Mechanisms for transforming sofas, what are the pros and cons. Types of sofas. How to choose a sofa by type Types of sofas by design

Choosing among the many types of transformation of sofas, you need to consider whether you will lay out a bed every day, or only occasionally, when guests rush into the house.

Book ("click-clack")

Mechanism: to expand the sofa, lift the seat and pull it towards you. It is reliable, time-tested.

Three positions of the backrest: sitting, lying, "relax" (intermediate position with a half-reclined back).
Compactness. Doesn't take a lot of space to spread out.
As a rule, it is possible to provide a linen box.
The sleeping place is flat, without "kinks".

Eurobook

Mechanism: The seat is pushed forward, after which the back of the sofa is lowered. In fact, it is difficult to call similar mechanisms: the seat leaves by sliding along the guides, the backrest is lowered in manual mode.

Durability: Simplicity sofa folding mechanism eliminates breakage.
Large selection of sizes.
Large linen box due to the lack of internal parts of the mechanism.
Flat sleeping surface.

Eurobook "Tick-Tock"

Mechanism: among others types of transformation of sofas this one is especially respectful of the flooring: the wheels do not move on the floor, the seat moves along a trajectory resembling a semicircle.

Scratches on parquet, linoleum and other floor coverings are excluded.
Doesn't require a lot of layout space.

Accordion

Mechanism: this “musical” name was given for its resemblance to the principle of stretching the bellows of this musical instrument. The seat raises until it clicks, and then extends to the stop.

Minimum assembled size.
Large bed size.
mechanism reliability.

Withdrawable

Mechanism: The seat pulls all other parts along with it. To unfold the sofa, you need to pull the seat strap hidden at the bottom.

Of all sofa folding mechanisms this one is the most reliable.
Takes up little space when folded
Large size bed with a small size of the folded structure.

Cot

Includes the following types of sofa transformation: American and French. They have some differences, but are similar in that the assembled bed is under the seat.

french look

Mechanism: the seat must be pulled out towards you and then up, after that the folded sofa should be “unfolded”. Before that, you need to remove the pillows.

When folded, it takes up little space.
When unfolded, it has a fairly large bed.

American view ("sedaflex")

Mechanism: unfolds similarly to the French mechanism, while the headrest does not need to be removed, it will automatically move to the desired position.

More durable mechanism than the French counterpart.
There is no need to dismantle structural elements.

Dolphin

Mechanism: the movement of the sleeper at a given sofa folding mechanism reminiscent of a dolphin dive. It is necessary to pull the strap attached to the seat and pull it out completely.

The most durable of all types of transformation of sofas. Suitable for daily unfolding.
The sleeping place is large, flat.
Easy to unfold and fold.

Conrad

Of all types of transformation of sofas this option is the most convenient for sleeping, as it allows the use of spring blocks in the design, which is most beneficial for health and creates comfortable conditions for sleeping.

Mechanism: the part located under the seat extends and stretches further, dragging the seat with it, and then part of the back, after which the first part rises up, on the same level with the seat, and the part of the back falls to the same level.

A sleeping place close in quality to an orthopedic mattress.
Significant space saving when folded with a relatively large bed.

For a rational choice of a sofa, you should first find out what types of sofas exist. What are their differences, advantages and disadvantages.

There is no strict classification of types of sofas. In this review, I will be guided by the fact that sofas can be classified depending on their design and functional (purpose of the sofa) features. So let's go.

What sofas are depending on the design

In this section, I have selected the most significant design differences between types of sofas. These can be attributed

the ability of the sofa to change shape and size without unfolding - in this part, I divided the sofas into stationary and modular
the ability of the sofa to transform - unfold
types of sofas depending on the type of filler
types of sofas depending on the fabric for upholstery sofa (I think this indicator is the least significant)

Now about each design difference of sofas in detail.

Stationary, modular and island types of sofas

On this basis, sofas can be divided into three groups - stationary, modular and island. Let's figure out which ones are better.

Stationary sofas

Stationary sofas are sofas that have a fixed size. They do not allow you to change the shape and size of the product. Usually, a stationary sofa is placed along the wall. Often, the back wall of the sofa has a more economical finish (for example, felt), which differs from the main upholstery.

In turn, stationary sofas can be divided into:

Direct sofas - usually used in small spaces. There are folding and non-folding

Corner sofas - there are also folding and not folding .Corner sofas require more space.

To the virtues stationary sofas can be attributed to the fact that when unfolding the sofa turns into a comfortable bed. You can use this sofa for both sitting and sleeping. The prices for such sofas are also quite lifting.
disadvantage stationary sofas is a certain massiveness and not the possibility of changing the shape and size.

Modular sofas

A modular sofa consists of parts - modules that can be combined in different orders and create a single product. You can also use sofa modules as independent furniture elements.

Of course, such models are mobile and suitable for creative individuals. You can change the configuration and general appearance of the sofa. Due to the compact size of the modules, modular sofas are easy to move and transport.

Advantages of modular sofas mobility in every sense, transformation and change in the general appearance of the product
To disadvantages can be attributed to the fact that such sofas often do not have a bed and have a higher price than stationary sofas, the range of modular sofas on sale is much smaller than the range of stationary sofas.

This type of sofas is used to organize places to relax. At the same time, the sofa is not placed along the walls, but far from them. The sofa forms a semblance of an island. Island sofas have an attractive look from all sides. In shape, they can be round, semi-circular, oval and rectangular. The use of an island sofa requires that there is sufficient free space in the room. The approach to the "island" should be free from all sides. Island sofas come in a variety of sizes. From one or two local to 5-6 local versions.

Advantages of island sofas mobility, stylish and unique appearance
disadvantages sofas do not have a bed, require large spaces, have a high price

Conclusion: if you need a sofa to organize a sleeping place, then you need a stationary type of sofa. If you want to organize seating and daytime activities, take a look at the modular versions. An island sofa is good if there is a lot of space in the room.

The design features of the sofas allow you to create sofas of various shapes. A detailed description of the possible forms of the sofa in this article.

Types of sofas depending on the ability to transform

Sofas are folding and not folding.

This type of sofa contains a transformation mechanism in the design, which is located inside the sofa body. There are more than a dozen sofa folding mechanisms. You can read more about all the mechanisms of transformation

When the sofa is folded, the mechanism is not visible. The mechanism allows you to convert the dimensions of the sofa. Usually folding sofas are needed to organize a place to sleep. Folding sofas can be both angular and straight.

Advantages of folding sofas the possibility of transformation increases the functionality of the sofa - a sofa during the day, a bed at night. Pull-out sofas can contain additional drawers for linen hidden inside the sofa
The lack of pull-out sofas associated with the reliability of the mechanism itself and the frame of the sofa. If the transformation of the sofa is frequent, then its wear increases. You need to carefully choose a reliable mechanism and a high-quality sofa frame when buying it.

Sofas are not folding

From the name it follows that this type of sofa cannot be converted into anything. Typically, these models are used to organize seating. Non-folding sofas can be used in pairs and or together with armchairs, creating a seating area, for example, around a coffee table in the living room. Normally, such a sofa will work in your kitchen or dining room. If the area allows, then you can use it in the hallway

Advantages of non-folding sofas: compact size, low price
Disadvantages of non-folding sofas: weak, limited functionality

Conclusion: if you need a multifunctional assistant, as in advertising all in one bottle, then you need a folding sofa. If the functions are more modest - just sit, then you can save a lot by buying a non-folding sofa.

Types of sofas depending on the type of filler

On this basis, two main groups can be distinguished.

Sofas filled with spring blocks

In such sofas, the filler is a structure made on the basis of metal springs. The springs can be connected in blocks or independent. Also, the spring block can have a common metal frame. This type of sofa is good for sleeping. Spring blocks have a long service life and are comfortable to use.

Sofas with filler without springs

As a filler without spring sofas can be:

foam rubber
PPU - polyurethane foam
latex
polystyrene balls

Conclusion: the choice of filler type depends on the functional purpose of the sofa. For sleep, it is better to use sofas based on spring blocks or with latex filler. If you want to save a lot, foam rubber will help you, but then the sofa will have to be changed very quickly. PPU occupies a middle position. It will do a good job of solving problems - a sofa for sleeping and for sitting.

There are a lot of upholstery. Read about the intricacies of choosing upholstery for sofas.

Fundamentally, upholstery can be divided into

natural (cotton, leather, tapestry, jacquard, silk)
semi-synthetic - consist of a combination of natural and synthetic fibers (flock, chenille)
synthetic - consist entirely of artificial components (artificial leather)

But, I believe that among other design features of sofas, upholstery fabric plays the least importance. Because it's the easiest to replace.

General conclusion on upholstery: look at them last - the design of the sofa is more important than its appearance. The choice of upholstery type depends on the purpose of the sofa.

Look at this sofa and think about where it can be used. After a short evaluation, it turns out that there are not so many possibilities for using it.

You can find a classification by purpose, which is based on the types of premises in which the sofa will be used.

What will we get as a result

Living room sofa
Bedroom sofa
Sofa for kitchen, dining room
Sofa for children
Sofa in the hallway
Sofa in the office or library
Sofa for loggia and balcony

It seems to me that such a division is not very correct. Yes, it has the right to life, but the same sofa can be put in any of the rooms. The question is different. What would you do on this sofa - sleep, eat or just sit. Do you understand what I mean? You can eat in the living room and sleep in the kitchen.

Therefore, I would single out three key groups of sofas by purpose

Seating sofa
Sleeping sofa
Sofa for sitting and sleeping

Conclusion on the purpose of the sofa: look at the functions that the sofa will solve in your particular case and choose based on this understanding. Do not rush to the marketing tricks of sellers - like This sofa for the living room - buy it and you will be happy. And you want to eat and sleep on it, and in this example there will be happiness, but the seller who "sold" you an unnecessary sofa.

Video - types of sofas, what to look for when choosing

Finally, I offer a short video clip. Everything that I have already told above once again for consolidation. Only now it is already "video language".

That's probably all. I hope my findings help you.

Modern technologies help to modernize furniture paraphernalia. Thanks to them, simple sofas turn into a full-fledged bed, which can accommodate from 4 to 8 people. In addition, high-quality filler makes it absolutely safe for human health.

To date, there are several types of sofa mechanisms. Each of them has characteristic differences. Here, both positive and negative sides of such a design are distinguished.

Thanks to them, the transformation allows you to save enough free space. In our material, you will learn which mechanism is better and what needs to be considered in the selection process.

Varieties of folding mechanisms

In specialized departments, a huge selection of folding mechanisms for sofas is presented. The most popular are:

book;
tango;
euro book;
pantograph;
puma;
elf;
accordion;
withdrawable;
French foldout.

Book

Sofa book is considered a classic version of a furniture accessory. To transform it into a bed, just lower the backrest. In the process of unfolding, it resembles the construction of a book.

This mechanism has some advantages. These include:

quality parts;
durable construction;
durability;
spacious storage system.

The disadvantages of this building include:

constant movement of the sofa for transformation;
rapid deformation of the sleeping area. The filler begins to deteriorate over time at the fold;
narrow bed. Only one person can fit here.

Tango

Sofa tango, is a modernized model of the "book". Modern designers have nicknamed this "click-clack" folding mechanism. His side and back parts are amenable to transformation. As a result of this, we get a full-fledged sleeping area where guests can accommodate.

The advantages of such a structure are:

three positions of the backrest. Here you can adjust the angle of inclination, thereby selecting the desired position in the process of sitting.;
This sofa mechanism is suitable for daily sleep. Durable fittings as part of the structure ensure the safe assembly of all parts during operation;
a large box that acts as a storage area.

In addition to the advantages, there are some disadvantages:

it is not possible to install the sofa close to the wall surface;
requires effort to transform.

Eurobook

Sofa "euro book". It unfolds by rolling out the seat, which has an additional roller system. The back part is placed in the resulting plane.

Recently, this type of furniture paraphernalia has gained general popularity.

The positive qualities of this building include:

comfortable bed;
spacious bedding storage system;
durable fittings as part of the mechanism.

The negative qualities of such a design include:

deep seat. Without special extra pillows, it is impossible to relax here. The back is at a right angle;
the constant movement of the front will cause scratches on the floor surface.

Pantograph

The pantograph bears some resemblance to the modern "euro book". Transformation is done in a similar way. There are structures that provide movement forward and upward.

The positive qualities of this model are:

uniform seating area. In the process of unfolding, the joints are practically not felt;
easy transformation;
There is a place to store various small items.

In addition, experienced professionals identify the following disadvantages:

uncomfortable seat. It also has a deep seat. The body is under constant tension. Additional pillows provide a comfortable existence;
the complexity of the folding mechanism. As a result, its cost and maintenance increase.

puma

Sofa "Puma" is a simple and comfortable furniture accessory. It unfolds neatly with one touch. In order to turn it into a sleeping area, just pull the seat. It fits into the place of the formed void.

The tick-tock sofa mechanism has a similar design to the puma. It also easily transforms into a comfortable resting place with just two simple hand movements. This model is ideal for small living spaces.

It can be pushed tightly to the plane of the wall, thereby saving precious cm. As a rule, soft textured fabrics are chosen for such a sofa. They help to add a piece of comfort to the environment. The photo of the mechanisms of the sofas shows the components that are part of the folding structure.

Photo of sofa mechanisms

It is difficult for any of us to imagine a living room without a sofa. This soft component of the interior gives people a feeling of warmth and comfort, a sofa in any home occupies one of the most important places. On it, people relax, play, communicate with family and loved ones, as well as read, watch TV and sleep. In order to decide on his choice, you need to clearly understand what models exist and what functions they perform.

Now more and more new corner models and designs for the house are being produced all the time. In such a number of offers, it is quite difficult for the buyer to make a choice and understand which type is right for him. In most cases, a person chooses a model based on its appearance and the material from which it is created. But with such indicators it is difficult to achieve complete comfort in using the sofa. For example, such a choice is suitable for furnishing a room and giving it aesthetics, but not used often. For the same purposes, there are monolithic sofas, otherwise they are called non-folding. They can be seen in public places and shopping stores.

It is a completely different case when a sofa is bought for frequent use in everyday life. So, we can assume that such a model will be laid out every day for sleep. . To choose the right model and not to make mistakes, you should know and understand what are the mechanisms for transforming sofas.

You should also provide for other criteria for the chosen model: the size of the space required for the sofa, the ease of transformation, the availability of space where to put the bed linen. You should also determine for yourself which type of sofa is better.

The classification of all designs of sofas is carried out according to:

Transformations.
Design features of furniture.
Appointment.
Size and capacity.

Types of mechanisms

Names of sofas

Classification by purpose

All models can be divided according to their purpose:

Office furniture.
Living room furniture.
Kitchen furniture.
Hallway furniture.
Furniture for a children's room.

With all these varieties, sofas and their mechanisms will differ significantly from each other, so you should accurately determine the design of the sofa and its purpose. In most cases the purpose can be determined by the material of which the furniture is made.