If you live in a small space, multi-purpose furniture can be a big help. Pieces that serve more than one function can save space and allow you to mix things up without having to change out your furniture. For some of our favorite double-duty pieces, click through the links below...
FIRST ROW
• 1 George Nelson's Platform Bench doubles as a coffee table.
• 2 Philippe Starck's Prince Aha Stool also works as a side table and storage space.
• 3 Anna Castelli Ferrieri's Componibili doubles as a side table or stackable storage.
• 4 The Case Study Sofa transforms into a bed by removing the cushions.
• 5 Ceramic garden stools are perennial indoor/outdoor pieces.
SECOND ROW
• 6 Hans Hopfer's Mah Jong Sofa can be configured as chairs or a sectional.
• 7 Shaker Peg Trim doubles as an architectural detail and storage space.
• 8 IKEA's Grundtal is a contemporary classic that works in bathrooms or kitchens.
• 9 Banquettes are a time-honored approach to seating and storage.
• 10 Train racks provide shelving and hooks for the bathroom, bedroom, or kitchen.
Add your recommendations for double-duty classics in the comments.
Top Photo: Michael and Mindy's Sunny Chicago Loft
100 DIY Ideas for the 3-Day Weekend
Danielle's Charming, Classic Walk-Up
Good Food to Share 
The Big Book of Small, Cool Spaces 
Apartment Therapy Presents 
The Eight-Step Home Cure 
White Enamel Flatwa...
On Saying No to Paleo: Why Eating Isn't One Size Fits All
Perfect Summer Cocktail Recipe: Honey Bourbon Lemonade
I don't know that I'd call any of these things "classics." More like, "advertising" or "PR."
love everything on this list!
http://pearlsandgreentea.blogspot.com/
an armless, backless bench doubling as a coffee table isn't really anything new.
The Shakers would be rolling in their graves to have their extremely functional pegs be reduced to architectural detail!
Not a great list, but whatever.
I love the pocket kitchen in the first pic.
I have to say I'm a bit disappointed with this 'list'... while I love the storage containers, I am not sure the others fall under 'dual duty for small spaces'.
This was not up to the usual Apartment Therapy standards.
I'm kind of dissapointed also.
The garden stool, banquette and train rack ideas are the only items on your list that feel like they could be timeless and useable for any decor (all three could come in many different styles and shapes) otherwise this list feels dated and useless. Maybe nextime use less product plugging.
Ya.....have to agree with most of the other posters. Not too impressed, how about some "affordable" double duty items for people on a "real" budget.
Some of the spaces used as examples are mansion...
mansions*
*Try a multi-purpose daybed or futon couch.
*Store wardrobe in pull-out boxes/baskets under an elevated bed.
*Cover the underbed storage area with a bedskirt.
Rather than tables and desks, use your lap.