Types of folding tables according to functional purpose
Multifunctional tables may differ in shape, method of transformation and purpose. According to their functional purpose, the following types are distinguished:
A transformable coffee table that turns into a work table. A special internal mechanism smoothly extends and lifts the top of the coffee table. The result is a small desktop that resembles a student's desk. The fastening system has several positions for adjusting the height of the tabletop. Under the lid of the table there are often small compartments and shelves for storing stationery and papers.Coffee-dining: the most popular model on the market. When assembled, such furniture takes up very little space. If necessary, the table can be transformed into a full-size dining table, which can easily seat up to 10 people. This modification is very convenient for living spaces without a separate dining room.
Stash Desk: This compact design comes with internal storage. Under the countertop, drawers and shelves are hidden from prying eyes, where owners can store their belongings, documents, books, etc.
Folding transformable picnic table: super comfortable furniture for relaxing and fishing. Easy to transport and store. There are many types of designs. A table for outdoor recreation is very easy to design and assemble with your own hands.
Transformable coffee table
Tables that can be converted from a coffee table to a dining table are tables that can be placed at the foot of sofas and then, through a mechanism usually consisting of a system of levers and springs with a hydraulic clutch, they can be raised with minimal effort and become suitable tables at lunch.
First of all, this piece of furniture, when closed, is a practical living room table with a minimum height of 30 cm and a maximum of 50 cm. In convertible models, this measure can be changed by simply lowering or raising the shelf.
In this case, the table can be used for different purposes:
- Support point in front of the sofa;
- Comfortable footrest to make it even more comfortable for you to sit on the sofa;
- A table on which you can place snacks and drinks during an aperitif;
- Oriental table for lunch or dinner.
When open, the table reaches a height of 75 cm, which is the best option for turning it into a cozy place for main meals, alone or in company, or for working at the computer, writing, etc.
How to build a transforming table yourself?
Even without any carpentry skills, you can create a folding table with your own hands. To begin with, it is better to practice on the simplest models, for example, making a table for nature. After understanding the essence and basic principle, it will be possible to move on to more serious modifications.
Before starting work, you should decide on a specific model, carefully study the photo of the transforming table, and create a drawing. After the preparatory stage, it is worth starting to purchase the necessary material and directly to assembly and decoration.
How to choose a transforming table
The first thing you need to consider when buying a transforming table, whatever it may be, is the quality of the product.
In fact, a table equipped with transformation, stretching, lowering or folding mechanisms must be made of safe material and a proven and durable mechanism, because it should not become a problem for everyday life, but rather make it easier.
Dimensions
There are some minimum dimensions to consider:
- A standard width of 80 cm, a minimum of 70 for kitchen tables, for example, is a proven measure to accommodate plates and centerpieces and be functional during lunch;
- The chairs occupy about 60 cm.
Form
The shape of the table is important when determining the space needed.
Rectangular tables are those that require less space and are the easiest to place in a room. Round tables take up more space than rectangular ones. Oval is a fair compromise between the previous ones.
These three listed forms are presented on the market in an expandable typology: as a rule, they occupy from 6 to 8 or 10 places.
Opening and closing mechanism
Particular attention should be paid to the mechanism: it must be practical and suitable for the weight it must support, especially when it comes to glass tables. The mechanism must be of excellent quality and tested for a long service life: do not be too frugal, because in this case quality pays off.
- As for the sliding mechanism, the most practical one is the one that involves moving 2 shelves on top of each other to achieve a coplanar position: it is most often used for rectangular and square tables.
- The folding mechanism is also very common, especially for classic-style wooden tables. It consists of metal and wooden parts. Profiled, folded and welded metal plate is used to make the structural members, and wood is used for the top.
The kitchen console table is usually a linear glass table, which, thanks to the 180° rotating mechanism of the side crystal table extensions, can be very easily modified.
Material selection
You need to select the material based on the result you want to get. It is important to evaluate the interior, where the furniture will be located, and of course your budget.
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Most commonly used materials:
- Natural wood: a practical and beautiful material, but has a fairly high cost. As affordable and quite acceptable analogues, you can consider chipboard, fiberboard or MDF. A transforming table for a living room or dining room made of natural wood will undoubtedly be the most successful option.
- Metal: the advantages are durability and practicality. But you need to know how to work with metal. It’s easier to buy metal tables ready-made than to make them yourself.
- Glass: Glass furniture looks very beautiful and aesthetically pleasing in any setting, but glass processing also requires skill, so making a glass table yourself is quite difficult.
Stylish and comfortable
A huge selection of transformers allows anyone to easily choose the necessary furniture, which will become not only an indispensable item, but also a stylish decoration for their home.
Transformable folding tables for the living room can take on a variety of appearances and be made from all kinds of materials. Most often these are tables made of wood, metal, plastic or glass.
If you want your table to look luxurious and complement the interior, then you should choose a large wooden one with a retractable tabletop; for more modest decoration, tables with shiny and glass tops are suitable.
When buying a table, think about its purpose. In what position will he stand more often? And choose the one that will take up less space during daily use.
Types of transforming tables for the living room:
Tables with multifunctional fittings. You can change the placement of furniture parts. Use it as a cabinet for every little thing or, for example, as a work option.
Tables with an adjustable design. You can change the dimensions of the furniture. For example, use a small table if the family is small, and move the tabletop apart when guests arrive.
Recommendations for drawing up a drawing
A drawing is a schematic representation of future furniture. The correct sketch affects both appearance and functionality - a discrepancy of even one millimeter can render the entire structure useless.
The drawing can be drawn on paper, or you can resort to the help of specially developed programs. The online designer is convenient because you can not only make a sketch of the table, but also calculate the materials and make a cutting map. You can use your own parameters for future furniture, or take standard sizes as a basis.
Choosing a transformable table for the living room
When gathering at the table, imagine which one you need; with a large assortment, it is difficult to navigate and choose correctly. To do this, you need to know that transformable tables are divided into categories:
1. Fully transformable tables (for the living room)
2. Tables with adjustable tops
3. Tables with adjustable leg heights
If you need a table for dining purposes, then you should take one with a retractable tabletop.
If you like to have a snack at the computer or in front of the TV, then a transformable coffee table for the living room would be an excellent option; if necessary, it can be transformed into a dining table. And thanks to the adjustable height, you can choose the level of the tabletop depending on your position.
If you are purchasing a desk for a child, then opt for the computer-writing option. The child will be able to install a computer and do homework, and place books on the shelves. But do not forget that the child is constantly growing and the height of the table also needs to be adjusted over time.
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When choosing a table, do not forget about its beauty and physical characteristics. Sometimes tables are purchased to decorate the interior and come in a variety of different and amazing shapes. But the physical characteristics should fully satisfy your economic needs.
For example, large transformable tables for the living room with numerous drawers and shelves will accommodate small things and save you from unnecessary worries.
Assembly
At the assembly stage, you also need to be extremely careful and not miss any details. Prepare all the necessary tools and fasteners, arrange them so that they are at hand. Upon completion of the assembly of the entire structure, check the functionality of the main mechanism: transform the table several times to make sure that everything functions correctly and is secured properly.
