Even with the most ascetic design of a living room, there is always a sofa in it. Often this piece of furniture performs two functions: during the day it serves as a relaxation area, and at night it turns into a sleeping place. If you need to buy just such a folding sofa, choose it not only by the color of the upholstery.
Durability largely depends on which transformation mechanism is used. If you plan to constantly lay out the sofa, then it should be a comfortable, simple and reliable design. Almost all models that can be bought can be divided into main types of sofas according to the type of transformation. Based on these criteria, you need to make an initial choice, and then decide on the color scheme and texture of the sofa upholstery
Transformation mechanism for the sofa “Book”
One of the oldest designs, on the basis of which other sofa folding mechanisms were developed. The book sofa is a time-tested classic at an affordable price, which still remains one of the most popular.
Pros: reliable mechanism that can be used often without damaging the components. Easy to use and almost instant layout.
How to put the mechanism into action: everything is very simple. The seat rises up until there is a characteristic click, then falls down. The back and seat of the sofa form one horizontal plane. The reverse transformation follows the same principle.
What to pay attention to: it is impossible to move the sofa close to the wall, because due to the design features, a small gap is needed between the wall and the back.
Read more about sofas with book mechanism
The best manufacturers and models
The best sofas will be those made from durable wood or plywood rather than extruded materials. The better the quality of the housing, the lower the risk of loosening the bolts.
The most popular and high-quality models can be found from well-known Russian manufacturers. Most of all, buyers trust the products of Anderssen, Rival, Tria, Pinskdrev, Mebel-Holding. These companies have existed on the market for more than ten years, are engaged in the production of furniture and upholstered furniture, and provide guarantees for all types of products.
There are several reputable companies that have been in the market for many years.
If you need a non-standard size or additional options for the main frame, you should order furniture according to individual drawings. This will allow you to independently adjust the choice of materials and mechanisms.
Sofa transformation mechanism “Click-clack”
This is one of the modernized varieties of sofa-book. The mechanism earned its unusual and funny name thanks to the sounds that arise during unfolding. Unlike most folding sofas, the click-klyak can be transformed into three positions: a regular sofa, a bed and a reclining position.
Pros: Ideal for small rooms. It is convenient to sleep on it, since when unfolded it is completely devoid of any joints.
How to put the mechanism into action: the mechanism is very similar to the one in the sofa-book. The seat is raised to a certain level, then lowered.
What to pay attention to: even the shortcomings of this design are similar to those of a book sofa. For free use, you need to leave some free space near the wall.
More information about sofas with a klyak klyak
Design Features
The dolphin is variable and can have many modifications. Product sizes vary: from small transformable chairs to multi-seat corner sofas. Armrests can be wooden, “soft” or completely absent. Models with shelves built into armrests, drawers or niches are especially in demand. There is also a built-in backlight, it is not very functional, but pleasant.
Structurally, all systems are divided into three large groups:
- Straight. Folding front furniture in various sizes. Its distinctive feature is the absence of a drawer for storing linen, since the space under the seat is occupied by a folding platform.
- Corner. Equipped with an attached corner section. There is always a storage compartment, which is very convenient. In some models, the angle can be changed if necessary.
- Modular. It is assumed that there are several blocks, varying in size and purpose. They can be used to assemble functional systems that are ideal for specific conditions.
Transformation mechanism for the sofa “Accordion”
A sofa with an accordion folding mechanism can be found in any store, because this is one of the options in demand among consumers. The name “accordion” means that the parts of the sofa are assembled and laid out like an accordion.
Pros: the bed is wide and high, and when folded the sofa does not take up much space. Can be placed close together.
How to put the mechanism into action: the working surface consists of three parts. In the sofa position, one of them serves as a seat, and the other two form the backrest. The sofa folds forward in one motion. All three parts are laid horizontally, forming a continuous berth.
What to pay attention to: transverse joints can cause discomfort while sleeping, especially after using the sofa for several years.
Read more about sofas with accordion
Mechanism for transforming the sofa “Roll-out”
A roll-out sofa consists of armrests and three moving parts connected to each other. The very first part, which just pulls out, is a wooden roll-out frame that serves as a seat or base for the legs. The other two parts unfold after the first, taking their position.
Pros: simple, convenient, reliable. When folded, it takes up little space.
How to put the mechanism into action: you just need to pull the seat towards you, the other parts will also begin to move. The remaining free space, depending on the design, is filled with pillows or a sofa backrest.
What to pay attention to: After unfolding, the height of the bed becomes lower. For tall people, a roll-out design is not the best option, as it is uncomfortable to sit on the bed.
Read more about sofas with a roll-out mechanism
Transformation mechanism for the “Dolphin” sofa
Most often, corner types of sofas are found with such a mechanism. In them, the second berth is located in a box that is hidden under the seat.
Pros: after adjusting the mechanism, you get a full-fledged double bed.
How to put the mechanism into action: to unfold the Pelican system sofa, you need to pull the block that is hidden in the seat. When it comes out all the way, you need to move the second part of the bed up and down.
What to pay attention to: the basis of the design is wood, the durability of the sofa will depend on its quality.
Read more about sofas with dolphin mechanism
Colors
Modern corner sofas come in a variety of sizes. Larger designs will decorate a large living room, while smaller ones will save space in a small studio apartment or kitchen. The width of the folding bed is usually 180-200 cm. The bed is quite suitable for proper rest for one or two people.
The colors of sofas can be very different. Popular this season:
- warm beige, peach, pink, milky tones;
- shades of turquoise, young green:
- shades of olive, blue, burgundy.
Classic colors are always in fashion - black, white, gray. Such models look great against light walls and can be complemented with bright pillows and accessories. A living room with a black Dolphin sofa will be elegant and discreet. Elegant furniture with leather upholstery will add respectability to the room.
A comfortable sofa bed will be an ideal purchase for a small apartment or private house. Thanks to the variety of body materials, upholstery, and fillings, you can choose a model that suits any interior. When choosing, you need to pay attention to the quality of the transformation mechanisms, on which the practicality and durability of the furniture depends.
Mechanism for transforming the sofa “French folding bed”
This option has proven itself well in the last century and remains just as popular today. One of the explanations for this is the affordable price. There are both corner models and regular ones. The French clamshell mechanism provides for transformation in three stages.
Pros: when unfolding, it is impossible to scratch the floor covering.
How to put the mechanism into action: first remove the cushions that serve as a seat. Under them is a mattress folded in three. The mattress unfolds and is supported by metal legs. To turn a bed back into a sofa, all steps are repeated in reverse order.
What to pay attention to: this is primarily a guest option, which is best used if you urgently need to arrange an extra bed for guests. Firstly, the mattress itself turns out to be thin and uncomfortable for daily sleep, and secondly, from frequent use it will wear out faster and become unsuitable for sleeping.
You can pre-select the most suitable option for yourself using the photos that are in the catalogs of furniture stores. It is better to buy only after checking their reliability in action in the store.
More information about sofas with a French folding
"Spartacus"
The folding part is made of metal mesh and frame; the sleeping place has an orthopedic mattress. It can be unfolded in three movements, the system is stable, so it is convenient to use every day. The sleeping area is quite spacious. The problem is that under load the frame may deform.
Minus: due to the fact that all the space inside is occupied by the frame and mattress, there is no space for bedding.
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Transformation mechanism for the Puma sofa
Sofas with a folding mechanism “Puma” appeared relatively recently, but have already gained well-deserved popularity. The design principle of its operation is based on the graceful and swift movements of a puma during a jump. Such models are very easy to move and durable.
Pros: thanks to the features of the walking mechanism with a synchronizer, the loads are distributed evenly. Unfolding the sofa does not require much effort, and the process itself takes no more than three seconds.
How to operate the mechanism: it is necessary to remove additional cushions from the seat. Pull the seat towards you while lifting it. The section moves forward and is lowered onto legs or a retractable support. The hidden lower section is simultaneously lifted into the vacated space.
What to pay attention to: the design does not provide built-in drawers for linen.
Read more about sofas with Puma mechanism
Benefits of DIY
Assembling a corner sofa with your own hands, if you have the appropriate tools and materials, will not cause difficulties even for novice craftsmen. Such upholstered furniture will help zone the space of the room. Equipped with spacious drawers, corner sofas can accommodate many household items.
When wondering whether it’s worth spending time searching for the right model in the store or whether it’s easier to build a sofa with your own hands, we pay attention to the following points:
- furniture assembled by hand always fits into the interior of the room and is ideal in size;
- the choice of upholstery colors does not depend on the assortment provided by the manufacturer;
- by making a soft corner yourself, you can minimize costs;
- When assembling a kitchen corner sofa with your own hands, you can personally control the quality of the product so as not to have doubts about its strength and durability.
The main advantage of assembling a soft corner sofa with your own hands is aesthetic pleasure, a feeling of pride from the work done. During the production process, you can feel like a real designer and acquire useful skills. Positive emotions will be enhanced by enthusiastic reviews from others.
Transformation mechanism for the sofa “Venice”
A new product from furniture manufacturers with the poetic name of the “Venice” mechanism quickly gained popularity. With a few simple movements, a small comfortable sofa turns into a comfortable sleeping place of a decent size.
Pros: to expand the bed, the sofa does not need to be moved away from the wall, and the structure itself can easily withstand a load of up to 300 kg.
How to operate the mechanism: minimal effort required. Simply pull one or two sewn-in loops on the front side of the lower block. The activated mechanism simultaneously extends the top section and the hidden headrest. As soon as the sections are extended all the way, you need to pull the outermost block up to the level of the others.
What to pay attention to: When moving forward, the blocks rest on wheels, which can leave marks on carpets, parquet or laminate floors.
Read more about sofas with Venice mechanism
"Elf"
The transformation system is extremely simple. All you need to do is lower the armrests. Of course, it will be possible to arrange only one sleeping place, although it will be quite comfortable. Often these models are orthopedic. This sofa needs to be moved a little away from the wall.
Sofa "Elf" for a children's room
Transformation mechanism for the sofa “Pantograph”
Sofas with the Pantograph transformation system have long and firmly occupied their niche, being in demand among consumers. A simple and reliable mechanism guarantees long-term and impeccable service of the products, and the variety of models offered only fuels interest in this type of folding sofas.
Pros: during the transformation process, the supporting elements do not come into contact with the floor, preserving the appearance of the floor covering or carpet. The design provides for linen drawers.
How to activate the mechanism: only three steps are required. The seat is raised using special handles and pulled towards itself. After which it lowers to the floor in a smooth, arched movement. The backrest is lowered into the free space with the back side up.
What to pay attention to: on straight models with standard seat widths and backrest heights, only one person can sleep lengthwise. And the wider options are uncomfortable to sit on.
More information about sofas with a pantograph mechanism
Sofas without transformation mechanism
Fixed sofas are solid structures on a durable frame that do not have built-in mechanisms. The maximum that manufacturers offer is lifting seats, under which linen drawers are hidden. Nevertheless, often the purchase of just such a sofa is completely justified.
Pros: the absence of complex mechanisms affects the cost and characteristics. Such models, as a rule, have budget prices. They weigh less and are more compact. They have more comfortable, ergonomic backrests that support the back of a sitting person. Such products last longer, since there is simply nothing to break in them. And even after ten to fifteen years, it is enough to reupholster them, replacing the filling, so that the sofa finds a new life.
What to pay attention to: you won’t be able to sleep comfortably on such a sofa, since it is not intended for sleeping.
