Is it worth choosing the Italian reclining system in leisure furniture?

When you’re furnishing an apartment and looking for a piece of furniture that is comfortable, functional, and stylish, you probably come across the increasingly recommended corner sofa with an Italian reclining system.

And rightly so, as it is one of the most thoughtfully designed solutions available on the market today. But is it really worth choosing? For whom is it a good option, and how does it work in practice? Let’s explain.

Is it worth choosing the Italian reclining system in leisure furniture?

What is the Italian reclining system?

Before we consider whether it’s worth it, let’s clarify the basics. The Italian reclining system, sometimes referred to as the Italian mechanism, is a way to transform a sofa, couch, or corner sofa into a full-sized bed—without the need to remove cushions or rearrange/move the furniture or its components.

The mechanism operates on the principle of “outward” unfolding. You simply pull the handle, and the built-in frame and mattress unfold in one smooth motion. Importantly, the sleeping surface is separate from the seating area, allowing all components to function independently and only during their intended use.

Italian System in LIBRO Leisure Furniture

As mentioned, the Italian system is a solution where the sleeping function is based on a separate, foldable frame with a mattress hidden inside the furniture. Unlike traditional mechanisms (like DL or Belgian), here you sleep on a full-sized mattress rather than on the seating area, which unfolds in one smooth motion. This is more comfortable, more hygienic, and—importantly—significantly reduces the strain on the furniture’s structure during everyday use, minimizing the formation of indentations on the seats.

In our models featuring this system, such as the Angel and Grace sofas, additional upholstery straps are used under the mattress to provide better support and elasticity. This directly translates to improved sleep comfort. Our upcoming new releases, the Elite sofa and the Emonda corner sofa, combine this mechanism with a compact design: with a sleeping width of 120 cm, the entire piece measures just 170 cm. This is great news for owners of small apartments, studio flats, or spaces where every centimeter counts.

When is it worth choosing a sofa or corner sofa with an Italian system?

Deciding to purchase a sofa with a sleeping function is not just about adding extra space for overnight guests. For many people, it serves as their everyday bed—and in such cases, more than just the ability to unfold matters. If you use the sleeping function regularly, an Italian system sofa or corner sofa is a solution that can genuinely enhance your quality of life.

The Italian system is particularly recommended for those living in studio apartments or limited spaces who don’t want to sacrifice sleeping comfort. It’s also a great option for renters.

A corner sofa with an Italian system answers the need to combine a large living area with a night sleeping function. Easily unfolded without rearranging furniture, it transforms into a full-sized bed at night and back into a stylish corner sofa or couch by morning. If comfort without compromise is important to you, this is definitely a worthwhile option. To complete the arrangement and create a cohesive relaxation area, consider adding a reclining armchair for a separate, individual space to unwind.

Corner Sofa with Sleeping Function – Can the Italian System Replace a Classic Bed?

This is one of the more common questions. Does a corner sofa with an Italian reclining system really work as an everyday bed? The answer is: yes, provided you choose a model with the right features.

Instead of sleeping on the seating area, as with many traditional sofa beds, here you benefit from a separate, hidden mattress. This results in significantly better body support and greater sleep comfort—without the morning back pain.

It’s important to pay attention to the quality of the mattress. In our furniture, there are two options available: classic foam and high-elastic HR foam. If the corner sofa is to serve as your main bed, it’s definitely worth opting for the version with HR foam. Combined with upholstery straps that stabilize the entire structure, you achieve comfort comparable to that of a traditional bed, all in an elegant, salon-style design.

Sofa with Italian System – Is it Suitable for Daily Use?

Yes, without reservations. Many of our customers who have purchased sofas with the Italian system report that they use the sleeping function daily. They are thrilled because unfolding and folding the sofa has become almost second nature to them. Lightweight, hassle-free, and reliable. After all, this is the toughest test for any mechanism.

Daily unfolding, folding, using it as a bed, and then reverting back to a sofa is a challenge. However, a well-designed Italian mechanism, especially with a mattress on straps and a metal frame, handles this with ease.

Thanks to the sleeping function hidden within the sofa, there’s no need to compromise. You can have a designer piece for your living room and a comfortable sleeping space all in one. This is the true strength of the Italian system.

Italian Reclining Mechanism – Aesthetic Loss? Is It Worth It?

For many people, a key concern is whether the reclining mechanism will dominate the look of the sofa. Here, the Italian system excels again. Because everything is completely hidden, the sofa or corner sofa looks light and modern. The mechanism operates “in the background,” without interfering with the aesthetic of the piece.

Is it worth it? Definitely yes. If you’re looking for a piece of furniture that provides comfort for daily sleep, a modern appearance, and solid craftsmanship, a sofa or corner sofa with the Italian system is a choice you won’t regret. Our models are thoughtfully designed solutions that work well in real life—perfect for small apartments, guest rooms, or spaces that need to “work” all day and night.