Clever Convertibles

Author: Linda J. Barkman

Issue: July, 2010, Page 34

Sometimes what you see is not all you get. Take these multi-tasking furnishings, for example. Each leads a double life that expands its function and adds to its appeal

Made of hand-carved red cedar, this handsome rec-tangular flip-top console can be used as a desk and also converts to a 47"-square table.

Take your pick: With both arms extended, this rolled-arm Louis XVI piece functions as a daybed; with both arms up, it’s a luxurious settee; put just one arm down, and it becomes a chaise.

Martin Ballendat designed Alterno for Dauphin. The versatile piece switches from chair to desk when its arms are employed as work surfaces. It has a plywood frame and a polished-steel base.

With its leaves up, the Harvest table by Mariette Himes Gomez for Hickory Chair functions beautifully as an oval dining table. Drop one leaf and it turns into a desk; with both leaves down it can be used as a narrow console or sofa table.

Hickory White puts a new spin on the traditional nesting table concept with this nifty Cocktail Nest of Tables, from its Skyloft Collection. Shown here in a dark Walnut finish, the trio of tables can be grouped or used separately.

Roland Meyer-Brühl designed RORO for Bruehl. The flexible piece opens with elemental ease for use as a chair and lounger, loveseat, banquette or bed.

Whether used for sleeping or sitting, the Supermax Deluxe Excess sofa bed and ottoman, designed by Per Weiss, showcase comfort and style.

Universal Furniture encourages creativity with its Better Homes and Gardens Present Tense Lift Top Cocktail Table. When extended, it can fill in as an extra spot for dining, or serve as a work center, perfect for laptops.

Made by Cellini, the 28"-square Chameleon Ottoman converts to a single bed in five steps. It comes with a removable ottoman cover (top left), available in a variety of fabrics.

This primary 72"-long chrome and glass dining table becomes a serving/buffet table with the addition of two smaller pieces. The larger table also can be used as a desk; and the smaller pieces can be called to action individually.

Designed as a wall mirror with solid wood frame, Eurotrend Furniture’s space-conscious Tip Over converts to a dining table by pulling out the legs, locking them in place and turning the piece over. The mirror remains hidden under the tabletop to protect it from scratching.

Inova’s free-standing TableBed has a spring mechanism that allows its easy transformation from a dining or work table to a bed, complete with headboard and display space.