Smart homes are on the rise, and so is the demand for smart integrations. Many modern homeowners now want smart furniture pieces that are both sleek and functional. Compared to traditional pieces, these items provide convenience and style in equal measure. Given the demand, building multi-functional pieces becomes a worthwhile task for architects and furniture makers. One way to achieve these qualities is through the various types of concealed hinges available in the market. These products are essential in creating furniture that is future-forward, discreet, and reliable.
Below, SOSS has shared an informative guide about smart furniture and how to integrate invisible hinges. Keep reading to learn more.
What Makes Furniture “Modern?”
When we think of smart or modern furniture, we picture touch screens and Wi-Fi connectivity. However, there are many qualities apart from this that make furniture modern. In a broader sense, we can define modern furniture as pieces that use technology to work or that are also multifunctional. In other words, they don’t just perform one singular task. Plus, there’s the matter of aesthetics. Modern furniture pieces are usually streamlined, sleek, and minimalist.
Streamlined Furniture
In the world of design, streamlined refers to clean lines and smooth surfaces. Past trends usually focused on the beauty of craftsmanship. As such, there were a lot of details that added to the visual noise. Modern furniture prefers a minimalist approach. Furniture becomes a part of the entire design and doesn’t stand out as a singular piece. Each piece should complement the architecture of the home. Instead of excessive décor, designers can focus on sharp geometric shapes, clean lines, and creating a sense of flow.
Facilitating Smart Device Use
Another marker of modern furniture is how it can facilitate access to smart devices. For instance, modern media consoles have hidden compartments for cables. Shelves have concealed drawers where you can store routers or smart hubs. An unassuming storage cabinet actually has a pop-up mechanism that reveals a smart TV. Overall, the goal is to keep modern innovations accessible but out of sight. This functionality helps maintain the clean look of contemporary interiors.
Multifunctional
Space is a luxury nowadays. As a result, homeowners want modern furniture that offers more than just its primary function to earn the square feet it occupies. This is why multi-functional furniture has become a hallmark of modern homes. Here are a few examples.
- Clocks and vents that double as safe boxes
- Shelves that transform into hidden doors
- Under stairs storage that utilizes unused space
- Pop-up TV stands that doubles as cabinets
- Sofas and ottomans that have secret compartments for living room items
Why Concealed Hinges Are Essential
Modern interior design has a focus on minimalism. The lines are clean and flowing with no interruptions or visible components. With this in mind, traditional butt hinges are not fit for the aesthetic — they have visible pins that disrupt lines and add to the visual noise. On the other hand, concealed hinges are completely invisible. Plus, these products come in an array of configurations which means contractors and designers can solve many storage and accessibility-related hurdles of modern furniture design with these components.
Durability
Invisible hinges offer exceptional durability, even with daily use. Thanks to the design and materials, the products withstand wear and tear, making concealed hinges a top choice for furniture with moving parts.
Complete Concealment
The hallmark of modern design is minimalism, and concealed hinges help achieve that. By hiding the hardware, the furniture appears more streamlined.
Smooth Operation
Traditional butt hinges have a tendency to sag under the weight of the door. As such, opening and closing the hidden compartments become a hard task. This issue lessens the functionality and accessibility of the furniture. In contrast, concealed hinges are sturdy enough to provide smooth operation for a long time. The fluid movements make it easier to open and close drawers, compartments, and other openings.
Using Concealed Hinges To Support Smart Furniture Designs
The flexibility and strength you get from many types of concealed hinges make these products advantageous for the following mechanisms.
- Pop-up Features: Invisible hinges are integral for furniture with pop-up mechanisms. These components hide the other parts completely, ensuring a sleek look when the furniture is not in use.
- Swinging Panels: Swinging panels are common in multifunctional furniture. By using concealed hinges, you can make these panels move more fluidly. This ease of use adds to the general convenience we associate with modern furniture.
- Hidden Compartments: Hidden storage is a major feature of smart furniture, providing secure spaces for valuables, technology, or even personal items. For example, a chair could have a cushion that swings out to reveal a hidden compartment you built using concealed hinges.
Wrapping Up: Smart Furniture and Invisible Hinges
Smart technology in homes is here to stay. Given this, architects and contractors must adopt designs that embrace this change. To help with the minimalist aesthetic in modern homes, many types of concealed hinges exist for your selection, offering durability, functionality, and aesthetics that no other type of hinge can replicate. Browse our inventory today and find the invisible hinges for your next project.
FAQs
What makes smart furniture different from regular furniture?
Smart furniture uses modern technologies to make it more functional. In other words, they can perform tasks that regular furniture won’t be able to do. You’ll find features like built-in charging hubs, pop-up displays, or hidden speakers. In some cases, smart furniture can connect to Wi-Fi networks for remote control or voice commands.
How can I integrate concealed hinges into modern furniture?
The first step is to determine what additional functionality you’ll integrate that warrants the need for invisible hinges. This could be pop-up mechanisms, hidden compartments, etc. Then, create a design that strategically places the hinges for maximum functionality.