;
- comfortable sleeping place;
- spacious drawer for storing bed linen.
Minuses:
- the design of the sofa consists of several separate parts, for some the transformation may seem difficult;
- Only corner models have a linen drawer;
- high price.
Conrad
Sofas of the “Conrad” type are considered the most comfortable for sleeping. They are based on special spring blocks that have a beneficial effect on the spine. When assembled, the sofa is quite compact, but when unfolded it surprises with a spacious sleeping area. The resulting bed is close in properties to orthopedic mattresses, which, of course, affects the price.
A roll-out transformable sofa bed is an excellent choice for a small apartment. Corner models can be used as a kitchen seating area in spacious kitchens.
Corner sofa
The transformable corner sofa appeared on the market later than books and eurobooks. These models quickly became popular due to their obvious advantages. The designs are called “dolphin” and are available in a large number of options. The advantages of these sofas include:
- rational use of room space;
- solid, presentable appearance;
- comfortable conditions for daytime relaxation and communication;
- maximum dimensions of a sleeping place;
- Convenient simple folding.
The corner sofa has maximum sleeping space dimensions
The sleeping block of the sofa is located under the main seat. It is equipped with a handle that allows you to easily pull out the element. Then the soft part of the seat is laid aside to form a flat, spacious bed. The folded structure occupies an angle that is usually not used for practical purposes. Therefore, a transformable corner sofa for a small apartment is the best option. The respectable appearance and large number of seats allow the model to be used in the design of spacious living rooms.
Transformable corner sofa is ideal for small apartments
The assortment includes right and left designs; models differ in size, fillings, and upholstery materials. This allows you to accurately select a transformable corner sofa for a specific interior, taking into account all the requirements.
Accordion sofa
In terms of popularity, models with an accordion transformation mechanism are not inferior to books. These designs can be found both in the budget category and in luxury segment furniture. The main advantage of accordions is reliability. The advantages of these designs also include:
- simple, convenient folding;
- solid dimensions of the sleeping area;
- maintainability of the mechanism.
The “accordion” sofa unfolds simply and comfortably
There are three elements involved in the bed consciousness. It is created from a seat and two parts of the back. High reliability and resistance to loads allow the models to be used in daily transformation. The sofa creates excellent conditions for complete relaxation. If breakdowns occur in the mechanism, they can be easily eliminated.
Modern modifications of retractable and folding models
Mechanisms for folding sofas are constantly being improved and modified, and the range is replenished with new, comfortable models. Popular modifications of traditional options include the following designs:
- pantographs,
- cougars,
- Conrads.
The pantograph unfolds similarly to a Eurobook, but the seat is not in contact with the floor. It moves away from the backrest structure, smoothly lowers, and is installed at a distance in a horizontal position. The backrest fits into the space. The advantage of pantographs is durability and reliability.
Sofa equipped with a pantograph mechanism
The Puma features a simple, convenient folding design that allows it to be used for daily transformation. Models come in straight and angular. Maximum compactness makes these transformable sofas the best option for small apartments.
Compact sofa transformer “Puma”
Conrad is considered the best design for comfortable sleep. The backrest is not involved in creating the bed. The seat moves forward, and a special block with springs and filler is raised to form a flat surface. When folded, the sofa takes up little space and looks solid and respectable.
Conrad is considered the best design for comfortable sleep
Sofas with folding mechanism
All transforming sofas are divided into groups according to the method of transformation into a sleeping place. It depends on the mechanism installed during the assembly process. According to the type of mechanism, transforming sofas are divided into:
- folding;
- Retractable (roll-out);
- unfolding.
If you choose a transforming sofa for a small room, you should pay attention to this type of transformers, it includes a “book”, “couch” and sofas of the “click-clack” design.
On video: modern folding sofas.
Sofa book
The classic and most common version of a transforming sofa. Popular since USSR times. It is characterized by low price and ease of use. When assembled, it can accommodate several people; when unfolded, it transforms into a comfortable double bed.
Pros:
- low price;
- This is a compact sofa that takes up little space when assembled;
- simple folding mechanism;
- A spacious storage compartment where you can put away bed linen.
The only negative is that for transformation you need to move it away from the wall.
“Click-clack”
An improved model with a book mechanism. It has the same functionality as the “book”, but has an intermediate “relax” layout mode. At the same time, it is possible to install the backrest at an angle, which allows you to comfortably sit on it in a reclining state.
It has pros and cons similar to the “book” model.
Daybed - comfortable small-sized sofas
Sofa-couch - very comfortable small-sized transforming sofas, has small parameters, is able to fit where other models simply cannot fit. It takes up little space; when folded, it can accommodate a maximum of two people. After unfolding, it turns into a sleeping place for one person. Such sofas are often chosen for small children's rooms or kitchens, so that in a small apartment it is possible to arrange another sleeping place.
Pros:
- compact, takes up less space when assembled;
- ease of layout;
- compartment for storing bed linen;
- low price;
- varied design;
- the most suitable sofa for the kitchen;
- level sleeping area.
There is only one minus - there is a sleeping place for only one person.
Transformers clamshells
These original designs are identical in their transformation mechanism to classic folding beds, which is reflected in the name of the category. These sofa models are also divided into several types. Popular options:
- American,
- French,
- Italian.
American designs are laid out in two stages. The seat rises, folds forward, and is installed on two supports located in the outer and middle zones. These models are called sedaflexes. The compactness and comfort of sofas have ensured their high popularity. Often such models decorate office interiors and are purchased for country houses. The disadvantage of the products is the lack of a box for laundry.
Sofa with sedaflex construction
French models are transformed in three stages. The cushions are removed from the seat, it is unfolded, and placed on a support located on the edge. When folded, the sofa has compact dimensions, perfect for decorating a small room. These models are highly valued by professional designers and consider them the most fashionable option. They have excellent aesthetic characteristics, provide convenience and comfort.
French folding sofa
Italian designs are highly reliable; when folded out, you get a high, spacious full bed, providing maximum comfort. These transformable sofas are highly expensive.
Italian clamshell mechanism
The models have an unusual folding mechanism. To transform, the backrest is lowered, all soft elements are turned over, and the bed is placed on steel legs. The mattresses that form the sleeping area are equipped with spring systems. This is premium furniture. It is durable, good quality, and stylish design.
Spartacus
This type is developed in three stages.
- First you need to pull the part intended for sitting towards you.
- The sofa will begin to unfold.
- In the process, the support legs will extend.
This mechanism is quite old, originally from Italy. A distinctive feature is the absence of wood in the frame. Various metal alloys are used as materials. A metal mesh is stretched between the supports.
Ideal for tall people, this design creates a free and long sleeping area. Suitable for daily use. Saves room space. Among the shortcomings is the lack of a container for things and bed linen.
Multifunctional modular designs
Modular furniture has become one of the main options in modern designs. Its main advantage is the ability to implement interesting creative ideas and periodically change the appearance and character of the interior. Modular transformable sofas are an ideal option for lovers of change. These structures consist of individual elements; they can be assembled into various configurations, giving the furniture maximum comfort, taking into account the specifics of use.
A large range of such designs provides excellent opportunities for consumers. Modular transformable sofas for the living room include various elements:
- armchairs;
- single and double sofas;
- canapes;
- poufs;
- corners.
A modular sofa allows for a variety of configurations
Models can be square, rectangular, round, oval, or have a complex configuration. All modular transformable sofas are provided for several installation options. When creating a configuration, the location, room layout, and operating features are taken into account.
This furniture is ideal for spacious rooms. You can install it in the center to create a comfortable relaxation corner. Structures are often used to zone a room. You can choose compact modular transformable sofas for a small living room with a minimum set of elements.
Zoning space using a modular sofa
The advantage of such models is their versatility. They can serve as furniture for a recreation area, where the whole family gathers in their free time, receive guests, and have parties. The elements of the set create comfortable places to sleep. The assortment includes modular transformable sofas with laconic shapes, allowing you to equip a classic-type bed. You can choose original options that provide the opportunity to create a sleeping area that is round, oval, etc.
A modular sofa will create a comfortable place to sleep
Sets may include not only elements of upholstered furniture. Manufacturers complete sets with tables, shelves, intermediate structures with sides, etc.
Sofa wall
Modern technologies and materials make it possible to realize the most daring design ideas. The range of furniture is constantly updated with new, interesting forms. One of these innovative models is the wall sofa. This is a large design that can occupy the entire wall in the living room. The multi-sectional system is identical to the usual classic wall. But it has an important difference that allows you to equip a comfortable sleeping place.
It is advisable to use such a transformable sofa in a small apartment, where it is necessary to save every centimeter of space. Manufacturers implement design ideas in different ways. The walls are different:
- general dimensions;
- number, purpose of sections;
- sofa folding mechanisms;
- materials.
Sofa wall
The sleeping area can be hidden, disguised by closet doors. Sometimes the recreation area occupies the central part, including a sofa, shelves, or maybe a transformable sofa with a table, etc. If necessary, upholstered furniture is laid out according to one of the traditional transformation mechanisms. This can be a retractable or folding system. You can choose from an assortment of models with tilting, tilting, and lifting mechanisms.
Types of existing sofas
Transformer sofas can have a very diverse structure; they are made using different folding mechanisms, fillers, materials for creating the frame, and upholstery. Therefore, the models differ from each other not only externally, but also in internal content, level of comfort and functionality.
Let us now consider in more detail the most popular types of transformable sofas on the domestic furniture market, so that the issue of choosing a model for small-sized housing becomes as simple and clear as possible.
By folding mechanism
Transformer sofas can be divided into several types, based on the principle by which the product unfolds:
- with a manual transformation mechanism - in order to decompose the product, you will need to perform a series of manipulations using exclusively physical force. These are outdated, extremely cheap options, but if the budget for purchasing upholstered furniture for a tiny room is as meager as possible, then you should not refuse this option;
- on a spring mechanism - they are simple and reliable, requiring the use of physical effort when unfolding in a minimum volume. But the springs of such models stretch over the years, so the level of efficiency of the transformation mechanism and the comfort of the furniture in general decreases. In addition, the cost of such upholstered furniture is the highest. And to create a comfortable environment in a small bedroom, there are enough other more affordable options;
- roll-out type - the lounger is partially hidden under the seat, rolls out from under it and rises to its height. As a result, a person gets a comfortable sleeping place, which is very important for small rooms where it is simply impossible to install both a bed and a sofa;
- lifting type - the seat moves forward, and the back of the sofa falls horizontally, becoming part of the sleeping bed. For small rooms, this option is quite acceptable due to the optimal combination of the concepts of “price” and “comfort” in such models.
Roll-out
Spring mechanism
Lifting
Manual mechanism
By upholstery material
If you decide to purchase an ergonomic, highly functional, practical sofa for a small room, it is worth analyzing the advantages of different materials for upholstering such furniture. Some of them are more practical and durable, and some have a unique charm:
- genuine leather is highly environmentally friendly, wear-resistant, durable, and easy to care for. However, a sofa with such upholstery will not be cheap, even if it is of a minimal size;
- eco-leather - the cost will be cheaper than the previous option, and in terms of operational parameters it is practically not inferior to it. Eco-leather is very low maintenance, durable, and practical. The material is affordable and has the ability to “breathe”, allowing moisture to pass through it. Therefore, even in the heat, sitting on such upholstery is comfortable and comfortable. But if you carelessly cut such upholstery with a sharp object, it will no longer be possible to correct the situation;
- pile velor is very beautiful and practical. It can be cleaned of dirt without fear that the material will lose its color or texture. Dried stains on such fabric should be removed with a soap solution, under no circumstances using aggressive cleaning agents;
- The tapestry looks luxurious and expensive, but it can only be cleaned with a vacuum cleaner or a very soft brush. Otherwise, the upholstery will lose its luster and beauty. In other words, this option is not suitable for tiny housing, where creating elaborate interiors is not advisable.
Velours
Eco leather
Genuine Leather
Tapestry
By frame
Sofas for a small room must have a strong frame so that the furniture lasts as long as possible. It can be made from a number of materials:
- solid wood - furniture made from this material is very durable, environmentally friendly, durable, reliable, but expensive and quite heavy. For small apartments, it is worth choosing inexpensive types of wood (pine, birch), because frames made from such wood will be at the same time reliable, durable, affordable, and relatively light in weight;
- plywood is an affordable option that is lightweight. Therefore, transformer models with a plywood frame are suitable for small rooms where the interior should be practical and comfortable. But plywood does not demonstrate very high resistance to stress, so a sofa with such a frame will not have a very long service life;
- metal - galvanized or stainless steel is used for the manufacture of metal frames of sofas. This metal is durable, strong, but heavy. For small-sized apartments, such designs are not very relevant, so moving them from place to place is problematic, and folding mechanisms are rarely present in such sofas. On the other hand, if the interior of the room is decorated in high-tech style, the furniture for it should be as laconic in design as possible. This is precisely the quality that sofas with a metal frame and legs have.
Tree
Metal
Plywood
By filler
Models of sofas with a transformation mechanism may differ from each other and in the filler, which is used in the manufacture of structural parts of the model: backrest, seating area, armrests, decorative pillows, and so on. The specifics of the material used largely determine the level of comfort of the finished product, as well as its final cost.
It is recommended to choose such furniture for your home after you have read the brief description of the most popular filling materials. Then you can achieve the ideal price-quality ratio for a soft sofa without overpaying for imaginary comfort.
Type of filler | Characteristic | Part of the sofa where it is used | Advantages |
Spring block | Steel springs in a case | Backrest, seat | Durability |
Foamed polyurethane foam | Synthetic sponge-like material | Backrest, seat, pillows | Practicality, affordability |
Sintepon | Bulky non-woven polyester fiber fabric | Backrest, seat, pillows | Optimal level of softness, affordable price |
Holofiber | Silicone-type polyester fiber balls | Pillows, bolsters | Ideal for sofa cushions |
Sintepooh | Hollow siliconized fiber, highly crimped | Cushions, backrest, armrests | Affordable price, high softness |
Foamed polyurethane
Spring block
Sintepon
Sintepooh
Holofiber
Table-sofa designs
It is not only the need for rational use of space that ensures the high popularity of furniture that can perform multiple functions. An important factor is the originality of the designs. This moment is welcomed by modern fashion. The interior with such furniture items as a transformable sofa, table, looks interesting, extraordinary, which cannot but attract attention.
One of these options is a 3 in 1 transformable sofa, a sofa, a table and a bed in a common design. When folded, these models look like a traditional piece of upholstered furniture with a table in a dining room or dining room. Can:
- sit comfortably in front of the TV with a cup of coffee,
- organize a comfortable and friendly tea party,
- equip a workplace with a laptop.
Transformable sofa 3 in 1
If you need to create a sleeping area, the transformable sofa table folds out and turns into a comfortable double bed. For this purpose, it has special soft elements.
There are several options for 3-in-1 transformable sofas, sofas, tables, and other components. For example, the range of some manufacturers includes designs equipped with shelves for books, important small items, and drawers. When unfolding, items on the table may not be removed. Design features provide them with comfortable placement inside the bed.
Transformable sofa with shelves for books
A high-quality 3 in 1 transformable sofa, sofa, table, bed perfectly decorates the interior and becomes its spectacular highlight. In addition, a thoughtful design provides comfort and allows for the most efficient use of space. The cost of transformable sofas with a table is high, but the costs are justified by their versatility and impeccable aesthetic characteristics.
Two-tier transformers
Equipping a nursery requires an extremely careful approach. The organization of each zone requires attention. But sleeping places for children are the main object. It is necessary to create ideal conditions for proper rest, necessary for proper development. It's difficult to meet all the requirements in a small room. In such cases, multifunctional furniture comes to the rescue. You can purchase a transformable sofa with a table and create comfortable areas for studying and sleeping at the same time.
Transformable two-tier sofa
If two children live in a room, a two-tier design may be an ideal option. This transformable children's sofa turns from a traditional piece of upholstered furniture into two full beds. Models of these structures can be laid out in different ways. But they are all united by common principles:
- soft elements are equipped with high-quality spring systems and fillers;
- even children can perform the transformation thanks to gas elevators;
- upholstery materials are environmentally friendly, durable and practical.
A two-tier sofa is ideal for a children's room
Each children's two-tier transformable sofa undergoes strict quality control. Steel elements of folding mechanisms ensure strength and reliability. The systems are load-resistant and eliminate the risk of accidental folding.
There are different options in the range of children's transformable furniture. For example, you can choose a transformable children's sofa, which allows you to combine an area for entertainment and sleep.
Shape and dimensions
If we are talking about the shape of sofas, then the following should be noted. All existing models of such furniture today are made in such modifications as:
- corner - this modification of upholstered furniture is very easy to use, has a laconic design and high functionality. If in a small room the space in one of the corners is free from other furniture, it should be used as successfully as possible. It is the corner sofa that will allow you to achieve this goal;
- straight - with the help of such models it is easiest to create an original and functional interior within a small apartment;
- semicircular - very unusual aesthetics are characteristic of such models of upholstered furniture. But their installation requires a spacious living room or bedroom. But for small-sized apartments in urban high-rise buildings, this option is not at all suitable, since there is a minimum of free space in such housing;
- irregularly shaped - they look very original, are made of high-quality materials, are durable and highly comfortable. However, for small-sized housing, this option can be somewhat cumbersome and ineffective in terms of rational organization of the space of tiny rooms.
Irregular shape
Semicircular
Straight
Angular
And in order to correctly guide you in choosing the size of a piece of furniture of this nature, you should definitely take careful measurements of the room. Analyze which scale option will fit well with the surrounding interior, will look organic and will not lose its high level of comfort.
The standard width of sofas with a transformation mechanism varies from 115 cm to 160 cm, and the length from 180 to 220 cm. But for rooms with an area of 7-8 sq. m, the best option for one adult would be a sofa 180x120 cm, and for rooms of 10- 12 sq m, you can choose the option 180x150 cm. Although it is quite possible to make a small sofa with a size of 180x100 cm to order, if the room has dimensions of 5-6 sq m. Such models are relevant if you need to organize an additional sleeping place in the kitchen.
Choosing a transformable sofa
The fundamental criteria for choosing a model are:
- purpose;
- specifics of operation;
- square;
- interior design style.
If you need to use space rationally and create a multifunctional area, a high-quality transformable sofa table will be the best option. Folding furniture and two-tier structures will allow you to equip comfortable sleeping places. A full wall will help create an original interior.
A transformable sofa is ideal for a small apartment. A high-quality sleeping area and a resting place for the whole family are created at the same time, the area of the room is used rationally, and the interior is given the proper attractiveness. But these structures can also be used in spacious housing. Original modular transformable sofas for a large living room are the optimal solution.
A transformable sofa is ideal for a small apartment
When choosing these furniture items, general principles are also taken into account. They are important elements of the decor and must fit into the overall style and color scheme. It’s worth taking the time to look at photos of transformable sofas before purchasing in order to decide on the option.