2021 ᐈ

Basically, tables for a small kitchen space are compact in size.

However, on celebration days, when friends and relatives gather, you need to set a folding table.

Modern, incredibly beautiful, and compact transforming tables will eliminate this need.

Varieties

Transformer is a general name for different furniture options. There are several types of common designs of dining tables for a small kitchen:

Dining

This is a standard type of table with legs. When assembled, the product is characterized by compact dimensions. Increases by 50–100% due to the additional sector. This element can be pulled out and attached. A popular model is with a collapsible tabletop. If you move the surface into two halves, you can insert another part in the middle.

Such a piece of furniture can be of any shape - square, rectangular, oval, round table.

Wall-mounted

The most economical option for modest square meters of living space. Shape: semicircular, square, rectangular, triangular. When folded, such a table does not take up space at all, since it is fixed to the wall.

When you need to have lunch, the tabletop is raised and placed on special supports - this is how dining surfaces are made on trains.

Folding tables are the best choice for a cramped kitchen. There are also products that are placed close to the plane of the wall, and the countertop is used in a similar way. When not decomposed, the system is used to store utensils. Other wall-mounted models are made like a bar counter - high and narrow. An interesting idea - the window sill smoothly transitions into the tabletop.

Folding

Tables with folding tops vary in design. The most popular are “butterfly” or “book”. Compact when assembled, they can be equipped with storage niches. When disassembled, they provide a spacious dining surface.

For children

It can be a retractable, reclining or roll-out (on wheels) table, characterized by its small size. Designed to provide a place for feeding a child in a cramped kitchen. In addition to this piece of furniture there is a high chair.

Manufacturers present various options, they combine different principles of transformation. To order, you can make a table of any configuration, which will allow it to fit perfectly into a specific kitchen.

Types of models

Various types of tables are suitable for a small kitchen. The decision is made depending on the chosen location, size, general arrangement of furniture, personal preferences, etc.

A wall-mounted structure similar to a table in a passenger train. It is characterized by modest size. The tabletop is mounted to the wall, with a diagonal element acting as additional support.
A variation of the previous model can be considered a hinged lid. In normal times, it is positioned vertically, and when lifted, it is installed on special spacers.
The window sill table allows you to admire the scenery while dining. For placement use the part opposite the window. If you extend the surface, then in addition to a row of shelves it will serve as a buffet.
The tall model, combined with matching chairs, resembles a bar counter. Its length can be quite impressive.
A pull-out shelf will replace a small table and increase the work surface if necessary.
The roll-out model is equipped with rollers and moves out of the gap under the common tabletop without much effort.

Transformers are a large group of products. The method of changing the table is determined by the design and type of mechanism. The most common types are:

The book table got its name due to the folding side parts. They are attached to a central element of small width. Each functions separately and rests on a retractable leg.
A folding model with a rotating lid allows you to achieve a 2-fold increase. After a 90° offset, the tabletop swings open along the central connection. The double thickness of the lid gives the small table some heaviness.
The surface of the sliding table is increased due to inserts. They can be placed in the center or edges. There are designs in which additional elements are located under the tabletop. To get them out, just pull the edge of the section towards you or turn it with a shift.

Manufacturing materials

A table for a small kitchen differs not only in configuration, size and design features, but also in the material of manufacture. Typically used for its production:

Plastic

Budget-friendly, lightweight, waterproof material, distinguished by a variety of colors and the ability to make any shape. Disadvantages - short-lived, deformed under the influence of high temperatures, stains, scratches, and abrasions easily form on it.

laminated chipboard

The laminated board looks presentable and comes in a variety of colors. However, such a table is not recommended for the kitchen. With constant exposure to high humidity and temperature, chipboard is destroyed, deformed, and furniture becomes unusable.

And the resin used to glue the chips releases toxic compounds when heated.

MDF

It is more durable than laminated chipboard. Such plates are safe for humans and can withstand various mechanical and atmospheric loads. In terms of strength, an MDF tabletop is almost as strong as wood, but costs less.

Tree

Any kitchen tables are made from solid wood - folding, sliding. The material is characterized by high strength and wear resistance. However, it should be taken into account that in a small kitchen a model made of natural wood can look massive. Preference should be given to the most elegant options.

Glass

The advantage of glass is its transparency. The design looks weightless, does not clutter up the space, and visually adds light. An interesting solution is a folding table with mirror coating. When assembled, it bends upward rather than downward, turning into a mirror on the wall. Sliding glass tables also look stylish.

However, they are more expensive than analogues made from other materials and require especially careful handling.

Traditionally, retractable, folding and other tables for a small kitchen are equipped with a base, legs or supports made of solid wood or metal.

The fittings, fasteners, and elements of the folding mechanism are also metal. They must be stainless. It is worth paying close attention to their quality. After all, the durability and functionality of the structure depend on these elements.

What does the future hold for us?

Modular kits use complex structures and mechanisms. Such products are the patented fruit of the labors of passionate engineers and designers. Such kits rarely go on sale and are expensive. However, furniture makers strive to make transformable furniture with maximum ergonomics and the presence of various functionality. There are hopes that in the near future our headsets will be very original, allowing a minibar, refrigerator, and other accessories to appear out of nowhere.

READ ON TOPIC: Unusual ideas for small kitchens

The nuances of choosing a dining table for a small kitchen

When choosing a dining table, several criteria should be taken into account simultaneously.

Model location. According to the rules of ergonomics, for normal landing you will need at least 80 cm of free space to the nearest objects. Suitable options are areas near the wall, window sill, corner.
The size of the product must fit into the kitchen area and provide seating for all family members, as well as guests. For a spacious room, you can choose any design, but if you have limited space, it’s worth purchasing a transforming table.
The configuration of the model is no less important. A square tabletop is suitable for four, while a rectangular one can seat at least six people. Such products can be placed close to the wall or pushed into a corner. A round and oval object will accommodate a company of up to 8 people.

Unfortunately, they are difficult to install in a small kitchen.

For example: an oval structure needs a room of at least 15 m2. You can experiment with a round shape on an area of 7 m2 or more. It looks as comfortable as possible when paired with a soft sofa. Fans of tables of this configuration can purchase a semicircular model.

The material and design of the table should be harmoniously combined with other furnishings and support the chosen interior style.

Advantages of transformer tables

A transformable dining table for a small kitchen is considered a winning option. Its advantages are confirmed by the demand for such products:

Compact dimensions in the original state allow the room not to be cluttered.
Versatility.
A simple method of transformation that even a child can usually handle.
Reliable and safe mechanism, designed for a large number of transformation cycles.
Organization of a storage system in the internal volume.
A rich model range will give you the opportunity to choose the most suitable option.
The increased safety margin will ensure a long service life.

Base materials

Wood and metal are used to make the base. The tsar belt usually has a square or rectangular shape, but now models are appearing in oval or round designs.

Bolts, screws or other fittings are used to fasten individual parts.

The functions of the supporting elements are performed by the legs or cabinet.
The second option has a low level of comfort. Solid parts make it difficult to position your legs while sitting, which is not conducive to spending a long time.
When deciding which table to choose, you should give preference to models with legs. But there are different modifications here too.
A time-tested classic - four pillars. They are able to ensure a stable position of the entire structure.
The central counter, ending at the base, looks elegant and does not interfere with those sitting. It is important that after unfolding, a balance is maintained that will not allow the product to tip over.

The two supports seem to save space, but they make the end part uncomfortable to sit on. Therefore, the beneficial effect is neutralized.

As for the material used, a product with a wooden base looks more bulky compared to a metal frame. For limited space, this indicator can be a strong argument in favor of metal.

Assembly

At the assembly stage, you also need to be extremely careful and not miss any details. Prepare all the necessary tools and fasteners, arrange them so that they are at hand. Upon completion of the assembly of the entire structure, check the functionality of the main mechanism: transform the table several times to make sure that everything functions correctly and is secured properly.

Tips for choosing

To choose the optimal type of table for a small kitchen, it is important to calculate in advance all the subtleties and nuances:

Design . For small rooms, minimalism, simple, laconic models would be more appropriate. Ornate products, complex in design, with many details, will visually “eat up” the space.
Color . When choosing colors, take into account compatibility with the shade of the walls, floor, and other furniture. In a small kitchen, dark objects will look bulky. Preference should be given to light, pastel colors.
Form . The round table is cozy and laconic. But it requires space so that it can be approached from all sides. Therefore, it is worth choosing a square, rectangular or semicircular wall product. There are also triangular models for two with a folding mechanism.
Material . Solid wood usually looks bulky. Plastic is cheap, but it is appropriate, for example, for children's models. Glass, metal, glossy fiberboards visually expand the space.

The most important thing to consider is the size of the room. In the case of a small kitchen, a couple of centimeters can be decisive. Therefore, you cannot choose furniture by eye. Measurements should be taken and recorded.

Production designers will implement almost any table ideas for a small kitchen if you make custom-made furniture. Whatever model you like, a transformer will be preferable.

After all, this is the best option, which will allow you to have a good table and at the same time not suffer in cramped spaces while preparing food.

Tabletop configuration

The comfort of eating largely depends on the size and configuration of the tabletop. In our article, we do not discuss large dining tables, which are installed in living rooms and can accommodate at least 8 people.

Folding small table in rectangular, square or triangular shape

A square or rectangular tabletop is a classic shape for a dining table. Such models can be installed anywhere, including in a corner. Square folding kitchen table 60?60 cm? Looks cozy for a small kitchen.

It can comfortably accommodate 1-2 people. To avoid injury, choose models with rounded tabletop corners.

The kitchen table model with a triangular table top looks original. This can be a folding mobile table or a structure attached to the wall. In the catalogs of modern furniture manufacturers you can find models with a triangular tabletop that transforms into a square.

However, such a table is more suitable for a bachelor’s apartment.

Folding table for kitchen oval configuration

Dining tables with an oval configuration are well known to older people. The whole family gathered for them on weekends and holidays. And sliding models with the insertion of an additional tabletop allow you to accommodate more guests. The kitchen version differs from the oval dining table, first of all, in its dimensions and the method of attaching the useful surface.

The disadvantage of this design is that it does not completely adhere to the wall and, frankly, is not very suitable for small kitchens.

Round folding table for the kitchen

Dining tables with a round top were no less popular. They were most often bought for large apartments, and even now these designs can be found in many people’s dachas.

However, modern furniture manufacturers have begun to produce round folding products for small kitchens.

It is recommended to install them in the middle of the room. The free space is, of course, not used very rationally, but placement at such a table is more comfortable, and, due to the absence of corners, it is safe for children.

Semicircular folding table for the kitchen

Semicircular dining tables look original. They can be mobile on legs with a folding tabletop and mounted on the wall using special hinges and clamps. Depending on the size, this table can accommodate 2-5 people.

When folded, the design looks beautiful and does not take up much space.

Table location in the kitchen

The ease of movement of apartment owners depends on the arrangement of furniture in a small kitchen. The daily cooking process must be comfortable, which means the table should not interfere with this.

An excellent solution is to place it near the window, turning it into a bar counter. Then, placed at the same level as the rest of the set, it will serve as an additional cutting surface.

A wall table is convenient in a room wide enough for this purpose. But most often it is placed in the corner: this leaves more room for maneuvering in a small kitchen. It happens that furniture is installed in the center, but for this it must be mobile so as not to block the passage.

Design ideas for kitchen tables in the interior

In an effort to squeeze the maximum benefit out of every centimeter of space without losing its beauty, designers are coming up with more and more eccentric ideas: two-level tables, tabletops with photo printing, irregularly shaped seats and much more.

A table for a small kitchen can even stretch along a corner. An excellent solution would also be an idea borrowed from cafe interiors: tables with round legs and soft mini-sofas in the dining area by the window.

Modern transforming tables: advantages

Folding tables have been popular for a long time: for small apartments they will be the best solution. The main reason for the demand for such furniture is related to its compactness when folded. Transformable tables are available in any shape and size, and you can make them to order, taking into account the specific layout of your room.

Another advantage of these tables is their visual similarity to ordinary compact kitchen tables. Your interior will always look harmonious and cozy, unlike kitchens where you have to huddle due to the installation of large tables.

The undoubted advantage of transformation tables is their versatility. It is not at all necessary to use them strictly for their intended purpose:

a table with high legs will replace a full-fledged bar counter; models with a folding tabletop when closed can be used as shelves along the walls;
many versions of transforming tables are equipped with hooks, convenient for storing kitchen items;
tables with a wide base can have additional niches for storage;
low level tables will also serve as coffee tables.

By the way, the convenience of tables of this type also lies in the lightness of the materials: they can be moved to different areas of the kitchen, and, if necessary, moved to other rooms.

Tip: if you are looking for a table that can perform multiple functions, pay attention to models with adjustable height.

To make using such a table convenient for each family member, consider in advance all possible options for its use. Modern transforming tables differ in their assembly mechanisms, which affect both the durability of the structure and the final cost of such furniture.

Decor

There are several options for decorating a kitchen table:

Straight kitchen design with cabinets up to the ceiling
What material are kitchen sets made of?
Kitchens with patina: decor options and tips on color combinations

Hand painted. Having a stencil, paints at hand and minimal experience in this direction, it is possible to create an original table. In this case, the ornament will depend solely on the style in which the kitchen interior is decorated.

Film. This is an affordable method, using which, in accordance with technology, you can get stunning results. It is especially relevant if you need to update an outdated table model.

Decoupage. Gluing various ornaments and fragments with varnish applied on top will help transform the simplest table beyond recognition. One of the elementary ways is newspaper clippings in retro style.

Mosaic. Multi-colored pieces of glass are used. Undoubtedly, you will have to work hard to make the surface perfect, but the option is wonderful.

Most talented designers are convinced that the future, undoubtedly, lies in transforming tables.

Perhaps this is exactly your option, using which you will create a freer kitchen space, turning a small-sized kitchen into a cozy, warm home corner.

What else to pay attention to

To ensure that your transforming table serves you for a long time, when purchasing, pay attention to the quality and strength of the fasteners and fittings, as well as the performance properties of the base material. The most common and successful option is compact tables made of chipboard.

Firstly, this is a very light material, so you can easily change the location of the table in space.
Secondly, furniture made from chipboard today costs much less than its wooden counterparts. In addition, this material comes in many colors, so you can easily choose a table to match the style of your kitchen set.

Attention! Tables of this type require careful use: chipboard can deteriorate from exposure to moisture.

Wooden tables are gradually becoming a thing of the past: despite their durability, this option does not justify its high cost, as it can deteriorate from mechanical damage and other factors. Modern tables with transformational properties are increasingly made of plastic.

If desired, the customer can cover such a table with veneer or other durable finishing material.

A stylish option for a transforming table for a small kitchen is a glass model. Modern glass tables have excellent durability, fit well into any interior and harmonize with other materials (for example, steel legs or a wooden base).

Metal transformable tables are extremely rare - and it’s clear why: visually such a table will not be perceived as light and compact, to unfold the structure you will have to put in more effort than in other cases, and the appearance of such tables is significantly inferior to other modern models.

Tasks

The furniture industry of domestic and imported origin deals with the problem of spaciousness, producing original kitchens with retractable and sliding structures, which are called transformable kitchen furniture. The essence of such furniture comes down to the fact that not all household items are used constantly. Some of them can be folded compactly and unfolded when the need arises for their use. Through the use of transformers, several problems are solved:

space is saved;
ergonomics improves;
a certain design style is created;
a beautiful view and comfort are formed.

We bring to your attention some options for transformable furniture in photo 1. We will be glad if they help you update the interior of your small kitchen.

Photo 1 - Transformable furniture options for the kitchen

Photo 2a - Folding chair

Photo 2b - Folding table

Photo 2c - Pull-out chairs and table

Color solutions

The dark-colored dining table looks solid and solid. But this is not the best option for a small kitchen - such a design will look too bulky. It is worth paying attention first of all to light-colored furniture - white and beige tables, light wood tables, and so on. The use of these colors in the interior allows you to visually expand a cramped space.

A light and airy pastel-colored table will not overly fill the kitchen or clutter it up.

Application of folding tables and chairs

The simplest and most frequently used option for expanding space is the use of fully or half folding tables and chairs . Transformable furniture for the kitchen that is fastened to the wall saves the most space. These can be simple or complex structures with different designs. A folding table can be attached to the wall with a regular latch, or you can decorate it with designer chic. Sometimes the table folds partially. A striking example of this is a table-book, table-pedestal. Regular kitchen tables can be folded out for guests and folded down for everyday use. They contain various methods of unfolding and fastening. Look at all the proposed options in photo 2(a-c). Maybe some idea will suit you!

Choice of seating (stools, chairs, sofas)

Kitchen furniture is not always purchased as a set. Often chairs are selected separately. In order not to make a mistake with your choice, you need to decide on several characteristics:

shape and material;
installation location;
approximate stool weight.

Folding stools

Do you think stools are boring? Not at all! If you buy bright designer stools like those in the photo for your small kitchen.

Chair with back

A chair with a backrest is one of the most popular products. The advantage of the model is that the back and seat provide good support for the body and allow you to sit comfortably for a long period of time. The usual back height is 36-80 cm. Many manufacturers and a wide range of models do not limit the choice.

The disadvantage is that chairs cannot be pushed under the table; chairs take up a certain amount of space in a small kitchen.

Choosing a bar stool

When creating the interior, it is important to keep the kitchen furnishings in the same style. Therefore, after installing the bar counter, you need to purchase chairs of the appropriate shape. When choosing a bar stool, pay attention to the back - it can be very low.

Therefore, the best option (suitable for all guests) is bar half-chairs with a higher back and comfortable for long-term sitting.

Products are available with one leg, two (inclined) or four (the most stable). Products with footrests should be given preference - they are more convenient to use. For compact kitchens, it is recommended to look at folding models of bar stools; their base can be wooden, metal, and plastic, textiles, leather, wood are used for seat upholstery.

All these components determine the price of a chair - from 990 rubles to 8,000 rubles or more.

Mini sofas

When decorating a cozy dining area, you can take a closer look at upholstered furniture. Manufacturers offer models with a width of 80 cm and a depth of 40 cm. To make them comfortable to use, it is better to choose products without armrests or with one armrest (corner version).

In a square-shaped kitchen you can comfortably place a small corner sofa.

Advanced options for transformable furniture for the kitchen

We invite you to consider several interesting, diverse proposals.

Photo 3 - Kitchen set on one wall

Photo 4 - Vertical design

Photo 5 - Transformable furniture with a sleeping place

Photo 6 - Kitchen in one nightstand

1. The original version of the transforming kitchen set is shown in photo 3. All necessary household items are built into one wall. When the need arises, they are pulled out of the wall. This is how a table, benches, and cabinets appear. Such an interior item is not designed for a large number of people, but is practical and convenient for family use.

2. One of the progressive examples of transformable furniture for the kitchen are vertical stalls , proposed in photo 4. They are convenient to install in living rooms and other settings. A set of all functionality is concentrated here: refrigerator, microwave, stove, oven, shelves. All this opens as needed and closes tightly.

3. A practical option is transformable furniture with a bed , proposed in photo 5. It involves installing a table, and at night - a bed. This offer is beneficial when guests arrive and in other cases.

4. We offer another transforming kitchen in photo 6. Initially it seems that this is just a bedside table. But very easily this piece of furniture turns into a kitchen with a stove and a variety of tables, bedside tables for storing various kitchen utensils and dishes.

5. On f. 7 reveals the wonders of the set, which extends from one side , revealing the hob and countertop.

6. You can compare the modular transformable kitchens proposed on f. with small islands of miracles. 8,9,10. Such complex and expensive designs can be expanded to standard size units with a stove, sink, cutting table, and oven. To complete the configuration, it is necessary to distribute the modules in the right direction.

Photo 7 - Pull-out hob

Photo 8 - Modern transformable kitchen furniture

Photo 9 - Modular kitchen

Photo 10 - Transforming kitchen island

General requirements for furnishing a small kitchen

When designing small kitchen spaces, functionality and ergonomics are primarily considered, and when choosing materials, they are based on the concepts of hygiene and economy. Kitchens experience higher humidity and temperatures, which affects the environment. Also an important feature of the room is frequent wet cleaning.

Therefore, furniture is selected that can be cleaned without causing damage to it. Or which is inexpensive and easy to change.

If you like chairs with fabric seats, then you need to choose upholstery made of durable textiles that can be wiped with a damp cloth (microfiber, flock).