Modern transformable bunk beds, types of designs

Advantages and disadvantages

Like any other piece of furniture, a transformable bunk bed has its pros and cons. The advantages are as follows.

• Space savings are especially noticeable when using the folding version. The disappearance of the “sleeping area” frees up maximum space.
• Changing the decor - transforming the bed into another object that is more needed during the daytime, not only saves space, but also allows you to organize it more rationally.
• A bunk bed is the best solution for two children in a small nursery. And if at “altitude” children are afraid to sleep, or parents worry too much, you can choose a composite option: it’s safe, and the sleeping area still consists of only one bed.
• Additional accessories - transformers are developed based on the principle of maximum use of space. The vast majority of models are equipped with additional devices: shelves, drawers, countertops, and so on.
• The cost of the structure is almost always less than the price of two separate beds and all those pieces of furniture that the transformer replaces.

Folding transformable bed

The disadvantages of a transformable bunk bed are no different from the disadvantages of a stationary structure.

• The threat of falling is solved in the case of a composite model. In all other cases, it is recommended to equip the second level with really high sides. This does not exclude the situation when a child consciously tries to overcome the fences and jump off during play, but it does exclude the possibility of a fall at night.
• For some time, while the children are too small, parents will have to lay out the transformers.

Varieties

The most popular types of transformable beds are:

• composite;
• folding, built into the cabinet;
• retractable structures;
• sofa beds;
• with a work desk.

The most complex mechanisms are used in such varieties as a transforming bed with a wardrobe and a sofa bed. Their basis is durable metal structures, which are either connected to a sliding frame or mounted on rotary hinges that can withstand increased loads.

The design of composite and retractable models is much simpler. These structures do not have moving elements or complex mechanisms. The first type is characterized by the installation of the legs of the upper sleeping bed on the back of the lower tier with the possibility of reliable fixation. The second type is two separate housing structures, one of which is equipped with wheels. An important condition for all transformers is the ease of transformation from one functional state to another.

Composite

Such a transformer is two beds, placed one on top of the other and securely fixed using special fasteners or grooves. This solution will be useful for families with two children with a small age difference. If the kids start being capricious and don’t want to spend the night next to each other, the sleeping places can always be divided.

The bed legs are placed on top of each other and, after fastening, form reliable supports for the second tier. They are able to withstand a lot of weight. The composite transformer is also equipped with a removable ladder, which is easy to install or remove. The lower bed can be equipped with drawers for bedding.

When assembled, the bunk bed saves precious living space. By dismantling the upper structure, the sleeping places can be divided and even placed in different rooms. This type of product is well suited for anyone who loves practical furniture.

Cabinet shaped

In order to rationally use the entire area of ​​the apartment, it is necessary to use multifunctional compact structures. One of the most interesting technical solutions when organizing a sleeping area is a folding bunk bed in the form of a closet. Important advantages that make this type of furniture popular are quick assembly and inconspicuousness during the day. The sleeping places take a vertical position and are put away in a tall narrow box standing against the wall, which looks like a closet.

The beds are mounted on reliable swivel hinges. Rotation around them provides movement from a horizontal to a vertical, more compact, position. The metal ladder plays the role of additional support. And if the folding bunk bed is equipped with gas guides, then the transformation will not require much effort.

The beds are equipped with special belts to secure the linen and mattress while moving the bed to a vertical position.

Reclining

The best possible option for saving living space is to convert the bed from a horizontal position to a vertical one. This transformation is ensured by special lifting mechanisms. They are equipped with strong hinges on which the berth is supported and around which it is rotated.

A bunk bed with a folding lift mechanism can be built into the wall or have an open metal frame. But most often this furniture becomes a narrow box when folded. Its exterior has a nice design that matches well with the interior.

A special type of reclining two-tier furniture includes a transformable sofa bed. During the day it looks like an ordinary sofa, and at night, with the help of mechanisms hidden by the body, you can easily create a second tier and organize an additional sleeping place there. Each such sofa comes with a durable ladder. Of all the types of transformers, this is the most functional.

Retractable

A retractable transformable bunk bed is the most compact. A separate advantage is that the upper tier is located relatively low. A person sleeping on it is not in danger of falling from a dangerous height.

The second floor of this type of furniture is quite a bit higher than a typical bed. During the daytime, the structure looks like an ordinary sleeping place with a large pull-out wardrobe. However, below is not storage for clothes, but another bed.

There are designs that can accommodate not two, but three people. In this option, two people are seated like on a regular bunk bed. The third is located on a pull-out berth, which, when assembled, is located under the lower tier.

With one berth and work area

There are several types of two-tier transformers with a work area. In some, the sleeping place is organized on the second tier, and the table is a folding structure. In others, when the bed is pulled out, the table is removed inside the body or moved to a lower level.

For children, they produce a wide range of models of transformable bunk beds with a table. This furniture attracts kids not only with its interesting design and bright colors, but also with many moving parts. The use of a transformer, in which the table is converted into a bed and back, is an excellent opportunity to effectively use the space of the living room. An additional advantage is that you need to clean your workplace every day before going to bed. This is a good way to teach your child order.

Types of transformable bunk beds

Such furniture designs are available in several versions, but if we talk about furniture for two children, then two-tier models deserve attention. Even in a stationary version, a bed with two tiers saves space, and if it is also a transformer, there will be even more space in the room. In addition, the design features make it possible to introduce order to the child, which is also useful.

There are these types of transformers:

• sofa bed with two tiers;
• wardrobe bed;
• table-bed.

You need to choose a specific model based on the age of the children, their interests and preferences.

Sofa convertible into a bunk bed

Transformable bunk bed that turns into a sofa. A popular solution that provides two beds at night and a comfortable sofa for relaxing during the day. When folded, such furniture looks like an ordinary sofa, but due to the lifting mechanism and strong supports it can easily be converted into a bunk bed with comfortable sleeping places.

A special feature of this design is the folding mechanism and metal supports. The body is made of wood, MDF or chipboard. For greater reliability, there are interlocks that do not allow the mechanism to operate arbitrarily, and a circular fence of the upper tier. Of course, the design also includes a staircase.

The shape, design and dimensions of the sofa, the size of the sleeping places can be different. It should be taken into account that such transformers should not be bought for children under 10 years old - it will be difficult for them to fold out and fold the beds.

Bunk wardrobe bed transformer

A two-story transformable bed that turns into a closet. In terms of space saving in the room, it is a real leader. When unfolding the structure, you get two full-fledged sleeping places. When folded, both places turn into a closet that takes up minimal space and looks quite stylish.

The mechanism of such furniture is quite complex, but reliable. The transformation itself is quite simple, which is also an advantage of the model. A relative disadvantage is that when the bed is folded, the child has no place to rest, and to unfold it, you need to free up the part of the room where the bed is located. On the other hand, it teaches order and proper organization of space.

There are furniture with folding and retractable mechanisms. Also in stores there are partially transformable beds - in them either the upper or lower tier is fixed permanently. At the same time, the lower tier can be not only a sleeping place - often it is a work area with a table. Many options provide shelves and niches for storing things, making the bed more functional.

Bunk table bed

Transformable bunk beds for children – bed + table. This option is great for two children; they get comfortable beds and a spacious table for studying. At the same time, the upper tier is stationary, it does not transform, and the lower one, as needed, becomes either a bed or a table.

The advantage of this option is the opportunity to save square meters at the expense of the table. A relative disadvantage is that the second child must choose between the opportunity to watch cartoons on the PC, read, or relax. In addition, to transform you need to remove all things from the tabletop or bedding from the bed - this can be inconvenient.

Difference between models for children and adults

A transformer is a good solution for almost any room in the house . It will come in handy in the living room: the sofa, which easily turns into two sleeping places, can easily accommodate friends staying overnight. If the apartment is small, then it is reasonable to use a folding bunk bed to turn the dining room or living room into a full-fledged bedroom at night. Such opportunities are more in demand among adults, and the dimensions of folding transformers are not small at all: length from 2 meters, width from 80 to 140 centimeters.

In children's rooms, composite and pull-out beds are often used. On them, the child will be able to independently organize a place to sleep. While he simply does not have enough strength to unfold the sofa or bring the folding model into the desired position. Bed sizes for children are smaller than for adults. The length of a mattress suitable for a child aged 10 to 14 years is 170 cm. For children under 10 years old, it is better to choose a bed with a length of 150–160 cm and a width of 70 cm.

When choosing the length of the bed, first of all you need to focus on the child’s height, because the recommendations are calculated on average indicators characteristic of the specified ages.

A transformable bunk bed for two children is a popular solution for older families. At the same time, older people prefer the second tier. Younger ones are more comfortable on the lower one - there is no danger of falling from a great height.

The top bed seems like an unusual place for children; they happily use it in games. A thoughtful design can improve the features of the second tier. Boys will love the interestingly designed functional elements of the bed: stairs, railings, sides, headboard. Girls will love the smooth and graceful contours, delicate colors, and the ability to beautifully arrange dolls and plush animals.

For babies

For schoolchildren

For teenagers

For adults

How to choose a transformable bunk bed

All types of transformable bunk beds are reliable and durable - models for teenagers can withstand weight up to 150 kg. Of course, this applies to high-quality furniture, so when choosing, you should pay attention to the brand.

You also need to consider:

1. Dimensions. Not only the dimensions of the furniture as a whole are taken into account, but also the length and width of the beds and the table, if there is one. These parameters are selected according to the child’s age if his height meets the criteria. Thus, the size of a bed for a teenager is usually 180, 190×90 cm, for children 7-14 years old - 160, 170×80 cm. As for the table, its length and width are usually the same as the parameters of the bed.
2. Type of base. As a rule, transformers have a solid bottom, this is necessary for greater structural strength. But if one of the beds is stationary, the bottom can be lattice - made of slats or elastic slats.
3. Top tier parameters. The most important thing is safety, so in any case the bed should be surrounded by sides.
4. Ladder. As a rule, in such models it is fixed strictly vertically.

You can find many types of beds in stores, but it is important to choose not only the right design, although this matters a lot. You should not sacrifice quality - choose models made of wood, MDF or high-quality chipboard of sufficient thickness. This way you can be sure that children will use the furniture for a long time, and it will be completely safe for their health. If the bed body is made of thin sheets, it will not withstand heavy loads, which can lead to furniture malfunctions or even injuries. And low-quality laminated chipboard emits harmful substances, so it’s better to pay more but get a guaranteed high-quality transforming bed.

So, considering what types of transformable bunk beds there are, you can choose one of three types: those that turn into a sofa, a table or a wardrobe.
Regardless of the type, they can even withstand the weight of adults (if the models are designed for teenagers), you can find options suitable for any interior and layout. © 2021 Furniture-one.ru — Copying materials is strictly prohibited.

Manufacturing materials

The body of the transforming bed must be durable, especially when it comes to two-story models . The upper tiers of most products can support weights of more than 100 kg. To obtain such parameters, high-quality materials are used. And to prevent the bed from becoming too massive, they are combined. All moving parts of the transformation mechanism are made of metal - the design is simpler, and the elements themselves are more reliable.

Solid wood is often used as the base of the body. The products are durable, strong, and can easily withstand heavy loads. Species used: pine, beech, walnut, oak. Their use is typical for composite models.

Sliding doors are made from laminated chipboard panels using standard furniture manufacturing technologies. This technical solution is completely justified. Indeed, thanks to the unique design, this type of bed is not subject to increased loads.

Soft fillers, which are used for two-tier transformers, differ little from the standard ones used in other furniture. These are natural materials: coconut tow and horsehair. Or specially developed artificial ones: polyurethane foam, durafil, synthetic winterizer, holofiber, synthetic winterizer, synthetic padding. If the product is intended for children, then all the fillers used are of excellent quality and environmentally friendly.

The upholstery of the sofa will last a long time if it is made of durable and wear-resistant genuine leather . A good alternative is eco-leather. It is no different in appearance, but will require significantly lower costs. An important advantage is that leather is easy to care for - it is a very practical material.

However, it is more comfortable to sleep if the upholstery is made of velor, flock, chenille, matting or other types of textiles. Their surface is rough, which means that the bed linen will not constantly slide off, as often happens on the skin. Not all natural fabrics are highly wear-resistant. In addition, they are not easy to clean in case of serious contamination.

MDF

Metal

laminated chipboard

Solid wood

What to consider when choosing

• Dimensional parameters - especially height. Ideally, after 3 years, it is advisable to choose a bed with a bed size of around 70*160 cm, and then, upon reaching adolescence, change it to a full-fledged one-and-a-half-size option - 90*200 cm. It is unrealistic to follow these tips when choosing a transformer for two children of different ages. Therefore, a structure of normal adult size is purchased.
• The usual height of a bunk bed is 180–190 cm. This is too high for a 3-year-old child. Manufacturers recommend such models only for children over 6 years old. However, there are special series for kids from 3, where the height of the second level is 116–120 cm. This is a much more suitable option.
• Materials : metal and solid hardwood: beech, oak, hevea. No chipboard or MDF is allowed. The structure is subject to high loads. Only additional elements are made from fiberboards - shelves, drawers.
• A staircase is preferably inclined, but this is rare for a transformer. If a bed is purchased for small children, it is better to have a ladder with flat steps: the round leg will slide off...

Children's collapsible transforming bed

• You definitely need to check the fastenings and try the tilting, lifting mechanisms, and so on. All connecting nodes must be absolutely reliable.
• Product design - the design of the model must match the interior of the nursery, especially when it comes to a transformable bunk bed for a teenager. Of course, if you purchase a folding bunk bed, its appearance does not matter, but the sofa bed should be not only comfortable and functional, but also beautiful.

Advice: prefer a slatted bottom, rounded edges and corners, also relevant for a transformer

Additional selection criteria

To get a good result and a positive impression from the purchase, you need to take a responsible approach to choosing a bed. You need to try to take into account the maximum number of little things. For example, the height of the upper tier should be such that there is enough space for a person there, which means that when choosing a bed, it is necessary to take into account the distance from the floor to the ceiling. When looking at furniture for a nursery, you should remember that the recommended size of a child’s sleeping area between the ages of 3 and 10 years is 0.7 x 1.6 m.

The weight of the person who will be using the furniture is also important. Many designs are limited to 100 kg, but there are also stronger ones that can withstand 150 and even 200 kg. To prevent the bed from unexpectedly falling apart and having to deal with a jammed mechanism, you should check all connections in advance, test the model, and also read reviews about its reliability .

Transformable beds have a wide range of application possibilities. They are versatile, compact and help make the most of your living space. A wide variety of designs allows everyone to choose the most suitable model for themselves.

How does a lift-up wardrobe bed work?

Lifting mechanism - types

Lifting mechanisms are divided according to the principle of operation:

• gas;
• spring.

Spring mechanisms are considered more reliable. They can also be adjusted to suit the user’s weight and mattress size. This will extend their service life. Gas ones are inferior in strength, they are not adjusted to operating conditions, so they are used less often. Both types of mechanisms allow you to unfold and put away the bed with a slight movement of the hand.

Lifting mechanisms are divided according to the type of folding into:

• vertical;
• horizontal.

For double beds, a vertical folding mechanism is considered optimal. Then shelves and other storage systems are equipped on the sides. More compact beds fold horizontally. Because one side is attached to the wall, the entire structure resembles a sofa. In the upper part of the camouflage cabinet there are shelves, cabinets, etc.

It is worth noting that with any type of folding you will not need a separate place to store bedding. They are fixed with special straps on the bed and removed together with it into a prepared niche. Therefore, a wardrobe bed for a small apartment will be an ideal solution.

How the bed is arranged

Beds of all sizes can be folding: standard one-, one-and-a-half- and double-beds, as well as custom-made according to individual measurements. Most often, sizes vary from 75-180 cm in width to 180-220 cm in length. An orthopedic mattress is placed on the base as on a regular bed.

Transformers are quite bulky and also demanding on build quality. Therefore, during installation, it is important to avoid distortions in the structure itself, in the floor, or in the walls. If the base is uneven, it must first be leveled.

When unfolded, the folding wardrobe bed will rest on its legs. They must withstand the weight of the structure itself + the mass of sleeping people. That is, they must be strong. There are different options for designing the legs: traditional in the corners, in the form of solid ribs, etc. Decorative design will turn them into interior decoration. When folded, they can remain visible or be stored in special niches. When the bed is raised, the legs-ribs will turn into shelves for temporary placement of some things. However, when unfolding the bed every day, using such shelves will be inconvenient.

Mattress base

The folding bed, built into the closet, has the same base as a regular one - a lattice of curved lamellas made of laminated wood. It enhances the orthopedic effect of the mattress and makes sleep more comfortable. The slats are built into the bed frame and securely fixed to the frame.

The slats are made from several layers of wood glued together. Usually the material for them is beech or birch. The slats are placed in increments of 3 or 5 cm. Other intervals are less common. They are secured to the frame using special holders.

The lattice creates a non-rigid base. It absorbs and takes part of the load on itself. Due to this, it is possible to reduce the back pressure of the mattress on the human body. Therefore, sleep is more comfortable. Due to the slats, the load on the human body is distributed correctly and evenly. Also, due to the fact that the base takes on part of the pressure, it is possible to extend the life of the mattress.

Advantages of a slatted bed frame:

• low weight of the entire structure, which makes it easy to raise and lower the bed;
• enhancing the orthopedic effect due to load redistribution and shock-absorbing properties of the lamellas;
• high strength - can withstand loads of up to 250 kg;
• use of environmentally friendly materials, complete safety for humans and the environment.

Orthopedic bases are designed for a load of 100 to 250 kg per bed. The dimensions of the gratings are usually designed for standard sizes of mattresses: single and double. For a single bed, the slats are attached to the frame. For double mattresses, the lattice is reinforced with an additional cross-bar. Often an additional support is installed in the middle. This avoids bending of the slats.

Cabinet front

The front part of the cabinet near the transformer faces the floor. However, when the bed is folded, it is on public display. Therefore, facade decoration is very important. It should be durable, aesthetically pleasing and suitable for the interior of the house.

Most often, the facade is made of the same material as the cabinet body. Usually this is MDF or laminated chipboard. The most common design option is wood. Less common are finishes made from plastic panels, mirrors or combined materials.

Chipboard and MDF look classic and laconic. They are easy to maintain and reliable. The glossy plastic leaves fingerprints, but is easy to clean. The most interesting option is mirrored facades. They will reflect light, making the room feel lighter and more spacious. They also have different decoration options: matte finish, patterns, mosaics, photo printing, etc. Such a transforming wardrobe-bed can become the center of an accent group in the living room or bedroom. However, the mirror is quite capricious and requires careful care.

The facade is not always designed in the form of doors. It can be made in the form of shelves. When unfolding the bed, they will act as legs.

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