Revolutionizing Furniture Design: Innovations in Sliding Systems for Functionality and Aesthetics

FDT Bureau

Image credit: Sources Unlimited for Rimadesio

The latest innovations in furniture sliding systems are focused on improving functionality, aesthetics, and ease of use, while also incorporating new technologies and materials to create more sustainable and environmentally-friendly products. Amongst the latest innovations, soft-close and self-closing mechanisms have become increasingly popular in furniture sliding systems as they provide a more gentle and controlled closing action. These mechanisms help to prevent slamming and reduce wear and tear on the furniture. For instance, Blum's Clip top Blumotion hinges are soft-close hinges that are designed to open and close 200,000 times, ensuring a captivating quality of motion throughout the furniture's lifetime. Depending on the application, the 110° hinge allows for thicker doors of up to 24mm. When the door is open, the new pivoting point prevents it from colliding with the cabinet’s front edge. Similarly, Nair informs, “We have an upgraded Hi Slide Inline 80 – a sliding system that keeps shutter aligned when closed.  Hi Slide Walk-in Sliding System is suited for floor-to-ceiling application and is now available in Gold, Champagne and Rose Gold finishes.”

Image credit: Aristo

Concealed sliding systems, also known as invisible sliding systems, are designed to be hidden from view when the furniture is closed. These systems create a sleek and modern look and are often used in high-end furniture designs. Creating a streamlined and minimalist look, push-to-open mechanisms are particularly popular in contemporary furniture designs. It allows furniture drawers and cabinets to be opened with a gentle push, eliminating the need for handles or knobs. Similarly, Blum’s motion innovations allow one to implement handle-less lift systems, doors and pull-outs with various motion technologies. The furniture can be combined with Tip-On mechanical opening support system, Tip-On Blumotion combines the mechanical opening support system with tried and tested soft-close Blumotion, Servo-Drive, and the electric motion support system. This opens up an endless array of design possibilities for handle-less furniture in all living spaces, including kitchens.

Modular sliding systems allow for the easy customization and reconfiguration of furniture layouts. These systems consist of a series of individual modules that can be combined and reconfigured as needed to create different furniture configurations. Motorized sliding systems use electric motors to open and close furniture drawers and cabinets, providing a high level of convenience and ease of use. These systems are often used in high-end furniture designs and commercial settings. As the furniture industry continues to evolve, these innovations are likely to continue to drive growth and innovation in the sliding systems market.

Image credit: Sources Unlimited for Rimadesio

According to a report by Research and Markets, the Indian furniture market is expected to grow at a CAGR of around 11 per cent during the period 2021-2026, which will have a positive impact on the furniture sliding system market as well. Overall, the furniture sliding system market in India is expected to continue to grow over the next few years, driven by a combination of economic, social, and technological factors. As the market evolves, FDT believes that there will likely be an increasing focus on customization, sustainability and technological innovation, as manufacturers seek to meet the changing needs and preferences of Indian consumers.

This article is a part of our exclusive article ‘Hardworking Hardware’ which is originally published in Furniture Design & Technology (FDT Magazine) April 2023 print issue. If you want to read the full article, please subscribe Furniture Design & Technology Magazine here: 

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