Beds That Slide Into Tables

Most beds in residential spaces are set up permanently, occupying space whether they're in use or not. When space is at a premium, though, it may be necessary to have a bed that serves an additional purpose, such as transforming into a table for dining or working. Beds that slide into tables take many forms but they offer many of the same advantages. Does this Spark an idea?

Applications

Beds that slide into tables can be found in a number of places where space is limited. Travel trailers and RVs frequently have beds that slide open to create bench seats surrounding a central table. Others have beds that slide away from a wall and can be converted into a table with a flat surface in a matter of minutes. Other small living spaces such as cabins and energy-efficient micro-homes also gain usable space from having beds that slide into tables.

Practicality

A bed that slides into a table is a practical form of multiuse space in many situations. This is because the bed is necessary only at night, which is precisely when the table is least likely to be used. Likewise, having access to a table during the day is probably more important than having a bed set up. A bed that conceals a table when opened doesn't need to block access to exits or storage compartments, which a temporary bed in a hallway or other open space might.

Construction

Constructing a bed that slides into a table requires creativity and some construction skills. Depending on the design, the sliding mechanism may employ springs, casters or sliding rails similar to those used on dresser drawers. In other cases a bed that slides into a table can employ a wooden frame and metal hinges, allowing it to slide into an open position for use as table-side seating. Whatever the design, the bed should include strong metal fasteners that can support the weight of a sleeping person and handle the wear and tear of frequent conversion from a bed to a table and back again.

Considerations

A bed that receives frequent use will force you to slide it into its table position each day then back to its bed position at night. If you have space for a permanent bed, an additional bed that slides into a table will still be useful as a guest bed. As an alternative, you can use vertical space to create sleeping area. For example, a fold-down bunk suspended from the ceiling or a wall can make use of the space directly above a table without requiring you to go through the conversion process every time you need to use it.