Features and varieties of transforming tables for the living room

The need for functional furniture periodically appears for everyone. Now friends will come to visit, then the study is busy, and the table in the living room is uncomfortable, but you never know what is needed. A simple solution to such problems can be a mobile transforming table, which successfully combines the capabilities of a coffee table and a workplace.

Basic qualities

As a rule, the positive aspects of such furniture include:

• Scalability.
• Mobility.
• Multifunctionality.
• Compactness.
• Responsiveness.
• Stylish design.

At the same time, the main disadvantages of such solutions include, in fact, the presence of mechanical and moving parts. It is known that the simpler the design, the more reliable it is. Therefore, you need to be prepared that sooner or later, somewhere it will start to wedge, backlash and cracks may appear. In addition, poor quality fittings and improper care will also affect durability.

Additional Information! In fairness, it should be noted that most of these tables rarely undergo intensive transformation. Therefore, the described shortcomings are more likely than necessary.

Expansion Mechanism: A Brief Description

Today there are four main ways of changing the shape that are used in the manufacture of furniture:

1. Semi-automatic. At the heart is a mechanism based on rods and wings, which allows you to transform the surface by changing the position of one of the table elements. The counterpart automatically takes the given position. For example, by pulling the countertop towards you, the second plane moves out from under it, thereby increasing the overall dimensions. "Advanced" models can be supplied with a gas lift.
2. Blinds. The change in shape is due to a hidden indoor module made in the form of blinds (hence the name). When the sidewalls are pushed apart, it rises and fills the vacated space.
3. Folding. This type of design provides for the location of additional sidewalls on the sides of the central element. If necessary, you can increase the area by simply lifting the folding sidewall.
4. Turning. Changing the surface of the table is carried out by rotating the table top and releasing (by opening or extending) the counterpart.

Of course, there are also more complex structures of the transformation mechanism, but all of them, in one way or another, rely on the described methods.

Applicable materials

Often, what a particular table is made of determines both its cost and its functionality. Given this circumstance, the following materials are used in the manufacture of such furniture:

• Tree (array). Differs in strength, durability and good appearance.It is used in massive structures, as well as where a delicate balance between reliability and style is required.
• MDF. Often chosen as a cheap alternative to natural wood. The combination of high mechanical characteristics and a wide choice of laminate allows it to be used in transformer structures. In addition, it is undemanding to care for.
• Metal. Most often, a frame is made from it, a base for tabletops, supports. However, the design idea will find application for it everywhere. In addition to strength, metal structures are also distinguished by their high cost.
• Tempered glass. Transparent, matte, colored - excellent material for countertops. However, it is also the most expensive one. Combined with a chrome base, it allows for high-tech solutions.

Extendable tables transformers for the living room

There are three main types of transforming tables: coffee, dining and "book". If furniture is purchased for the living room or bedroom, it makes sense to focus exclusively on the coffee table format. This will allow, on the one hand, to free up additional space, and on the other hand, to have a ready-made solution at hand in case of celebrations or the arrival of guests.

Among the most popular options are the following:

• "Book". The increase in the surface is due to the disclosure of an additional tabletop located on top. The transformation mechanism provides the extension of the support-stop from under it.
• Turning. An interesting solution that suggests changing the surface by rotating the hidden planes below the work plane. The resulting shape can be asymmetrical.
• Retractable. Parts of the table are moved in a certain direction, and the void formed in their place is filled with an additional insert.
• "Butterfly". An increase in the working surface is achieved by attaching folding elements hidden under the table. Reminiscent of the opening of the wings - hence the name.

Note! Many of these designs allow for both surface area and height changes. Most often this can be done separately, but sometimes the transformation occurs in both directions at the same time.

How to choose the right transforming table

The likelihood of the correct choice directly depends on a clear understanding of the purpose of acquiring such a table, including the tasks that are assigned to it. To narrow the search area and choose the most optimal option, you should pay attention to the main parameters:

• The role of the transformer.
• Opening mechanism.
• Material.
• Effective form.
• Additionally: rollers, height adjustment, color.

Important! When choosing a table, taking into account its use for eating, you need to take into account the fact that the minimum required distance (in width) for one person is 0.6 m.

What the market offers

Today the most popular model is a coffee table. Below are some of the most interesting models, selected taking into account the optimal ratio of "quality-functionality":

• Calligaris Dakota CS / 5078-G. Stylish model from Italian designers. Of the features, it is worth noting a metal frame and a glass surface. Suitable as a dining or kitchen table. The mechanism is rotary. Designed for intensive use.

  

• Bontempi GIRO. Representative of the top segment. It features a unique telescopic transformation system. The original shape is a circle, after opening it forms a stylized ellipse. Designed for installation in the living room.Frame material - aluminum. The table top is lacquered glass. Diameter before opening: 1.3 m.

  

• "Dolphin". Multifunctional solution from a Russian manufacturer. Provides transformation in two directions: width and height. Differs in high-quality mechanism and ease of use. Suitable for most modern interiors. Material - chipboard.

  

• Gomlden2109-3. Despite the fact that the manufacturer of this table is a typical representative from China, this model is in no way inferior in functionality and quality to eminent Italian models. The opening mechanism is made according to the "butterfly" type. The body is metal, the table top is tempered glass. Height adjustment is provided. Perfect for any modern apartment. Format - coffee table. Folded dimensions: 120x74 cm.

  

• iMultifunzione REGOLO. An interesting representative of the premium class from the Italian designer Alfio Padovan. Height adjustable. Dimensions in the "magazine transformer" format: 110x60 cm. The reliable mechanism allows you to significantly increase the usable area, providing a size of 110 cm in width, 120 cm in length and 74 cm in height.

  

Features of operation

Since the transforming table is equipped with a mechanical part, this imposes certain restrictions on its operation. During the transformation process, it is advisable to avoid the application of excessive force, jerks or similar mechanical influences. In addition, do not overload the structure in excess of the maximum permissible weight, especially when unfolded.

In addition, it is recommended to follow the general rules for the care of furniture:

• Avoid exposing laminated or polished surfaces to high temperatures.
• Do not install furniture in direct sunlight.
• Do not use the table for other purposes.
• Wipe off dust and small debris regularly.
• Do not ignore the instructions and recommendations from the manufacturer.

Design options, location in the interior

When buying a folding table, you need to evaluate how well this type of furniture will fit into the existing interior. In this case, you will have to take into account both the installation site and the design of the table, its shape:

• Rectangle or square. It will fit equally well in the living room and in the kitchen.
• Circle or oval. Suitable for spacious rooms.
• Designer form. As a rule, this option is initially intended for the living room, less often for the bedroom.

In addition, when installing the table, you should distribute the space so that it does not interfere with moving around the room, the accompanying furniture was of comparable dimensions, and the transformation process itself was carried out as conveniently and effortlessly as possible. Often it is placed either against the wall, where it plays the role of an element of the interior, or between armchairs, opposite a window or TV.

The idea of ​​purchasing such a table can be a good solution if space is limited or you rarely need to use any other furniture. In this case, the "almost all-in-one" design will be a good option, especially when the living room is a study, a dining room, and a cinema hall.

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