Sofa layout mechanisms: which ones are the most reliable

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In this article we will briefly and informatively talk about the most common mechanisms for transforming sofas, which are presented on our website. Our goal is to help you quickly navigate these not always clear names and find the option that suits you.

To do this, we will look at sofas from the consumer’s point of view, and these are just 2 main criteria:

1. convenience of daily unfolding of the sofa; 2. possible load on the sleeping place.

FOR THOSE WHO ARE LAZY TO READ:

mechanisms that are not suitable for daily use are labeled "guest".

Now let's list the most common sofa mechanisms:

1. Book; 2. Tick-tock; 3. American folding bed (Sedaflex); 4. French folding bed (Mixotoile); 5. “3-fold mechanism”; 6. Spartak.

General recommendations

When studying which mechanism for transforming sofas is better, you should take into account a number of recommendations. There is a generally accepted rule. All sofas are divided into guest types and those intended for daily sleep. If the mechanism is selected correctly, the furniture will last a long time and its operation will be comfortable.

If the sofa will be folded out often (sleeping type), you should not purchase products with a complex folding procedure. In this case, the simpler the better. Guest sofas, on the contrary, are not designed for daily movement of the system, so their mechanism will not be as durable as that of sleeping varieties.

You should also pay attention to such criteria as the maximum load of the berth, the orthopedic qualities of the model, its appearance, the layout procedure, the comfort of the berth, as well as the comfort in the sitting position. Therefore, the sofa transformation mechanism is an important factor influencing the choice.

Which upholstery is more practical?

Folding sofa beds are considered practical products for daily use. But when choosing, you should pay attention not only to the type of transformation of the mechanism, but also to the upholstery. And it can be made of different materials.

Let's consider which upholstery for sofas is considered the most practical:

• jacquard - this material has a dense, high-quality base. It is not subject to abrasion and practically does not fade when exposed to sunlight. Able to maintain original external qualities for a long time;
• flock - many experts claim that flock fabric is a practical material for upholstering sofas. This is due to its good qualities - durability, wear resistance, strength, environmental safety. In appearance it resembles velvet;
• chenille - this type of material is often used for upholstering sofas, which is due to the high strength characteristics of the base. It has a soft and thick pile, which consists of a harmonious combination of synthetic and natural fibers;
• tapestry - this fabric has been used for upholstering sofas for quite a long time and has not yet lost its popularity. It has high strength, durability, and wear resistance.

Tapestry Jacquard

Flock

Chenille

Guest models

Guest sofas have a design that does not take up much space. The appearance of such furniture is very unusual and interesting. Such mechanisms include “French folding bed”, “Sedaflex”, “Dionysus”, etc. The main purpose of such furniture is to surprise guests, ensuring their maximum comfort during their stay in the owners’ house.

Comfort in the sitting position is important, but you won’t be able to kill two birds with one stone; you will have to sacrifice comfort when laying out. Mechanisms for transforming corner sofas require a significant investment of effort and time in order to transform the furniture into a place to sleep. First you need to remove the seat cushions. After this, the mechanism is put into action.

If you believe the reviews, a stay in such a sleeping place leaves much to be desired. These types of sofas are usually cheap. You can sleep on them, but not all the time.

Prices for apartment design in Moscow in 2022

Standard project

3200 2500 RUR/m2

• Dimensional and installation plans
• Working drawings for electrical, plumbing, etc.
• Three-dimensional visualization of the interior in 3DSMAX
• Selection of finishing materials
• Drawing up an estimate for repairs

Total: 15,000 rub.

Order

Optimal project

4200 3500 RUR/m2

• Everything that is in the Standard Project
• Full interior furnishings, including ordering, delivery and acceptance of materials in terms of quality and quantity
• Design and creation of individual furniture and custom doors

Total: 15,000 rub.

Order

Full project

5200 4500 RUR/m2

• Everything that is in the Optimal Project
• Architectural supervision, including site visits, correction of drawings and control of compliance with the interior design project
• Development and approval of an engineering project for power supply

Total: 15,000 rub.

Order

Sofa for sleeping

The second group includes furniture intended for daily sleep. You don't need to spend a lot of time laying it out. You will sleep comfortably. Devices of this type include the “book” and its main variations. The most famous of them are “click-clack” and “eurobook”.

This type includes corner varieties. The most popular in this group is the “dolphin” sofa transformation mechanism. Also prominent representatives of furniture for daily sleep are the “telescope” and “ribalto” sofas. Such mechanisms are very easy to operate. Their transformation is quick and easy. The sleeping place has sufficient rigidity. It is smooth and comfortable. Such mechanisms are designed for a large number of transformation cycles.

Sofa layout mechanisms, types of mechanisms

Sofas with a “book” or “click-click” mechanism

One of the simplest is the sofa-book. The transformation mechanism involves raising the seat. At this moment a click occurs. The sofa comes back down already unfolded. “Click-clack” models are a slightly improved version of the “book” type. Such devices have an intermediate position. At the same time, a person can be in a “relaxation” pose. The back does not go down completely, so the person sits half-sitting on the sofa.

The advantage of such models is reliability and durability even with daily transformation. This option is ideal for apartments with a small area. The floor covering can be anything. The disadvantage is the limitation in design, simple appearance. The “click-klyak” variety cannot be placed close to the wall.

Track arm

Key features: flat, square armrests are a distinctive feature of the track arm model sofa. Its rectangular shape makes it a great piece for creating a mid-century modern feel, and this sofa is a great option for almost any small room since it takes up less space than a roll arm sofa. Upholstery in plush velvet or tweed, a few throw pillows, and you've styled the piece without detracting from its streamlined appeal.

Fun fact: This option may be the most functional sofa of all the options. Its flat armrests can also serve as surfaces for placing drinks, the TV remote or snacks. And if the armrests are wide enough, additional guests can sit on them during cocktail parties.

Sofas with the Eurobook mechanism

Here you can see the Eurobook sofa Kronos.
One of the most common models today is the Eurobook. The sofa transformation mechanism is considered one of the most reliable. When folded, the seat is pushed forward. Underneath there is space for storing bed linen. The back rests on the free space.

The advantage of such a system is the minimum number of mechanical elements, so there is practically nothing to break in such furniture. According to consumers, these are durable, reliable products. The sleeping area is very spacious. In addition, at the bottom there is a fairly large drawer in which it is convenient to store bedding and bedding. The sofa can be installed near the wall. As for the disadvantages of such products, people note that the seat slides on the floor. Therefore, special attention is paid to the coating. In general, the “Eurobook” is a durable, reliable mechanism that will serve its owners for many years.

Pants are turning...

Speaking about multifunctional furniture that can be removed during the daytime, turning into other interior items, I involuntarily remember the unforgettable Andrei Mironov in the role of Kozodoev: trousers turn into elegant shorts. This is how a transforming sofa turns, for example, into an exquisite mirrored cabinet. While no one is using the sofa for its intended purpose, it is folded vertically.

The advantages are undoubted:

• saving space in small apartments;
• the stylish design of the “cabinet” becomes an interior decoration;
• Made from high-quality materials, such sofas are environmentally friendly, durable and reliable;

However, it is still worth mentioning the disadvantages:

• such furniture is not cheap, so not everyone can afford it;
• fastenings, spring folding mechanisms, no matter how perfect they are, eventually become loose and need repair.

Sofas with Pantograph mechanism

One of the analogues of the “Eurobook” today is the “pantograph”. The mechanism for transforming the sofa is also quite simple. It is necessary to raise the seat at an angle of about 45º. Then they lower him and pull him down and towards himself. The backrest goes down and you get a sleeping place. At the bottom there is a compartment for linen. The advantage of this mechanism, judging by the reviews, is that the seat does not roll out on the floor surface. It simply slides out without touching the covering of the room. The improved design causes the cost of such sofas to increase.

Sofas with folding mechanism

The mechanism for transforming a folding sofa has several popular options. The principle of transformation here is simple: the berth is located directly under the seat. Behind the front panel, which is located below, the seat moves forward. There are French and American folding beds, their principle is very similar.

The French one extends in the form of a scroll, which unfolds in 3 stages. This mechanism has compact dimensions, so it can be built into even very sophisticated sofas. However, this model is not used every day.

The American folding bed is designed for heavy loads. This sofa is practical and durable. However, this feature significantly increases the price of this furniture. To transform the sofa, you need to lift it a little and then pull it towards you. This type of mechanism does not harm the floor covering, but it must be lubricated periodically to avoid squeaks.

Bridgewater

Despite the pretentious name, everyone is clearly familiar with this sofa, it’s just that much more often it is called “country” or “grandma’s.” The Bridgewater sofa is a variation of the English sofa, but it is more spacious and even more comfortable.

It is very soft and often has frills at the bottom, which is why when looking at it, nostalgia for bygone romantic times involuntarily awakens. Bridgewater is equipped with soft removable pillows and bolstered armrests; in addition, it looks very harmonious with a mountain of cute “thoughts”. This sofa is an ideal solution for Provence or shabby chic styles, and it is suitable for both the bedroom and the living room with kitchen. Additionally, the Bridgewater sofa can be equipped with removable covers.

Roll-out mechanism

A roll-out sofa is considered one of the best options for sleeping. The transformation mechanism here is very simple. The berth is obtained by rolling out additional sections from under the base. Due to its simplicity, the presented mechanism is called one of the most reliable.

Another advantage of such products is that there are no requirements for the size of the room. It can be installed even in small spaces. Moreover, when unfolded, the place to sleep will be long and level. The disadvantage of such mechanisms is that they are demanding on the type of floor covering. It should be strong and not sag under the weight of the sofa. During the transformation process, the base slides along the floor. Nothing should interfere with this movement. It is better if the selected model of the presented type has rubber wheels.

Sofas with accordion mechanism

Mechanisms for transforming accordion sofas are becoming increasingly popular. It is very easy to use in everyday life. The principle of the design is to extend the accordion. To do this, the seat is raised slightly. Next comes a click. The back is made of two parts (in its normal state it is folded like a house) and stretches. This is reminiscent of the movement of an accordion.

With the help of such a transformation, a flat surface is formed. When unfolded, the sofa looks like a regular bed. Typically, the “accordion” has removable covers for all soft elements. This makes the cleaning process simple. Almost all models include a linen drawer. In some cases, other decorative elements may be present. It is better if the basis of such furniture is a metal frame, steel frames. You can choose an orthopedic mattress. For a small room, this option is acceptable, but you need to consider how much space the sofa will take up when disassembled. There should be no foreign objects in the way of its layout. There should be at least 0.5 m of space left to the opposite wall when the “accordion” is disassembled.

How to care?

To clean the surface of natural or artificial leather, you can apply a special composition or use water and soap. It is recommended to clean the entire sofa so that there are no shiny areas left. Dry leather upholstery at room temperature. It is unacceptable to use a hair dryer or other heating devices for these purposes, otherwise the skin may become dry and cracks will appear on it.

Natural leather and leatherette are not recommended for use in rooms where there are pets, as they can damage the surface of the product with their teeth and claws. It will be difficult to restore such furniture.

Knitwear and other types of fabrics require dry cleaning with a vacuum cleaner. If the fabric is heavily soiled, you can wash the fabric using a soap solution without alkali or bleach.

Sofas with the Dolphin mechanism

Check out the Monza sofa with the Dolphin mechanism!
The transformation mechanism of the “dolphin” sofa can also be called “kangaroo”. It is most often found in sofas in the form of an angle. The front part extends. An additional pillow is taken out of it using a loop. It forms a sleeping place. The dimensions of such sofas are quite large. The storage box is hidden in the corner module. The advantage of this model is its reliable and simple mechanism. This is an option for daily sleep. It is able to withstand heavy loads (about 200 kg). When laid out, the additional part of the structure takes up minimal space in the room. It should also be noted that the sleeping place is spacious and fairly high above the floor level. The cost of the furniture presented is relatively low. This makes "dolphin" very popular.

Designer combinations of sofas and armchairs in the living room: stylish photos

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In the photo: Living room interior design in neoclassical style

Further in our article you will find possible combinations of beautiful sofas, armchairs and other furniture for the living room.

Italian upholstered furniture in a Parisian style apartment

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In the photo: Design project of a living room with a Parisian mood

In an elegant European living room you will almost always find Italian furniture.

Cozy and comfortable upholstered furniture in American style in a bright interior

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In the photo: American classics in living room interior design

Fashionable sofas for the living room in the American style always look cozy and a little retro.

Charming classic living room with a semicircular sofa in a private house

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In the photo: Fashionable living room in a private house in a classic style

In a classic style, exquisite finishing and decorative elements attract attention, and the sofa looks elegant and presentable.

Modern interior in art deco style with designer furniture

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In the photo: Living room furniture in art deco style

In the Art Deco style, you can notice a combination of tradition and innovation in furniture design and interior decoration.

Swivel mechanism

One of the most modern is a corner sofa with a swivel transformation mechanism. It works very simply. One half of the furniture rolls to the side 90º, and then it must be rolled to the other part of the sofa. It does not require the use of significant physical force. All movements occur gently. After the transformation is completed, the rotating part is fixed. This creates a comfortable and spacious sleeping area. The simplicity of the design makes the mechanism durable. It is possible to use orthopedic sofas for sleeping. The set includes a spacious bottom drawer for things. These types of sofas are still quite rare on sale. Their prices are above average. Therefore, if you want to purchase an easy-to-use, reliable and modern sofa, which is the corner swivel mechanism, you will have to spend some time searching for a responsible, trusted supplier.

Categories and types

All sofas can be divided into two groups: classic and modern. Modern sofas are:

• folding;
• roll-out;
• sliding or unfolding.

Sofas are also divided into frame and frameless (bivans): the former have a strong base, a rigid, fixed shape, and the latter consist of soft blocks.

Continuing the theme of design, sofas are classified into monolithic, which can be straight or angular, sectional and modular.

Sofas are also distinguished by the style of the era (Empire, Baroque, Art Nouveau, etc.), by “nationality” - Oriental, English, Scandinavian, Provence...

What styles of sofas are there, list with photos

In addition, sofas vary in size, functionality, body and upholstery materials, filling, shape and color. We will now tell you about the most popular ones.

Expert reviews

As already mentioned, experts consider a roll-out sofa to be one of the most reliable. The transformation mechanism of the presented type is used in many popular models. Sofas with a roll-out transformation method include “dolphin”, “accordion” and “telescope”. Each model has a number of special advantages. However, experts say that most of the presented sofas have differences in the heights of the sleeping area. And this makes the rest uncomfortable. Therefore, when purchasing, you should pay special attention to this characteristic. Professionals also recommend choosing sofas of the presented type, which are equipped with spring closers. Such products can be called high-quality.

Having considered the presented options for transforming upholstered furniture, everyone will be able to choose for themselves the best mechanism for transforming a sofa. In our catalog in the “Upholstered Furniture” category this will be easy to do.

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Categories: Useful tips

Basic requirements for filler

A modern sofa bed can have various types of fillings, which determine the comfort and service life of the product. Three types of filling material are usually used:

• spring bases;
• filling made of polyurethane foam material;
• fillers with a combined structure.

Fillers consisting of springs and polyurethane foam material have the same base. The main thing is that they are made with high quality. In addition to springs and polyurethane foam, materials such as latex, felt, and batting can be used.

Products that additionally contain latex, batting, and felt are perfect for children's rooms. Sofas can be used as a sleeping place for boys and girls aged 5 years and older.