foldaway

Foldaway refers to objects designed to be folded into a more compact form for storage or transport. The term is used across furniture, equipment, and portable gear, emphasizing space efficiency in small living spaces, travel, and temporary setups.

Common foldaway implementations include foldaway beds, such as wall beds or Murphy beds, which tuck into a cabinet or wall; foldaway desks or tables with hinged or collapsing surfaces; folding chairs and tables; and portable or collapsible bicycles and strollers. Many kitchen and outdoor products are manufactured to fold flat for easy transport or storage, and tents, cookware, and shelter systems often use foldaway designs to minimize bulk.

The design of foldaway items relies on mechanisms such as hinges, bi-fold or tri-fold assemblies, sliding tracks, or accordion folds. Key considerations include deployed stability, ease of use, durability, weight, and the space required to fold and unfold safely.

Historically, foldaway furniture rose with urbanization and the need for adaptable living spaces. The Murphy bed, a wall bed introduced in the early 20th century, remains one of the best-known foldaway solutions, illustrating how beds can be integrated into compact housing. Modern variants continue to prioritize modularity and portability in homes, hotels, and travel gear.