Issues discussed in the material:
- What is modular furniture
- What are the advantages of modular furniture
- In which rooms and how can modular furniture be used?
- What styles of modular furniture are popular today?
- How to choose the right modular furniture
What is modular furniture and how does it differ from cabinet furniture? How to make the right choice and find the ideal option that suits you? In this article we will give answers to these and other questions. After all, today the phrase “modular furniture” is very popular, but not everyone understands what it means and what is the fundamental difference between modular and cabinet furniture. Let's figure it out.
What is modular furniture
A set that consists of several structurally repeating units is called modular furniture. The most striking examples of this type are a kitchen set, a dressing room, and a sofa with sections. If we are talking about cabinet models, then the structural unit here is a cabinet section (40, 60, 80 cm in width, height and depth may vary). A modular sectional sofa (related to upholstered furniture) consists of straight and corner connecting blocks of different sizes.
Modular furniture was invented by the innovative French architect Le Corbusier. He saw his task as making the living space as functional as possible, while maintaining an aesthetic appearance.
Apartments designed by Corbusier had practically no wall partitions, so storage systems were given the function of zoning the room. All cabinets were equipped with different-sized cells and drawers designed for storing things. The main principle of this architectural approach is to fit standard solutions into a given space (for example, modular corner furniture).
Much that was the norm in the setting of Soviet apartments is now a thing of the past. Thanks to the advice of an interior designer, you can abandon the strict arrangement of elements (along the walls). By easily combining space and modules, you can thereby save on purchases and not lose on functional characteristics.
If the description of an interior project contains information about the use of modular furniture, this may mean, for example, that the designer used a custom collection rather than a basic one. As practice shows, the standard size range greatly limits the freedom to implement various ideas. But at your request, the required size can be made in production conditions. This often applies to kitchens. An important point: the price of modular kitchen furniture will increase and will be almost the same as that ordered according to individual measurements. Then why not choose a custom one right away?
This option is quite acceptable. You can custom-make the outer surface of the cabinet, but the internal dimensions of the sections are adjusted to standard parameters. This is because specialists have worked for many years to calculate such parameters that meet ergonomic requirements. In addition, manufacturers have already clearly established the production of internal storage sections (with standard characteristics). Therefore, if you want to have a closet not only with shelves, but also with cells, drawers with dividers, various types of hangers and carousels, the internal filling must be made according to generally accepted standard measurements.
You should focus on aesthetic qualities. Many people think that modular furniture does not have its own individuality, and all its elements are similar to one another.
Advantages
The following are the advantages of modular furniture:
- Availability. Since manufacturers do not need to develop a special project (send a specialist to take measurements, carry out calculations, prepare an exclusive technical specification and produce furniture according to individual parameters), this significantly reduces the cost of products.
- Attractiveness. All manufacturers follow design trends, so advanced ideas are embodied in the created pieces of furniture. As a result, the interior receives not only an original, but also a current addition.
- Variability. You can provide a huge number of rearrangement methods, creating new, unique furniture compositions.
- Complementarity. If the need arises (say, when remodeling or moving to a larger apartment, when children grow up), the modular system can be easily supplemented from the same collection without disturbing the previously created ensemble.
- Easy to assemble. By understanding what modular furniture is, it can be easily assembled without even resorting to professional services. Just look at the instructions and the picture to figure out what the result should be.
All this makes modular furniture indispensable if you need to quickly and affordably decorate your interior in any style. Size, configuration and other parameters do not matter - you can arrange the blocks in such a way as to achieve the desired effect.
Why exactly do they prefer modular furniture?
As a rule, what is new, modern and advanced is much better than what has been tested but is already outdated. But what is good about modular furniture, and what disadvantages does it have?
So, the advantages:
- The ability to select the most suitable modules from a variety of products offered by the manufacturer. For example, if you are the owner of an impressive home library, then you need to have several bookcases. Those who love perfect order cannot do without cabinets with retractable drawers.
- All design elements form an ideal unified style composition, combining favorably with each other. Thanks to their lightness, they can even be stacked on top of each other, if necessary, and can also be swapped at least several times a day.
- Due to the different width, height, and depth of the modules, you can play with the space and select the most suitable arrangement. This way the room will not look cluttered, and there will be more air in it.
- This is the best option for a studio apartment, where there is usually little space. It’s very easy to turn a bedside table into an element of modular furniture for the hallway. At the same time, a low TV stand will serve perfectly as a coffee table.
Modular furniture also has disadvantages, they are not related to design features:
- Due to the fact that this type of interior products is not yet very popular among buyers, its cost is slightly higher than that of classic cabinet furniture. However, it should be noted that in the case of modules, not one product is purchased, but several at once, endowed with multifunctionality.
- Modular structures almost always have forms that are far from classical. Therefore, if you are a follower of strict English aristocracy, make a choice in favor of the traditional furniture option.
- It is much easier to purchase a familiar ready-made furniture set, since before purchasing a modular design you need to think carefully about everything. But, if you don’t spare time and effort, the choice will definitely please you. In addition, you will be able to re-order modules later.
Flaws
Modular furniture has several disadvantages:
- Limited dimensions. The blocks usually come in standard sizes. Sometimes this makes it difficult to accurately select elements to fill the allocated space.
- Relative simplicity of forms. Most often, the models do not shine with designer delights. Manufacturers mainly create furniture that is suitable for interior design in Art Deco, classic or modern style.
These disadvantages of modular furniture are considered insignificant, especially against the background of its advantages. Therefore, it is still in demand, and manufacturers are constantly conducting experiments to diversify the range and satisfy the needs of the maximum range of customers.
Source: mterminal1.ru
In which rooms and how can modular furniture be used?
Such furniture is essentially a construction kit in which individual parts are assembled and adjusted to each specific interior. Modular kitchen furniture usually consists of 30 or more modules of different shapes with different contents. A wide variety of wall cabinets with one or two doors, display cabinets, different-sized corner sections - these elements are used to assemble a set that looks like a solid composition.
Modular furniture is in demand in the bedroom, in the hallway, in the living room, and in the nursery. Individual series are produced for each room, thanks to which the living space is used more efficiently.
Modular bedroom furniture consists of various models of beds, wardrobes, chests of drawers, dressing tables. If necessary, it is possible to include additional elements from a similar series (for example, a coffee table) into the standard set. The bedroom looks much more harmonious if it is made in the same style using the same type of decor (for example, glass inserts).
To decide on a color, you need to go to the manufacturer’s website and look at various color palette options in the finished interior setting.
What is modular hallway furniture? This is the optimal solution for both small and large apartments. If the area is small, you need to choose a combined hallway from one module, including a panel with hooks, a bedside table for storing shoes and a closet. For those who like to hide everything unnecessary, a wardrobe is ideal.
When moving to a more spacious apartment, there is always the opportunity to supplement and combine the existing set with sections of a similar series.
Children's modular furniture allows you to combine several zones in the room and thus make the most efficient use of free space. A sleeping area and a relaxation area can be located upstairs (loft bed). In the lower part there can be a comfortable and cozy workspace (desk and chair). In case of a new addition to the family, the set is simply complemented by another bed from the same collection and combined with the other modules in a new way.
Modular living room furniture should be united by common stylistic features. Modules can be placed in any order. To learn more about the most convenient and aesthetically attractive compositional arrangement of sections in a room, look at the online version of the 3D furniture arrangement program.
The catalogs on manufacturers' websites present a variety of modules from which unified systems are constructed and supplemented with new ones. Today, all the necessary assortment can be purchased in the online store without leaving home.
Due to its compactness and functionality, modular furniture is very relevant for a one-room apartment, where you can experimentally combine modules from two series (for example, a living room and a children's room).
Module classification
The set is assembled from several different items. Standard variation:
- pencil cases;
- lower and wall cabinets (single and double doors);
- chests of drawers;
- corner cabinets;
- hanging shelves;
- bedside tables;
- consoles, showcases, other elements.
The assembled systems turn out to be multifunctional, since priority is given to only those modules that will help create comfort and coziness in the room. The correct layout will save space, and the capacity of the entire structure will not be reduced.
The most important advantage is that this set of furniture is not similar to traditional options. The interior can be transformed by completing cabinets for clothes, bed linen, books, dishes with a pencil case, chest of drawers and nightstands, wall shelves and corner elements. Even in a small room, such a set will not clutter up the space.
By purpose
According to this criterion, modular furniture is divided into the following categories:
- for public spaces;
- office;
- home;
- for children's;
- for the hallway;
- special - for an office, library, garden.
Products for public spaces are designed taking into account the specifics of the core activities of specific enterprises and institutions. This is a huge variety of cabinet furniture items, which can be:
- medical;
- laboratory;
- for preschool and educational institutions;
- for trade, catering, consumer services, hotels;
- for sports schools and organizations;
- administrative institutions and so on.
Office cabinet furniture is designed for managers, staff (employees), reception, conference rooms, lounges, and visitors. Sets of several items (cabinets, tables, chairs, bedside tables, wall shelves) are designed to improve the efficiency of the work process, as well as create coziness in the room.
Modular systems are the best option for offices, as their design can easily be matched to any interior style.
Home modular furniture is in turn divided into types:
- For living rooms. Modular furniture in a modern style is usually selected here. Housing systems are produced in a wide variety of configurations. If necessary, you can change the interior design in a matter of minutes: parts can be easily and quickly rearranged. An integral element of the living room is modular furniture for a flat-screen TV.
- For kitchens. Composition: wall and floor cabinets, including a drying rack, bedside tables, sinks, pencil cases, shelves. The designer set is selected according to the parameters of the room. The most suitable items are selected from the available items, which makes the kitchen as functional as possible. The systems are practical, beneficial for large and small rooms. White display cabinets of modular furniture look impressive and increase the space.
- For bedrooms. Ingredients: a wardrobe with one, two, three or four doors, a chest of drawers, bedside tables/TV tables, a coffee or dressing table, a bed (one-and-a-half or double), poufs, banquettes. Drawers of different capacities allow you to store bedding and linen.
What kind of furniture is chosen for libraries, the basic requirements for it.
Items for the children's room must be safe, made from environmentally friendly materials. The set must be selected depending on the child’s character and hobbies. Active children need more space, which can only be created with compact modules. It is easy to group individual elements in one place, thus freeing up most of the room. Numerous drawers of different sizes located in the wall or bed can be used to store linen or toys, so there is no need to purchase additional chests of drawers.
The main requirement for modular teenage furniture is the correct configuration. The sets consist of a bed, bedside tables, table, pencil case, wardrobe, bookcase, and wall shelves. An ergonomic computer desk is a must. Modular furniture for a teenager should be stylish and as functional as possible.
Complete sets for the hallway are equipped with single- or double-door wardrobes for seasonal clothing, cabinets, a chest of drawers, open hangers with and without mirrors, and shelves. Furniture attributes are designed to store numerous things (handbag, umbrella, flashlight, gloves, key holder) that may be needed when leaving home. Thanks to them, living rooms are unloaded: frequently used household items, jewelry, and accessories are at hand.
Compact modular furniture with a corner cabinet is most often installed in a small hallway. This option saves space and creates comfort in it. Despite their modest size, the systems, consisting of modules with drawers and shelves, can accommodate a fairly large amount of clothing and shoes (home, outdoor). Be sure to provide a spacious shelf (in the closet or a separate wall shelf) for hats.
A separate category is occupied by modular furniture for offices and libraries. The owners are meticulous about the arrangement of such premises. Most of the cabinet system is occupied by shelves, open or internal, closed with glass doors. Sturdy shelving houses numerous books and albums.
An important component of modular home office furniture is a bulky cabinet table with drawers and a lock.
All-weather modular garden furniture is equipped with a table, armchairs, sofa, poufs, chaise lounges. Outdoor kits are divided into light and heavy. The first ones are mobile, the second ones may not be cleaned all year round. They are placed on terraces, in gazebos, and also in the open air on a equipped area. Furniture is designed for a certain number of people, so the parameters and number of elements are different. The chairs connected to each other form a comfortable bench or a spacious sofa.
Advantages and disadvantages of parametric furniture, unusual models
Living room
Hallway
Kitchen
Children's
Bedroom
Cabinet
By design
Sets of modules are divided into 2 types. The first group is sectional, here fasteners are used to connect furniture. Adjacent sections - cabinets, pencil cases, cabinets, shelves, racks, headboard, bed frame - are securely tightened together with a screw and a nut with an external thread. The dimensions of the fasteners depend on the thickness of the parts being connected. Without an intersection screed, the system will not have an attractive appearance, and the stability of the assembled structure will decrease. Meanwhile, special steel fasteners for modular furniture allow for repeated assembly and disassembly of sets.
The second group of modules is with loose elements. These are large individual furniture elements that have good stability even without additional fixation. Larger modules take less time to assemble. Each element is moved closely to the neighboring one, on the side with minimal clearance. This design is installed on a perfectly flat floor. Elements can be placed independently of each other, but at the same time create a coherent composition.
Sectional
With loose elements
Based on materials
Modular housing systems are manufactured from different materials:
- MDF - boards made from fine wood fraction are decorated with thick veneer for different types of wood, colored acrylic, liquid PVC. Aesthetic material allows you to create furniture in any style. But the cost of the kits is quite high.
- Chipboard - chipboards are covered with decorative film and protective varnish. The material is used as inserts for frame facades. Film with photo printing adds individuality; this design is suitable for bedrooms, children's rooms, and kitchens. It is inexpensive, but not entirely safe for health - it can release harmful substances.
- Plastic is used to create lightweight furniture. Plastic products for the garden are popular. Such sets are cheap, but short-lived.
Solid wood is one of the most durable, aesthetic, and durable materials. Its disadvantages are heavy weight and high cost. A modular set made of wood is an elite set that is suitable for the living room, bedroom, hallway, and kitchen.
MDF
Chipboard
Plastic
Array
The most popular styles of modular furniture
All components of the set are usually designed in the same style. It should be noted that the kits differ not in design features, but in content (elements).
Modular furniture is made in certain styles:
- classical,
- high tech,
- modern,
- Japanese,
- Provence,
- Art Deco,
- minimalism,
- Scandinavian, etc.
Most of us have an idea of classic style. It is always popular and never becomes outdated. Only objects can age. This style is characterized by walls, cabinets, chests of drawers, various display cases for dishes, and dining groups. The classic is a sofa and two armchairs; this is the kind of upholstered furniture that was present in any living room before, and it is still found today.
Art Nouveau style combines classic furniture elements with functionality. A distinctive stylistic feature is transformation. To change the atmosphere, folding tables, accordion sofas, and folding chairs are used. The Art Nouveau style is characterized by luxurious and lush decoration. The furniture is decorated with leather inserts, paintings, and gilded fabrics.
Minimalism is expressed in the presence of a minimum of elements and a maximum of space. Laconic furniture does not overload the interior, giving the room lightness and airiness. A room decorated in this style is relaxing and calming.
The homeland of Provence is rural France with its calm and regularity. If you adhere to this style, then you should not put modern household appliances and the benefits of civilization on public display. There are many pleasant little things in the interior, the furniture is wooden, the fabrics are decorated with floral prints.
Design Variations
Modular kits are made mainly in modern styles, rarely in classic ones. The best options:
- Modern. Original design, close to nature. The facades are decorated with prints and patterns. The theme is related to flora and fauna, which creates a special mood in the room.
- High tech. These are built-in sliding wardrobes, glossy surfaces, shades of metal, silver. The furniture is as functional and practical as possible.
- Minimalism. The style is simple and meaningful. Even in a small room there is still free space. Much attention is paid to visual perception - right angles, complete absence of decor or its minimal amount.
Types of transformable furniture, its purpose and features
Provence modular furniture is refined and elegant, with special design notes. Design with a moderate amount of floral fragments. This modular furniture is suitable for a teenager's room, living room, kitchen and bedroom, and is distinguished by delicate, light colors and the use of natural materials.
Modular furniture in a classic style is made from solid wood. All elements look rich and chic. True, such products are expensive. It is advisable to install them in spacious rooms with high ceilings.
Modern
High tech
Minimalism
Provence
Classic
What materials are modular furniture made from?
Inexpensive modular furniture is usually made from chipboard with a laminate or veneer finish. For glossy or matte facades, MDF or chipboard is mainly used (plastic or sheet material is less common).
Natural wood or solid wood is also popular among buyers. The price for such furniture is significantly higher than for products made from chipboard (MDF), but the quality and aesthetic characteristics justify it.
Materials for the manufacture of headsets must meet sanitary and hygienic requirements, which allows them to be used in residential premises.
Thanks to the decor, the products acquire an elegant, modern look. Their cost depends on what material the base of the structure is made of.
What to look for when choosing modular furniture
Modular furniture is selected based primarily on the individual preferences of the buyer. However, experts advise paying attention to the following points:
- Room layout
. Furniture should take up little space and be located so that nothing interferes with the movement of people. The design must be adapted to the size of the room. - The color scheme
significantly influences the style of the space as a whole. It is better to opt for products that combine 1 or 2 main shades. If there are more colors, this will lead to contrast, causing discomfort in a person. - Arrangement methods
. Please note that modular furniture can be freely rearranged. When choosing models, remember this possibility, and then you will be able to add new features and atmosphere to your interior. If your goal is exclusive design, then trust the specialists when choosing furniture.
Cabinet furniture
Similar to upholstered furniture, modular furniture for the living room can also be constantly changing. The customer himself decides what his cabinet or wall will be like, height, size, number of sections. Modules of the required width, depth, height are selected and used for various purposes: for installing equipment, storing clothes or linen, arranging a work area. You can arrange the modules in any way you like. The general design style and one color scheme will create a single set from individual elements. Modular sets for living rooms can easily change their purpose by changing the options for the facade and filling (hangers, internal drawers, shelves).
The choice of equipment always remains with the buyer.
Modular furniture systems for living rooms can be minimalist or bear generalized features of the classical style (however, without complex decorative elements such as carving or painting).
