What types of sofas are there and their classification by type
Content:
The sofa is the king of the interior, a piece of furniture that takes pride of place in the house. Choosing a sofa is not an easy task, because this product experiences regular heavy loads. Fortunately, the range of sofas today is large: there are standard and corner models on sale, furniture with various transformation mechanisms (Eurobook, accordion), compact couches ideal for studio apartments, luxurious island sofas that are not used to modestly huddling in walls To buy a truly high-quality item that will serve without fail and delight its owners, you should familiarize yourself with the classification and features of choosing sofas.
Classification of sofas
The classification of classic and designer sofas depends on many factors: shape, functional features, size and number of beds, upholstery material, purpose. Here are the types they are divided into according to each criterion.
Shape and design features of the sofa
The shape and design of the sofa are especially important for small rooms - if the choice is made well, there will be enough space in the room to accommodate other interior elements. Depending on this factor, the following types of sofas are distinguished:
- Corner. This is an excellent option for filling unused corner niches, as well as zoning space. The corner shape is optimal for kitchens and fairly spacious apartments.
- Direct (stationary). Such sofas are often installed in small apartments and other small spaces. They can be placed either along the walls or in the center, and small models can be easily moved around the room. A straight sofa can be either folding or pull-out - in both cases it can easily be transformed into a full-fledged place to sleep.
- Island. Island-type sofas, which take up a lot of space, are not particularly popular. But if you need to arrange a large room, there is no better option. Island sofas look presentable, set the overall style of the interior and help bring to life the most daring design solutions. As a rule, manufacturers equip them with an elegant backrest and seats that can be raised in any order. But such models are not intended for regular sleep: they are usually purchased for relaxation during the day.
Purpose of the sofa
The next classification is the types of sofas depending on their purpose. The purpose of using the product affects both the choice of coating and the cost of upholstered furniture. For example, for a kitchen or hallway, a small model with practical cladding and inexpensive price will be enough. For the bedroom, furniture with an independent spring unit, covered with natural or mixed fabric, is suitable; for the living room - a product with a soft back and wide comfortable seats. Practical models covered with natural or artificial leather are bought for offices.
Sofa frame
The frame is the basis on which the strength and stability of the entire structure depends. For the manufacture of the frame the following can be used:
- Metal. Metal frames are characterized by durability, ease of repair, and the ability to produce products of non-standard shapes.
- Chipboard is an inexpensive, drying-resistant material that is not afraid of moisture. The main disadvantage is the relatively short service life and low environmental friendliness.
- Wood. Wooden frames are of good quality, environmentally friendly, and have a long service life. It is better to give preference to hardwood: beech, oak, birch. Coniferous wood is quite fragile, so it is rarely used as a frame.
Fiberboard frames are the best choice. Such products are not inferior to wood in terms of environmental safety, but are much cheaper.
Sofa upholstery
The upholstery is not a decisive factor when purchasing a sofa, because if necessary, it can be changed. And yet, it is not advisable to skimp too much on the quality of upholstery: the product should look attractive, and the right material should be able to withstand with dignity all the hardships of sofa life: the pranks of children, the claws of pets, accidentally spilled tea.
Sofa upholstery is divided into several types: leather (natural and eco-leather) or fabrics (artificial and natural). Sofas upholstered in flock, velor, cotton, and jacquard are ideal for bedrooms and children's rooms. The tapestry also looks gorgeous, but it is not recommended for intensive use. It is worth buying a sofa for the kitchen that is easy to clean (for example, covered with high-quality eco-leather). But it’s better to avoid the cheapest artificial leather: in a year or two it will crack and the furniture will look terrible.
Sofa filler
One of the important characteristics that influences the quality, presentability and service life of a sofa is the filling. Based on this feature, there are two main groups of sofas:
- Models with springs. Metal elements can be combined into blocks or be independent - in both cases, the furniture retains its shape well, which means it is quite suitable for a relaxing sleep.
- Products with soft padding. Such padding can be PPU (polyurethane foam), synthetic winterizer, foam rubber, holofiber, latex. Each option has its advantages. Thus, latex padding easily adapts to the contours of the body and returns to its original position, is hypoallergenic, and quite environmentally friendly. It is no coincidence that latex is often used in the manufacture of luxury and orthopedic sofas. Furniture with a “filling” made of polyurethane foam is affordable, breathable, hygienic, able to conserve heat and relieve tension from muscles and joints. Synthetic winterizer is usually used for stuffing the back walls - as a result, the structure acquires a pleasant softness.
Types of sofas depending on the transforming mechanism
The folding mechanism is an important point that determines the ease of use of the sofa. Below we describe universal transformation mechanisms suitable for both night sleep and rest during the day.
Book
The time-tested “book” sofas that stood in most Soviet apartments have not lost their popularity today. The principle of their operation is simple: the seat is raised up until it clicks, after which the back reclines and the sofa becomes a full-fledged sleeping bed. When unfolding, it is not necessary to move the furniture away from the wall, but you cannot do without free space between the wall and the back. The advantages of the model are ease of transformation, a solid margin of safety and the presence of a linen niche under the sofa.
Eurobook
Eurobook is a roll-out sofa with a mechanism that functions as follows. The seat rolls forward on retractable casters, after which the backrest moves to a horizontal position. The sofa cushions are placed in the resulting niche and create a perfectly flat surface. Since the folding mechanism is simple, it rarely breaks, and such sofas do not need to be moved away from the wall. The disadvantage is that the seats are quite large and wide: children and people of small stature may not be very comfortable sitting, leaning on the back.
Folding bed
Folding sofas are divided into several types:
- French – “guest” type sliding sofa. To transform such sofas, it is necessary to remove the armrests and removable modules, and then the seat is extended and raised upward. You can sleep on a French folding bed, but it is mainly intended for relaxing during the day.
- Italian - transformation occurs not by raising the cross beam, but by extending the back surface of the sofa. Then the transforming mechanism comes into operation, and the berth is placed on strong support legs.
- The American sofa is an analogue of the French sofa, but the mechanism of such sofas is not three-fold, but two-fold. The sofa sections are pulled out one at a time and placed on particularly strong supports. Due to the large thickness of the mattress, the American folding bed can be recommended for regular use.
Sofas “for every day” usually cost more than guest options. But they are able to withstand increased loads (up to 200 kg), and their surface does not sag.
Click-clack
A sofa equipped with a click-clack mechanism is an improved version of a book sofa with a similar operating principle. To transform, just lift the sofa seat and press until you hear a click. However, the design features make it possible to install the backrest in three positions: reclining, lying and sitting. The “click-clack” sofa does not require much space even when completely disassembled, so it will be a good choice for a small apartment.
Accordion
Accordion sofas are deservedly considered sales leaders. According to the transformative principle, they are similar to the work of a musical instrument: the sofa seems to stretch in both directions. Such sofas are compact when folded, able to withstand heavy weight, and in their rear part, as a rule, linen cabinets are equipped. Breakdowns can be easily fixed by replacing damaged parts, but there is a drawback: roller wheels can leave marks on the floor covering.
Dolphin
The transforming mechanism “dolphin”, also called “Venice”, is mainly used in corner sofas. In the photo you can see that dolphin-type sofas can be disassembled quite simply: you need to pull a special strap, pull out an additional section from under the seat and lift it using a microlift. It is easy to unfold such a sofa, but there is a drawback - the height of individual modules may differ.
What to consider when choosing a sofa: useful tips
Given the above, when choosing a sofa, it is recommended to pay attention to the following points:
- Sofa frame material. If intense loads are expected, it is better to give preference to a sofa with a metal or wooden frame that will not wear out.
- Seat height, as well as backrest. If you are buying a sofa for the hallway, you can choose a sofa with a low back or without it. Low-slung sofas are often purchased for living rooms and bedrooms. In cases where the owners only plan to sit on the sofa (for example, in the kitchen), the seat should be quite high, like a regular chair or slightly higher.
- Filler. For sleeping at night, a sofa with a block of springs is suitable; for relaxing during the day or receiving guests, a product with a soft synthetic filling is suitable.
- Transforming mechanism. If unfolding the sofa does not take much time and does not require much physical effort, this is what you need.
- Functionality. When purchasing, you should consider the presence of additional options: a built-in bar or tabletop, removable armrests, cute pillows that can be included. Although all these options are reflected in the price of the sofa, the owners and guests will be as comfortable as possible.
- Nice design. The sofa not only performs a functional load - it sets the tone in the room, creates comfort and a warm homely atmosphere. Therefore, of course, the sofa should be pleasant to the touch, pleasing to the eye and decorate the interior.
The Garda Decor store offers a large selection of exclusive designer sofas for every taste and for rooms of any purpose. Beautiful and comfortable folding sofas, multifunctional modular furniture, stylish and compact sofa couches will be a profitable and long-term investment in the furnishings of an apartment or home.Buy a designer sofa< /a> can be picked up or delivered, and the company guarantees the highest quality.
- Bedroom design - fashion trends and interior design tips
- Bed linen sizes - how to choose the perfect set for a comfortable sleep
- How to choose the right pillow for an ideal and restful sleep
- How to choose a comfortable and good chair
- Types of chairs: what are they according to purpose and design
- Protecting furniture from pets - useful tips
- Sofa mechanisms: a variety of transformation options, advantages and features of each type
- How to arrange furniture in the living room: useful tips and design ideas