Table games

They're like Transformers -- the expansive line of toy figures that can change into different configurations based on the user's desires. Except "they" are not toys. "They" are multiuse game tables crafted by Mikhail Darafeev Inc. that have found their way into Southern Nevada homes.

Available in myriad shapes and sizes and designed with entertainment in mind, the new line of Darafeev tables can transform a room's use by removing the smooth, wooden tabletop to reveal a second, hidden tabletop designed for card play, board games or billiards.

The furniture line is part of Darafeev's new "home-resort showroom" offerings, which were unveiled during the Las Vegas Market held at the World Market Center at the end of July. Since its beginnings as a chair manufacturer in 1959, the California-based company has expanded into game room furniture over the years, targeting those who like to entertain at home.

"What we're encouraging people to do is to take their home and their dining room area and create their own home resort," Walter Huhn, the company's director of sales and marketing, said.

Each table can be customized to the buyer's design style and game interest.

For example, a family of four might opt for the Riviera octagonal table with padded chairs on casters and place it in the family room, where the kids can spread out their homework, followed by family game night on a hidden, built-in Monopoly board.

Or, furniture shoppers may choose the 46-inch-by-60-inch rectangular Monaco for their dining room. After the dishes are cleared from the three-way table, choose a game: The reversible side of the tabletop promotes poker play with a premarked, green top and built-in game trays and cup holders, or the top may be removed to allow for bumper pool.

"With our multipurpose dining ensembles and tables, you can have a dining table and you can turn it over and play bridge or poker. With some of our tables, you can remove the top and it turns into a billiards table. One of our top tables is a Texas hold 'em table," Huhn said. "... With our tables, you can have fun at home and turn it into a resort without all of the expense of going out."

Coordinating bridge tables, pub-height game tables and standalone bars are also available. Complementing the table choice are multiple seating options that range from stationary high-back chairs to swivel chairs on casters and pub stools with kick plates.

All can be customized to suit buyers' tastes.

"At the World Market Center, we showcased the varied sizes of our items and new products. We offer round tables that measure from 36 inches to 60 inches. We offer different heights and styles of chairs -- you can pick the size and covering. ... We offer different styles of game chairs. Some have high backs, low backs, they can be customized," Huhn explained.

"We make your custom designs come true. There are 20 different styles, 200 different types of standard fabrics, almost 300 private label fabrics, 24 finishes, 20 different nails, four different kick plates, four different caster options -- it all comes down to the customer's choice."

Because of this range of options, Huhn explained that the price range for a game table set with chairs may cost anywhere from $4,500 to more than $15,000.

The product may be ordered from select billiard and furniture stores and viewed online. The Billiard Factory is Southern Nevada's largest retail outlet.

According to Jeff Hansen, owner of The Billiard Factory, Darafeev is among the three manufacturers of game tables sold through his stores and the most dominate because it offers the most finishing and customizing options.

"We display hundreds of different items of Darafeev items on the floor. Game table specific, we display seven or eight; mostly we showcase their chairs," Hansen said, adding that custom-ordered products typically arrive within a few weeks.

Hansen said gathering height, pub tables have been popular among buyers.

"The pub tables are revolving around the game table size. They are raised. (I think) gathering height tables are a new trend. It's not just a chrome barstool anymore. It is a leather ... it is much more classy than it used to be," Hansen said.

"They don't have to be used in game rooms. People are replacing their dining room table with a game room table with the flip top. It's a good gathering place for the family or the friends."

To view Darafeev tables, visit The Billiard Factory at 7520 W. Washington Ave. or 375 N. Stephanie St., or go to www.darafeev.com.