A well-chosen transformable table will organically fit into the interior of any room. The area of modern apartments does not always have enough free space for a full-fledged dining table.
Therefore, buying a folding table is the most rational decision for a family.
Brief overview of the article
Types of transformable tables
In tables with a transformation function, the height, shape and size of the tabletop can be changed. The choice of table depends on the function of the product you like. A small table can have a mechanism for lifting the tabletop without changing its area. Such tables are located in the area of upholstered furniture for relaxation.
Some models, without changing height, transform into a full-fledged dining table. They are installed against a free wall in the living room for temporary storage of things. When folded, they do not stand out in the overall interior of the room.
Butterfly
A table with such a mechanism is a coffee table with shelves for storing small items. But if necessary, the shelves can be pulled out. An automatic mechanism consists of two planes located opposite each other. When one expands, the second unfolds automatically. The mechanism is durable and practical.
Perfect if you don’t like to clutter up the space with massive high tables for dining, but at the same time value sophistication and comfort.
Design features of the table
Transformable tables can have a sliding or folding option to change the tabletop parameters. Additional built-in guides allow you to expand the panels to the width of the insert, and increase the tabletop area of the sliding transforming table. The insert can open like a book and be located in a special niche.
The design of folding tables is equipped with auxiliary panels, which are attached to the frame on hinged supports. When unfolding the side panels, additional support posts must be opened to stabilize the table.
Initial material for making a table
Furniture manufacturers use various materials to make coffee tables. The most common ones are:
- waste from wood processing plants. Plates made from finely dispersed fractions and wood shavings are decorated with decorative film or natural veneer;
- special glass. Glass made using special technology has an aesthetic appearance, is completely safe to use, and fits organically into any interior;
- metal. Usually a metal profile made of non-ferrous metals is used to construct the table frame;
- wood. A transforming table made of precious wood will be a wonderful decoration for a classic-style living room.
Advantages of a transforming table
Not every living room in a modern apartment allows you to allocate a permanent place for a bulky, roomy table. A round transformable table with an folding function can handle this task. The size of the tabletop increases several times and allows you to place the required number of people at the festive table.
In its normal position, the product looks like an ordinary transforming coffee table, which can be located in the upholstered furniture area or separate functional areas in the room. The transformation mechanism allows you to get a full-fledged dining table in a matter of minutes.
Types of transformers
The main feature of the tables, which is why they have gained such popularity, is the ability to change the size. When assembled, the structures are compact and take up minimal space. Due to their mobility, especially if they are equipped with casters, such tables can be installed anywhere. If necessary, for example, when a large company has gathered, the transformer quickly and easily turns into a full-fledged dining system.
Unusual transforming table
The main advantage of interior items equipped with mechanisms that allow them to be unfolded is their versatility and the need for minimal space when folded. Transformable structures are extremely convenient in various situations.
What types of tables are there and how to choose the right one
Tables for children
Manufacturers offer varieties of tables for children , which are necessary for the following purposes.
- For feeding.
Transformable feeding table
Such designs, depending on the model, can be used as a high chair with a feeding stand, a free-standing chair and table, a swing or a walker. By purchasing one product, it is possible to receive several items, which is quite economical.
- For child's studies and hobbies.
Transformable desk
A table with variable height is convenient for properly organizing the workplace of a baby who is growing quickly. The main advantage of this design is the ability to adjust according to the individual characteristics of the child. The furniture, which does not take up much space, is aesthetically pleasing and comfortable - a real find for parents that will last for many years.
Serving tables
Many of the designs presented by manufacturers can be transformed depending on need - they have the ability to increase the usable area, are equipped with inclined tabletops for use as a stand for a tablet, etc.
Serving table
Coffee tables
Interior items, usually designed to accommodate frequently used things - books, newspapers, TV remote control, etc., can also be used as a full-fledged table for lunch or dinner.
Transformable coffee table
Workplace
A computer or desk can also be folded out depending on need, taking up a minimum of space when folded.
Desk with folding top
Dining tables
The main purpose of transformable furniture is to save space. This is especially important for installed dining structures, which usually take up a lot of space. Universal models, characterized by multifunctionality, have gained popularity among owners of small apartments and not only among them.
Transformable dining table
When choosing interior items, it is necessary to take into account their aesthetics, high-quality workmanship and the safety of the materials used. The lifting mechanism must be designed to withstand frequent use and operation without exerting significant force.
Useful to know when choosing
When choosing a transforming table for the living room with a folding function, you should first soberly evaluate and make sure the reliability of the product’s transformation mechanism. This will help you avoid unpleasant surprises in the future. There are models of tables that can be transformed into a dining table and a work table.
The cabinet itself, on small casters, can be used as a dressing table when folded, allowing you to free up living space. It is important to decide before going to a furniture store about the functionality of the table.
Note!
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Interesting models of dining tables with transformation function
There are many models of transformers on the market. There are several options worthy of consideration.
Mariana
The table consists of a metal frame with a matte finish and a tabletop made of veneered MDF. During transformation, the useful area increases by more than 2 times: the height changes from 27 to 74 cm, width - from 60 to 120 cm, length - from 110 to 120 cm. The table is equipped with wheels.
Transformable table Mariana
Dolphin
The table, transforming from a coffee table to a dining table, is made from 2.2 mm thick laminated chipboard.
Transformable coffee table “Dolphin”
The frame is made of metal. The lifting mechanism allows you to easily almost double the height of the model (from 45 to 76 cm). During transformation, the width of the table remains unchanged (80 cm), and the length also doubles (from 90 to 180 cm), which allows a company of up to ten people to sit behind it. The design is quite massive (the weight of the table is 50 kg) and is available in various colors.
Metal construction frame
Houston
An interesting model of a table that, when folded, can be used as a coffee table, but if necessary, expands to such a size that it can comfortably accommodate 10 people. The appearance of the model allows it to harmoniously fit into almost all interiors. This is what the table looks like when folded.
Transformable table "Houston"
The compact design is on wheels, making it easy to move around the room, and is available in several colors. Dimensions of the coffee table: 75 x 75 x 34 cm. The material from which the interior item is made is laminated chipboard, which is moisture resistant. The thickness of the chipboard produced by a well-known German manufacturer is 1.6 cm. Environmental safety class is E1.
If you expand the system, it turns into a functional dining table with dimensions of 2.15 x 75 x 75 cm. The tabletop hanging by a quarter of a meter does not allow your knees to rest against the walls of the table.
Unfolded model
Important! The structure unfolds in a quarter of a minute. You won't have to put in any effort.
Stages of transformation of a model from a magazine to a dining one.
- One side panel rises and slides apart.
One side slides out - The second side part also takes a vertical position.
The second side panel stands vertically - The tabletop rises and the stand folds down. The table top rises
- The tabletop is placed on the first rack. The tabletop is laid on the first rack
The result is a structure to accommodate a large company.
The table is quite massive. Its weight is 45 kg. Therefore, it is equipped with high-quality fittings that can withstand heavy loads: rubber-coated wheels with bearings that do not scratch the floor covering, a latch that securely fixes the tabletop, and various types of hinges.
A large company can fit at this table
Cross
This model, made by a domestic manufacturer, can be transformed from a coffee table to a dining table with one movement of the hand (it is just as quickly assembled). There are 9 positions for different lifting situations. The height change step is 5 cm. The lifting mechanism is designed in such a way that its operation is absolutely silent.
Transformable table Cross
Dimensions of the tabletop when folded: 101x80 cm, its length when unfolded increases to 202 cm. The material of the tabletop is laminated chipboard with a glossy finish. It is characterized by high resistance to mechanical damage. The supports are made of stainless steel and can have a glossy black finish. Table height varies from 36 to 76 cm.
How the system unfolds:
How this model unfolds
- the table rises;
The table is rising
- The table top folds out.
The tabletop unfolds
with a minimum of effort - and the table takes on completely different dimensions.
Caesar
The coffee-dining design is produced using Italian technology. Functionality, attractive design (in a classic style), high-quality materials and fittings distinguish the presented model. The table is made from solid wood (oak).
Coffee and dining table "Caesar"
The top of the coffee table has a thickness of 4 cm, after transformation it is reduced to 2 cm. The height of the table when folded is 45 cm, with the help of a synchronous lifting mechanism it increases to 75 cm. The width of the specimen is 75 cm. The length varies from 90 to 180 cm. The weight of the transformer is 56 kg. The consumer is offered 8 color options.
Unfolded product
The table looks respectable, it is environmentally friendly, durable and reliable.
Calligaris Dakota CS/5078-G
A contemporary piece made in Italy, it's a great option for living rooms.
Calligaris Dakota CS/5078-G
The height of the structure is changed by pressing a button located under the table cover. The vertical lifting mechanism allows for 7 positions (height varies from 35 cm to 75 cm). Increasing the length of the tabletop from 106 to 186 cm allows the table to be used for dining for eight people. The width of the table cover is 72 cm. The weight of the product is 63 kg.
The tabletop is made of tempered glass, which can be white or black, depending on the configuration. The metal frame also has either a white or black finish. The table frame is aluminum.
Same model, but black
B 2138
The Chinese-made transformer is distinguished by its functionality and aesthetics. The tabletop is made of tempered glass, characterized by excellent resistance to impact loads. Its thickness is 0.5 cm. The lid body is made of MDF and solid wood. There are two color options: wenge and cherry. The frame is made of steel coated with powder paint.
Chinese transformer B 2138
The sections can be extended to any convenient length. The tracked type of transformation used in this specimen is interesting. The length of the table can vary between 127...200 cm. The width of the model is 70 cm. The height of the model is adjusted by a lifting mechanism. When folded, the structure is a coffee table with a height of 33 cm. To use the transformer as a dining table, the tabletop rises (via gas lift) to a height of 81 cm. It is easy to move the piece of furniture, weighing 44 kg, since it is equipped with rubber-protected rollers with locks .
This table weighs a little - only 44 kg
Table. The average prices for the products presented are indicated.
Model, name | price, rub. |
Houston | 23 000 |
Cross | 26 900 |
Mariana | 37 000 |
Dolphin | 7 400 |
Caesar | 32 700 |
Calligaris Dakota CS/5078-G | 153 000 |
Gomlden B2138 | 40 000 |
As you can see, there are quite a lot of options offered by manufacturers of transformers with lifting mechanisms of various designs and designs. It is possible to choose a model in accordance with your own preferences and financial capabilities.
Multifunctional pieces of furniture that transform depending on need are a stylish and practical solution for living rooms or kitchens.
Color solution
When choosing the color of a functional transforming table, you should be guided primarily by personal aesthetic taste. However, there are some unwritten rules that help harmoniously fit a transforming table into the interior of a room.
For a small room, light furniture should be used. When choosing a transforming table for the kitchen, you need to try not to go beyond the color scheme of the interior of the room.
Combination with the interior
It is difficult to dispute the feasibility of using a functional compact transformable table in the living room. By visualizing the appearance of interior items, one gets the impression of how harmoniously it looks in the combination of colors and shapes that fill the room.
A compact dark table made of natural wood fits perfectly on the surface of a luxurious large carpet in light colors. Once assembled, the transforming table, decorated with small figurines, will become a stylistic decoration of the living room.
Types of dining tables with folding function
The range of transformable dining tables is quite wide. You can choose a design that will organically fit into any interior. What should you pay attention to when choosing a model?
Table shape
The dimensions of the room, the style of its design and the preferences of the owners leave an imprint on the appearance of the structure. The most common models have the shape of a circle, square, rectangle or oval.
Round transformable table
However, you can find triangular ones, which can be placed even in rooms with a large shortage of free space, or polygonal options.
Triangular table
What material is it made from?
Depending on the purpose of the table and design ideas, different materials can be used of tabletops Dining structures must be resistant to mechanical damage, durable, reliable, easy to clean from dirt and durable.
The frame, which must withstand significant loads and a large number of transformation cycles, is made of metal or wood (solid). Models made from chipboard are also produced, but they are unlikely to last long, since the fittings that allow the structures to be laid out cannot be securely fixed in this material.
Light living room decor with a transforming coffee table
Important! Also, a big disadvantage of using chipboard is the use in its production of a binder containing formaldehyde, which is harmful to humans (if the permissible concentration limits are exceeded).
For the production of countertops, tempered glass, plastic, wood or wood-containing materials (MDF, fiberboard or chipboard) are most often chosen. Exclusive models can use ceramics and natural stone. Forged elements, marble chips, and bronze are often used in decoration.
Transforming tables are a popular option, available in different models.
Design
There are a large number of different models of transformers on the market that are in demand among consumers. They are all divided into three types: folding, sliding and folding. The shape of the tabletop may change. A square table turns into a rectangular one, a round one into an oval one, etc.
Semi-automatic table
Many options have the ability to change the height. The most popular are those that provide for the transformation of all structural parts.
Transformable coffee table
The simplest transformable design is the familiar table-book. When assembled, the model, which is a narrow cabinet, unfolds by lifting the two side parts and securing them.
Table-book
Primitive versions of transformers include a folding table mounted on the wall.
Folding table on the wall
Console tables are very functional for small apartments. From a narrow structure, usually installed near a wall and used mainly to place beautiful accessories or equipment, thanks to the telescopic transformation system, you can get a full-fledged table for a large company.
Console table
In magazine models that fold out into dining tables, the usable area and height change. Small-sized table tops for dining structures installed in the kitchen can also increase significantly in size.
Transformable table Kimberly I, walnut
The most functional dining tables are those with lifting mechanisms. They can have an external or internal location. The systems operate on springs or gas lifts. The type of mechanisms can be synchronous, in which all elements are unfolded at the same time, or unsynchronized, providing for the transformation of the sashes in turn.
Transformable coffee table
The simplest devices are manual. Hydraulically driven systems can be installed in table supports made of solid wood.
Requirements for lifting mechanisms:
- transformation of structures without significant effort;
- smooth ride;
- reliability;
- safety, which is especially important if there are children in the family;
- no noise during operation.
Video – Transformable glass table B2252
Use Cases
There are no completely universal tables. However, some models of transformable tables can satisfy even the most unexpected desires of the customer. The mechanism for the transformable table allows you to transform a compact piece of furniture into a desk or dining table.
Such a table on a spacious balcony or loggia would not be amiss. A compact console table against the wall in the living room easily turns into a full-fledged dining table or workspace after unfolding the panels.
Where to start searching?
The first parameter you should pay attention to is the variety. There are three main types of transformable tables: coffee table, dining table, book table.
Will decorate any kitchen or living room.
A transformable coffee table is an excellent solution for the living room. In its original state it is a small table. But if necessary, it is possible to expand it to impressive sizes. Perfect if you don’t like to clutter up the space with massive high tables for dining, but at the same time value sophistication and comfort.
The transforming table is a mixture of innovation and tradition.
The option of an extendable dining table became popular several decades ago. Our parents appreciated this innovation then, and now we use it for ourselves. When folded, it is a neat option for the kitchen; when unfolded, it is an excellent table for a large company.
A table like this will decorate any apartment, the price won’t put a big dent in your wallet, and its practicality will delight you for many years.
It is important to remember that for one person, for his comfort during a meal, there should be about sixty centimeters in width.
The prototypes of the modern table-book were the tables that were fashionable in the Soviet years. It is distinguished from earlier variations of this design by its expanded functionality. Now it is possible to adjust not only its size, but also the height of the legs to which the rollers are attached.
Due to their multifunctionality, transformers will fully satisfy the needs of the buyer.
Style decision
On specialized websites you can look at colorful photos of transforming tables in voluminous catalogs and choose the right model. Models made of glass and metal, decorated with natural stone, will inspire lovers of HI-TECH style.
Strictly shaped products made of polished wood emphasize the restraint of modern style. The combination of rustic simplicity and elegant details of the Western classics of a wooden transformable table with the effect of time-burdened wood is characteristic of the PROVENCE style.