How to choose a retractable table for the kitchen, what to look for

Advantages and disadvantages of the model

A folding table is furniture that is attached to the wall and folds up when not needed, occupying a position parallel to it. Traditionally used as a kitchen table. Another common option is in the nursery, where it is used instead of a desk. This model is also suitable for other rooms where it is important to save space, for example, a living room, balcony or bedroom.

In addition to the main advantage - freeing up square meters - a wall-mounted folding table is easy to fit into almost any interior. It can perform an additional decorative function, especially if you choose a model of interesting color. This furniture is easy to install, and is often sold already assembled - buyers just need to attach the table to the wall.

In order for the product to last longer, it is important to monitor the distribution of the load on the tabletop without overloading the edge farthest from the wall. Despite the small thickness of this table part, the structure is quite durable. If you have the right length, it can even be useful for get-togethers with guests.

Advantages of folding tables

The basis of any kitchen is the furniture. Cooking, washing and storing dishes take place within this work area. But no kitchen can be imagined without a dining table - an important component of the family hearth. All celebrations, gatherings with friends and home evenings take place at the table.

Modern furniture can organize a full-fledged dining area even in a tiny area. A folding table for the kitchen is not only a functional, but also a stylish solution.

Attention! When choosing furniture, you need to take into account the area of ​​the kitchen and the number of people who will sit at the table. Choose the size and shape of your countertop carefully. A round table is more spacious, while a rectangular table is more compact.

A folding table is a bar that is held on the wall by special fasteners. The leg provides additional support for the table top. When folded, the table simply fits against the wall, and when unfolded, it comfortably accommodates all household members. Its design is so simple that, if necessary, you can do everything yourself.

Let's consider the main advantages of the folding design:

1. Compact – the table does not take up much space. In addition, when folded, it can be completely invisible.
2. Functionality. When unfolded, the table accommodates a sufficient number of people, not inferior to stationary models.
3. Style . Modern tables have an attractive design. There are many options on the market to suit any interior. They differ in the shape of the tabletop, folding method and material.
4. Simplicity. The product is very primitive, so it is not difficult to make it with your own hands. Ease of manufacture and installation allows you to save money and create perfectly fitting furniture.
5. Mobility. The table can serve not only as a dining area. In a spacious kitchen it is used as a greenhouse, an additional countertop or a shelf for small household appliances.

The presence of advantages does not exclude disadvantages; a folding countertop for the kitchen also has disadvantages. There are much fewer of them, but they are significant:

• due to its small size, the table will not replace the classic version, that is, it will not be able to withstand a large load;
• constant assembly and disassembly quickly damages the mechanism, and the fastenings become weak;
• Of all existing materials, it is better to choose wood, but the slabs of such tables are not designed for long-term use.

Design Features

The standard table design consists of 2 main parts - the tabletop and fastenings (clamps). The first can be of any length, but the thickness is small - it practically does not move away from the wall. Clamps (triangular or U-shaped supports) allow you to lower and raise the tabletop. Additional structural elements can include legs (supports) or shelves.

According to the design of the support there are:

1. Fixed separately from the main part of the table. When lifting the tabletop, the legs rest against its central part (in a special hole).
2. Fixed to the bottom of the base. There are supports that are first attached to the wall, and then to the tabletop, and vice versa.
3. In the form of a flat triangle, fixed below the tabletop. The elements are moved to the side after the base is raised and support it along the entire length of the leg. This design is considered one of the most durable. But at the same time, it is not very compact due to the size of the support.
4. In the form of bracket legs attached simultaneously to the table top and the wall. They rise together with the working part and are fixed, and if you need to fold the hanging table, just lift the tabletop up or pull a special lever.

Fastening mechanisms are divided into lifting and folding. Usually, anchor dowels are sufficient for installation (for folding parts - piano hinges), but for greater strength, you can use more complex fittings, for example, brackets. They provide the most stable and reliable support and can be folding or sliding.

Transformable models differ in the elements of fixing mechanisms:

• tsargovye - a traditional version with a frame (tsarga), a table top and a sliding mechanism are attached to it;
• tsargless (without a massive base) - the sliding mechanism is fixed directly to the tabletop, which can slide apart synchronously or asynchronously.

Differences and features of loft-style tables, the best design solutions
Although the list of components varies depending on the design, the basic set remains unchanged: brackets, base plate, hinges, console, clamps, roller guides, decorative parts, anchor bolts. The base plate is needed to secure the tabletop. Hinges connect it to other elements, and bolts serve to secure it to the wall. The console is often used as an additional shelf. The latches help keep the product folded, and decorative details (handles, hinges) simplify the unfolding process.

The supports are fixed separately from the main part of the table

Fixed to the bottom of the base

In the form of a flat triangle

In the form of bracket legs

Features of folding tables

For families with average income, it is unrealistic to purchase a spacious home with a kitchen of more than twenty square meters. In this regard, they have to go to all sorts of sophistication, coming up with furnishing options for a small space.

Folding tables provide an opportunity to save free space not only in residential premises and on balconies, but also in garages. In addition, they fit perfectly into the interior and can be manufactured in two versions. The first is made in the form of a narrow strip, and the second is an object that merges with the wall.

When unfolded, the models have different sizes. They can be a table for one or two people or a full table that can accommodate several people at once.

Device

The working surface of the folding versions is mounted to the wall using a hinged mount with one or more hinges. This makes it possible to easily fold or unfold the structure.

The table top has a support that can either fold or move apart, resting against the wall and providing an additional point of support. As the table top takes on a horizontal position, it rises up and the leg moves to the side. This design solution provides balance to the folding table.

At the same time, there are options with a support that is pre-attached to the bottom of the table cover and unfolds simultaneously with it. A support is mounted to one side of this model, and hinged fasteners are mounted to the other.

Certain types of folding surfaces unfold and fold according to the accordion principle, that is, in one movement. Such structures unfold in one moment, which is an important advantage.

Of great interest are the types of tables with a flat support, made in the form of a triangle and attached to the wall under the tabletop. Models on brackets installed without hinges and made of metal or stainless steel are considered no less successful.

Advantages

The folding system can be placed in any part of the room

To do this, it is important to decide on the type of model and materials for its implementation.

This solution has a number of advantages:

1. Compactness and ease of use, which are considered one of the main attractive qualities.
2. The ability to blend perfectly with the overall interior of the room.
3. Versatility, allowing the structure to be used not only as a table, but also for other household needs, for example, for ironing clothes.
4. Simplicity and reliability in operation.
5. Easy installation.
6. Reasonable price.

Flaws

The disadvantage of folding options is their small size. The structure attached to the wall is not capable of accommodating a large number of people. As a rule, no more than seven people can sit behind such a model.

Varieties

Models of folding tables differ in design, construction, and availability of additional features:

1. A traditional table is a durable tabletop that can be mounted on a wall, cabinet, or any other vertical surface. In terms of functions, this model is universal, serves as a desk or dining table, and in terms of reliability it is not inferior to a regular one. Since traditional tables vary in size, it's easy to find the right one for your specific space.
2. Transformer is the most multifunctional model. There are two types of such furniture: a wall-mounted table is attached to the wall; a wall-mounted table top folds down on both sides of the central part, so that the product can be moved away and placed in a corner. When folded, the transforming table is sometimes used as a bedside table.
3. A compact wall-mounted table is a design whose parameters resemble a window sill or a hanging shelf. Always without legs, sometimes with sides. One of the smallest varieties.
4. Folding bar counter - mainly used in the kitchen (dining room) or for zoning the living room, suitable for modern interiors. A specific feature is a long narrow tabletop. If you install it higher, you can achieve a complete resemblance to a bar area.
5. A mobile folding table is a model that can be moved along the wall using the guides located below. Like the hanging table, this is one of the most compact options.

Some models do not have legs, so tables with a folding top take up even less space. There are variations with two legs (for maximum strength) and with one.

Traditional

Transformer

Mounted

Folding bar counter

Mobile

Tabletop shape and size

In addition to design, tables differ in the parameters of the main part:

1. Square - suitable for small spaces used by no more than two people. Such models look great both in the corner and in the center of the wall; they make a wonderful desk.
2. Round - they look interesting, but are not very functional. One of the main purposes of a folding table is to save space, and round tabletops do not cope with this very effectively. It is advisable to use them in the dining area if it is important to preserve the traditional spirit of sharing a meal. In the case of a standard table, 4–6 people can be seated around a model with a diameter of 110 to 135 cm, but since the mount reduces this number by one, 3–5 people can fit around a folding table of the same diameter.
3. Rectangular is one of the most popular models due to its spaciousness. In elongated rooms it can be placed along the wall, and in more standard rooms across it - so it will not visually reduce the space too much. If the product will be used by one person, its length is usually up to 60 cm and width up to 40 cm.
4. Semicircular ones - like round ones, are not very practical, although they are more compact in comparison. They are used where there is no need for their frequent use, for example, on balconies or hallways.

The standard height of the table is 70–75 cm - this way a person will not rest his knees on the tabletop.

Square

Round

Rectangular

Semicircular

Rectangular table dimensions

Dimensions of the round table

Manufacturing materials

The most inexpensive materials from which a wall-mounted folding table is made are chipboard (MDF). Their advantage is their flexibility, which allows you to play with shapes, designs, and textures. Chipboard is easy to care for and makes very light weight tables. However, this material, even with appropriate processing, remains sensitive to moisture and mechanical damage, which negatively affects the durability of the product.

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In this regard, a tree that is ready to serve for more than one generation compares favorably with MDF. It is also famous for its hypoallergenicity and aesthetics. Even the most budget varieties look elegant in any interior. True, the cost of such models is still usually high, and the structures are heavy.

Another stylish solution is a folding wall-mounted table made of tempered, impact-resistant glass. In terms of advantages and disadvantages, this model is similar to its wooden counterparts. However, if wood is warm enough and adds coziness, then glass is cold both to the touch and in perception. True, some people love it precisely for this property.

Although wood and glass are quite resistant to various types of influences, this indicator is higher for a table made of plastic with metal supports. A folding table made of this material is convenient to use on the balcony or in the nursery - where there is the most pollution, active contact with water is possible.

Chipboard

MDF

Wood

Strained glass

Plastic

How to choose a retractable table

To choose a retractable table, you need to focus on these parameters:

1. Dimensions. The retractable table from the cabinet has a standard width of 50 cm. Such models can withstand a weight of 20-30 kg. If you need a spacious place, for example, for cooking, then it is better to choose an option with parameters of 1100 by 90 cm. Such models have a support leg.
2. Transformation mechanism and quality of fittings. It is important that all elements are made of reliable, durable materials. It doesn't matter whether the guides are ball or roller - they should work smoothly and completely silently.
3. Support. The stability of the table depends on the design features of the model. The most practical options with support legs. They are able to withstand the heaviest weight.
4. Design. If the purpose of purchasing a table is not only practical, but also decorative, you will have to pay attention to its design. Many models are decorated with patterns, various paintings, and carvings. This table becomes a real highlight of the interior.

Placement nuances

The table can be attached to the wall either in the center or closer to the corner, at the entrance or at the far end of the room. There are many options, usually they are determined by the purpose of using the furniture and the characteristics of the room:

1. The kitchen table is mounted so that the maximum number of people can fit around it, and when unfolded it leaves space for passage. If space allows, sometimes the kitchen table is mounted next to the window sill (or under it) so that these surfaces are combined.
2. In a children's room, the main placement criterion is safety. A folding table can be mounted anywhere, but take into account the location of all other furniture so that a running child does not get injured.
3. On a balcony or loggia, folding tables are mainly attached to the side to leave the entrance free. However, if this furniture will be used by several people, it is better to install it in the long part of the balcony - this way you can arrange chairs on three sides.
4. In the living room, a wall table (or a folding bar counter) is often used. It can be pulled out into the center and seated around guests, or the whole family can spend time playing board games.
5. The hallway is a place where the folding modification is not so common. If desired, the folding tabletop can be placed closer to the entrance to place purchases or sign for delivery notes for couriers.
6. In addition to living spaces, folding tables can be useful in small cafes or on summer balconies and verandas.

Among the designer models there are stylish folding tables that will decorate any interior. When choosing a location for such furniture, not only functionality is taken into account, but also the aesthetic aspect.

In the kitchen

In the children's room

On the balcony

In the living room

Hallway

In the cafe

The best manufacturers

In the products of almost all furniture brands you can find models of folding tables. Among the many companies, IKEA stands out clearly. The factory's furniture combines affordability, practicality and simplicity. The most popular collections are:

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Among Russian companies stands Fr. Having started its history with the production of wardrobes, this brand now offers a wide range of products, including folding tables with wall mounting. In the catalogs you can choose kitchen and dining tables, desks for children's rooms, tables for the office, office models, bar counters and so on. All products are distinguished by their universal design, classic colors and affordable prices.

IKEA

"Shatura"

How to fix it yourself

In most cases, you can easily secure the folding table with your own hands. It is important to correctly calculate all the parameters and make markings on the wall. To work you will need:

• tape measure, pencil and ruler;
• screwdriver (especially if the tabletop is made of chipboard or plywood);
• electric drill (you can get by with screwdrivers, but then the process will take a little longer);
• set of drills.

The easiest way is to fix the table on hinges with one support. With their help, the tabletop is connected to the plank. Then holes are made in the wall, dowels are driven in, and mounting bolts are screwed in. The support is installed, then the already assembled plank with the tabletop is screwed on.

For mounted models, stationary fastenings or variations in the form of bolts, hinges, and corners can be used. Hinges are most often used for folding tabletops. Sometimes the package may include closers and backlashes, as well as assembly instructions.

It’s really quite simple to install a folding table with a wall mount with your own hands, but in the case of designer models, it’s better to entrust this process to specialists. Such furniture is often produced in limited editions, so damage to any part will be expensive.

A compact table is a versatile piece of furniture that saves space. It has virtually no drawbacks, and installation is simply simple. A folding table is appropriate in the kitchen, on the balcony, and in another room. A variety of materials and designs allows you to choose an option to your liking, fitting this furniture into any interior.

What tools and accessories will be required for assembly and installation?

To install a folding table with a secure mounting on the wall with your own hands, you need to prepare the appropriate tools and accessories:

• a hammer drill or impact drill for drilling holes in a concrete wall;
• screwdriver and screwdriver set;
• hammer for driving dowels;
• level, tape measure, ruler for preliminary marking;
• broom and dustpan - to tidy up the workplace.

With the help of such a simple set of tools and skillful hands, installation can be carried out quickly and without problems.

A large folding table with wall mounting is a good design find for a small apartment and especially for the kitchen. This piece of kitchen furniture is used for cooking and family dinners, and then folds up effortlessly. It takes up little space in the room, but gives owners maximum comfort at minimal financial cost.

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