Sofa parts title. beautiful sofas

Purchasing a new sofa is a major purchase that raises many questions and doubts. As with the choice of most pieces of furniture, the buyer wants to find a model that is equally comfortable, practical and stylish in appearance. The best way to choose the most comfortable sofa is to visit a furniture showroom and feel like the owner of a particular model.

• Some models of sofas are designed to perform only one function - they serve as a place to relax in a sitting position. These are the so-called guest sofas.
• Another variety are models that transform into a bed. When buying such a model, be sure to familiarize yourself with the mechanism of its operation to make sure that it is suitable for the conditions in which it will be operated.

Varieties

The folding mechanism of the sofa makes it easy and simple to turn it into a bed. Currently, there are many such options. However, before buying a sofa with any of the transformation mechanisms, you need to carefully study their properties, as well as find out what material they are made of. These characteristics will allow you to judge how long-term and comfortable the operation of the sofa will be. In the case of complex mechanical devices, the choice of transformation mechanisms made of reliable steel grades will be the most preferable option.

According to the type of layout, the sofa can be:

1. Turning, which is also called a transforming sofa or modular;
2. Folding, this category includes both folding sofas (French or American) and “Eurobook” sofas;
3. Withdrawable, which can be straight or angular;
4. with lifting mechanism, which happens on hinges, springs or can be carried out using a gas shock absorber system;
5. With walking mechanism, which is also called stepping; such designs include tick-tock, tango, and pantograph sofas, which are variants of the improved Eurobook model;
6. "Scissors"- most often these are corner structures;
7. "Butterfly", which is also called the "versailles" mechanism.

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"Dolphin"

One of the most convenient and frequently purchased sofa layout mechanisms. The base of this sofa is on a retractable platform. While the design is in the form of a sofa, the platform is invisible, because it is hidden under its seat. In order to unfold the sofa, you need to roll out this platform and lift its edge a little up by pulling on the special loops. This will ensure that the surface of the platform is leveled at the same height as the seat. The resulting bed has an elastic base and a comfortable height.

Folding such a model is very simple: you need to pull up, holding the belt of the retractable base, it will rise and the mechanism will take it inside the roll-out platform. The platform itself then slides down under the seat. Such a mechanism is very reliable, allows you to get a comfortable resting place for two people, suitable for use every day.

Sliding sofas "dolphin" can be either straight or corner. In the latter case, they are supplied with a box for things located under the ottoman.

"Eurobook"

This layout is also known as "alternative". This folding model, in fact, does not have any mechanism that ensures its transformation, being an example of simplicity and reliability. The movement of parts of the structure occurs due to the rollers that move in the grooves of the base. This option is simple and suitable for long-term use.

To turn the eurobook into a bed, you need to remove the pillows and push the seat forward. Then it remains to lower the section, which was the back of the sofa, and you get a classic bed. To return the sofa to its original position, you need to do the same operations in reverse order: first, the backrest rises to its original position, and then the roll-out base moves towards it.

Under the seat there is always a compartment for storing bed linen, which is very convenient for the owners. Such models can be angular or straight type.

"Pantograph"

The mechanism called "pantograph" (also known as "Tick-tock" or "Tango") is an updated and improved version of the well-known "Eurobook". To turn this model into a bed, as in the case of the Eurobook mechanism, you need to push the seat forward. However, to do this, the seat must first be lifted up slightly by pulling on the hinges. Thanks to the folding mechanism, it will automatically take the desired position. The extended seat is placed on the floor and then the back of the sofa is lowered.

It turns out a wide and elastic bed on a spring block. The reverse transformation can be done by putting the backrest in the normal position, and then lifting the seat and moving it close to the backrest. The mechanism is designed for daily use. Sofas of this type are suitable for those who have high pile carpets at home, because the transformation takes place without moving the furniture directly on the floor.

In the case when the model with the pantograph mechanism is angular, it has a box for storing bedding.

"Puma"

A very simple and softly working spring mechanism of sofa expansion, which in terms of smoothness of movement really resembles the steps of a wild cat, after which it is named. During the transformation, the seat of such a model rises and, as it were, takes a step forward. In order to do this, just pull on the loop mounted at the bottom of the seat. At the same time, an additional platform hidden there will move out of the depth of the sofa, which, having taken the vacant seat, will transform the sofa into a full-fledged bed. This transformation occurs through a single movement gently and smoothly, which is facilitated by properly selected springs, equipped with a synchronizer.

Folding this model is also very simple. The folding process is carried out in one movement, for this the same sewn-in loop is used. Raising the front of the bed with it, you need to make a slight push back to the back of the sofa, and the built-in mechanism will lower both platforms into place. This mechanism is ideal for everyday use.

A straight sofa-"puma" does not allow to have a place for storing linen in the design, however, in the corner modifications, equipped with an ottoman, such a compartment is present.

"Conrad"

This type of transformation is also called high-rise roll-out.

The mechanism consists of three fragments, folded compactly packed in the back of the sofa. The outermost part of the bed is a frame structure, the middle part is a platform, completely standing on the floor and serving as an assembled seat, the head part is in the back.

When laying out such a sofa, you do not need to remove soft pillows, they will not interfere with pushing out of the depths of the structure and installing three retractable parts. The frame part is pulled out to the level of the legs first, it pulls the seat behind it, which, moving, gives impetus to the extension of the head of the bed. Special rollers with brackets moving along hardwood guides and a well-oiled mechanism allow such a transformation to be carried out without much effort. In order to fold the “konrad”, you need to lift the frame part by the built-in loop and push it towards the back.

However, with everyday use, such a model may not seem very convenient in the layout. This will be especially problematic for a woman or a child, since the retractable parts are of considerable weight.

The advantage of this model is its compact and elegant appearance, the creation of a comfortable and reliable bed without kinks and the presence of a box for storing linen built into the back.

Since the Konrad mechanisms are not produced in the Russian Federation, this affects their cost: sofas with similar components have a fairly high price tag.

Transformer

This is a sofa with a swivel transformation mechanism, which is also called "scissors". Usually these are large corner sofas with an ottoman. Outwardly, they are not too distinguishable from corner sofas of other designs, but if you look closely, it becomes clear that the ottoman of such a model has a slightly longer length than usual. With the pillows removed, its length will be about 190 cm, thus this part of the structure can simultaneously serve as a sleeping place without any additional transformations.

If you move the main part of the seat at an angle of 90 degrees and move it close to the ottoman, you can get a full-fledged sleeping place, already designed for two people. For ease of movement on the floor, the sofa-transformer is equipped with rubberized wheels. For reliable fixation, the wheels are equipped with brakes, which are installed as needed.

You can move the seat not only close to the ottoman, but also in the opposite direction, getting a U-shaped design. For some models of transformers, the back is additionally lowered, so the buyer can choose exactly the option that seems optimal to him. Each of these models has two spacious storage drawers and is an alternative to the usual roll-out sofas.

"Accordion"

The accordion folding mechanism is strong and durable, when unfolded, it turns the sofa into a full-fledged bed. It works on the principle of an accordion, for which it received its name.

When assembled, it has a double-fold back, which, when unfolded, straightens and creates the basis of a bed. In order to unfold the "accordion", the seat is lifted slightly up (until it clicks), then the mechanism begins to move forward, stretching the back folded in half. For stability and reliability, such models are usually equipped with armrests.

Assembling the "accordion" takes place without much effort, but requires some skills. In order to start the assembly mechanism, you need to lift up the extreme part of the structure and push it towards the back: the "accordion" will curl up.

This model is usually straight, has a box for storing linen, when folded it is very compact and takes up a minimum of space. Such models are designed for daily layouts.

"French" folding bed

The transformation mechanism called the "French" clamshell has a second name: such designs are called "mixotual". This is the so-called metal frame mechanism. It consists of steel tubes of various thicknesses (in domestic designs it is 1.5 mm, in imported ones - 0.8 mm), an awning made of durable fabric (most often it is polypropylene) and equipped with transverse support strips - "armor" (made bent plywood) and equipped with a polyurethane foam mattress, which is in a fabric cover.

When laying out and folding, the mattress remains inside the structure, since it does not have its own frame. To open the "mixotual" almost no physical effort is required, for a start it is enough to pull up and forward the very frame of the mechanism, which is also the edge of the seat of the sofa. Then the whole mechanism must be lifted up and “rolled out” forward, like a regular clamshell. At the same time, sections folded into each other will straighten out, each of which is equipped with folding legs-supports made of metal semicircular tubes. Thus, a sleeping place is laid out, designed for a weight of about two hundred kilograms and dimensions of 185 * 145 cm. Sofa cushions are removed before transformation.

When assembling, the outermost segment of the structure first rises, which is “wrapped” onto the middle one, and then both of them are placed on the base of the sofa. The mattress is not removed, but bed linen, pillows and blankets must be removed to avoid damage to the mechanism.

"French folding bed" is a convenient and easy-to-transform mechanism, designed for use from time to time, the so-called guest version of the bed. In many respects, the duration of the service life of this model depends on the quality of the steel fittings located at its base, the reliability of the slats and the density of the awning.

"Sedaflex"

This mechanism has another name - it is often called the "American" clamshell.

This design is copyrighted by Sedac, hence the name "sedaflex". It is an improved version of the “mixotual”, while the mechanism is not divided into three, but only into two parts. Another innovation is the filling of the mattress with a spring block, which increases the comfort and stability of the bed. Thicker tube-legs, which have a thickness of 3 mm, also contribute to reliability.

Another advantage of the "American" is the fact that sofa cushions do not need to be removed before transformation. The design is designed in such a way that when laying out the sofa, the pillows turn over, ending up on the floor, and thereby increase stability and save time and space for the owners. Also, as an advantage of the "sedaflex", we can mention the fact that it was decided to replace the reiki-lats in it with elastic belts.

The transformation of the "American clamshell" is similar to the transformation of the "mixotual", both models are laid out forward with the help of physical effort. By pulling the edge of the seat of the folded sofa, it is lifted up a little and the entire structure is laid out with a fixed mattress.

The dimensions of the Sedaflex are somewhat larger than those of its French counterpart, which contributes to the greater popularity of this particular model.

A box for storing linen is not provided in any of them, since the entire internal space in the sofa is occupied by the mechanism itself. However, if the clamshell models come with an attached section, which can be located on either side, then in this section it is possible to place linen for storage.

"Telescope"

This mechanism got its name due to the resemblance to the unfolding of a telescope. When it is implemented, the transformation occurs as follows: first, pulling on the mounted hinges, the lower tier of the structure, previously hidden under the seat, is rolled out. This will be the basis for the bed, or rather, the part where the legs of the sleeper will be located. When extended, it will pull the platform behind it, which will become the middle part of the base of the bed.

To assemble the structure, the spring block is first returned to its original place, then the lower part of the sofa is pushed in. It is worth noting that in the first pull-out section there is a place for bed linen or clothes.

One of the disadvantages of the telescopic design is the fact that it is not suitable for a large sofa. First of all, these are two- or three-seat sofas that are good for a nursery.

How to choose?

Any sofa, even folding, even non-folding, has similar design features that must be considered when choosing:

1. There are no standard sizes for them. The height, width and depth of such upholstered furniture vary depending on the type of sofa layout and whether it is angular, straight or modular.
2. When purchasing such furniture, you need to take into account the size of the room: the model for daily sleep should fit freely in the room in the unfolded state.
3. Types of such sofas are divided into straight and angular. The latter can have different angles: left, right or the so-called universal angle.
4. You can choose either a model for every day, or a guest option, for this you need to decide how often you need to transform the sofa into a bed.

Immediately before buying, it is advisable to visit furniture stores in order to “live” inspect various models and personally check how convenient and easy the transformation mechanisms work. At the same time, you should not stand and observe the process of unfolding the sofa by a consultant, it is better to ask the seller to show the layout principle and then do this procedure with your own hands. Only in this case, you can understand whether it will be convenient to perform such actions daily.

For every day, it is better to choose the most easy-to-transform mechanisms, such as, for example, “Eurobook”, “telescope”, “pantograph”.

The service life that a sofa will withstand without repair depends entirely on the quality of the materials from which its base, body and folding mechanism are made.

Be sure to make sure that the interior of the sofa is made of solid wood, and not chipboard or plastic, because in this case they can deform and crack. The quality and type of wood is also very important. Softwoods such as pine are cheap and are used in inexpensive sofas, but they can warp or dry out after a while, usually after five years. More expensive woods, such as kiln-dried oak, ash or beech, will make the sofa durable and keep it beautiful.

Therefore, be sure to carefully ask the consultant and carefully examine the inside of the sofa. In this case, it is worth paying attention to how the joints and joints are attached. It is important to remember that the design, in which the constituent parts will be held with screws, dowels or on special furniture pegs, will last much longer than the one whose parts are fixed to each other only with glue or fixed on simple self-tapping screws.

An important factor when buying a folding sofa, of course, is the availability of space in the apartment for its transformation. If you have limited space, but need extra beds, then instead of one huge sofa, it would be preferable to purchase two small folding sofas.

In addition, the firmness of the sofa mattress is another important factor to be taken into account when choosing a model. This largely depends on personal preference. But, as a rule, a firmer mattress will be healthier, and when using this sofa as a bed, it will make it possible to get a good night's sleep.

The next important factor is the elasticity of the sofa. It also has to do with personal preference and choice. Some people don't like bouncy sofas, and some don't. In order to evaluate the future acquisition from these positions, it is worth sitting on it even before the purchase, and it is even better to lie down.

If there are animals in the house, which, of course, will certainly be happy to lie on a brand new sofa, it is worth choose your upholstery carefully. Contaminants such as pet hair and fluff are well removed from flock and leather, but get stuck in the tapestry; on such a coating as a shinil, there are puffs left from their claws.

And finally, the weight of the sofa is another important aspect that the buyer should consider.

When buying a sofa for home or summer cottage, special attention should be paid to the device of its transformation. The organization of the sleeping space and the durability of the model depend on it. Today, the mechanisms for transforming sofas are very diverse. They are designed taking into account the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe premises, often they easily turn a sofa into a bed. Even a teenager can handle them. In order not to get confused when choosing, you need to know the principle of operation, the features of each device and the degree of load on the furniture frame.

Types of sofa mechanisms by type of transformation

Three types of sofas can be distinguished, in which special transformation mechanisms are used. They may be located:

• In direct models- representing a familiar design from the main part with or without armrests, having a linen box (and in some versions - a box in which the sleeping block is located).

• In corner structures- with a corner element that has its own functionality in the form of a niche, a spacious box for bed linen or other things. It saves space in your closet.

• In island (modular) systems - structures consisting of separate modules, different in area, but the same in height (depending on their number, they change their functions).

The sofa owes its name to the mechanism of transformation. Although companies come up with an interesting name for each model, the basis of the name that characterizes a particular model is precisely the principle of its mechanism.

The operation of the device does not change - regardless of the type of model (straight, modular or angular). The sofa unfolds forward, sometimes at the same time it rises up, rolls out, extends, turns. If this is a straight view, the base is transformed, in the corner version the sleeping block is added to the corner, forming a rectangular seating area. In modular constructions, the direct part of one module is transformed without affecting others.

The work of any mechanism is not as complicated as it might seem at first glance. The principle of operation of structures is different and has both pluses and minuses. Most of them can fit all types of sofas (straight, corner, modular). For them, the presence or absence of armrests of the model does not matter. However, there are transformation systems that fit only one species.

Sliding and withdrawable

Roll-out forward models are convenient, they are compact when folded, do not take up much space, do not create the impression of a cluttered room. The principle of their work is to roll out the block forward and raise it to the desired height. Sliding structures are models whose details are interdependent, so when transforming one, the other is automatically activated.

"Dolphin"

One of the universal models with a fixed back and a simple transformation device that allows you to place the sofa in the center of the room or close to the wall.

To unfold the model, you need to pull the loop of the box located under the seat, in which the missing section of the bed is located. When the block is extended to the stop, it is lifted by the loop, put in the desired position at the level of the seat. This design forms a spacious and comfortable surface for sleeping, withstands a large weight load.

"Venice"

The principle of operation of the roll-out mechanism resembles the Dolphin. First you need to push the section located under the sofa seat all the way towards you. By driving the transformation device, extend the seat unit, increasing the width of the sleeping bed. After rolling out the block to the stop, it is raised to the height of the seat with the help of loops.

Such designs are convenient. They are often found in corner models, have a lot of free space in the corner elements.

"Eurobook"

An improved "book" is a great option for daily use. It is equipped with a reliable and easy-to-use transformation mechanism that is resistant to daily stress and allows you to place the sofa in the center of the room or against the wall.

To carry out the transformation, you need to take hold of the seat, lift it slightly, pull it forward and lower it to the floor. Then lower the back, forming a sleeping place. Such furniture rarely has a spacious sleeping bed: it is compact both when folded and disassembled.

"Conrad"

The device, which some manufacturers call "Telescope" or "Telescopic", is a withdrawable model. To make a bed out of such a sofa, you need to pull out the section under the seat, raise the base, then put the pillows in the drawer, close the base and place the mats on it, unfolding them like a book.

The design is convenient and allows you to organize a spacious bed without moving the sofa away from the wall. The floor surface must be flat, as for all withdrawable mechanisms, therefore, a carpet laid on the floor may cause the transformation system to fail.

"Pantograph"

The design, known as "tic-tac" - a variant with a walking mechanism. It is an improved version of the Eurobook. To transform, you need to pull the seat forward with the help of the hinges, lifting it up. At the same time, it will itself take the necessary position, dropping down. It remains to lower the back, forming a spacious sleeping place for two.

In some models, the manufacturer has provided additional armrests that limit the seating area. Such a device is durable and does not loosen the body of the model. However, options with a soft back are not very comfortable. To expand such a sofa, it will have to be slightly moved away from the wall.

"Puma"

This model is a kind of "pantograph" - with a slight difference. As a rule, these sofas have a low and fixed back, so such models can be placed against the wall, thereby saving usable floor space.

The transformation is carried out by one extension of the seat - unlike the previous mechanism. When it rises and, falling, falls into place, at the same time, the second block of the sleeping section rises from below (where the seat used to be). Once the seat is in place, the two blocks form a complete sleeping bed.

"Saber"

Convenient roll-out mechanism "saber" provides for changing the size of the sleeping bed with full or partial unfolding. This design is distinguished by a linen box, a high place to sleep.

Sleeper furniture can consist of two or three sections - depending on the model. To expand it, in any case, you need to roll out the seat, under which the linen box is located, forward. At the same time, the backrest leans back, fitting into the desired position.

"Goose"

The original roll-out transformation system, for which you must first roll out the bed block from under the seat, and then raise it to the level of the seat. At the same time, due to the peculiarities of the pillows rising on the back of the structure, there is an increase in the sleeping bed.

Assembly and disassembly of such structures take more time than other systems.

This model is quite complex and not suitable for daily use. But when folded, models with this system are very compact, they look neat, so they can be purchased as upholstered furniture for a summer house or a living room.

"Butterfly"

Sofas-transformers with the "butterfly" system are considered one of the most reliable, durable and durable. Today, such a system is very popular among buyers. She turns a sofa into a bed in just a few seconds. The transformation is carried out in two stages: the seat is rolled out forward, then the upper block is folded back (to the extended rear section).

The advantage of the model is the significant size of the sleeping bed in the unfolded form and compact assembly. The disadvantage of the mechanism is the vulnerability of the rollers during transformation, as well as the small height of the sleeping bed.

"Kangaroo"

The kangaroo transformation mechanism resembles the dolphin system - with a slight difference: abrupt movements similar to kangaroo jumps. It has a lower part, located under the seat, which, when unfolded, easily slides forward. The retractable block rises to the right place, firmly in contact with the main mats.

The main thing that distinguishes such a mechanism is the presence of high metal or wooden legs. The disadvantages of the system include a short service life with frequent transformation. This design cannot be called reliable.

"Hesse"

The device of this mechanism resembles the "dolphin" system. To expand such a sofa, you will first need to pull the loop of the lower section under the seat, pull it out until it stops. The seat will also roll out. Then the block is raised to the level of the height of the berth, the seat mat is lowered back, forming a full-fledged sleeping bed in three parts.

This system is used in straight and corner sofa models. However, it also has its drawbacks, because with the constant rolling out of the block, a large load is created on the frame of the sofa. In addition, if you do not take care of the rollers, the mechanism will have to be repaired after a while.

folding

Mechanisms with unfolding sections are no more complicated than roll-out ones. Usually they are based on the most versatile systems (“frog”), so they do not require more than a few seconds to turn the sofa into a full-fledged bed. For their transformation, it is not necessary to roll out sections from under the seat.

"Click Clack"

The design of such a mechanism has a second name - "Tango". Some manufacturers call it "Finnish". This is a bifold model, an improved version of the classic "book".

To expand the sofa, you need to raise the seat until it clicks. At the same time, the back is lowered back, the seat is slightly pushed forward, revealing the two halves of the block into a single surface for sleeping.

"Book"

The simplest transformation mechanism, reminiscent of opening a book. To make the sofa look like a bed, you need to raise the seat, lowering the back. When the back begins to fall, the seat is pushed forward.

"Scissors"

The corner sofa transformation mechanism, the principle of which is to rotate one section to another - with the unfolding of blocks and reliable fixation of the sections with a metal fastener from below. In this case, a compact sleeping bed is formed with a bedside cabinet, open as a result of the transformation of the sections.

"Caravan"

The design, the unfolding of which is similar to the Eurobook system, however, it has a fixed back, and instead of two sections of the sleeping bed, three are laid out. At the same time, the seat is also raised and simultaneously pulled forward, then lowered to the desired position on the floor. At this time, the next one moves out from under each block, folding together into a single area for sleeping. Comfortable design with a spacious seating area. In some designs, instead of the third section, a folding pillow is used, which stands in front of a fixed back.

Daytona

System with folding fixed cushions that act as a backrest. The device of the mechanism is a bit like a "clamshell". To transform the sofa into a bed, you need to raise the pillows to the top position, then put the lower ones in the allotted places, grab the handle and turn the seat unit down, revealing a two- or three-piece sleeping bed. When the sleeping place decomposes, you will need to lower the pillows, wrapping them on the bed.

"Tornado"

Folding mechanism designed for daily use. The design is based on a double-folding "folding bed", which is hidden in the usual position of the sofa. It transforms without removing the seat, after tilting the back of the model. The design is convenient, it is not very difficult to disassemble, it has steel elements and mesh at the base, as well as mats of moderate rigidity.

deployable

The following devices provide transformation by deploying sections. In most models (with the exception of the "accordion"), the back is fixed and does not participate in the disassembly of the sofa.

"Accordion"

The device of the mechanism, reminiscent of stretching accordion furs. To expand such a sofa, you just need to pull the seat. At the same time, the backrest, consisting of two blocks connected from above, will automatically fall down, unfolding into two halves.

"Belgian cot"

This design is similar to a "cot" hidden under the sofa's modular seat mats. Even externally, the system resembles a familiar piece of furniture with metal supports. The only thing that makes it different is that it is fixed at the base of the sofa and unfolds right out of it, turning the seat unit down

"French cot"

An alternative to the "accordion" system - with the difference that in the latter the bed is made up of three blocks (according to the principle of folding a fan), and in this system the blocks are wrapped inward and unfold when unfolded. They are equipped with stands and have a narrow type of packing, which is a disadvantage of such designs.

If you are going to expand the sofa, you need to remove the modular pillows from the seat.

"American cot" ("Sedaflex")

Such a mechanism is more reliable than its French counterpart. It is not necessary to remove the cushions from the seat before transformation. The system implies identical sections (there are three of them), which are laid out one after another when the seat is raised. Such a mechanism is quite durable, but it is only suitable as a guest option, because it has thin mattresses, there is no compartment for linen and steel structural elements are felt at the joints of the sections.

"Spartacus"

A variant with a clamshell mechanism. The folding structure is located under the seat, consisting of modular cushions. In order for the sofa to become a bed, you need to remove the pillows, freeing the clamshell blocks. Since they are in the wrapped position, they first take the top one, set the desired position by exposing the metal support, and then unfold the remaining sections. This design is not designed for daily transformation - like analogues.

with swivel mechanism

Models with a rotary mechanism differ from other systems in ease of transformation. In them, the load on the frame is minimal, since there is no need to roll out the sections to the stop. They do not need to lift additional blocks.

Both the integral part of the sofa and the component of each block can turn, depending on the model. Such a mechanism is used in corner models, connecting the two halves of the sections with blocks into a single bed. The principle of operation of the system is based on turning half of the block by 90 degrees and rolling it to the other part of the sofa (with subsequent fixation).

With folding armrests

Folding armrests - a unique technique of the transformation mechanism. Today, such sofas are in the center of attention of designers. With their help, you can furnish the children's room, if necessary, adjusting the dimensions of the furniture.

"Lit"

A peculiar design that allows you to change the size of the sleeping bed due to the deformation of the armrests. At the same time, the sidewalls themselves can be positioned at any angle - and even the positions can be different. To transform the sofa into a single bed, you must first lift the armrest inward until it stops, and then bend it outward. These designs are designed for direct varieties of sofas, they are bought for children and teenagers.

"Elf"

A system convenient for small-sized rooms and children's rooms, a large area for transformation is not needed. Furniture can be placed against the wall. This sofa can be compared with its counterpart, it has a compact body and ample space for storing bedding. The seat surface and armrests form a single unit that folds out in length.

With advertisers

Such devices of the mechanism are somewhat more complicated than the others. Moreover, the design of the mechanism allows you to easily change the position of the angle of inclination of the backrest and footrest, creating the most comfortable position for the user. This sofa can be equipped with a massage mechanism, it has a rather solid appearance, but the transformation into a bed is not carried out.

Double and triple folding systems

The mechanisms of transformation may vary. As a rule, the more complex the mechanism, the more components of the bed (the number of additions). Folding and pull-out sofas fall into this category.

Which one is better for daily sleep?

When choosing a sofa for daily use, you need to pay attention to designs in which the load on the frame during the operation of the mechanism is most uniform and does not loosen the body.

It is necessary to choose the right not only the mechanism, but also the degree of rigidity of the backrest, seat. You also need to choose a good upholstery material and pay attention to models with the ability to change covers.

Filling blocks

When choosing a sofa for daily sleep, it is worth considering the block filler. It is of two types: spring and springless.

The first packing options are distinguished by the presence of twisted springs (the position is vertical). We can distinguish between dependent and independent types. In the first case, the sofa bends down. Such mats are unreliable in that they do not have proper support for the spine during rest or sleep (sitting and lying down).

Independent type springs do not touch each other, so each of them works independently, without forcing the others to sag where they do not need to. As a result, the back always remains flat, and the load on the spine is reduced.

Springless mats have a remarkable orthopedic effect, this is the prevention of problems associated with the spine. They are not only safe, but also very comfortable, provide a complete and proper rest during sleep.

This type of filler is hypoallergenic, this stuffing is not subject to the formation of fungus, mold. It is resistant to dust accumulation, because there are no significant voids. The best springless fillers include natural or artificial latex, coir (coconut fiber), PPU type HR.

What's better?

In order for the sofa to serve for a long time, it is better to choose a quality type of filler: a block with independent springs, latex or coir. It is very good if the type of mat is combined - when not only the core of the stuffing is added, but also other material (to give the desired rigidity).

If a latex block doesn't fit the budget, look into HR-type furniture polyurethane foam or synthetic latex. These materials are somewhat inferior to expensive packings, but with proper operation they will last for 10-12 years.

As for the transformation mechanism, “dolphin” designs and their analogues, models with a “clamshell” system, are not suitable for daily use. The most reliable designs for every day are "Eurobook", "Pantograph", "Puma" and rotary mechanisms.

How to choose the right mechanism?

It is impossible to single out one mechanism unambiguously. The choice depends on several factors:

• designated space for the sofa (folded and disassembled);
• the purpose of the sofa (guest option or alternative to the bed);
• load intensity mode (weight control, taking into account the choice of the “correct” seat and back blocks);
• simplicity and ease of use (the sofa should be light, because complex systems break down more often and cannot always be restored);
• the correct diameter of the steel elements (at least 1.5 cm).

In order for the purchase to be successful, the sofa lasted for a long time, you should pay attention to:

• flawless course of the mechanism in operation (it should not jam);
• lack of looseness of the structure during transformation (this is an obvious marriage that reduces the life of the sofa);
• absence of rust, scratches, dents, mechanism assembly defects;
• high-quality upholstery material that will not wear off from the frequent transformation of the sofa (when sections come into contact);
• strong and durable metal of the mechanism, resistant to heavy weight loads (two or three people);
• the reliability of the frame components to which the transformation mechanism is attached.

It is important to choose the mechanism in which there is no complex design. It will be less prone to breakage.

The sofa is the most used element of the interior. It is often used for several purposes at once - for sitting, relaxing or sleeping. Therefore, when choosing furniture, it is necessary to take into account not only the appearance, but also the varieties of sofas: classification, technical characteristics. This will help you choose a visually beautiful model that will complement the interior, but at the same time allow you to rationally use the space of the room.

What are there?

There is no strict classification of sofas, but there are generally accepted standards and terms. When choosing a sofa, as a rule, take into account its design indicators, functional features and spaciousness. Characteristics can be selected in a separate list and rely on when choosing your individual model, which will be especially important if the furniture is made to order.

By shape

It is recommended to choose a sofa of such a shape or design that it does not take up extra space in the room. This element of furniture should be located so as to fill the unused area of ​​​​the room, and the aisles or, for example, the play area in the children's room, should be free. By design, sofas are conditionally divided into four types.

• Corner. Such models successfully occupy unused corner niches, straight backs can be leaned against the walls. The corner shape is great for small, one-room apartments, small kitchens. In rooms with a large area, the corner design allows you to zone the space.

• Direct or stationary- the most popular form of furniture due to the many placement options. Straight sofas are conveniently installed along the walls, in the center and corners of the room, small compact models can be easily moved around the room. Most straight sofas are folding or pull-out. Installed in the center of the room near the wall, if necessary, they can serve as a full-fledged double bed.

• Modular sofas- the most mobile and multifunctional type of furniture, their design consists of several parts that can be used both together and separately. If necessary, the parts are combined in a different order, for example, a large corner sofa is disassembled into two straight lines or small individual modules are used as ottomans.

• Island- these models are less popular in comparison with previous forms, since they mainly involve installation in large rooms. Made in the form of islands, they are installed in the same way - in the middle of the room, or in the corner in case of zoning the area. Island models occupy a lot of usable space, but they look presentable and help to implement bold design solutions.

When choosing the shape of furniture, it is important not to forget about its volume, the total area that it will occupy.

The sofa in the hall or in the kitchen should not be too wide; in these rooms it is better to leave more space for movement. In apartments where a folding sofa is planned to be used as a sleeping place, models with a wide seat are suitable, but for rest rooms they often choose designs not only with a wide, but also with a deep seat.

By appointment

The shape and design of the sofa is also selected taking into account the purpose of the furniture, the choice of material for manufacturing, as well as the total cost of the future product, will depend on this indicator. For example, models with inexpensive upholstery are suitable for the kitchen; for sleeping places, it is advisable to order sofas made from natural materials; in work or office premises, leather-covered products are more practical. By appointment, this element of upholstered furniture is classified into five types:

• office, for working rooms;
• for the hall, living rooms;
• for kitchens and dining rooms;
• in the hallway or corridor;
• for children's and playrooms.

If additional beds are periodically needed, it is better to choose a stationary direct type of sofa, it is also suitable for office space.

In places of rest - in the living room, bedroom or dining room - a good solution would be modular version. Island models are convenient for zoning rooms- in the offices, such sofas are equipped with places for informal conversation, in the halls they are installed in front of TVs.

By size

The size of the sofa means not only its actual length and width in centimeters, but also the number of seats (or beds, in the case of a folding version). Compact models, as a rule, are designed for no more than 2-3 people, medium ones - 4-6, and huge modular sofas can accommodate a company of 7 to 10 people.

However, when choosing a finished model, where the dimensions are laid down by the manufacturer, it must be borne in mind that there is no single standard - one manufacturer can offer a double sofa 1.5 meters long, and the other 1.8 m.

An important indicator of the size of upholstered furniture is the height of the back and landing. Sofas for hallways have a low back or are produced without it at all, models with a low back wall and landing are also often installed in halls and bedrooms. In places where it is planned to only sit on the sofa - in the kitchen or in the office space, such options are selected so that the seat height is not lower than a regular chair.

The best choice for a small space would be sofa without side armrests and extra pillows, another trick to reduce the size of furniture without losing functionality is to purchase or order a structure without legs. The possibilities of use will become somewhat limited, it is difficult to clean under such a sofa, but its size will be minimized.

Types of transformation mechanisms

The place of possible installation will depend on the type of mechanism and the method of changing the design. Some models may take up little space themselves, but when transformed, they require much more space. The choice of how to lay out the sofa is also influenced by the purpose of the furniture, the frequency of its use - not all types of mechanisms are designed for frequent use. It is necessary to take into account the estimated weight that will be on the furniture in the unfolded state. So all sofa models are divided into four main types according to the name of the transformation mechanism.

Withdrawable

The assembled design of the roll-out model consists of three separate elements - the rear part in the folded state is a back, and after transformation into a horizontal position it becomes a place for the head. The seats pushed forward and the lower part hidden in the structure are used as the main lying place.

Such models of upholstered furniture are also called - sofas with a telescopic transformation mechanism, because the layout is done from the inside, like a telescope, individual parts are put forward and fixed one after another. Roll-out versions are mainly installed in large rooms, since in the unfolded state the width of the furniture increases by more than three times.

The transformation of the roll-out structure is carried out in several stages.

First, you need to pull the rag handle located in the lower transverse part of the seat, and push the entire seat frame outward. Then you need to level the sleeping surface of the furniture by lowering the back wall down. In some models, additional side pillows are used for these purposes - when assembled, they play the role of a second soft back. The retractable mechanism on such models, as a rule, is based on a roller system, less often - special springs are built into the design, which recline the seats after the lower part is extended.

Sliding

When assembled, sliding models are very elegant and compact, and when unfolded, they resemble a folding bed. After the transformation, the front part is installed on special folding supports, the backrest is lowered, and the assembled bed becomes three separate sections. There are several main types of sliding products.

• "French" folding bed- the classic version of sliding upholstered furniture. When assembled, it takes up little space, but when laid out, the front part moves forward by one and a half to two meters, depending on the specific model. The "French" mechanism is not recommended for frequent use - as a sleeping place, a sofa can only occasionally serve, but basically such models are designed more for sitting.

• "American" folding bed. By its design, it is similar to the previous model - the beds are formed from three sections, which are put forward in turn and installed on special supports. The main difference is that the "American" version uses a more reliable and durable mechanism - the furniture is designed for frequent use. However, the cost of such sofas is much higher.

• "Italian" folding bed. Unlike the previous varieties, the “Italian” folding bed is transformed not by lifting the transverse beam of the seats, but by pushing the back wall of the sofa forward. Then the sliding mechanism is also activated, and the surface is installed on the support legs. Compared to the "American" and "French" counterparts, furniture with an "Italian" type of mechanism is equipped with more durable legs.

The most common modifications include accordion mechanism. The principle of its operation is that, moving forward, the berths seem to be stretched with the help of special springs. Metal spring elements, fixed on both sides of the structure, also help to fold the sofa - they tighten the sections inward, setting each in its place. The transformation of these models requires minimal effort - you just need to slightly raise the lower beam of the seats and push it forward.

Just like the clamshell models, the "Accordion" has a very compact size when assembled, it is conveniently installed in small rooms. Another important plus is the presence of a cabinet for linen, located in the back wall of the furniture. Sliding mechanisms "Accordion" are equipped with reliable working elements, have a long service life, withstand considerable weight, are easy to transform, but they also have a drawback - when expanding, the supports slide along the floor and can damage the coating.

lifting

Upholstered furniture with a lifting mechanism consists of two identical parts and involves only two positions - a sitting sofa and a sleeping surface. Horizontal transformation is performed by lifting the seats and folding the backrest back. It is laid on a wooden frame, and the seat beam is lowered into place, in the raised state, the rear wall is fixed with special locking mechanisms.

Before installation, it must be taken into account that between the sofa and the wall, 10-15 cm of empty space will be required for the backrest when it is in the lowered position.

Swivel

Sofas with a swivel mechanism are one of the first to appear on the upholstered furniture market, they are compact and very easy to use, so they always remain relevant. The design involves a minimum of elements, there are no fragile parts, rollers. An important plus is the presence of a box for linen. Of the minuses - there should be a distance of 10-15 cm between the sofa and the wall, which is necessary when unfolding - the seats rise, and the back wall leans back, forming a place for the head.

Thanks to the stoppers, the backrest can be deployed, fixed in the middle position, which is why the models are called swivel.