The Rise of Multi-Functional Furniture: Versatile Luxury for Summer Living
- Anzah Nadeem
- May 22
- 5 min read
Storage and floor space are often at a premium in small homes. That’s especially frustrating in the summer season when the temperatures go higher and all you want is an airy space. BUT, even the tiniest apartments can feel roomy with space-saving furniture!
That said, many furniture designers offer solutions with items that will transform into something else, or fold up when not in use. Whether you have a small space that could use some customization or are thinking about downsized living, multi-functional furniture has your back! Keep reading to learn all about pieces that small small living feel larger than life.
What is Multi-Functional Furniture?
Multi-functional furniture is a piece of furniture that has more than one purpose. It will typically convert from one component to another, which reduces the number of furniture pieces in a particular space. By doing so, the piece gives you more floor space (and often more storage).
Multi-functional furniture is essentially furniture that can adapt to different needs or activities within a home. Examples include a coffee table with storage, a desk that converts to a bed, or a sofa bed.
Let’s talk about some of the best multi-functional furniture pieces that can transform living this summer season!
Best Multi-Functional Furniture Pieces
HOMREST Folding Out Chair Bed
Price: $100
Shop: Homrest
If your space is so small that you need help deciding whether to go for a seating space or a bed, look at Homrest’s convertible collection. This can be your go-to for transforming a seat into a bed!
Hidden away in a cute little one-seater, this portable couch bed disappears seamlessly. When you open it up, you get a bed that sleeps one—with two pillows. You can use this for extra sleeping space when you have guests over or for ‘Netflix and chill’ during the day. This piece is available in 5 different colors (and avocado is great if you’re hoping to create a focal point!).
Modern White Power Lift Height Multi-Functional Coffee Table
Price: $580
Shop: Homary
Things can get cluttered in the living room—especially the flat surfaces, which fill up with remote controls, newspapers, etc. A multi-functional console can help here. Lift the top, and you’ll have room to store all those knick-knacks. There are also two drawers.
We especially recommend this piece for small apartments where you wouldn’t have a designated dining space. It extends into a large dining table, add on some chairs, and there you have your own little dinner spot. Plus, there’s a USB charging function. That’s quite some functionality in one piece!
5-Tier Bookshelf (as a Room Divider)
Price: $186
Shop: Tribe Signs
If you have an open floor plan and want it to keep feeling open and airy throughout summer, you might want to skip bulky room dividers. Instead, go for a bookshelf with a sleek build, add on your favorite decor accessories to keep it stylish, and let it subtly divide two spaces (while offering function!).
You could place a bookcase near a corner to create a study nook, which will work as a home office or a place for teens to study. Alternatively, a bookshelf can carve out an entrance or hallway, especially applicable if your front door opens straight into your living area.
Modern Multi-Functional Narrow Side Table
Price: $440
Shop: Homary
What about homes that have no space for a big bookshelf? Find your spot to store books in this narrow side table. There are two shelves for the books and two drawers to store away items you want to keep hidden.
The multi-functionality packed in this piece is great for leisure. There’s an external music player so you can enjoy your favorite beats as well as a USB port to keep your gadget charged. This side table is so narrow, it will fit into any compact space—even the smallest of corners in apartment living.
Boho Wicker Outdoor Patio Sectional Sofa Set
Price: $330
Shop: Yita Home
A versatile set for outdoor summer living, this boho-style sectional can serve more purposes than one. It can let 3 people comfortably lounge in the L-shape configuration seen above. Or you can break into two: a loveseat and a daybed, allowing you to sit as well as take a nap. It’s relatively lightweight, so shifting the configuration shouldn’t be tough.
Plus, the set is outdoor-friendly (it is made from wicker) and won’t be a hassle to maintain. The brand says it’s great for indoor use, too!
Japandi Extendable Dining Table
Price: $2,050
Shop: Homary
As the days get warmer in summer, we’ll also be hosting more. That’s when a versatile dining table comes in handy. You can use the piece in retracted days when you’re enjoying a simple meal at home (and thus save space). When you’re entertaining and hope to serve up some more dishes, the extended version will give you plenty of tabletop space.
The table uses premium MDF for the top, which is a durable and eco-friendly engineered wood. So, no compromise on quality here!
Height Adjustable Desk
Price: $120
Shop: Tribe Signs
If you’re planning to work from home this summer, you’ll love this height adjustable desk. With its wheels, you can roll it in front of your sofa or take it to your patio. So you can essentially make your own workstation wherever you wish. When you’re not working, you can also place it next to the wall and allow it to double as a sideboard. Be sure to top it with your favorite decorative items. Other uses for this piece include a TV tray or mobile coffee table.
You can find this piece in three different finishes. The height is adaptable, so you can keep your neck comfortable as you work. Plus, there’s a large drawer and open storage shelf to keep all work essentials close to reach.
Final Words
By integrating multi-functional furniture, you can upgrade your living experience, especially during summer when the days get longer and you’ll be entertaining more often. We hope you find the pieces that suit your home best!
