In a small kitchen, you inevitably sacrifice either the size and capacity of the unit, or the size of the dining area. How to choose a kitchen table for a small kitchen if your family has more than 2 people? Manufacturers offer original and practical solutions in the form of transformable tables and other folding structures. We'll talk about all the possible ideas below.
Advantages and disadvantages
Pros and cons of a retractable table.
| Advantages | Flaws |
| It does not clutter the interior, making the room seem more spacious. | Such a structure must be constantly pushed in so that it does not interfere and does not take up space. |
| Allows you to create an additional work area. | Retractable models cannot be moved to another room. |
| These products are convenient and reliable. |
For the office
A versatile and quite roomy table with a drawer is most often found in an office or children's room.
Such furniture allows you to save free space and completely rearrange it using a large storage system that can quickly be turned into a work surface.
Types of retractable tables
There are several models with certain design features and design.
Writing
It is a very practical furniture element that not only fits organically into the decor, but also allows you to competently organize the work process. The retractable writing desk has very reliable mechanisms, which makes it convenient for daily use.
Transformer
It features a variety of shapes, various layout options and advanced functionality that allows you to reduce costs on furniture items.
Computer
Due to the movable element, which represents an additional work surface or space for a keyboard or laptop, it is possible to create a very compact and comfortable design that does not take up much free space.
Dining
With the help of such an ergonomic invisible module, you can not only make the interior composition ideal, but also avoid installing bulky dining models.
The photo shows a long extendable dining table in the interior of a modern kitchen.
Combined with furniture
It combines several functions, which can significantly reduce the cost of purchasing various furniture items.
How much space do you need for a full lunch?
First of all, it is important to note that although a small table and chairs may fit in your kitchen, the battle is not won yet. In everyday life, we often find that a table can fit, but eating at it is definitely not easy - especially if you have to host a large number of guests!
For comfortable eating, you need to have at least a few centimeters around the chairs and in general around you. It's minimum!
- If sitting is uncomfortable, when the stomach is pressed against the edge of the table, the chair is inserted approximately 35 cm below the table.
- However, no one wants to sit like that. This is extremely uncomfortable and painful, so when sitting normally, the chair moves away from the table by at least 15 cm.
- If we want to sit really pleasantly and comfortably, then the chair moves away from the table by about 70 cm, and while sitting and rising by another 5-10 cm.
- And all this is exactly the space that should be taken into account when choosing.
- The fact is that the selected table, including the chair, fits in the space, but every time you stand up, the chair begins to get stuck in obstacles. Nobody will have fun anymore.
- If the table is located so that when working in the kitchen it is behind our back, then the distance between the kitchen and the table should be at least 150 cm.
In addition, the minimum table width per visitor is 50 cm, but 60 cm will certainly be much more convenient.
Examples of tables built into furniture
Popular options for built-in retractable models.
Bed
A loft bed with a pull-out structure at the bottom is the most functional interior solution that fits perfectly into a schoolchild’s room. When purchasing this model, you should take into account a sufficient amount of free space for unhindered movement of the table.
Closet
The retractable worktop, hidden in a customizable cabinet, is a very practical piece of furniture. Such products can have either a corner or a traditional design.
Rack
With the help of such a versatile, stylish and compact model, you can rationally use space and conveniently place all the necessary things in one place.
Armchair
Due to the simultaneous existence of such full-fledged furniture items as an armchair and a retractable tabletop, this fashionable transforming design will give the interior versatility and at the same time attractiveness.
Cabinet
It is considered a very rational solution, which when folded looks very neat, and when unfolded it is a large and very roomy model on stable legs.
Kitchen set
A worktop on telescopic guides, mounted into the façade of the kitchen unit, will perfectly complement the interior of a small kitchen without overloading the space. Due to reliable fittings, this panel slides out smoothly, softly and without noise.
The photo shows a compact retractable tabletop built into the kitchen unit.
Island
This design with a retractable table not only harmonizes perfectly with the design of the entire room, but also allows you to organize a convenient cutting surface, work area, dining area for the whole family, or even a storage system.
Bar counter
It pulls out only when necessary, and then easily hides back, thereby not cluttering up the room space. Due to the sliding roller mechanism, the surface of the bar counter is extended, providing additional seating.
Sofa
The combination of these two furniture pieces is especially popular and in demand. Tabletops of different sizes and shapes can be located in the armrest of the sofa, both on the right and on the left side.
Kitchen Area
Mobile designs, due to simple manipulations, allow you to competently arrange the room and at the same time bring some freshness to the usual design.
Types of retractable structures
Extendable work surfaces are divided according to their design and method of arrangement.
Placement methods
| Photo | Type of extendable tabletop |
| Horizontal module Most common:
| |
Vertically oriented module
An example of such designs is a folding book table. The advantage of vertical modules is that they are extremely compact and fit where other models cannot be installed. They are placed on the selected area of the desktop. Inside it can be placed a narrow basket for storing kitchen utensils, and the folding table itself is attached to the side. | |
| Corner module Most often it is built into a carousel storage system. It rolls out of the nightstand together with the drawer. The area for installing the corner module is one of the joints between the kitchen walls. Thus, it saves room space as much as possible. | |
| Original module Usually, these are homemade or artisanal countertops. In most cases, this is a simple cover resting on a folding support leg. |
Types of designs
Retractable lids can be mounted on any part of the kitchen where there is some kind of horizontally oriented niche. It could be:
The table can also be mounted in the window sill in the kitchen.
- windowsill;
- wall-mounted or island kitchen set;
- cupboard, etc.
At the same time, it is important that the tabletop can be quickly hidden and rolled out as needed.
The most common designs of retractable tabletops:
| Photo | Module type |
Retractable drawer lid with roll-out stools:
| |
Roll-out cover on a pair of support legs:
| |
| Folding table Simple versions of the mobile tabletop have the same width as the cabinets into which they slide.
When the panel is rolled up, it is folded in half. Then its far section goes down along the back of the cabinet. | |
| Addition to bar counter or console Such ideas are not very common, since most often the models are designed individually and made to order. For such a module, it is necessary to leave free space on the side of the rack. The tabletop is extended from its end part and made longer. |
Extension table shapes
The choice of shape determines the visual perception of the entire space.
- Round. Due to the absence of sharp corners, the round shape allows you to create a warm and very cozy environment.
- Rectangular. It is universal and ideal for any interior solution. The rectangular model visually adjusts the size of the room and makes the most of its area.
- Oval. It has a truly sophisticated look, giving the atmosphere a certain charm and stateliness.
- Angular. It has many positive advantages and, due to its angular location, takes up much less space compared to other products.
- Unusual design. Original countertops with complex and unusual shapes create a unique and unique design.
The photo shows a small kitchen in light colors with a white oval pull-out table.
A certain shape adds new colors to the interior and sets a certain mood for it.
The photo shows a narrow retractable rectangular table in the kitchen interior.
Step-by-step work execution
- First, you should choose the location of the sliding object. In small-sized kitchens, it is most convenient to place it in the space above the radiator.
- We decide on the color scheme, dimensions and shape.
- Next, we draw up a sketch and drawing with ready-made natural dimensions. We fill out the list of necessary fittings and additional accessories. We purchase all the necessary parts and tools from a specialized hardware store.
- We attach the base of the table above the radiator, in which we make holes for the outflow of warm air into the room.
- Then we attach the leg. The console must first be secured to the inside of the supporting part.
- We assemble the finished model, as indicated in the pre-drawn drawing.
- We adjust the height of the leg in accordance with possible unevenness of the floor using the threaded attachment at the end of the support.
The technical characteristics of the specimen are quite simple and durable, since the tabletop moves along the limiters from under the top.
Table material
The most commonly used types of materials:
- Wood. Wooden structures are particularly environmentally friendly, durable, elegant and harmonize the appearance of any interior.
- Glass. Models made of durable tempered glass, protected with a special film, look very light, airy and do not visually burden the situation.
The photo shows a kitchen with a rotating pull-out table made of wood.
Manufacturing technology rules
It is possible to manufacture and assemble a folding table from various raw materials: stone, MDF, chipboard, wood, plastic sheet, glass. Designers do not stand still and have come up with mixed designs in which several types of materials are used simultaneously.
It is recommended to opt for items and accessories from proven, proven manufacturers, whose prices are much higher, but meet the requirements of quality and reliability.
It is reasonable to supplement the mobile model with a closer, which smoothly and quite silently helps to clean the area, barely touching it. If desired, a table with a retractable cabinet can be equipped with folding legs, which are then retracted simultaneously with the surface into a special niche.
Photos in the interior
Photo of retractable tables in the interior of the premises.
Kitchen
Thanks to this modern design solution, it is possible to intelligently optimize the kitchen space and maximize the usable area.
Living room
In the living room, a retractable table can be not only a necessity, but also a real designer decoration for the room. Traditional wooden models, intricate glass, plastic or metal products with the most unexpected and original shapes, tabletops built into shelving, armchairs or ottomans will become truly useful furniture elements of the room.
Children's
A retractable compact design will free up extra space in the nursery, which can be furnished with other larger items or left free and thereby giving the room additional space.
The photo shows a retractable desk that tucks under the bed in a nursery for two children.
Cabinet
These transformable tables provide the opportunity to organize a comfortable workplace in any corner and thereby easily replace stationary bulky structures.
The photo shows the interior of the office and the wall-mounted retractable table in a brown shade.
Balcony
Such products fit especially organically into the balcony space. Roll-out or folding structures are perfect even for a small loggia and allow you to organize a comfortable dining or work area, or simply become an original decorative piece of furniture.
Bedroom
Retractable tabletops undoubtedly become an interesting and non-standard interior addition. They can be wall-mounted, thereby creating the illusion of appearing from the wall or extending out of some piece of furniture, which will be especially appropriate for small bedrooms.
Kitchen space
To increase the free space in the kitchen, it is wise to purchase a pull-out table, which significantly frees up space for more important furniture. Typically, it performs several functions:
- Acts as an additional tabletop on which it is convenient to cut food or place electrical appliances (combine, mixer).
- A small table for tea or coffee gatherings takes up little space, unlike the main dining surface. Having pulled out such a design, it is possible to have a snack quite comfortably.
This system, in addition to visually enlarging the room, also adds free space for work. The design, without much effort, “turns” into a small serving surface that is quite stable.
Typically, the tabletop slides out from the bottom drawer of the nightstand, under the main surface. But you can find a number of models that are located along with the main dining area.
Despite the many positive aspects, the design also has a number of disadvantages:
- The product will need to be removed after use;
- the surface area allows you to accommodate only a couple of people, but not all family members or, especially, guests;
- It is necessary to think about the installation of the system immediately with the installation of kitchen furniture, since often ready-made parts do not allow adding additions;
- the built-in design significantly increases the total cost of a custom headset;
- The folding system requires regular maintenance, that is, constant tightening of screws and nuts, for which some additional tools and work skills will be useful.
For kitchen
A practical and reliable pull-out table in the kitchen can be used as an additional work surface for processing dishes and preparing them for cooking. A retractable table top helps replace a large, oversized dining table, especially if everyone in the family eats on their own schedule.
Extendable table elements, such as table tops and wall units, shelves and supports, can remain part of the structure or be added to it.
Functional parts must meet the requirements of maximum safety, mobility and aesthetics, which makes them quite popular for installation in any room.
Designs of retractable kitchen tables
There are several design options.
An additional piece is installed under the main countertop of the kitchen cabinet. Guides facilitate the movement. The fittings are mounted on the side walls of the cabinet and on the end parts of the retractable top. Door closers provide smooth and silent operation.
The coating may consist of several levels. Once fully opened, a tabletop is formed that can replace a full-fledged dining table. The lifting mechanism makes it possible to align individual elements in height.
The retractable module is equipped with wheels. Its edge can be left unprotected for complete freedom of movement. But most often the product contains special limiters. To rationally use the space under the tabletop, it is combined with a small piece of furniture.
The rotating lid is still hidden under the tabletop. The device in the extreme part allows the tabletop to rotate to the desired angle. Reliable support is provided by one or two legs at the opposite end. For ease of movement, they are equipped with rollers. When folded, the supporting parts are hidden in a narrow niche.
The service life of a product is largely determined by the quality of the fittings.
- The roller guides are designed for a load of up to 25 kg and are therefore not suitable for heavy worktops. The mechanism is not complicated, but it is very noisy when moving.
- The ball version is more expensive, but operates almost silently. Permissible weight 35 kg.
- Metabox is a variant of modern equipment. Its peculiarity is the installation of a guide inside the side wall. The design includes a door closer and a shock absorber.
- The loading system is considered the simplest and most affordable option, but is more expensive than previous types.
How to use a pull-out table in the kitchen
Extendable tables for small kitchens allow you to optimize your workspace.
The following options for their use are possible:
- Coffee table. A good alternative to a dining table for several people.
- Continuation of the work area. If necessary, the extendable table becomes a continuation of the main tabletop.
- Children's table. Allows you to keep your baby under constant control.
- Extendable table. In this case, the dining table is complemented by an auxiliary surface. This option is suitable for a large family or company.
The use of a hidden kitchen surface is optimal when space is limited and compactness is valued. With the right choice, it will become not only functional, but also a piece of furniture.
Retractable table in the interior of a small kitchen
Every chef knows how important it is to have at least some work space in the kitchen. It is helped by a pull-out table. If necessary, it is easy to hide and therefore easy to open.
Studio owners will appreciate the new idea - after all, in a single space, the kitchen is usually visible
The dining table from here is worth removing, as the whole house is literally transformed.
The clear advantages of using such a table are as follows:
- it is ideal as a coffee table and for casual dining that does not require luxurious service;
It is often used as a breakfast table.
- Can be a full-fledged assistant for the main tabletop, conveniently placing the ingredients of prepared dishes on its surface;
It serves as an additional surface on which you can place small household appliances, remove ready-made dishes and groceries, so as not to disturb the housewife.
- A young mother or grandmother can use the pull-out table as a children's drawing table, thanks to which the child will be looked after while he is busy in the kitchen;
As a piece of furniture, a retractable table does its job perfectly.
- Despite the apparent unreliability, modern designs of sliding tables are durable and stable. Perhaps their only drawback is the “lack of variability” in placement.
The structure is statically built in; it cannot be rearranged, but only put into a hidden state.
Tips for choosing
High-quality furniture will provide ease of work and reduce the time required for cooking and setting the table. When choosing a design with a retractable table, you need to pay attention to several factors:
- Dimensions. The standard width of retractable tables is 45-50 cm. Such models are designed for loads of up to 20 kg, some options can withstand up to 30 kg, depending on the characteristics of the accessories. There are large tabletops measuring 1100 x 90 cm and 15-20 mm thick. The structure is complemented by support. Dimensional products are relevant for spacious rooms.
- Colors and design. Pull-out tables will become an original interior solution that will organically fit into any interior. The classics will be complemented by a luxurious model made of wood or stone. Natural materials, light shades are relevant for country and Scandinavian style. Finishes made of glass, plastic, metal and dark light colors look organic in a modern high-tech kitchen.
- Quality of fittings, transformation mechanisms. Additional elements are made from reliable, durable materials; the ease of use of the structures depends on their characteristics. Roller and ball guides, metabox, load should work silently and smoothly. Many European brands produce components for furniture. The leading position is occupied by the German company Kesseböhmer.
- Support service. The stability of a retractable table in the kitchen will depend on the design features. Models with legs are considered the most practical and durable. They are functional and can withstand heavy loads.
Roll-out ceilings perform an excellent decorative function. The tabletops are hidden in bar counters, decorated with paintings and carvings. With such models, the kitchen looks interesting and fresh.
A kitchen set with a retractable worktop is a practical and functional option. Additional tabletops are easy to use and can serve as a miniature table for a couple. Stylish models will not only save space, but also make the interior brighter and more interesting.
Step-by-step production of a table from epoxy resin, possibility of furnishing
Cost of retractable tables
The price of sliding tables depends on the material of manufacture, fittings and other factors:
- A retractable tabletop, used as an additional workplace, can withstand up to 20 kg, and will cost about 16,000 rubles.
- A retractable tabletop made of metal or wood that can withstand about 100 kg will cost approximately 20-25,000 rubles.
For the bedroom
A stylish and comfortable bed with a pull-out table will fit perfectly into the bedroom interior and will allow you to arrange a cozy boudoir for its intended purpose.
Additional pull-out shelves can be built into bedside tables and beams, making it easier to take care of yourself, remove and apply cosmetics.
