Folding sofas: types and tips for choosing

The sofa is an invariable symbol of special cosiness and comfort in the apartment. Properly selected, it fits perfectly into various interiors, perfectly and for a long time performing its proper functions. Folding sofas - a great way out of the situation for small housing.

Now the functionality of sofas is significantly expanded - in the unfolded position, they represent a comfortable place to relax, and can additionally be equipped with drawers and niches, tables, backlit minibars and other supporting structures.

Today, products are presented in a huge assortment - in the form of angular, modular, П and Г-shaped models, banquets, sofas, "books" and many other products. Such a variety often creates difficulties when choosing a product for a particular room.

Methods (schemes) of folding modern sofas are different in their design:

• folding;
• withdrawable;
• retractable;
• rotary;
• without folding mechanism.

Consider some of the most popular folding systems.

A folding type of sofas, the advantages of which are compactness, the presence of compartments for storing items, relatively low cost. In order to unfold the product, you need to raise the seat up to a characteristic clicking sound, and then lower it down.

The "book" improved in the qualitative sense, a retractable mechanism using rollers.

A folding model of the “Eurobook” with a sliding mechanism that provides for a more accurate attitude to the flooring - the rollers do not move on the floor, and the seat performs an arc trajectory.

Consists of 3 fabric-sheathed modules, folding seats forward for stop. Of the advantages of the product, it is worth noting ease of use, small dimensions, the possibility of using a removable cover and low weight (up to 180 kg).

Unfold the product by pulling on a strong special loop located at the bottom of the seat. Roll-out sofas are reliable, take up little space and have large sleeping space.

It is produced in 2 constructive types of casting into a sleeping version: American and French. The options are slightly different, but similar in that in the starting position, the sleeping place is located under the seat. In the second version, the seat is pulled up, after which the sofa can be fully deployed, after removing the pillows. In the starting position, the product takes up little space. In this case, the sleeping space is significant in area.

The triple layout device is equipped with a forward folding mechanism. Reminds "American folding bed", folding in 3 stages, mounted on special internal supports.

The design is equipped with a polyurethane foam mattress and metal mesh, guaranteeing a comfortable stay.

A product with a complicated, expensive, but reliable folding mechanism. When laying out the sofa, pull out the block located under the seat.

It is comfortable for sleeping, as it is equipped with spring devices. To disassemble the sofa, put forward the part located under the seat, which pulls the rest of the structural elements. Pros - the sleeping part is similar in design to orthopedic mattresses. The product makes it possible to save space, when folded, with a relatively large area for sleeping.

For small rooms, the most convenient are compact couches-sofas, which are disassembled to the side.

In the form of sofas are divided into straight, round, semicircular (oval) options. Moreover, they can be large and small sizes.

• Direct. Of the advantages, it is worth highlighting the variability of length, the use of various folding mechanisms and a significant price range. In addition, direct types of sofas are universal when choosing them for the interior. Among the shortcomings - a small capacity, a narrow seat, the frequent loosening of the armrests during operation, not quite a "marketable" look of the back side.

• Round - original, provide the desired level of comfort, safe, equipped with storage compartments. Among the shortcomings are high prices, significant dimensions, the need for a special selection of bed linen.

• Semicircular. Pluses - a variety of types (monolithic, modular, rounded, with a back, legs, armrests, drawers, minibars), original design.

The design of sofas is diverse - from classic, designer models to stylish contemporary ones, executed in the modern style or soft, antique. The color scheme of products is also diverse - from white and light to dark shades.

The materials used for the manufacture of frames must meet the criteria of strength, wear resistance, environmental friendliness and naturalness. Most frames are made of chipboard, plywood, wood and metal.

• ChipboardPerhaps the most short-lived material, not intended for significant and frequent loads.
• Plywood much stronger, has a more dense structure and is slightly deformed during operation.
• Products with steel frame are in the top of the rating for reliability, but greatly complicate the design.
• Durable, environmentally friendly and long lasting. wood frames. This is a classic, but the most expensive.

Among the fillers of sofas can be used:

• spring blocks - springs correctly distribute the weight of a person, providing the desired degree of comfort;
• PPU - the material is environmentally friendly, eliminates allergic reactions, has an optimal balance of rigidity / softness and high breathability;
• synthetic winterizer - One of the practical and budget options, but with a short time of possible operation;
• holofiber - excellent filler for children's furniture (hypoallergenic, environmentally friendly, with a long service life);
• foam rubber - short-lived.

The upholstery used for sofas, in addition to high quality, should have a dense texture. Jacquard, flock and chenille are especially popular at present.

• Flock most suitable for families with small children and animals. This upholstery is durable, waterproof, easy to clean, but intensively absorbs various odors.
• Jacquard - It looks elegant. The material is versatile, moderately tough and practical, made with rich colors and patterns.
• Shenill - esthetic, environmentally friendly and wearproof.

Dimensions and other parameters of products depend on their types, where each of them has its own characteristic features. Corner options usually have significant dimensions, they are characterized by massiveness. Occupying the corner of the room, they do not require large areas and are placed in small rooms, and in the open position they regularly serve for sleep.

Features corner options.

• They are produced, as a rule, without armrests, less often with them.
• The standard places for rest are 140, 150, 130, 170, 190, or 200 cm wide. Selection options are determined by the number of people accommodated.
• The dimensions of the places for sleeping are diverse: if a product is purchased for children, then they are limited to a length of 150 cm, for an adult user - 190-210 cm.
• Corner options include three parts: a corner and two rectangular elements, each of which has its own dimensions. The longest part is usually 130, 140 or 150 cm. Products with a different size range can also be produced.
• Corner sofas also have different widths - they are more often found with sizes of 90 or 70 cm.
• They are certainly equipped with special linen niches.

Direct sofas are more often chosen by the consumer. This a folding item is often used for sleeping and is selected for spacious rooms. It is usually placed along the wall. Often, products with one place to sleep are also placed in the kitchens. Typical sizes are selected for standard rooms, and for original rooms, goods are selected exclusively according to the required sizes. High back options are available. In this case, the cost of the product increases, and the parameters are performed according to the drawings. In direct products, as a rule, the “book” mechanism (with a folding back), “dolphin” or “accordion” is used.

When choosing a product, take into account: height, depth and other actual dimensions. The choice of a suitable option is based not so much on its dimensions as on the parameters of the desired place to sleep. In this sense, the following sizes are most preferred.

• For kitchens - 130 cm, 150 cm, and sometimes 160 cm.The products are small and quite acceptable for kitchens.
• For an apartment in which a large family lives, sofas 170 cm or 2 meters long are purchased, and for large living rooms - 290 cm long.
• A width of 90 cm is most suitable for straight models, less often they are bought with a width of 70 cm.

The sleeping areas of the models that are laid out forward have a considerable length - 170, 180, 190, 200 cm. The width is different, sofas of 90 cm or 140 cm are often purchased for installation in large rooms. Devices with a depth of 80 cm and more are in demand, since they are comfortable. This type of product can reach sizes up to 3 m (multi-seat options).

Couches - an easy, single look, chosen for non-standard situations. They are laid out, as a rule, along, so the smallest size is 180 cm. But large options are also possible - 190 or 200 cm. In the initial position, their typical length is 135, 140, 150, 170, 190 cm.

For large rooms, couches with a size of 210 cm are available. A comfortable depth for them is a size of 80 cm.

The sizes of children's models are largely determined by the design features of the transformation mechanisms. So, the products that are folded forward are usually produced 170 cm long. If they are transformed along, then their length can reach 2 or 3 m, depending on the features of the model range. Modular sofas include several parts fastened together, the dimensions of which are determined by the types and forms of products. The typical size of one module varies between 60-100 cm.

The size is also affected by the number of seats.

• For single (short version) standard - 130.140 cm.
• For doubleFor example, for a couple (rest and sleep), the length is at least 170 cm, but a model with sizes of 190 and 200 cm will be more comfortable. A sofa with a length of 180 or 210 cm will be a good purchase.
• In triple length of products can reach 300 cm. Their common length is 2-2.5 m and width is 80-110 cm. When choosing a specific model, the footage of the room must be taken into account.
• Are made 4-, 5- and 7-seater products, the dimensions of which, with the exception of length, differ little from standard options. Their dimensions are greatly influenced by the style of execution. So, a high-tech sofa will have smaller dimensions than its counterpart, executed as part of the Baroque style.

The main criteria for choosing sofas include the purpose of use, types, types and forms, design features, materials, possible auxiliary functions, cost and brand of the product. By scope of application, products are allocated for living rooms, kitchens, children's rooms, corridors, for the arrangement of office and entertainment rooms. In addition to the traditional uses of sofas, they are also used to create separate areas in rooms.

The sofa in the living room is a comfortable product for relaxation, which is also the decoration of the interior. Choosing it, take into account the dimensions of the room.

• For spacious rooms Corner options with a wide seat and a high back will become appropriate. Five seats, perhaps, will be the most suitable option. Especially if the family is hospitable.
• For small living rooms usually choose small sofas, bright colors, focusing on the sofa, distracting guests from the size of the room. If the product is rarely planned to be used for sleep, then any mechanism for unfolding it will do.

When choosing a corner or direct option for kitchens, it is important to focus on the functionality, practicality and ergonomics of the product.

The office environment is characterized by respectability in products combined with maximum comfort.. We must not forget about practicality. It is advisable to choose laconic products with leather upholstery in the same tone. In narrow rooms, two small sofas will look good. For spacious fit medium-sized products. Sofas of light neutral shades and muted dark sofas that give furniture solidity look good.

The level of rigidity of furniture (including with a mattress) is chosen based on individual vision, sometimes taking into account the recommendations of medical experts. The frame is recommended to choose from wood, better dried - the sofa will be stronger and quieter during operation. For competent zoning with the help of sofas, attention should be paid to the area and layout of the room.

Children's furniture, in addition to other general requirements for reliability, should not contain sharp fragments. It is better to choose rounded products.

Bearing in mind the transforming mechanisms and their reliability, it is recommended:

• for daily folding - “pantograph”, “dolphin”, angular variants of the “cougar”;
• for living rooms - “books” and “accordions”.

The transforming part of the structure must necessarily be light, otherwise its various breakdowns and regular operation failures are inevitable. Materials for frames are best selected natural, strong, wear-resistant and environmentally friendly.

For the right choice of overall parameters, we recommend taking into account a number of recommendations:

• the presence of a folding device strongly affects the dimensions of the subject;
• number of seats should be calculated in advance, and with the uncertainty of this parameter, modular options are most convenient;
• product length in starting position depends on the metric of the room in which it is installed - for spacious rooms this parameter sometimes reaches 300 cm.

Sofas traditionally come in standard sizes, designed for users with average height and weight. Such indicators are uncomfortable for excessively high or low people, if the acquisition is planned for sleep. Here, any centimeter is relevant. For users of small stature, the length of the sleeping bed can be 130 cm, which is typical for children's places. Often, in such cases, products of 170 cm are chosen. For tall and very tall people, the length of the bed reaches 190-210 cm, and sometimes 300 cm. The depth of the sofas is 80 cm.

There are special standards setting the depth of the devices, which corresponds to 450-600 mm for clumsy and 500 mm for folding furniture. The length of the bed is at least 1860 mm, and in width - 700 mm. A width of 650 mm is allowed exclusively for guest models.

High places in the ratings of high-quality furniture are occupied by manufacturers:

• Belarusian "Pinskdrev";
• Italian Bentsony;
• Swedish IKEA;
• Ukrainian Dlinestyle;
• Finnish Pohjanmaan.

The best domestic firms are:

• "Pegasus";
• "Rival";
• "Slavmebel";
• "Peregrine Falcon";
• Lerroy.

Popular companies are also Kristie and Anderssenproducing high quality corner products. The products of these companies deserve attention, they are characterized by a variety of forms and compulsory warranty service. The price spread of all these firms is diverse.

• Corner sofa.

• Gray straight sofa.

• Wide triple sofa.

• Faux leather sofa.

• Green sofa "Dolphin".

In the next video you will find an overview of the mechanisms for transforming sofas.