Decorating the Nest: The Versatile Daybed

I'm in possession of the world's worst futon (no really, if you sat on it you'd agree) so a daybed seems like luxury in comparison. I think at first glance daybeds seem impractical for the normal home, but really their a genius compromise between a little couch, a reading nook, and a guest bed. As you my have realized, I'm not a massive fun of guest rooms that only get used a few times a year, yet require sacrificing a spare room. 


If you really want to make your life convenient, add a trundle and you can stash an extra little one down there over the holidays. I always thought of them as ultra expensive, but I actually found a handful on Craigslist all within $50-300 that were in good shape. A daybed would be worth considering in a spare bedroom or den once we have a permanent place. There's a lot more variety in daybeds than you first assume. And there are different styling options to keep from looking like you're sleeping in your living room. 

Land of Nod's Jenny Lind Daybed (w/ optional Trundle) has been on my radar for quite some time. I've read a lot of great reviews recently from moms who put them in the nursery. It maintains the ability for the nursery to function as a guest room, plus when you've got a restless sleeper, it's easier to camp out in there overnight. 

Source: Land of Nod

This is another Land of Nod daybed that has a sleeker profile. I really like the mix of pillows and sheets here that make it seem like a great lounging spot.

Source: Land of Nod

In terms of furniture with a smoother profile, this daybed looks less like a bed than most and would definitely look at home in a shabby chic living room. 

Source: World Market

This Ralph Lauren designed daybed would look great as additional seating at the side of a large kitchen. I like the way the stripes make it very closely resemble a couch. The heaviness of the black trim makes it a much more grounded option than the more feminine ones above. 

Source: Architectural Digest

I had to throw in this super modern and sleek leather daybed. It's visually striking and would be great for perching on the edge, but not the most inviting in terms of snuggling down. The sleeker design would be better fitting to a formal living room. Realistically, there's something a little dicey about putting such intimate daybeds like the ones above in a room that's used for entertaining guests, but this leather option would do the trick. 

Source: 1st Dibs

If you're interested in making your own daybed then there are plenty of DIY plans out there. I love the edging which really elevates these. They have a nice summery appeal in white, but would look even better with a dark wooden stain. 

Source: KnockOffDesigns.com

Source: Old Paint Designs

Want further endorsement? This Architectural Digest article has 19 examples from real homes and offers this great quote about the use of a daybed:

 "Daybeds are the ultimate versatile seating, used for anything from lounging to studying to sleeping. A cross between a chaise, a sofa, and a bed, the multipurpose furnishing is certainly functional, but it’s also a valuable decorative element; a daybed can be upholstered in a wide array of patterns and colors that will suit a minimalist, a maximalist, or anyone in between."