We have long been accustomed to transformable furniture, like a book-table, a sofa that transforms into a sleeping place. But Japanese designers realized that the bed could be hidden in a closet, and then in a small room there would be enough space to fully move around the room without the risk of bumping.
Perhaps they were not interested in the problem of organizing space in a small room, but only in design and construction possibilities. IKEA, a Swedish company specializing in the production and sale of goods and furniture for the home, happily accepted the excellent idea of colleagues to produce a transforming bed. And this is what we have today!
Or rather, it is not we who “have”, but the rich assortment of IKEA! We can give credit to what they are releasing to the “masses”: IKEA furniture makers have been surprising for 70 years and are unlikely to stop doing so in the future. Their “habit” of bringing even simple furniture to perfection, while remaining true to the principles of “a decent product does not break the wallet”, has become a company.
Ideas taken from ancient times
Now it is difficult to say who first came up with transformable furniture. Perhaps it all started with the Egyptian pharaoh's camp chair: it could “turn” into a stool and fold up when needed to be carried. Perhaps the developers saw the idea of making a bed with a mechanism that allows it to be leaned against the wall in the ancient way of Europeans sleeping in... a closet?
True, in those days this was how people tried to avoid the risk of being killed in their sleep or being left without ears and nose: after all, then rats and mice were a real disaster for townspeople. Doctors also advised sleeping half-sitting, so as not to bother the rest of the household with snoring, and at the same time avoid the fate of getting a cerebral hemorrhage. Well, besides, in the closet with the doors closed it was possible to keep warm and not suffocate from carbon smoke.
In other words, modern transformable beds are what they dreamed of in the old days, and what has become possible thanks to the latest technologies.
Today people use:
- a bed with drawers for storing linen and things;
- a chair that transforms into a chair and a table at the same time;
- a sofa that converts into a 2-tier bed;
- design: folding table - also known as a wall mirror;
- a full-fledged room that can be folded into... a cabinet.
How IKEA wardrobe beds work
A distinctive feature of this furniture is its simple “transformation” scheme. A simple mechanism transforms an ordinary bed into a wardrobe.
In the daytime, as a rule, it is more important for a person to use the closet, so the bed at this moment “slides” under it. When it's time to relax, the bed can simply be pulled out. At this moment, the closet “moves” into a special space, which is vacated at the moment of transformation.
Transformable furniture can be used as a wardrobe and as a sleeping place.
It will only take a few seconds for the furniture from the closet to be “transformed” into a sleeping place. It is worth considering that at this moment there is no need to remove things from the closet; you can also leave bed linen.
Attention! The IKEA wardrobe bed will be an excellent solution for families where guests often stay. On such days, it is necessary to organize additional places to sleep. Such furniture is perfect for studio apartments or small-sized “Khrushchev” apartments.
Types and varieties of transformers
The main idea of creating this part of the set is to create and organize the most convenient space for small and one-room apartments. When assembled, the structure looks like an ordinary wardrobe. By activating the lift-and-fold mechanism, the wardrobe is transformed into a comfortable bed.
A classic representative of the generation of transforming wardrobes is considered to be a vertical type model, equipped with a longitudinally folding bed. A similar system, but smaller in size, is equipped with a children's bed of transformable furniture.
Vertical folding furniture sets are available in various sizes. The depth of the transforming cabinet does not exceed 450 mm. The width of the module is different and depends on the parameters of the bed. The transformer is installed in narrow rooms with high ceilings, where free space is needed during the daytime.
The built-in bed is mounted to the wall with the end part, on the side where the lifting mechanism system is located. Thanks to the lift, the module quickly moves into a vertical position and is firmly fixed until tilted. When folded, the transforming wardrobe is a full-fledged wardrobe in which personal items are stored.
The vertical type transformer is produced in two categories - a single or double module, hiding behind the mirrored doors of the wardrobe.
In addition to vertical-type structures, the industry has launched the production of multifunctional furniture, built on a different principle of operation of the lifting mechanism and differing in a completely different appearance:
- Folding bed horizontal. Unlike a transforming wardrobe, a bed with a horizontal fastening type is available only in a single version, and the dimensions of the wardrobe itself are much more modest.
- Beds built into a wall niche. Such models form a single whole with the wall and allow you to keep the usable area of the room unchanged, turning a small room at night into a full-fledged overnight stay, even for three.
- Wall bed that stows away in the closet. It is a complete room set. The set is located along the entire wall of the room and is equipped with additional furniture modules. A very convenient option for furnishing studio apartments, significantly saving usable space.
- The bed is surrounded by bookshelves. Unlike the wall-bed, the set is equipped not with wardrobes, but with bookshelves. Serves as an ideal solution for furnishing an office or home for a book lover.
How does the transformation mechanism work?
When making a wardrobe bed, two main mechanisms are mainly used:
- gas lift;
- spring.
The lifting mechanism can be gas or spring.
In the first case, the mechanism is convenient in that at the moment the structure moves, thanks to the high pressure of the compressed gas, the transformation of the furniture occurs smoothly, and there is no need to even use physical force. Fixation is carried out using locks.
The operation of the spring mechanism is based on springs that have a considerable range of capabilities. The mechanism is easy to adjust thanks to the existing bolt. If it is necessary to strengthen or weaken the elastic force, it is necessary to remove or add the required number of springs.
How to do it yourself?
After all the materials and tools are prepared, you can safely begin making a transforming bed:
- First, a special box is made and a special platform is installed for the base of the bed, which is attached to the wall with anchor bolts.
For the frame we take two boards 2 meters long and one board 1.1 meters long. We connect the boards with screws and furniture glue. We wait until the structure dries, and attach the transverse one to the back side of the vertical boards. We fasten the board on the front side in the same way. - At the end of the box we fasten the side trim with screws and glue. We attach a crossbar to the top of the box. Now we proceed to the construction of the folding part. Before laying the mattress, the box should be reinforced with transverse and longitudinal slats, on which plywood will later be laid. This will prevent the plywood from sagging and give the box strength.
- The folding part of our bed will consist of plywood with triangular crossbars on the sides, fastened with a horizontal board. We fasten the structure with a special mechanism, with the help of which the product will unfold and fold.
- Now we move on to installing the fasteners and designing the box. To do this, we attach a loop at the top of the product through which the safety belt will be pulled. We place magnetic clasps in convenient places that will prevent the product from opening when lifted. We lay the mattress on the base and attach it to the plywood with glue.
- The final touch will be the installation of the legs.
Attention: the depth of the box must be equal to the thickness of the future bed. To be on the safe side, the box can be made deeper... That’s the whole process of making a transforming bed with your own hands
That's the whole process of making a transforming bed with your own hands.
Advantages and disadvantages
The wardrobe bed certainly has a number of advantages:
- rational use of space;
- does not cause trouble when cleaning the apartment, since the structure easily rises, freeing up space;
- the ability to choose a design for one or two;
- ease of operation.
The wardrobe bed has several specific advantages.
It is worth noting that transformable furniture is often chosen by designers when decorating a modern interior. This type of furniture can be used in any interior and will undoubtedly satisfy the needs of even the most demanding consumer.
Despite the fact that the IKEA folding bed has a number of advantages, the furniture also has a number of disadvantages. And first of all, it’s worth mentioning the price. Some young families will have to save for such a purchase for some time or purchase on credit.
Most people are wary of such furniture because they fear that the lifting mechanism may work while sleeping or the bed-wardrobe will fall on the person standing next to it at that moment. Therefore, such purchases must be made exclusively in trusted furniture stores.
Furniture should only be purchased from trusted stores.
Some people begin to think that the wardrobe-bed will have to be constantly disassembled and assembled, and this takes time. By adapting to the mechanism, you can get a bed or a wardrobe in a matter of seconds.
Multifunctional transformer device
The main advantage of folding beds is their long service life due to unsurpassed quality. The quality itself is ensured by a fairly simple swing system that can withstand heavy loads.
The lifting mechanism uses gas shock absorbers, specially developed by German designers for this type of furniture. Their service life is quite long and consists of 14 thousand cycles of folding and opening the module.
The appearance of any of the models of folding beds fully meets modern requirements. The lower part of the bed, when assembled, can be made in the form of a regular wardrobe or bookshelves, providing convenient storage.
According to the technical characteristics and imposed loads, the bed is liftable to the wall and must be held firmly at the base. The dual function assigned to one furniture attribute requires a special strength of functional systems and elements.
A transforming cabinet is a whole system of elements and mechanisms:
- The steel or metal frame at the base of the transformer is made from pipes with a diameter of 2.0 - 5.0 mm.
- The lifting mechanism of true German quality for changing the position of the modular design ensures silent and easy sliding of the module.
- Lamellar mattress support systems have from 12 to 24 elements, depending on the model. The slats can be made of light aluminum alloy or valuable wood.
- The style of the cabinet doors meets modern standards. The doors are equipped with a reinforced closing mechanism that does not allow them to swing open if they are in a horizontal position when lowering the bed.
- The wardrobe bed is equipped with retractable legs to ensure stability.
- The bed is equipped with special belts that secure the bed linen. They ensure that bedding is on the surface of the bed when the module is brought into a vertical position.
Some models do not come with a mattress and must be purchased additionally.
Remember that the thickness of the mattress should be no more than 250 mm, and not prevent the module from taking a vertical position.
Dimensions and material from which they are made
Today, there are no problems with choosing a wardrobe-bed model; the modern market offers a large selection and IKEA is no exception. From the options presented, you can choose the appropriate size for adults and children.
The wardrobe-bed with one place to sleep has dimensions of 80x190 cm. There are wider options - 90x200 cm. The size of the children's bed is 70x150 cm.
The dimensions of the bed-wardrobe depend on its purpose.
The material determines not only the appearance of the product, but also affects the quality and durability of the furniture. The body of the wardrobe bed can be made of:
- Natural wood and solid wood. Mostly they choose pine, oak, and alder. The furniture is of higher quality, and therefore its cost is much higher. The design is quite heavy, so it is not the best option for small children or elderly people.
- Fiberboard, particle board, veneer. This type of furniture is cheaper.
- Metal body. The design is durable, but inferior in appearance to the above-mentioned models.
Furniture is made from wood, wood panels and metal.
Often, IKEA combines the listed materials with others to make transformable furniture: chipboard, MDF, various polymers.
Furniture made from cheaper materials can be harmful to health. For example, laminated chipboard or MDF may emit formaldehyde. Of course, this does not mean that these materials are not worth choosing at all. There are models that are made with high quality; sellers must provide a certificate as proof.
Attention! IKEA transformable furniture is unique due to the decor used; the manufacturer often uses patterns, glass, carvings on wooden surfaces, etc.
Not all materials are healthy, so you need to choose furniture carefully.
Transformable beds: a reasonable compromise
One of the most popular transformers for small apartments is beds. This is quite understandable: most of the day the sleeping place is not used, and taking up precious square meters of the room with it is offensive and irrational.
Pros and cons
However, transforming beds have not only advantages, but also disadvantages.
Main advantages:
- saving space;
- the ability to hide the sleeping area (relevant for studios and rooms with several functions);
- placement of non-adjacent functions in one room (living room-bedroom, kitchen-bedroom);
- the opportunity to turn some disadvantages of the room into advantages (a wardrobe-bed can occupy a niche, and a wall-bed will eliminate the need to level not-so-ideal walls).
- many transformers also allow you to hide the sleeping area along with the linen, without the need to make and unroll the bed every day.
Main disadvantages:
- the need to unfold and fold the sleeping place every day (modern transformers allow you to do this with a slight movement of the hand, or even using a smartphone, but you cannot escape the very need to fold and unfold);
- the inability to use two functions of the transformer at the same time (if you chose a table-bed, then in most cases you will not be able to use the table while the bed is unfolded);
- in some cases, the shortcomings of the sleeping place itself (for example, a sofa bed often requires a topper, and a folding daybed will not provide you with a double mattress: it will be two singles, and you will need a connecting accessory).
ADVICE. Transformable beds are a choice not only for children. Modern manufacturers offer many double models - for two.
Stylish, unusual nightstand-bed-transformer
What types of transformable beds are there?
Modern manufacturers offer a variety of models of convertible folding beds. Among the most popular are chairs and sofa beds, beds with a wardrobe, table beds, pouf beds and 2-in-1 beds.
Sofa beds and convertible couches
The sofa bed is one of the most popular transformers. It allows you to literally turn a living room into a bedroom in minutes - and is often a real salvation for small apartments, studios, and guest areas.
Sofa beds are different: they differ in size, shape, as well as frame materials, filling and upholstery, but the main difference is in the transformation mechanism. Below are the most common options.
Transformation types | Characteristics |
Accordion | The furniture folds into a kind of “accordion” and unfolds forward, forming a flat sleeping area without changes. The downside is that transformation requires some effort, and the wheels of some models can injure sensitive floor coverings. |
Book, click-clack | The transformation mechanisms are very similar: in essence, the “click-klyak” is the same book, but more compact and requiring the preliminary folding of the “wings”. The advantage of these sofas is that they have a longitudinal sleeping area and can be used in a narrow room. The downside is the recess in the center when unfolded, as well as the need to expend some effort. |
Eurobook | It has almost the same pros and cons as the models above, but it refers to roll-out sofa beds - and therefore requires much less effort to transform. |
Dolphin and puma | More modern versions of sofa beds (the first is a roll-out type) resemble the jump of a dolphin and a puma, respectively, and are easy to fold and unfold. An important bonus is that such mechanisms are used for both corner and linear sofas. |
With rotating or turning mechanism | Such beds allow you to rotate the upper parts 90 degrees - and turn a rather elongated seating area into a sleeping area. The downside is the same depression in the center, as well as possible marks on a particularly sensitive floor covering. |
Sofa bed | There are different types of folding beds (French, sedaflex, etc.), but the essence is the same: a sleeping place with a thin mattress “unfolds” from inside the sofa. The model is suitable for temporary, guest sleeping space. For constant sleep, it can be used only under one condition: supplemented with a more comfortable, high mattress. |
Modular sofas | The sleeping place is made up of separate modules, which, when separated, can serve as poufs, armchairs, mini-sofas). Rarely used as a main bed, more often - as an additional, guest option. |
Couches | Folding couches can also be included in this list. The principle of their transformation is similar to roll-out sofas: a module is pulled forward from under the seat, onto which mattresses or pillows are placed. |
Modern style sofa book in yellow
Transformable chairs
If you are looking for a single (or semi-sleeping) option, a chair-bed may be one of the best solutions. They are convenient both as additional beds and as a main bed.
In terms of the method of transformation, the chairs are very similar to transformable sofas: there are folding chairs, accordions, Eurobooks, etc.
Wardrobe beds
A bed in a closet is furniture that offers a fundamental alternative to folding sofas: after all, such a sleeping place is transformed not horizontally, but vertically. During the day, this furniture is visually a closet (it can be supplemented with a small sofa, shelves or an entire dining area), and at night a sleeping place is lowered from the “closet”. Thus, you can get a full-fledged sleeping place and significantly save space in the room. That is why a wardrobe bed is a popular transformer for a small apartment.
Wardrobe beds exist not only as an independent transformer for a small apartment, but also as entire walls: a sleeping place can be hidden behind the facades of a spacious storage system. In the same way, you can provide two sleeping places in the wall at once - for example, guest ones.
ADVICE. Most often, the fronts of a bed-wardrobe are a “fake” or imitate a wall with shelves, but if you wish, you can also get a wardrobe with a transforming bed.
Beautiful, stylish wardrobe-bed with a sofa, real photo in the interior of the apartment
Table-beds and bedside tables
There are two more options for transformers, most often both are used as guest areas or when arranging small spaces for one person: usually a single bed is “hidden” in such tables or cabinets.
One of the bonuses is the opportunity to bypass the two main disadvantages of sofas and wardrobe beds. Firstly, their obvious size; secondly, the inability to use both functions at once (when unfolded, a sofa bed deprives the room of a relaxation area, and a wardrobe bed is, for the most part, just a bed, and not at all a spacious storage system).
In turn, a table-bed and a bedside table will also force you to make compromises: in the first case, it will be impossible to use the workplace when the bed is folded out. In the second, the bedside table, of course, will not provide spacious storage.
ADVICE. It is a mistake to believe that beds built into cabinets or tables are suitable exclusively for children's rooms. For small apartments for one tenant, this is also a common choice.
Stylish, compact transformable bed in a TV stand in the interior
Ottoman beds
This folding bed (usually a single bed) is rarely used as a main bed, but most effectively solves the problem of an additional guest bed. Budget options are a folding bed that, when folded, can be used as a pouf or footstool. Designer models may have more complex, unique transformation mechanisms, but the price will be appropriate.
Stylish, compact transformable bed in the form of a pouf
Stylish, compact transformable pouf bed in the interior
"2 in 1"
2-in-1 transformable beds allow you to turn one bed into two. The most common option is roll-out extra beds (when the second bed is hidden under the main one and rolled out with a slight movement of the hand).
There are other options - for example, a folding bed that hides in the frame of the main bed. And also two beds that are placed on top of each other - and in this form they resemble a cozy sofa.
Stylish, compact 2-in-1 transformable bed bench
Loft bed
More precisely, a variation on the theme of loft beds. In this situation, the sleeping place, with the help of special rails and a mechanism, rises to the very ceiling during the day, and falls down at night.
Stylish, compact transformable loft bed
Bed with convertible base
A relatively new version of beds in which only the position of the sleeping place changes: you can raise the mattress at the head or bend it in the most comfortable way. During the day, such a bed can serve as a spacious, comfortable couch, and at night serve its main purpose. The downside is that you will have to make and unroll the bed every day.
Choosing a transformable bed: what to consider
To choose the right convertible bed, it is important to answer a number of key questions.
Single or double
As a rule, the size of a sleeping place for one varies in the range of 80-120 cm, for two - 140-180 cm. However, if desired, you can find larger beds, and when made to order, the size range is completely as wide as possible.
ADVICE. To order, for example, a folding bed-wardrobe or a lift-up bed with an electric drive, focus on models from the main lines of manufacturers. If you need something more individual, try to take into account the most common sizes of sleeping places (this will not only reduce the cost of production, but also simplify the further selection of bed linen, bedspreads, etc.).
Vertical or horizontal transformation
Depending on the configuration of the room, the optimal choice will be different for everyone. So, for a narrower, elongated room, it is logical to choose a sofa bed with longitudinal transformation or rely on folding beds (table-bed, bedside table). And in a room where there is a little more space, it is more logical to use a bed built into the closet or sofas with transverse transformation.
Beautiful, stylish wardrobe-bed in the interior of the apartment
Easy transformation
For people with above-average physical abilities, almost any transformer is suitable. But for people who are not so physically prepared, and even more so for those whose physical capabilities are limited, it is important to carefully select the mechanism.
A solution that requires virtually no effort is electrically driven transformers. The most advanced ones can even be connected to a smart home system and controlled from a smartphone or through a voice assistant. However, this pleasure is quite expensive, and the choice of models will not be very large.
Among the more common options, easy-to-operate mechanisms include sofa beds such as puma, dolphin, as well as many models with a rotating mechanism and with a roll-out type berth. Also, beds-cabinets, beds-tables, beds-cabinets and all transformers with a “gas elevator” mechanism will not require excessive physical effort.
But mechanisms that require manual lifting using hinges or spring blocks should be avoided: the former will require significant effort, the latter are the least reliable and have the shortest service life of all.
Beautiful, stylish chest of drawers in the interior
Function intersection
When selecting transformable furniture, it is important to consider the intersection of its functions. For example, if you want to simultaneously use the sleeping area and living room, a convertible bed with a sofa may not be a good option.
Additional storage
Not every transformer offers additional storage, and even a sofa bed does not always have a drawer for bed linen.
Types of wardrobe beds
Folding transformers are divided into the following types:
- Reclining bed. After assembly it turns into a cabinet, table, wall or chest of drawers.
- Tilt and turn model.
- Closet. The upper tier is equipped for a sleeping place, and things are stored in the lower part.
- Roll-out system.
- Folding system. The design is built into various cabinet furniture options and does not take up much space.
The rising device can be made in the form of a compartment bed.
Material
The material from which transformers are made depends on the cost of the product, but the main principle of IKEA is always maintained - reliability and quality are maintained.
The most expensive models are made from natural wood.
In other structures, metal and wood-fiber boards are used, which already belongs to a lower price category.
Plastic and materials of polymer origin are also used in the assembly. Many different fabrics are used for finishing, including suede, tapestry, eco-leather, etc.
What to consider when choosing
To make a successful purchase for your apartment, you need to make some preparations. Find a tape measure that you can use to determine the size of the bed. You will need to measure the room and think about the place where the furniture will stand.
An important criterion when choosing the length and width of the bed will be body weight, body type and activity during sleep. The length of the product should be 10-30 cm greater than the height of its owner. If in a dream a person slides towards the foot, in this case it is also necessary to choose longer options.
The size of the bed must be selected based on the person’s parameters.
The mattress should also fit perfectly with the wardrobe bed; this is very important for proper rest. When choosing a mattress, you need to know the parameters of the furniture frame. All necessary information can be found in the product certificate.
It is also worth thinking about the height of the mattress; it should be 15-20 cm higher than the side panels. Only after all the dimensions have been taken into account can you begin to select a manufacturer.
The quality of the product must meet the following requirements:
- use of modern details;
- ease of operation of the mechanisms;
- strength and stability;
- reliability in a fixed position.
There are several factors to consider when choosing a product.
Before choosing transformable furniture, you should think about its purpose in advance. The sleeping place can be chosen in the form of a wardrobe bed or have:
- sofa;
- armchair;
- folding table;
- folding shelf
And something else from the “life” of transformable furniture
What is the frame of transformers made of? Made of metal, solid wood, chipboard, MDF. The price of the last two options fits into the concept of “budget”. The performance qualities of the design are excellent - up to 20 years, well, at least 5-7.
We bet that your guests will never guess where they will sleep when you show them to a room with a wardrobe bed? The transformer “will not give itself away” in any way - it is part of a furniture wall with a rack, shelves and drawers. Do something nice for yourself and your friends who often stay up late at your place!
Another option for folding the bed is horizontal. It requires less empty space. It also extends from the furniture “wall”, and when assembled it is a rack with top and side shelves or a table.
This type of bed is more suitable for a child’s room, because the horizontal view of the model does not pose a “threat” to the child, who will independently prepare a place to sleep.
In addition, children grow quickly, and not all parents have the opportunity to regularly buy them a new sofa. In this regard, a pull-out bed is perhaps the only correct sleeping option.
In addition, furniture manufacturers have also provided for the fact that there can be two children in a family. And if they live in a small room, then they need an area for games, for studying, and for sleeping. In fact, a loft bed is also a transformer, but it is not built into the closet.
Popular models
Models of wardrobe beds are:
- single;
- double;
- children's
The lifting mechanism of the wardrobe bed is found:
- horizontal;
- vertical.
The IKEA brand monitors modern furniture developments, so the IKEA wardrobe-bed and transformable sofa bed have always been particularly popular.
In IKEA catalogs, you can choose many options for three-in-one beds; the buyer can select items that simultaneously serve as a wardrobe, bed, or secretary. There is an option - a sofa, a bed, a wardrobe. If the apartment area is small, then more often they choose a corner sofa, bed, or wardrobe. A non-standard solution - a wardrobe bed and a dining table.
Among the models of wardrobe beds for children, options with an extra bed are especially popular. Such furniture is presented in the form of a two-tier structure, the lower part of which is equipped with a wardrobe, and in the upper part there are two beds.
Transformable beds can have different shapes and configurations.
Transformable furniture is convenient and multifunctional
So, let’s pay attention to the wardrobe, which very easily “turns” into a bed - the furniture transformer from IKEA is so convenient and multifunctional. It is part of a furniture wall, behind the doors of which hides a cozy double bed with a fixed mattress. Isn’t this a miracle design that will save room footage and become a haven for two “little doves” to sleep? Note, for a good night's sleep, which can only be provided by a smooth monolithic mattress!
To set the folding bed mechanism in motion, you need to grab the closet door handle and pull it towards you. The main thing is to be careful! When unfolding the bed, there should be no children or pets in the bed area, so that the “falling” structure does not crush it with weight! The cabinet looks very stylish, modern, and does not “give away” its dual function in any way. It is suitable for:
- A small room that is used during the day as an office or living room;
- The rooms of a teenager who uses the square footage of the room for games, hobbies, and creativity;
- Studio apartments with a modest square footage;
- A country house or dacha, where every sleeping place is valued.
There are two minor disadvantages to the wall-mounted structure:
- When unfolded, it “steals” the 2 meters for which it is designed.
- Although the bedding is secured with belts, they have to be unfastened/fastened every time.
But the pluses outweigh the minuses - the folding bed is in no way inferior to its classic “sister” in terms of convenience, comfort and softness. But so much in our lives depends on the quality of sleep: ability to work, energy boost for the day, mood.
Of course, if the space allows, it is better to install a regular bed. But what IKEA offers will save you a couple of meters of usable space during the day when you are awake. When unfolded, the structure is supported by a plank, regular bed legs or tubular ones, as in a folding bed.
Interestingly, some models offer a dual function: a sofa-bed-transformer. At night it is a folding bed, during the day it is placed vertically and opens the sofa for use.
Interior placement ideas
The wardrobe-bed looks original in any interior:
- When thinking through the design of a bedroom, it is important to consider that a special place in it is given to the bed. When choosing a style, you should keep in mind that there are several directions that allow you to navigate when decorating a room. If the room has light shades, then the original solution would be to highlight the bright color aspects. For example, you can choose bright pillows.
- If a wardrobe bed is chosen for a children's room, it must meet safety requirements, develop the child's imagination and accustom him to order. Therefore, such transformable furniture has a simple design, but the decoration can already have bright shades.
- If a living room is chosen for the wardrobe-bed, the furniture should also be in harmony with the overall concept of the room.
Wardrobe-bed models can also be found in office spaces. This is true for people who spend most of their time at work.
In this case, transformable furniture is made to order. It is preferable to choose options from materials that are as similar as possible in the type and color of office furniture.
Although the idea of transformable furniture appeared many years ago, thanks to the work of modern designers in the furniture market, you can find models that will be relevant when decorating the interior of a room.
Safety
When using a transformer, the IKEA manufacturer pays special attention to safety. The instructions included with these options describe in detail the rules for the safe operation of each model.
The most important thing to note is that when purchasing an option with a horizontal opening, you need to be very careful that there are no animals or children under the bed when it is lowered. This is very dangerous as it can lead to serious injury, so it is strictly forbidden for anyone to be under it.
Horizontal opening is less dangerous since the weight is less and it is distributed along the length with a relatively low height. That is why this model is approved for use in children's rooms.
Horizontal opening is less dangerous
New IKEA transformable sofa
The Swedish manufacturer continues to work on solutions for small apartments. For young families forced to live with their parents, or simply those with a small space, the company has developed an automated transforming sofa with a sleeping place, wardrobe and work area
In the Swedish city of Elmhuld, at the IKEA headquarters, the annual conference IKEA Democratic Design Days 2021 was held, at which the company presented its main new products and announced its development strategy for the coming years. One of the most interesting developments was the Rognan project, implemented jointly with the American start-up Ori.
We are talking about an automated multifunctional transforming object based on the existing IKEA PLATSA storage system, combining a sofa, bed, wardrobe, workplace and space delimiter.
If you press a button, the system will automatically begin to move forward along special rails, revealing the sleeping space hidden inside and turning the living room into a bedroom with a built-in wardrobe. “Instead of making furniture smaller, we simply change its functions and adapt it to what you need at the moment,” IKEA representative Shauna Strawn comments on this project. - For example, when you sleep, you don't need a sofa. When you use a closet, you don't need a bed or anything like that."
The system is equipped with a built-in automatic mechanism, electronics and special software that can be used to control its movement. Some technologies are borrowed from lawn mowers, vacuum cleaners and other household appliances that we use every day. Special sensors record the movements of the system, remember them and create an “image” of the room and its features.
“The floor covering is different everywhere, so the product must be smart enough to understand this and create a ‘map’ of the floor,” say Ori’s founders. The system can also recognize obstacles such as a person or piece of furniture standing in the way.
“We've been working on solutions for small spaces for a long time and know that the main challenges here are storage and finding space for our daily chores,” says IKEA. - Especially in big cities, where people, due to a lack of square meters, have to constantly infringe on their desires. We want to fix this. We cannot design houses the same way we did 20 years ago and continue to use the same furniture that we used before when our apartments were two or three times larger. We need to start thinking about furniture that adapts to us and our needs.”
The Rognan system will be available in Asian markets next year and may be further adapted for other regions. For example, for the American market a bed with a width of more than 120 cm is provided.