It is considered that the most important element for the kitchen is the dining table, which since ancient times has been given the main place in the house.
When the area of the kitchen does not allow you to place a lot of furniture, then a functional transforming kitchen table will be the best solution.
Features of transforming tables
The most important and distinguishing feature of transformer tables is practicality, the ability to increase its size with a slight movement in case of a sudden arrival of guests.
There are many different models that differ in shape, size, color and material.. In addition, you can make furniture to order on an individual project. Simple and practical folding table design fits harmoniously into any interior, creating a cozy atmosphere, and when unfolded it fully corresponds to the functional qualities of the dining table.
In addition to direct use folded kitchen table transformer can be used in the following qualities: a bar counter, a cabinet for storing kitchen utensils, a cabinet, a chest of drawers or a coffee table. For maximum convenience, there are many models with adjustable height.
Its compact size and light weight make it easy to move to another place, and, if necessary, to another room. Many models are equipped with small wheels (depending on the transformation mechanism - from 2 to 4 wheels), facilitating movement around the apartment.
Variety of types and designs
Choosing a folding table for the kitchen, it is necessary to take into account its dimensions and layout of the room so that it does not occupy all the free space when unfolded, it is comfortable to use for each family member. The most common are the following assembly options.
- Folding. Most often presented in the form of one or two countertops, lowered down, which are easily raised and converted into a horizontal surface of the table. Improved models of transformers ("table-butterfly") have an automatic assembly mechanism, when when expanding one plane, the second moves apart automatically. Automated systems are distinguished by high strength and functionality, but their cost is higher when compared with conventional folding mechanisms.
A more complex modified system has round folding tables, in which additional sections appear as a spiral, due to the rotation of the main tabletop to the side.
- Extendable tables. They are a structure of additional sections located under the main surface. To increase the size of the surface, it is necessary to push the main countertop to the sides, and raise the lower sections up. In other variations, the sliding table has additional sections that extend to the side.
- Rotary systems. They require first to turn the main countertop, after which it opens. This type of furniture requires more free space.
Practical folding tables window sills, in which the additional section of the countertop is a continuation of the window sill and lowered down, and if necessary, it rises and is converted into a dining table. For some models, the countertop is made in the form of a narrow surface with a folding leg-support and can be used as a bar counter. Such an option perfect for a small cozy kitchen and a young family.
An important point when choosing a quality dining room furniture is the material used for manufacturing, and it also affects the cost of the product. The main materials used for furniture are listed below.
- Chipboard - the most common and economical material obtained by pressing wood chips with resin impurities. A significant drawback of such a material is its low strength indicators, it is quite easy to break it.
- Natural wood furniture it always looks elegant and expensive, suitable for any style of kitchen, has a long-term period of operation, but requires particularly careful handling.
- Metal surfaces of tables Suitable for supporters of the Art Nouveau style, they are highly durable and practical, but they are quite rare.
- Strained glass is an expensive material and requires special care, however, a glass table looks luxurious in the interior, visually increases the free space of the room. In the manufacture of furniture, transparent, frosted or colored glass is used. The design in the form of a glass mosaic looks elegant, but such a design is not cheap.
Often for the manufacture of folding tables in the old style stone imitation, which is obtained by gluing on the surface of a decorative film or other decorative elements.
Colors and shapes
Another important point when choosing a transformer table is its color, because often the dining table and kitchen are selected in the same style. The classic and most common are white, black, gray and brown. The possibility of manufacturing such transformers to order provides for the selection of many other colors for a particular model.
If there is enough free space in the dining room or kitchen, then classic oval table It will look both stylish and elegant.The oval-shaped transformer with an additional section will comfortably accommodate a large number of guests.
The absence of sharp corners, like some square or rectangular models, make oval models more practical in families with small children and a small kitchen. It is characterized by the same properties. round tablewhich prevents excessive injuries and provides additional space around. Often it has one massive supporting leg and contributes to the favorable location of guests.
Round dining tables for two look elegantly in a small, modern-style kitchen. A the upgraded round transforming table can easily turn into an oval table with the help of an additionally retractable tabletop.
Square and classic rectangular folding tables look stylish and expensive. In a small-sized kitchen, they are perfectly located in a corner or near a wall, which significantly saves space. Folded rectangular dining table can be used as a cabinet for storing kitchen utensils due to the presence of additional consoles and hooks. Thanks to the unique mechanisms, a small pedestal can turn into a full-fledged dining table for a large family in two.
There are no strict standards, the only thing with regard to size is about 60 cm wide for 1 person. All other design decisions and practical designs can be easily realized, the main thing is that the table is as convenient as possible to operate.
Modern progress in the furniture industry is developing very quickly and is not limited to standard forms. High-tech dining table-transformers can be made in the form of various polygons and have sliding surfaces of irregular streamlined shapes. If the ergonomics of the kitchen provides for a non-standard table shape, this will perfectly emphasize the individuality of the owners and will become a colorful accent in the design of the apartment.
Advantages and disadvantages
Transforming tables are rightfully very popular in small kitchens and have the following advantages:
- during transformation, their sizes almost double (depending on the model);
- there is a possibility of height adjustment;
- practical mechanisms for ease of use;
- Strong and reliable design, guaranteeing long-term and safe operation;
- modern and stylish design, a variety of shapes and colors suitable for any style of kitchen.
Against the background of a large number of positive qualities, there are minor flaws. There are poor-quality fittings and faulty mechanisms, but this is typical mainly for budget models. The high cost of modern transformer tables is noted, but it is justified by the use of high-quality ecological raw materials for their production, as well as by the complexity of the design.
By purchasing an expensive transformer, you can be completely sure that the investment is paid off by the reliable functionality of the furniture and the cozy atmosphere in the house for many years.
See how to choose a transformer kitchen table in the next video.
