Comfortable and high-quality: how to choose the right sofa for your home

25.07.2019

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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.

By what criteria are sofas classified?

The classification of sofas is complex; there are many options that differ in design features.

For simplicity, the following types of classification are distinguished:

• by room;
• form;
• folding mechanisms;
• upholstery;
• filler.

All of the above allows you to select the optimal furniture for specific conditions.

Folding sofa

The classic sofa book is still one of the most popular models. Relatively simple transformation, enhanced strength and durability - all this is supported by an attractive price. In the case of this option, you should pay special attention to the filling, since the spring blocks in these models retain their original characteristics longer than foam rubber.

There is another model that works on this principle, which is called “click-click”. Its main advantage is that it has a third, intermediate position - reclining, in which it is convenient to read a book or relax while watching TV series. A durable frame together with a spring mattress provide an anatomical effect, so you can use such models for sleeping every day.

Types of sofas by purpose

The classification of sofas by purpose and room is widespread, although it has some nuances and is not always accurate. Often one type of furniture can be used in another room. Although in general, for different rooms, the furniture will have different designs, upholstery and other features. The following types are typically distinguished:

• for living rooms;
• office furniture;
• kitchen;
• for hallways;
• to the children's room.

Each of the listed options has its own characteristics that allow it to effectively fit into the interior and carry certain loads. It’s one thing when the sofa is in the office, another thing in the living room, where it is constantly used as a sleeping place. Materials and endurance requirements can vary significantly.

You also need to take into account that sofas can be intended only for sitting or be universal. An elementary example is office furniture; such products do not fold out, they are originally intended for sitting.

When choosing furniture, always consider the installation location and its use.

How to check functionality

When choosing a model you like in a store, you need to ask the seller to show how it works. And then be sure to fold and unfold yourself. It should be easy to do. If there is a feeling that the wheels are clinging, strange sounds, squeaking, clicking sounds are heard, you should refuse the purchase. Also, poor assembly quality is evidenced by the fact that when the halves are unfolded they are not at the same level or a gap forms between them.

Advantages of sofas with a tick-tock mechanism, basic shapes and sizes

However, even with a well-made sofa, the joint is somehow felt. For those who like to sleep in the middle, this can be a problem. The solution is an additional mattress that can be spread on top at night.

You should also pay attention to the legs of the retractable part. It's best if they end with rollers. Then it is a safe choice for any flooring. If there are no rollers, the lower part of the supports should not have sharp edges or irregularities. To avoid scratching the floor, you should slightly lift the bottom of the sofa when disassembling it.

Review of popular sofa transformation mechanisms, tips for choosing

With a wide variety of mechanisms for transforming sofas, Eurobook is very popular. This is the best choice for a childless couple living in a small apartment, an option for a children's room. The model is inexpensive and lasts a very long time.

The transformation mechanism should operate smoothly, without squeaks.

When unfolded, there should be no gap between the halves of the sofa

The supports of the pull-out part should not scratch the surface of the floor covering when unfolding

Classification according to the method of placement in the interior of the room

Considering the types of sofas, we can distinguish two main types according to the method of placement:

• wall;
• island.

Wall-mounted varieties are considered the simplest and most universal; they are sometimes also called stationary. Most of the models are folding, such furniture allows you to use it as a full-fledged sleeping place. Less common are non-folding modifications, usually these are corner sofas, as well as office furniture.

The advantage of this solution is complete versatility. It is possible to choose options for any premises. At the same time, there are quite budget models.

Island species are recommended to be used to provide resting places; they are not installed near walls. It turns out to be a kind of island in the room. Can only be used for large rooms where there is enough space to accommodate such furniture. Often this is an office option for recreation areas or for the foyer. The shape of island sofas is rarely rectangular; in most cases, they are oval or other shapes.

The advantages of island sofas include the ability to quickly move from place to place, and they also look quite modern. However, such furniture is not intended for use as a bedroom. More expensive than wall-mounted sofas, they cannot be used in small rooms.

Shapes and sizes

The design features of this furniture may differ significantly, since they are produced in various forms and models. The most popular are:

• a sofa with a Eurobook mechanism without armrests is considered an ideal solution for a small room where it is important to save even the slightest free space;
• a product with one armrest is usually chosen if one part of the sofa is built on a metal frame, lacking an armrest, and rests against the wall;
• the design with two armrests is comfortable and in demand, and certain models are equipped with fairly large armrests that replace a full-fledged coffee table.

Without armrests

With two armrests

With one armrest
Furniture with one armrest is considered in demand, since it can be placed in a small room and is convenient for use. Also, the shape of this piece of furniture can be:

• the straight leather type of modern sofa is optimal for large rooms, and it is usually installed in the center of the room next to the wall, and can also have different sizes;
• corner sofas with wooden armrests are considered the right solution for a small room, as they do not take up much space, but are spacious and comfortable for constant use.

The choice of shape is based on the desires of future users, as well as the available free space in the room.

Straight

Angular

Their sizes may differ from each other, so if you purchase a product for children or only for one person, then choose a Eurobook sofa with a sleeping area of ​​140x190 cm. If you plan to sleep on it for two people, then the optimal choice would be a Eurobook sofa, which has room for rest and sleep 180x200 cm.

You can choose different sizes to fit your room. The dimensions most often are selected in accordance with the number of people who use the bed constantly or periodically to sleep:

• if a product is selected for a child or one person, then most often a Eurobook sofa is purchased, intended for sleeping 140x190 cm;
• if you plan to constantly sleep on the product for two people, then a sofa designed for sleeping 180x200 cm will be suitable;
• if you do not intend to sleep on the structure, then choose dimensions 100x200, and it is usually equipped with a spacious additional compartment used for storing any items.

Modern manufacturers actually offer customers a large number of different models with significant differences. Often a Eurobook sofa with a sleeping bed of 140x200 cm is chosen, which is really comfortable for constant use by one person.

Sofa shapes

Sofas can be of very different shapes. The choice is usually made based on the specific purpose. Traditionally, the following varieties are distinguished.

• Direct. Often such sofas are called classic. They can be equipped with various headrests and armrests. They can be transforming or stationary. It is possible to choose the appropriate size.
• Angular. Can be used in almost all rooms. Convenient and functional. Most models provide for the transfer of corner sections, which simplifies installation.
• Modular. They consist of several elements that can be quickly rearranged in the desired order.
• Round or oval. These are usually island sofas, designed for common rooms and rooms. Extravagant appearance. They don’t look good when placed along walls.

Eurobook sofa layout (mechanism, video)

Let us consider in detail all the pros and cons of such mechanisms.

Advantages of the mechanism:

• High reliability. Since there are no complex metal structures or moving parts here, there will be no breakdowns, and possible problems can easily be fixed independently, without the help of specialists.
• Easy to use. To disassemble and assemble a Eurobook sofa, you don’t need to put in much effort; it’s done quickly and easily.
• Affordable price. The simple design does not require large manufacturing costs, therefore, the final price is also low.

Disadvantages of the mechanism:

• Layout. When the Eurobook sofa is unfolded, the legs can scratch the parquet or linoleum. Wheels attached to the legs solve the problem, but they are not suitable for carpeting, since over time they form a knurled “path”, crushing the lint.
• Sleeping area. It consists of two parts, and there is a junction. Although there is no height difference, the joint can still be felt and create inconvenience.
• Installation. You will have to leave some distance between the sofa and the wall, otherwise it will be difficult to unfold it.

Important: In high-quality sofas, all components have a tight fit. If you can stick a finger between the seat and the armrest, the Eurobook sofa most likely will not last long.

Types of designs

All sofa models can be divided into:

• folding;
• modular;
• non-folding.

With the latter, everything is quite simple and clear; they do not have folding mechanisms. Mainly used for sitting. Modular sofas consist of several module elements. Depending on needs, modules can be arranged differently, changing the functionality of the furniture.

The most common are folding sofas. They allow you to get a full-fledged sleeping place. They are divided into types depending on the folding mechanism used.

• Accordion mechanism. Consists of three elements. Two parts rise and form a backrest, another part remains in the form of a seat. Folding occurs like an accordion. Often used in sofa chairs.
• Roll-out mechanism. In this case, the “seat” is pulled forward, a section is pulled out from below, and the seat itself is turned over, forming a berth.
• Chair-bed "dolphin". The sleeping element is removed from under the seat. Next, it is installed flush with it. The disadvantage is the lack of drawers for linen in such chairs.
• Tick-tock (Eurobook). The seat moves forward, the backrest lowers and rotates to the “seat” position. The most economical variety in terms of space saving.
• Cot. The berth is formed by folding out the seat.
• Click-clack mechanism. Thanks to the special features of the mattress, the sofa can be fully reclined to form a comfortable bed. The disadvantage is the small size.

Folding rules

Euro differs from the transformation mechanism of the “Book” sofa. Rather, it is a modified sofa than a sofa familiar from Soviet times. One of the important advantages of the model is the ease of transfer from a “sitting” position to a “lying” position. The process is within the capabilities of a person of any age and physical ability, since the “Eurobook” is laid out according to a simple scheme:

1. Remove removable large pillows. In the future you can sleep on them. Detach the armrests if they have Velcro.
2. Then grab the seat by the bottom center and pull it towards you. When purchasing furniture, you need to ask the seller to show how the selected model unfolds. In some, you need to pull the seat straight, horizontally, in others, you need to raise it a little (for example, with the “Walking Eurobook” mechanism). The sofa turns into a bed thanks to wheels or rollers that move along wooden or metal guides. You should not make sudden movements or “break out” the seat upward, otherwise the wheels may fall out of the desired position. Their movement is limited by special stoppers.
3. After the manipulation is completed, the storage box will open. And above it is a niche that matches the size of the back of the sofa. The latter needs to be tilted towards itself until it lies exactly in the free space. This way you will get a flat, smooth sleeping surface. The halves are located at the same height, which ensures maximum comfort.

If the Eurobook sofa is unfolded and put back together every day, you need to make sure that it does not stand close to the wall. Otherwise, the back will constantly rub against the wallpaper, damaging it.

Types of frames

In addition to the design of the mechanism, it is important to know what types of frames there are. This will allow you to choose a sofa based on your needs. The frame directly affects the cost of furniture and its service life. Typically frames are made as follows.

• Wooden. Classic sofas have such a frame. Environmentally friendly. The price depends on the type of wood. They are connected with bolts; in cheap products there may be an adhesive connection or with self-tapping screws.
• Metal. Often such sofas are made in a high-tech or minimalist style. They are highly durable and, in most cases, inexpensive.
• Multilayer plywood. This material is usually used to make frames for inexpensive furniture. Quite durable. Safe for health.
• MDF. Used for stationary sofas. The material is heavy, so it is practically not used on island and other “mobile” types of furniture.
• Chipboard. Does not withstand heavy loads. Afraid of moisture. Usually the frames of the cheapest furniture are made from this material.
• Combined frames are based on several materials that complement each other, often reducing the cost of furniture.

Mechanisms for transforming sofas and armchairs

The article presents the main features of various transformation mechanisms:

• "HODRY"
• "NEW-ROLLER"
• "ACCORDION"
• "FORWARD FOLDING"
• "DOLPHIN"
• "EUROBOOK"
• "IFAGRID" ("SPARTAK")
• "BOOK"
• "LUKA D30"
• "MIXOTOIL" ("FRENCH FOLD BOARD")
• "PUMA"
• "PUMA ROLL-OUT"
• "RIBALTO"
• "SEDAFLEX"
• "TELESCOPE"
• "TICK-TOCK"
• "RANUCCI"

"SEDAFLEX"

One of the most popular transformation mechanisms due to its simplicity and reliability. Suitable for daily use, when unfolded it forms a comfortable, flat sleeping place of increased comfort. Rightly called the “Belgian bed”, the mechanism was developed, patented and manufactured by the Franco-Belgian company SEDAC-MERAL. The maximum load on the mechanism is 240 kg. There is no linen drawer. Lay out and sleep in the direction away from the wall. This transformation mechanism is used in the following sofas: “Raphael”, “Madeleine”.

ADVANTAGES:

• The mechanism is compact and hides in the sofa, allowing you to combine an interesting design, comfortable fit and the presence of a full-fledged sleeping place.
• Distinctive feature: the presence of a spring mattress 10-12 cm thick. A flat sleeping area without joints.
• At the base of the sleeping place under the mattress there are orthopedic birch armor or a metal mesh made of large-section steel, this is what allows you to compare the mechanism with a bed. In the foot area there is a flooring made of rubber-fabric belts, which when folded becomes the basis for the seat cushions and the key to true seating comfort.
• Optimal sleeping height (45 cm from the floor).
• The central support of the berth is a reinforced steel “leg”, which ensures maximum reliability in operation.
• The mechanism is intended for daily use.

HOW TO FOLD: Remove the seat cushions, pull the mechanism up and towards you, unfold the links, during transformation it stands on steel legs - the sofa is unfolded.

"MIXOTOIL"

“Mixotoil” (“French folding bed”) is a mechanism used as a “guest version” of a sleeping place. There is no linen drawer. The maximum load on the mechanism is 180 kg. Lay out and sleep in the direction away from the wall. This transformation mechanism is used in the following sofas: “Milan-1”, “Partner”.

ADVANTAGES:

• The mechanism is compact and hides in the sofa, allowing you to build in an additional guest bed even in a small sofa.
• The springless foam mattress, 5-6 cm thick, has a removable cover, which makes caring for the product much easier. Over time, it is possible to replace the mattress and cover.
• Hygienic sleeping area (we sit on the upholstery of the sofa and sleep on the mattress).
• At the base of the bed there are orthopedic birch slats and a tension element in the form of a polypropylene awning.

HOW TO FOLD: Remove the seat cushions, pull the mechanism up and towards you, unfold the links, during transformation it rests on steel supports - the sofa is unfolded.

"IFAGRID" ("SPARTAK")

The mechanism is similar to “Mixotoil” (“French folding”), but designed for daily use. It is produced by Franco-Belgian companies and under license by several subsidiaries in Russia. The maximum load on the mechanism is 240 kg. There is no linen drawer. Lay out and sleep in the direction away from the wall. This transformation mechanism is used in the following sofas: Lofft, Maxbon, “Brighton”, “Velage”, “Marvin”, “Jacqueline”, “LaRouche” (4-seater), “Rochelle”, “Fusion”, “Fleron”, "Scarlett", "Shabby", "Sharon".

ADVANTAGES:

• Reinforced steel frame. The base of the bed is a mesh steel grid.
• It does not have wooden or plastic connections, which ensures reliability and durability.
• The 7 cm thick foam rubber mattress has a removable cover, which makes caring for the product much easier. Over time, it is possible to replace the mattress and cover.
• The sleeping area is formed by one flat, solid mattress without joints.

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HOW TO FOLD: Remove the seat cushions, pull the mechanism up and towards you, unfold the links, during transformation it rests on steel supports - the sofa is unfolded.

"TICK-TOCK"

The mechanism is intended for daily use. It is durable and easy to use. At the base of the bed there are two identical soft elements, a backrest and a seat. The maximum load on the mechanism is 240 kg. Layout and sleep along the wall. This transformation mechanism is used in the following sofas: “Trinity”, “Morgan”, Bormio, Gabrisa, “Flanders”, “Sorento”, “Jason”, “New York”, “Runkle”, Virginia.

ADVANTAGES:

• Ease of transformation.
• It does not leave marks on floor coverings and carpets, as it moves on guides, making a movement-step in space. No wheels are used, which eliminates friction with the floor surface.
• There is a spacious linen drawer under the seat.
• Comfortable and spacious sleeping area.
• Increased reliability of the mechanism during daily use.
• There is no need to remove the seat cushions when unfolding.

HOW TO FOLD: In order to unfold the sofa, you need to remove the back cushions, then, holding the bottom of the front of the sofa, with a slight upward and forward movement, pull the seat towards you and carefully lower it to the floor. Lower the backrest into the vacant seat.

"TELESCOPE"

Roll-out or retractable transformation mechanism. The design feature allows you to make a sleeping place with a height of only 30 cm. Recommended as a “guest option” for a sleeping place. Maximum load 180 kg. Lay out and sleep in the direction away from the wall.

ADVANTAGES:

• Easy to operate mechanism.
• At the base of the bed there are two identical soft elements, a backrest and a seat.
• Often there is a linen drawer in the middle part of the sofa.
• Compact when folded and a large sleeping area when unfolded.

HOW TO UNFOLD: The design consists of 3 parts. To transform into the “bed” position, you need to roll the front section with the seat forward, while the headrest extends from the back, and place the seat-cushion in the resulting niche.

"HODRY"

Premium motorized mechanism, made in Austria. Suitable for daily use. According to the principle of decomposition, it is a withdrawable mechanism. To transform the sofa bed into the “bed” position, just press one button on the remote control. There is a drawer for bedding.

"FORWARD FOLDING"

A convenient mechanism that is used in double sofa beds and chair beds. At the base of the bed there are two identical soft elements, a backrest and a seat. Maximum load 200 kg. There is a linen drawer. Suitable for daily use.

HOW TO FOLD:

• Holding the fabric handle attached at the bottom of the sofa seat or at the bottom of the backrest, lift the front soft element of the backrest up and then set it vertically.
• Lift the sofa seat up by its front wall, and moving it forward and towards you, place its supports on the floor. This opens up access to a spacious drawer for bedding.

"PUMA"

The Puma mechanism is intended for daily use and is a representative of a new, modern type of transformation mechanisms. The mechanism consists of metal springs and counterweights that compensate for possible forces when laying out the sofa. Simple and reliable to use. There is no linen drawer. This transformation mechanism is used in the following sofas: “Seattle”.

ADVANTAGES:

• Amazing ease of transformation.
• It does not leave marks on floor coverings and carpets, as it moves on guides, making a forward movement-step in space. No wheels are used, which eliminates friction with the floor surface.
• A comfortable sleeping place made up of two soft elements.
• There is no need to remove the seat cushions when unfolding.

HOW TO UNLOCK: Unfolding is done by moving the seat forward in a “walking” manner. Grab the special lifting loop (if there is one) or the bottom of the sofa and lift it up. In the very first seconds, the mechanism will take the entire load upon itself and, with minimal effort on your part, the seat will move and take a step forward. Simultaneously with the movement of the seat forward, the soft element located in the niche under the seat is automatically lifted. The seat and additional soft element form a single berth.

"DOLPHIN"

A popular and convenient mechanism for daily use. Most often used in corner sofas. At the base of the berth: a sofa seat and a pull-out unit located under the seat. Maximum load 200 kg. Durable and reliable mechanism. This transformation mechanism is used in the following sofas: “Preston”, “Lounge-2”, “Steve”.

ADVANTAGES:

• The corner sofas have a spacious sleeping area.
• Easy to transform, virtually no effort required when unfolding.
• A reliable steel mechanism and hardwood guides extend the service life of the structure.
• Does not require additional space, the layout is within the overall dimensions of the sofa.
• The ease of layout allows you to turn the sofa into a large relaxation area for several people in a matter of seconds. You can sit on it comfortably, stretching your legs and leaning on the back cushions.
• There is no need to remove the seat cushions when unfolding.

HOW TO OPEN: Pull out the built-in secret drawer from under the sofa seat. By pulling the strap, pull out the additional section so that it is equal to the height of the seat and “completes” the berth to its full size.

"EUROBOOK"

“Eurobook” is one of the most popular and sought-after mechanisms for daily sleep. Very simple and reliable to use. It has hardwood or plywood guides along which the rollers, mounted at the bottom of the seat, move. The front of the seat is also supported by wheel supports on the floor. There is always a spacious linen drawer under the seat. The maximum load on the mechanism is 240 kg. Layout and sleep along the wall. This transformation mechanism is used in the following sofas: “Toledo”.

ADVANTAGES:

• The simplest possible design of the mechanism guarantees increased reliability during daily transformation.
• Ease of transformation.
• There is no need to remove the seat cushions when unfolding.
• At the base of the bed there are two identical soft elements: the back and the seat.

HOW TO OPEN: In order to unfold the mechanism: remove the back cushions, the seat is pulled out towards you, the back is lowered into the free space. Ready.

"RIBALTO"

The “Ribalto” double-folding mechanism is a berth consisting of three parts, two of which are the base of the seat before transformation, and the third, when folded, forms the backrest. The Ribalto transformation mechanism ensures ease and efficiency of unfolding. When assembled, sofas with the Ribalto mechanism occupy a minimum area, and when folded out they have a wide and high sleeping area with a comfortable, flat mattress.

"ACCORDION"

One of the most popular mechanisms for guest use. It works on the accordion principle, which ensures ease and efficiency of unfolding. Sofas with an accordion mechanism when assembled occupy a minimum area, and when folded out they have a wide and high berth. Lay out and sleep in the direction away from the wall. Recommended load 160 kg. This transformation mechanism is used in the following sofas: “Arthur”.

ADVANTAGES:

• Space saving.
• For the layout, you do not need to additionally remove any elements from the sofa.
• Layout in one motion.
• Easy and simple layout.
• Increased reliability of the mechanism during daily use (10 years).
• A flat and spacious sleeping area without joints.

HOW TO OPEN: Pull the sofa seat forward using the special loop or simply grabbing the bottom of the product. Pull until the sofa folds out completely into a bed.

"BOOK"

To transform a sofa bed into a bed position, the seat is raised, while the back of the sofa is lowered to a horizontal position. The seat rises further until a characteristic click is heard, after which it also lowers to a horizontal position. The “book” mechanism requires a small space between the back and the wall. Under the seat there is a spacious linen drawer. The sleeping area is located along the wall (important for owners of small apartments).

"PUMA ROLL-OUT"

An interesting type of Puma mechanism, which is installed in compact sofas (length 210-220) and makes it possible to have a full-fledged sleeping place for daily sleep. One of the latest developments in transformation mechanisms, produced in Poland. The mechanism is based on the principle of synchronization of movements, simple and reliable to use. There is no linen drawer.

ADVANTAGES:

• Amazing ease of transformation.
• There is no need to remove the seat cushions when unfolding.
• Allows you to have a full and durable sleeping place in compact sofas.

In order for the transformation mechanism to serve for a long time, the following operating rules must be observed:

• The folded mechanism can only contain the mattress supplied with the product. The presence of bedding and foreign objects is not allowed in the folded mechanism.
• When transforming the mechanism, bedding, foreign objects and fingers should not be allowed to get between the moving elements of the mechanism.
• If it is difficult to unfold or fold, check that there are no foreign objects in the hinge joints without applying excessive force.
• It is not recommended to sit or lean on the edges of the mechanism that do not have support: headrest, foot section.

"NEW ROLLER"

The “New Roller” transformation mechanism is unique among its counterparts: the sofa unfolds from the head, so there is no need to remove the pillows - they go under the bottom of the sofa. It was developed by the Belgian company Sedak-meral and, like all other mechanisms of this company, has a high quality of assembly and the materials used. This transformation mechanism is used in the following sofas: “Rochester”, “Joyce”, “LaRouche” (2- and 3-seater).

ADVANTAGES:

• It is not built into the sofa and is essentially the base of the sofa or its frame.
• It has no analogues in the ease of folding and unfolding.
• The ability to screw the back of the sofa at the buyer’s home makes the sofa “passable” through any doorway.
• This mechanism can withstand loads of up to 500 kg.
• You can use a mattress up to 140 mm thick, which significantly expands the number of mattresses allowed for this mechanism model.
• The frame is made of high-quality steel with a wall thickness of 3 mm.
• The steel lattice from which the sleeping place is made occupies 2/3 of its surface and provides a reliable and comfortable sleeping place even for people with spinal problems.

"LUKA D30"

The Russian-made “Luka D30” double-fold transformation mechanism is used as a berth. Folded depth 780 mm. The sleeping surface in places of greatest load is made of welded mesh, rod diameter 4 mm. There are elastic straps in the leg part. Belts also allow you to get a more comfortable seat in the sofa position. The load is perceived not only by the sofa cushion, but also by the mattress of the mechanism. The rods are made of 5 mm steel strip. This solution allows us to achieve the greatest reliability and durability of this connection. The head part is made as a single power element, consisting of: a U-shaped arc, a transverse pipe with a diameter of 30 mm and a wall thickness of 1.5 mm, interconnected by a welded mesh. This transformation mechanism is used in the following sofas: “Bartle”, “Joyce-2”.

PECULIARITIES:

• This mechanism, when unfolded, allows you to get a bed measuring 1620 x 1890 mm.
• The height of the mechanism when unfolded to the top edge of the mattress is 410 mm.

"RANUCCI"

The Italians, trendsetters in furniture fashion, are sure: you need to sit and sleep on different elements of the sofa, because... For sitting, a softer filling is required, and for healthy sleep, a harder one. The Ranucci double-folding mechanism is a unique mechanism for daily sleep, the comfort of which is comparable to a full-fledged bed. The berth consists of three parts, two of which are the base of the seat before transformation, and the third, when folded, forms the backrest. When assembled, sofas with the Ranucci mechanism occupy a minimum area, because... The Ranucci mechanism itself is both a sofa and a sleeping place at the same time, which allows you to save space in the living room.

The mechanism unfolds in one movement; the seat and back cushions do not need to be removed, because they go under the bed. As a result of unfolding, we get an excellent sleeping place, without joints, without level changes (which often happens when various roll-out systems are used). The mattress is made of high-quality polyurethane foam, and is supported by a welded steel mesh, fixed to the frame of the mechanism using springs (this creates additional comfort).

The frame of the mechanism is made of steel pipes, and the parts of the mechanism itself are made of steel sheet. The simplicity, comfort and reliability of the Ranucci mechanism were appreciated and chosen for their furniture by such a world-famous hotel chain as Hilton.

Upholstery materials

Often, when choosing a sofa, people first look at the upholstery; this mistake is much more important than the design of the product. But it’s still worth considering what upholstery options are available.

Natural materials:

• leather;
• cotton;
• silk;
• jacquard.

Semi-synthetic fabrics:

• chenille;
• folk

Fully synthetic materials are also available, the most commonly used being synthetic leather.

When choosing furniture based on the type of upholstery, they look at the features of the intended use; for example, for offices it is better to choose denser and more durable materials. The general appearance of the room is taken into account; the furniture must fit into the interior.

Types of sofas

When faced with the need to buy a sofa, your head is simply spinning from the number of types. Calm down, it's not that complicated. First of all, decide which of the varieties suits you by measuring the area where the furniture will stand and determining the optimal dimensions.

• Direct

Classic linear option. It can have both compact and enlarged sizes. A variety of shapes and colors allows you to choose the most suitable one among many alternatives. Often they can be unfolded and easily accommodated for the night.

• Corner

The name speaks for itself: they are designed to be placed in a corner, thus connecting this space and adding one or two seats.

Small corner objects are placed in the kitchen. As a rule, they do not fold out, have a thin layer of filler and easy-to-clean upholstery.

• With ottoman

There is a lot of confusion about this subject. An ottoman is an additional item that can act as a pouf, table or footrest. It usually looks like a rectangle, cube or circle and is covered with the same fabric as the sofa itself. In our country, this is often called the protruding part of furniture with a niche for storage.

• Modular

A transformer consisting of separate blocks. They can be connected and combined as desired. When necessary, they turn into a standard or corner model; it is also permissible to use individual parts as poufs.

• Island

If you want to place a sofa in the center of the room, then you need an island one. Its back wall is finished with the same material as the front side. This is what distinguishes such products, and not the round shape, as many mistakenly believe. It comes in absolutely any configuration.

Types of fillers

The last factor to consider when choosing is the filler. The comfort and service life of the furniture depend on it. Let's consider the main options encountered in practice.

• Spring blocks. The most common type of filler. Consists of springs made of elastic steel. The springs are woven together into blocks. It has a long service life and resistance to stress.
• Polyurethane foam. Quite hard synthetic material. It has a long service life, on average 10-12 years. Can be used in mattresses for newborns. Completely safe.
• Foam rubber. Widely known material. There are several varieties. It is soft and lasts quite a long time.
• Sintepon. Holds its shape well and allows you to maintain a certain surface topography. Soft. Not afraid of loads.
• Batting. It is not used very often now. In fact, it consists of several layers of cotton fabric.

Now there are quite a large number of varieties of sofas. This allows you to select furniture to suit any needs. By understanding the features of classification, you can make a choice without errors.

Materials

In order for furniture to serve for many years, it is necessary to use first-class materials in its manufacture. Therefore, do not ignore these characteristics and pay attention to each one.

Evaluate the neatness of the connection of the fasteners, the evenness of the stitches and staples. A reputable company has done everything efficiently and carefully.

Frame

The frame is the invisible basis of furniture. Three types of materials are used in its production.

1. Metal is a durable product that can withstand heavy loads. But all this is true for items where the joint sections are welded and not bolted. In addition, such elements do not emit any toxic substances. It is advisable that all parts be chrome plated or treated against corrosion.
2. Wood - it all depends on the type of wood: beech, walnut, ash or oak are hard varieties that are designed to withstand significant loads and last for years, but their cost is also rather high. Pine and birch are more affordable, but they are softer and therefore wear out faster.
3. Chipboard and timber are the cheapest variety. But you should be prepared for the fact that such an object will fail in a couple of years. Although, provided that high-quality chipboard sheets are used and technology is followed, such products can also serve faithfully for a considerable period. It is extremely important that the chipboard elements are coated with a special paint, otherwise they may emit harmful substances.

Pay attention to the properties of the wood: it must be well dried, otherwise the sofa will creak. Also, there is no place for knots and potholes on the bars.

It is better if the parts are connected not with screws, but with bolts.

There are also frameless models that do not have a rigid base inside. The filler is polystyrene foam balls or polyurethane foam blocks. The first are rather shapeless objects, the filling of which will have to be periodically updated. But PPU boards form stable furniture with excellent supporting properties. It does not bend, but at the same time it is light and mobile.

Filler

Here, too, you can’t let everything take its course, otherwise you risk in a few years ending up with a sofa in which the stuffing has sagged and clumped. There are different types of filler.

1. Foam rubber is unreliable, but cheap. It sags after two to four years of operation. This will happen earlier if there is pieced foam inside rather than a solid sheet.
2. Polyurethane foam - the price is not much more expensive than foam rubber, but it is more durable. It does not crumble, does not wrinkle, and therefore is now widespread. It is important that the density of the polyurethane is not lower than 25.
3. Latex is expensive and has excellent orthopedic properties: it is very elastic, quickly restores its shape, follows the contours of the body and supports it. In addition, it does not cause allergies, is breathable and does not mold.
4. Periotec - the price is its main disadvantage. Otherwise, it is very good: safe for humans, cozy and elastic, provides air exchange and does not lose its shape.
5. Durafil is an excellent alternative to latex or springs. Elastic, it optimally combines softness with the required degree of support, does not rot or burn, and does not accumulate dust.
6. Spring block - it all depends on the design of the springs. The dependent block (when the springs are connected to each other) poorly redistributes the load and creaks. It is not too expensive, so it is suitable as an option for watching TV. If you need furniture for daily use instead of a bed, then choose models with an independent spring base. Each element here is enclosed in a separate fabric cover, and therefore does not come into contact with the others. Due to this, there is no “wave” effect, the weight is distributed evenly. This product follows the contours of the body as closely as possible and thereby ensures the correct position of the spine.

Multilayer technology is often used, when a rigid base, a spring block and various hard and soft layers are interspersed. For example, padding polyester, felt, quilted jacket and others.

Feel free to sit and lie on the sofa: make sure you are comfortable.

Upholstery

Upholstery is responsible not only for appearance, but also for practicality. Spilled coffee, scattered crumbs, smeared baby puree and other contaminants often appear on the surface. Therefore, the upholstery should be easy to clean.

You can be offered various materials: genuine leather, arpatek (eco leather), chenille, flock, velor, tapestry, jacquard. Before choosing upholstery fabric, it would not hurt to study in more detail the properties of the material you like.

It’s great if the surface is Teflon-impregnated or sprayed. It repels dirt and prevents it from being absorbed, keeping it clean. Such options are more expensive, but they retain a presentable appearance for a long time.