Building block sofabed  

I actually once had one of these in blue corduroy..in college in about 1980 or so. It was kinda neat but not in the least bit comfortable. You sunk in gradually....

had to be American I always thought.

I remember when that kind of foam block furniture came on the scene. In theory it worked but in reality not so much. The foam compresses more easily at the edge so you end up feeling like you're sliding off when you sit on it. Conventional sofas have a firm edge under the padding in front. Seating and mattresses with innersprings have what's called an edge spring to provide more support.

My kids would have LOVED to have that set when they were little, though. Great fort-building possibilities!

"When you grow up, your heart dies."

That's what happened to Debbie Reynolds.

true,

Aunt Mark

I don't know who designed this piece or if it is an actual period sofa from the 1960s but it will be interesting to learn some of its design history. The novelty(?) could work if it fits within the context of what you have & how you live. I like the simple concept that it starts as a monolithic rectangular block, take the 2 cubes out & you have a 2 seater & 2 stools & when spread out side by side turns into a bed(s).

The several types of foam developed during that period was a defining material of Pop furniture of the 1960s. Some of the 1960s Pop design icons that used foam include Gaetano Pesce's Up series, Roberto Sebastian Matta's jigsaw puzzle of foam that disassemble into a living room suite sold by Knoll in the USA & what used to be inexpensive & meant to be disposable (but not anymore) Throwaway boxy blocks of foam seating series by Willie Landel & Archizoom's Superonda.

Design should be fun & playful but with rigor.