Sofa book - how to choose the right one and an overview of modern design (120 photos)

Sofas are mandatory interior items in many apartments or houses. They are usually beautiful and comfortable, and are made from a variety of materials. The most often chosen products are those equipped with a mechanism that allows the item to unfold. In this case, they are used not only for sitting, but also as a complete and comfortable place for constant sleep. There are many such mechanisms, and these include an accordion or a dolphin, but the most often chosen is a sofa book, the types of which are widely presented in the photo selection. These products have different sizes, shapes and other parameters, so before purchasing you should evaluate all their parameters, after which the optimal design for a particular room is selected.

Advantages and disadvantages

These designs have both positive and some negative parameters. The advantages of their constant use include:

• disassembling them is very simple, so everyone can handle this process;
• by choosing a high-quality model, you can count on its long service life and ease of use;
• For a sofa of a similar model, various covers are produced that allow you to preserve the attractive and original appearance of the upholstery;
• Various materials are used to create structures, not only for upholstery, but also in the process of creating the frame;
• Products are available in different sizes;
• the assembled piece of furniture does not take up much space, which is especially important for small rooms;
• Most often, modern sofas are produced with a linen box designed for storing bedding;
• Due to the simplicity of the mechanism, manufacturers set low prices for products.

However, these designs have some disadvantages:

• upholstered furniture is produced with the transformation of a book with a rollback from the wall, so it is necessary to leave some space behind the product, which is often impossible for a small room;
• children will not be able to handle the mechanism;
• if you choose a cheap model that will be disassembled and reassembled quite often, then it will quickly break.

Thus, the types presented have pros and cons, just like an accordion or other transformation mechanisms. If, after studying all the parameters, you decide to purchase such a design anyway, it is important to study the rules for its use.

Demand for book sofas

Today, the sofa book is in great demand and various designs of sofas are presented, having such positive features as:

It fits well into any interior, be it a living room or a bedroom. And by choosing a sofa in white, gray or beige, with a leather cover, you will undoubtedly emphasize the style of your living room.

Even using such a sofa in a small room, it will not cause you any inconvenience. Its mechanisms are constructed quite well, which already implies everyday use.

If you choose a high-quality sofa, then the wheels on it will be made of high-quality rubber material, so they will not leave marks on the floor covering.

For ease of folding and unfolding, the book sofa is equipped with fabric or metal handles, which also has an excellent effect on its operation. The sofa folding mechanism allows you not to move the sofa from its place. This also applies to corner book sofas.

After you unfold the sofa book, you will get a flat sleeping place, without bumps or dents. Orthopedic sofas are also often found in such models.

The width of the bed can be varied, from triple to single. In children's rooms, book sofas are also in demand.

Drawers are often used in sofas, which can perfectly fit bedding.

Such sofas with drawers are especially popular in small apartments or in children's rooms, where both sleeping and guest areas are combined.

If the sofa has a leather cover, then you can safely place it in the middle of the room, it will look stylish and tasteful, if, of course, the area of ​​your room allows it.

The inside of the sofa can be filled with various materials, depending on your financial wishes. Please note that orthopedic sofas will cost much more than spring sofas or those with polyurethane foam filling.

How to unfold

This sofa mechanism ensures a level sleeping area and is also strong and durable. It is chosen more often than accordion or some other types of transformation. However, it is important to understand how to assemble such sofas, since this process must be carried out correctly and competently. If necessary, a video of this process is viewed.

Unfolding the sofa is very simple, since only simple and understandable steps are performed:

• Initially, with the help of a special handle, the seat is raised, this leads to the fact that the backrest is lowered, and therefore takes a horizontal position;
• then the seat is moved towards the back until a click is heard, ensuring that the structure is installed in the right place;
• the seat goes down.

These instructions are simple and clear. If you carefully understand how to disassemble sofas with a simple mechanism, then this process will not cause difficulties for the owners of the structure. You don't have to put in a lot of effort when laying out the products.

The best sofas without folding

Sofas without a back are suitable for furnishing offices, living rooms and hallways. Although this furniture is less in demand due to its low functionality, the absence of complex mechanisms increases its durability.

Mebeliko Atlantis corner

This series of furniture is ideal for large families and hospitable people. The Atlantis series sofas are very spacious and multifunctional, easily converting into a sleeping place. Under the side section there are two spacious drawers for various accessories, and a convenient lifting mechanism provides easy access.

Advantages:

• There are shelves in the armrests;
• The filler has an orthopedic effect;
• High-quality and durable Euro-folding mechanism;
• Affordable price.

Disadvantages: two additional pillows are not secured.

A sofa with side niches for shelves is perfect for zoning a living room.

Wally Tolly Sleep

The sofa is intended for children aged 12 months and older. The high side protects the child from falling to the floor. The sofa does not fold out, has one sleeping place with an orthopedic mattress and is equipped with many additional pillows.

Advantages:

• There is a drawer at the bottom that can be used to store bedding;
• The side armrest has a recess with shelves for small items;
• The pine wood frame is quite durable;
• You can order your own size.

Flaws:

• The council doesn't allow two or three guys to sit.

Wally Tolly is a great option for children aged 1 year and older. High-quality materials and a protective edge allow your child to have a healthy, restful and safe sleep.

Types of sofas

There are many varieties of this piece of furniture available, and they differ in various parameters:

• shape - products can be straight or angular. The last option is usually chosen for small rooms, since an unfolded sofa, like an assembled one, does not take up much space. Corner structures are available right-handed or left-handed, and some manufacturers offer universal furniture. In it, both parts are swapped if necessary;
• color of sofas - colors can be different, so for each room made in a specific color scheme, the most suitable option is selected. Transformable beige sofas are considered an ideal solution for offices or living rooms designed in any classic style. Red, black or white designs are considered interesting, forming unusual accents in various rooms;
• upholstery material - a leather sofa is considered the most popular, but designs made from eco-leather, jacquard, flock or other fabrics that are durable, abrasion-resistant and easy to care for are often chosen;
• dimensions - modern sofa models usually have standard sizes, but some manufacturers offer unique interior items with unusual dimensions. In this case, for each individual room with limited or excessively large space, a suitable model is selected;
• equipping with additional elements - this includes drawers for linen or armrests. If there is limited space in the room, then book sofas without armrests are chosen, since they take up little space, but are not very comfortable to use. Designs equipped with two armrests are most convenient to use.

Thus, book designs are produced, just like an accordion or other mechanisms, in various forms with numerous differences. During the selection process, it is recommended to pay attention to all parameters. Comfort book sofas are considered an ideal solution because they are easy to use and high quality.

How to choose a sofa for daily sleep?

Once you have decided on the main characteristics of your furniture, it’s time to go shopping for a sofa. A small guide will help you make the right choice if you follow its recommendations.

• The first step is to decide on the type of model , size and other parameters of your new furniture. It is important to consider the need for a linen drawer and the conditions in which this piece of furniture will be used. These factors may affect usability.

• The second step is to immediately evaluate your budget. It is important to understand that cheap furniture is rarely of high quality and durable. However, among inexpensive models you can find good options.

Those on a budget are advised to consider options from older collections, which are often sold at a discount.

• The third step is to choose the type of transformation that will be the best option. For sleeping, it is best to purchase an option that has a smooth and dense surface when unfolded and a mechanism that will last a long time. The ideal option is a Euro folding bed.

• The fourth step is in the store, before purchasing, ask permission to sit or even lie down on the sofa to evaluate how comfortable it is. Keep in mind that you won't be able to sleep on the sofa if you like it but aren't comfortable for long periods of time.

• Step five - For some types of sofas, you can purchase additional mattresses and other accessories to make your sleep more comfortable. However, keep in mind that small apartments may not have enough space to place a mattress during the day.

Always ask your consultant what the sofa is made of and ask for a demonstration of its functionality.

It is best to choose a simple but comfortable sofa that is soft enough and covered in a soft, strong and durable fabric if you intend to use the sofa for sleeping.

Upholstery materials

A sofa that folds out using a book mechanism is formed using various materials necessary to create the upholstery. The most common options are:

• A leather sofa is considered an excellent choice for different rooms. The leather sofa is available in numerous colors, which makes it possible to choose the optimal model for each room. It is considered easy to care for and attractive. A leather sofa often becomes an unsurpassed decoration of a room;
• eco-leather book sofas - these products are more affordable than a leather sofa. They are beautiful and inexpensive, however, their service life is considered insignificant due to rapid abrasion;
• cotton - a roll-out decor item made from this material is environmentally friendly and attractive, however, it absorbs extraneous odors and moisture. Due to these parameters, the product does not have a long service life;
• jacquard is considered an excellent choice, as it is resistant to abrasion, does not lose its bright colors with constant exposure to sunlight and lasts for many years;
• flock is often chosen for upholstered furniture, since the material is durable and attractive, and no harmful or even dangerous components are used in its production process.

Thus, a folding piece of furniture is available in numerous upholsteries, differing in cost, appearance and parameters.

Jacquard Genuine leather

Flock

Cotton Eco leather

Sofa upholstery and frame

The upholstery material and frame affect how long the sofa will last and how to care for it. The most popular frame materials are metal, high-quality wood and wood combined with chipboard.

The metal frame is characterized by the fact that it can support much more weight. In addition, it is much easier to replace old upholstery. However, it is worth noting that a metal frame increases the price range of furniture.

Wooden frames are the most popular. If they are made from wood, such as oak, ash or walnut, they will last longer and will smell nice and fresh when new.

For a minimal price you can purchase a sofa, the frame of which is made of boards and chipboard. However, if the chipboard structure is treated with any paint, then the service life of this structure will be almost the same as that of a wooden or metal frame.

Sofa upholstery made of leather or faux leather looks not only expensive, but also beautiful. This furniture fits perfectly into the classic style of a modern interior.

Upholstery made of tapestry or jacquard has a noble appearance. With a wide range of colors and patterns to choose from, it is widely used by manufacturers. However, sofas with such upholstery are not recommended for use in rooms decorated in a minimalist style.

Flock is a synthetic non-woven material. It has an aesthetic appearance, is pleasant to the touch, easy to care for, durable, and at the same time, pet hair does not stick to the flock upholstery.

Cotton upholstery is inexpensive but looks beautiful. Sofas with such upholstery are ideal for interiors decorated in minimalist or loft style.

Chenille upholstery is durable as it can last up to 30 years. During operation, it does not lose its original appearance, but its price is significantly higher than that of the above materials.

Without armrests

If you are choosing a design for installation in a small room, then the most suitable option is one that is not equipped with armrests. It fits into the tightest of spaces, but is considered not very user-friendly by many people.

Most often, sofas are created with a mechanism on a metal frame, but the armrests are made of other materials. The most popular are book sofas with wooden armrests.

The advantages of using products that are not equipped with armrests include the fact that on the sides of them it is possible to install ottomans, coffee tables or other objects that significantly increase the comfort of using the piece of furniture. Most often, these designs are chosen if there is little allocated space left in the living room or other room for installing upholstered furniture, so you have to sacrifice comfort.

Without armrests

With armrests

Tips for choosing

Sofas with such a folding mechanism are selected according to standard parameters. The dimensions suitable for a particular room, design features, its reliability, and convenience are taken into account. An important factor is the appearance, which is largely determined by the upholstery material used in production.

Dimensions

Today there are no standard sizes for book sofas. This is due to both the variety of models and broad consumer demands. Each buyer calculates the size of the sofa taking into account how much space can be allocated for this piece of furniture in a particular room.

At the same time, if this piece of furniture is planned to be frequently used for sleeping, its minimum standard length should be at least 190 cm. If it is assumed that one person will sleep, then a standard width option will do. This is a sofa book with a seat height of 45 cm. However, this will not be enough to create a comfortable double bed. In this case, it is advisable to give preference to an enlarged model or one of the retractable options.

Materials

Maximum comfort of use is ensured by high-quality filling materials. Here it is better to give preference to a “book” with an orthopedic base or a spring block. More economical models simply use soft fillers:

• padding polyester;
• foam;
• polyurethane foam.

It is most advisable to give preference to a combined option, in which spring blocks are combined with high-quality fillers.

Frame

An important role in the design of any sofa is played by the reliability, strength, and durability of the frame. It is advisable to give preference to models in which this basic element is created from solid wood. Wooden frames (pine, beech, etc.) provide the necessary strength. A cheaper, but less reliable option is to use chipboard. However, saving on the frame often results in a loss of money due to the fact that the chipboard structure quickly becomes unusable due to the intensive use of the sofa.

Upholstery

Upholstery is an important selection criterion from both an aesthetic and practical point of view. In terms of design, it should be compatible in color with other pieces of furniture and interior elements (curtains, wallpaper, carpets, etc.) In terms of practicality, the upholstery on the “book” should be dense and durable, because the folding and unfolding process here involves intense friction .

It is best to use the following materials for a sofa book: velor, jacquard, tapestry, matting, flock, chenille. If you purchase a French book, you can choose a model with upholstery made of natural or eco-leather. By choosing the optimal combination of size, folding mechanism, frame, filling and upholstery, you can purchase a beautiful, comfortable and durable sofa.

With drawers for linen

Almost all sofas with a mechanism called “comfort book” are equipped with these elements. They significantly increase the usability of upholstered furniture.

There may be one box or several of these elements. They have different dimensions and depth. They are often used not only for storing bed linen, but also for other items that are quite large in size. Some drawers are only accessible when the sofa is disassembled, while others are always easy to open.

The best corner sofas

A corner sofa is a versatile and practical piece of furniture that has comfortable seating and the ability to transform into a spacious daybed.

Porto by Divan

The model is equipped with a “Dolphin” mechanism and easily turns into a full-fledged bed. The sofa is made in a laconic European style. The Corkscrew fabric is easy to wear. Wide elastic pillows provide a comfortable back position.

At night they can be stowed away in the spacious bedding compartment. Available in 6 rich shades: yellow, gray, beige, blue, brown and turquoise.

Advantages:

• high quality construction;
• reasonable price;
• spacious drawer for underwear;
• wide selection of colors.

Flaws:

• The color of the upholstery in reality differs from the color in the photo;
• There is an unpleasant smell for several days.

Reloti corner

Modular design consisting of 4 sections and two armrests. The raised seat transforms into a bed thanks to the Euro-folding mechanism. The dimensions of the “bed” when unfolded are 270x160 cm. The corner section has a spacious drawer for large items and bed linen.

This part can also be moved and used as a separate sleeping place.

Advantages:

• The sofa is divided into axial sections;
• Storage box;
• The universal corner allows you to place the sofa in any part of the room;
• The frame is made of durable wood;
• 6 upholstery fabrics to choose from;
• Springs and coconut fiber can withstand heavy weight and provide an orthopedic effect.

Disadvantages: the connectors scratch the upholstery when removing the cushions.

Owners of large apartments should opt for this model. By connecting all the sections, you don’t have to think about where to seat your guests.

Selection rules

It is important to understand how to choose the model of the presented sofa so that they are comfortable and durable. For this, important factors are taken into account:

• the quality of the product must be high;
• its price must correspond to the amount of money allocated for this and the available quality;
• the color should fit well into the color scheme of the room where the furniture is planned to be installed;
• the dimensions must correspond to the available space and the people themselves using the structure for sitting or sleeping;
• The product is equipped with additional elements that significantly increase the comfort of its use.

Thus, designs equipped with a book mechanism are an interesting choice for any room. The most commonly chosen sofas are the comfort book type, since they are pleasant and convenient to use. It is important to evaluate all the parameters of the product and make the right choice.

What should be inside the sofa?

It is important to understand that your sleep will depend on the type of internal filling of the sofa and its quality. Modern models can be made using spring blocks or foam rubber. Each of the presented options has its own advantages and disadvantages. To choose a sofa for daily sleep, remember the features of each mechanism.

Spring filling

A sofa for sleeping can have either a dependent or an independent spring block. The cheapest option is a design with dependent springs. In this case, all springs are closely interconnected. If you sit on a dependent structure, then almost the entire surface of the sofa begins to move. If you are not sleeping alone and are quite sensitive, then you will definitely feel how your partner will toss and turn.

An independent spring block has a more complex structure. In this case, each spring is sewn into a separate fabric cover. Then the covers are collected into strips and the mattress is formed. Such products are able to take the shape of the human body, do not creak or sag. The service life of independent blocks is several times longer.

Sleeping sofas with foam filling

Foam filling is considered a hypoallergenic option. Sofas with foam rubber inside are characterized by increased softness, they are comfortable to sit and lie on. Unfortunately, foam rubber sags quite quickly and dents form on the surface of the product. Thus, a sofa with foam rubber is unlikely to be suitable for regular sleep, but it is an excellent option as a guest bed.

Golden principles for choosing a sofa for sleeping

When choosing a sofa bed for sleeping, it is important to think in advance about the functionality of the product. There are a number of options that will only get in your way. For example, a sofa for sleeping does not need any additional niches for glasses or a minibar. In addition, it is necessary to remember the following principles for choosing a design:

• Maximum convenience and comfort - the sofa should not only be beautiful, but also comfortable. A surface that is too soft, the presence of uncomfortable parts, dents, or gaps between parts of the bed can lead to serious health problems. This criterion is especially important if you are choosing a sofa for daily use.
• Reliability - a good product should withstand the rigors of daily use. The frame should not deform under loads, and the reliability of the mechanism should not raise doubts about its quality. That is why it is best to purchase products from well-known and trusted manufacturers.
• Ease of operation - unfolding and folding the sofa should not cause you any difficulties. The entire procedure should take a minimum of time. Any difficulties should be a reason to refuse the purchase.
• Functionality - a big advantage for such a sofa is the presence of a spacious drawer for linen. This option will be a real boon for a small apartment, where every square meter counts.

A high-quality sofa bed is a reliable and durable design. When choosing a suitable product, not only pay attention to its appearance and the manufacturer’s pricing policy, but also remember about your own comfort and convenience. The ideal sofa for daily use would be a model with a frame made of metal or natural wood. The upholstery of such a product should be made of jacquard or mixed fabrics. It is best to choose an independent spring block as the internal filling.

Sofa Caesar

Which frame is considered the best?

A sofa for daily sleep should be durable and able to withstand fairly intense loads. That is why when choosing a product, great attention is paid to the frame. Today, manufacturers offer the following model options:

• Metal frames - most often stainless steel is used as the basis. Such products are incredibly durable, resistant to a wide variety of impacts and are ideal for daily use. The only drawback of a metal frame is its fairly high price. It is also important to consider that models with metal inside will have quite a lot of weight.
• Natural wood is durable and environmentally friendly products, distinguished not only by functionality and durability, but also by high cost.
• Chipboard - such products are rarely used as models for regular sleep. Such sofas are quite cheap, but they have a lot of disadvantages. Firstly, particle board is fragile and breaks quickly if not used carefully. Secondly, such sofas cannot boast of resistance to high loads.
• Products on frames made of multi-layer plywood - products made of multi-layer plywood are notable for their low cost. They are much stronger than the previous option and can act as a daily sleeping place.

Classification of sofas

Sofas are divided into categories according to:

• with transformation type;
• design features;
• purpose;
• dimensions;
• number of seats.

Since we are only interested in those models that can serve as a full-fledged sleeping place, we need to take a closer look at the group of transformers, which, in turn, are classified according to the method of assembly/unfolding.

Depending on the mechanism installed by the manufacturer, sofas are divided into:

1. Folding.

Classic folding sofa

2. Roll-out/pull-out.

Pull-out sofa

3. Unfolding.

Swivel sofa

Puma

The Puma sofa is a simple and comfortable furniture accessory. It unfolds neatly with just one touch. To turn it into a sleeping area, simply pull the seat. It is placed in place of the resulting void.

The tick-tock sofa mechanism has a similar design to the Puma. It also easily transforms into a comfortable seating area with two simple hand movements. This model is ideal for small living spaces.

It can be moved tightly to the wall plane, thereby saving precious cm. As a rule, soft textured fabrics are chosen for such a sofa. They help add a bit of coziness to the environment. The photo of the sofa mechanisms shows the components that are part of the folding structure.

Lifehacks for those who choose a sofa

1. Decide where the sofa will be. Draw a plan on paper. This will make it easier to navigate the store. Calculate whether there will be enough space for walking when the sofa is unfolded.
2. Decide on the function of the sofa: guest or for daily sleep. Also think about who will sleep on it: a child weighing 40 kg or an adult man for a hundredweight. Based on this, choose a mechanism.
3. In the store, carefully examine the transformation mechanism. Its metal parts must be thicker than 3 mm, carefully painted and securely connected to each other.
4. Sit or even lie down on the sofa. Estimate the density of the filler. Pay attention to the sounds the sofa makes when you move. Creaking is a sure sign of a poorly glued frame.
5. Pay attention to the evenness of the seams and rows of staples. These are the nuances that distinguish a conscientious manufacturer from an amateur. Look at the back of the sofa. If you plan to place it not against the wall, but in the center of the room, it should also be neatly upholstered.
6. If the manufacturer's warranty is less than 18 months, choose another one.

Design features of the book mechanism

Book mechanisms come in two types: with a shelf and without a shelf. They are built the same, but how are they different? What does this even mean, what “shelves”?

A shelf or corner is an additional reinforcement that takes on most of the load. This corner is located at the junction of the mechanism with the frame of the sofa. Increases the strength of the frame, since there is no need to drill through holes in it.

A mechanism without a shelf or without a corner has a flat design, and for attachment to the frame it is necessary to make through holes, which, of course, does not add strength to it. Conclusion: choose sofas with a shelf.