Decorating the interiors of residential premises is a complex and extremely responsible task. The furnishings should provide maximum comfort for household members and be functional. Particular attention is usually paid to the equipment of the sleeping area. The dimensions of the premises do not always allow the installation of comfortable and roomy beds. In this case, transforming structures come to the aid of the owners. One of the varieties of such structures is a bed built into a closet.
Folding bed built into the closet
Ways to save space when placing beds
When living conditions are cramped due to the size of the living space, a variety of designs come to the rescue, making it possible to unload the space as much as possible.
Built-in bed
If there is a shortage of free space, two-tier systems can be a great help for a family with children. In some cases, it is appropriate to install beds that slide into podiums.
Podium bed
Folding structures are very functional.
The most common models of transforming beds:
- sofa beds;
- tables-beds;
- beds built into wardrobes.
Furniture manufacturers offer many interesting and functional solutions. In one-room apartments, it is often simply impossible to do without installing a sleeping place that can be stored in a closet.
Bed built into wardrobe
Nightstand-bed-table
This folding bed option can be used as a desk or nightstand during the day.
To unfold the bed, the table top is raised. Inside the cabinet there is a folded folding bed. It consists of three sections with a metal frame. Folds out according to the “French folding bed” principle.
In the modern world, a huge number of folding beds are produced. They differ in types of mechanisms, sizes and purposes. Manufacturers strive to make designs convenient and easy to use.
Advantages of built-in beds
If previously the assortment of folding beds did not pamper the consumer, and the reliability of the designs did not always live up to expectations, today there are practically no complaints about the performance characteristics of the products.
The structure itself is simple. It consists of only two elements: a wardrobe, which, when the sleeping place is assembled, is no different in appearance from ordinary wardrobe models, and the sleeping place itself. The latter consists of a frame and a lamella support system for the mattress. Also an integral part (one of the most important) is a lifting mechanism, with the help of which the bed can be easily tilted out of the closet and put back after use. Mattresses are usually ordered separately. They should not be thicker than 25 cm so that the piece of furniture can be freely retracted into the niche intended for it. The width of the cabinet corresponds to the size of the bed (if additional compartments for organizing storage systems are not installed). Some models have bed legs.
Model with legs
Often the support is the base part of the structure. Lighting is usually installed inside the cabinets (to make it possible to read before bedtime).
Why built-in structures are interesting:
- they significantly save space;
- with the help of such interior items it is possible to zone the room;
- laying out the bed is very simple; both girls and the younger generation can easily cope with this process;
The bed lifts up easily to free up space
- depending on the model of the structure, storage space can be organized in the closet;
- folded furniture does not interfere with cleaning the room (washing the floor under standing sofas and beds is not an easy task);
- the process of transforming a sleeping place takes a minimum of time (there is no need to lay out or remove bedding, which is secured with special belts);
- The materials and fittings used in the production of products allow bed-wardrobes to harmoniously fit into most residential interiors.
Folding beds built into the closet are indispensable in small apartments
Saving space occupied by furniture is one of the most significant advantages of transformers. During the daytime, the folded sleeping place does not take up space. It is stored in a closet with a depth of only 35...45 cm. In this case, the bedroom can be used as a living room.
The most important advantage of built-in structures is their ergonomics
Many are skeptical about folding structures due to their seeming unreliability. It is safe to say that the mechanisms and materials used in transforming systems make it possible to operate structures without problems for a long time.
A folding bed can be as comfortable as possible. Most often it is equipped with a comfortable orthopedic mattress that guarantees excellent sleep.
An extensive assortment allows you to choose the optimal sleeping option for both adults and children
Installing built-in models helps organize both the main sleeping area for family members and an additional one for guests.
Transformable beds are installed in different rooms. They are used to organize sleeping places in children's rooms and offices (in case the work process is delayed and you have to spend the night there). But mostly they are installed in small bedrooms or in one-room apartments, where it is otherwise impossible to distribute the living space for different purposes. Sometimes such structures can be mounted in halls or loggias (for rare use).
Wardrobe bed on the loggia
If necessary (most often due to the size of the family), you can install not one, but two folding structures along the wall. A rather rare option, but one that has the right to life, is the installation of two horizontal folding structures on top of each other. When unfolded, such a system is a two-tier structure.
Bunk bed
The disadvantages of beds include high requirements for the base to which the structure is attached. There may also be problems with lifting mechanisms caused by manufacturing defects, as well as violation of the rules for using products. The cost of the product also does not relate to its advantages.
Advantages of the bed-wardrobe design
Transformable desk-bed for a teenager's room
Externally, the transformable bed is an ordinary stationary bed, which is not surprising at first. The design includes a special mechanism that allows the bed to be transformed into a table, sofa or wardrobe. What the sleeping place will be transformed into depends on the model of the bed. There are many photos on the Internet that depict in detail the process of transformation.
A wardrobe bed is a convenient transformer for yourself or guests, which can be placed in any room
This bed has a number of advantages and disadvantages. Positive qualities include the following indicators.
- Significant space savings. When the bed is assembled, it does not take up much space, due to which you can use the room for other purposes.
- Ergonomic design. You can also save your own time; this type of bed can be quickly folded and unfolded.
- Wide functionality. This type of bed can easily be converted into a wardrobe, sofa, etc. Thanks to this, a standard bed can perform several functions needed in the bedroom.
- It has the advantage of being able to unfold the bed in a matter of seconds (there is a special handle).
- In no case can the bed spoil the appearance of the room, but on the contrary, it will complement the design.
A wardrobe-bed with a vertical lifting mechanism is attached to the wall with the rear wall.
The main disadvantage of this mechanism is its cost. Yes, the price is really quite high, but if there is a problem with lack of space, then it will not play a big role. People complain that it needs to be folded, it takes time and effort. Especially if used for several years. But remember, the product does not have to be folded every morning; do it when necessary. All the advantages can cover the existing disadvantages of the transformer bed.
Transformable bunk bed with folding beds
Types of folding bed designs
Today, consumers are offered several options for beds that differ in design. Most often, the bottom surface of the product is the front of the cabinet when folded. There are also models of cabinets that are equipped with folding, sliding or hinged doors.
The bed is built into a wardrobe with hinged doors
In this case, there are no design requirements for the design of the lower part of the bed.
Models are also produced whose height of the unfolded bed allows them to be installed above sofas, which are used for their intended purpose during the day.
Folding bed over the sofa
This design of beds fully helps to combine the use of the room as a bedroom and living room.
Wardrobe beds can be made from solid wood or materials containing wood (MDF and laminated chipboard). The first option has the highest performance characteristics, but at the same time it costs quite a lot. Laminated chipboard is inexpensive, but over time there is a high probability of loosening of the fastening points.
What is the difference between MDF and laminated chipboard?
Important! Manufacturers do not recommend using 1.6 cm thick chipboard panels to make folding beds.
Varieties
There are three types of bed lifting devices:
Manual
This is the simplest lifting mechanism for a hinged bed. The principle of its operation is based on the use of human physical strength, because it does not contain power units that compensate for the weight of the raised bed. The advantages of manual mechanisms: low price, strength and reliability.
It is not recommended to install manual lifting mechanisms on beds for children. The child may not be able to cope with unfolding the bed on his own and may be injured.
Spring
As a lift, such mechanisms use twisted springs, which take on part of the load and significantly facilitate the transformation of the bed. If it is necessary to reduce the force of the mechanism, it is enough to remove the springs, but it is impossible to increase it. Over time, the springs gradually stretch, the connections wear out, and eventually the mechanism has to be replaced.
On gas shock absorbers
This lifting mechanism is the most comfortable because it takes on the entire load when lifting the bed. This quality allows women, teenagers, and people with disabilities to use beds with this mechanism.
This bed lifting mechanism uses a gas shock absorber as a power unit. It consists of a cylinder filled with nitrogen under high pressure, an oil damper and a piston with a rod.
The gas shock absorber mechanism consists of:
- Metal plates and corners;
- Steel axle;
- Gas elevator.
Plates and corners are attached to the berth and to the sides of the box. When lowering, the plates rotate on the axis and the gas elevator is compressed under the pressure created by the weight of the berth. When lifting, the force of gas pressure pushes out a piston with a rod, which smoothly moves the stock to a vertical position.
The power of gas elevators is indicated in Newtons (N). Beds require mechanisms with power from 600 N to 2200 N.
The only disadvantage of a gas lift is its high cost, which, however, is justified by its ease of use and durability.
Built-in bed type
For installation in small apartments, as well as in modern interiors that require maximum openness of space, two types of structures are used:
- vertical;
- horizontal.
In the first case, the owners have the opportunity to organize a full-fledged sleeping place for two adults. Although, if desired, you can also build a single vertical structure into the closet.
Double bed
A horizontally positioned bed allows you to equip an additional storage system in the closet or place, for example, a TV panel above a low cabinet. Such systems are most often used in children's rooms or offices, as well as for organizing an extra bed in case of unexpected guests.
Horizontal bed
Armchair beds
One of the popular types of compact sleeping space is a chair-bed.
They differ according to the type of mechanism. Main types:
"Dolphin"
The seat extends. The backrest is lowered into the freed space .
"Accordion"
The frame unfolds when you pull the loop. The action of the mechanism resembles the bellows of an accordion.
"Book"
To unfold the bed, you need to lift the pillow. Secure the frame until it clicks. Lower the backrest.
"Eurobook"
The frame consists of two parts. The lower part extends on rollers. The top part comes down.
"Withdrawal mechanism"
The frame consists of three parts. The bottom one is the seat. The top two are the back. The seat extends. The upper sections follow it. For ease of unfolding there are rollers.
Type of mechanism
To ensure that the bed can be easily disassembled and stored in a closet, several types of lifting and folding mechanisms are installed.
Depending on their financial capabilities and preferences, customers can be offered three device options:
- mechanical, reminiscent in principle of operation of the mechanism for folding shelves on a train (they are rarely used);
- spring ones, which perform well during operation, but their service life is limited;
- the most modern systems with gas shock absorbers, allowing the transformation process to be carried out as silently and smoothly as possible.
It is recommended to select the force of gas lifts based on the proposed table.
Gas lift power for horizontal beds
Gas lift power for vertical beds
Purpose of the mechanisms
Lifting mechanisms allow you to expand the functions of beds and thereby free up part of the living space of the house. Two methods are used for this. The first makes it possible to move the bed into a vertical position and put it in the closet. Or you can transform it into another piece of furniture for a time when the bed is not in use, thereby freeing up scarce living space.
The second method adds the ability to the bed to store household items, linen and clothes. The box for it is placed under the rising bed. This solution can eliminate the need to purchase a linen closet, saving money and the bedroom space that would be required to install this piece of furniture.
Beds with lifting devices have some other useful qualities:
- They store things carefully - the sleeping place closes the box very tightly and does not allow dust to pass through;
- They have an aesthetic appearance - bedding can be put away in a box without any problems and the sleeping place looks very aesthetically pleasing;
- They simplify cleaning - dust does not accumulate under such a bed and it will always be clean.
To lift and hold the berth, special mechanisms are installed
Bed dimensions
The folding bed model is selected depending on who will sleep on it. Married couples, children and teenagers, people of different builds and heights will need different designs.
Varieties of transforming structures of different sizes:
- single: 800…900 x 1900…2000 mm;
- one-and-a-half: 1200 x 1900...2000 mm;
- double: 1600…2200 x 2000 mm.
Single vertical bed-wardrobe
For small children, a sleeping place with dimensions of 700 x 1500 mm is enough. The height of the ceilings allows you to place beds in closets designed for tall people. The length of such structures can vary between 2000...2200 mm.
Multifunctional wardrobe-bed 6 in 1 with mirror, lighting, assembled shelf
Factory model options
The range of products offered by manufacturers allows you to choose the right design depending on your living conditions, family composition and personal preferences.
Table. Design options for wardrobe beds.
| Model | Description |
Single built-in bed | This design allows one person to sleep comfortably. The width of the bed is 700 or 800 mm, the length is 1900 or 2000 mm. In the upper part of the closet you can place, for example, bedding sets. The remaining space on the side is also used for storing things. The customer is offered a large selection of color solutions. If desired, you can order a mirror facade. The sleeping place is equipped with an orthopedic grill. |
3 in 1 design | This design combines a wardrobe with storage systems for things, equipment or books, a comfortable sleeping place for two people and a sofa that can be used after folding the bed. This option will fit perfectly into the interior of a living room or studio apartment. The structure is equipped with lighting (overhead and bedside), as well as USB sockets. The storage system is made from laminated chipboard. For upholstery of the sofa, you can choose several fabric options (flock, velor, jacquard, eco-leather, etc. The choice of colors for the facade is extensive. The package includes fittings: gas lifts, ball guides, shock absorbers and hinges. |
Children's folding bed | A special feature of this design is the ability to use the folded piece of furniture as a table. This design is convenient for placement in a children's room, giving the younger generation the opportunity not only to rest comfortably at night, but also to do business during the daytime. The pneumatic folding system allows you to transform the bed with ease and without noise. |
Drawings of beds built into the closet
Design and individual components
Folding bed mechanism diagram
Transformation mechanism
Transformable bed-wardrobe
Double lift bed
Video - Wardrobe-bed. Detailed examination of the frame
Reliability
All bed lifting mechanisms have a fairly high level of reliability. But here we need to make a reservation - this applies to products from manufacturers who occupy leading positions in the market for these devices and have earned the trust of customers. For example, the best gas elevators are considered to be German, and spring devices are Italian.
In spring lifting mechanisms, the main load falls on the spring itself, which leads to its wear. In addition, devices of this type do not withstand increased loads on the sleeping area. During use, the springs sometimes pop out and gradually stretch. For these reasons, their warranty does not exceed 5 years.
Gas elevators have a 10-year guarantee and are designed for 20 thousand raising and lowering of the bed, which indicates the high reliability of the gas lifting device. The most reliable and durable mechanism is recognized as a manual device on hinges. The reason is simple - there is nothing to break there.
Finally, advice on how to choose the right bed lift mechanism. Spring devices are perfect for light single beds. But, if your budget allows, it is better to choose gas. Its high price will justify itself - the device will last for many years without repair or replacement. Well, the manual version is suitable for small beds that do not have to be opened often.
