Small spaces can feel tricky when you’re trying to fit in everything you need. A bed, a couch, storage, maybe a reading nook?
That’s where daybeds come in. They’re like the Swiss Army knife of furniture. You get a place to sleep, somewhere to lounge during the day, and usually a bit of extra seating when friends come over.
You can style it with throw pillows, add some shelving above it, or even build it into a nook. Some people use them as full-time beds, others as a reading spot that doubles as overnight guest space.
In small spaces, every piece of furniture needs to work hard. And daybeds? They’re overachievers.
So if you’re trying to figure out how to make your tiny apartment, studio, or bonus room feel functional and inviting, these ideas might help. Some are simple, some are a bit more involved, but they all prove that small spaces can still feel big on style.
How to Style a Daybed for Small Spaces?
Styling a daybed in a small space is all about balance, comfort, and function. You want it to look inviting while also keeping your room open and clutter-free.
1. Choose the right spot
Place your daybed against a wall or under a window to save space and create a cozy nook. Corners are perfect because they open up the rest of the room for movement.
2. Keep the colors light and soft
Light colors like white, beige, or pale gray make a small space feel airy. Add small pops of color with pillows or a throw blanket to give it personality.
3. Layer your bedding smartly
Use a fitted sheet and a thin quilt or coverlet to keep it neat. Add two or three large back cushions so it doubles as a sofa during the day.
4. Use storage wisely
Pick a daybed with drawers or space underneath. Store extra blankets, pillows, or seasonal items there so your room stays organized.
5. Keep décor simple
Small rooms look best when not overcrowded. A framed print, small side table, or wall shelf can add style without taking up too much room.
6. Think multi-use
Use the daybed as a reading spot, guest bed, or lounge area. Add a tray table that can move around easily for snacks, books, or a laptop.
Creative Daybed Ideas For Small Spaces And Guest Rooms
Pink Garden Dream
That soft blush daybed with the trundle underneath is doing all the right things.
It’s sweet without being too much. The floral curtain valance and matching drapes bring in that garden vibe, while the white antler chandelier keeps it playful.
Those green chinoiserie pillows? They tie the whole look together.
And that round ottoman gives you extra seating without taking up space. This setup works because it feels put together but not fussy.
Carved Wood Statement
This daybed has serious presence. The carved wood frame looks like something you’d find at an estate sale, and that’s the charm.
It’s ornate but grounded by the neutral tones. Mix in pillows with different textures and patterns, and suddenly it doesn’t feel too formal.
The round jute rug helps too. And the cat bed? That’s just good planning.
When you have a piece this detailed, keep everything else simple. Let the daybed be the star.
Velvet Chaise With Portrait
Not all daybeds look like beds. This velvet chaise is proof.
The crushed velvet in brown and gold feels vintage in the best way. That fringe detail at the bottom adds something extra.
Pair it with a vintage portrait and some greenery, and you’ve got a corner that looks like it belongs in a design magazine. The pale blue walls keep it from feeling too heavy.
This works in a small space because it doubles as art. It’s functional but also just nice to look at.
Jungle Room Lounge
Sometimes more is more. This daybed sits in what looks like an indoor jungle, and it works.
The leopard print pillows match the vibe. Stained glass windows, plants everywhere, a red vintage trunk as a coffee table.
It’s eclectic, but that’s the point. The daybed itself is simple, so it can handle all the personality around it.
If you love plants and bold patterns, this is how you do it. Just commit fully.
Built-In Nook With Curtains
A built-in daybed feels like a hug. This one’s tucked into an alcove with storage drawers underneath and curtains you can close for privacy.
The floral curtain fabric is soft and not too busy. You get a cozy sleeping spot or reading nook, plus extra storage.
The paneled walls add detail without paint or wallpaper. And that ceiling fixture? It’s pretty without being over the top.
This is perfect for kids’ rooms or guest spaces. Functional, but still feels special.
Soft Green With Trundle
Green daybeds don’t get enough love. This pale green frame with a trundle underneath is understated and lovely.
The scalloped window valances add a little flair. Keep the bedding simple with whites and pinks, and the room feels calm.
That polka dot wallpaper works because the colors are muted. Nothing’s screaming for attention.
And the trundle? It’s there when you need it, hidden when you don’t. Smart use of space.
Nursery Daybed With Gingham Chair
Daybeds in nurseries are genius. This one gives you a place to rest while still looking intentional.
The gingham chair next to it picks up on the blue and white color scheme. Add matching curtains, some floating shelves, and you’ve got a cohesive look.
The daybed works as a guest bed later when the baby’s older. It’s not just for one stage.
Keep everything soft and light, and the room feels bigger than it is.
Artistic Daybed With Bold Fabric
This daybed is covered in a hand-painted style fabric with florals and figures. It’s bold.
Behind it, that oversized artwork with pink hay bales adds even more color. The wood frame keeps it grounded.
When you choose a statement fabric like this, keep the walls simple. White or neutral lets the daybed pop.
This is for someone who wants their space to feel creative and fun. Not boring, ever.
Teal Wall With Channel Tufting
That teal accent wall is doing the heavy lifting here. But the white channel-tufted daybed holds its own.
The trundle underneath adds extra sleeping space. Layer in colorful pillows and bedding, and it feels playful.
Those botanical prints above the bed keep the wall from feeling empty. And the floral rug? It pulls all the colors together.
This works in a kid’s room or a small guest room. It’s cheerful without being too young.
Cozy Window Nook
Built-in daybeds by windows are the dream. This one has storage drawers below and sits in a sunroom or enclosed porch.
The plaid bedding gives it a cabin feel. Mix in different pillow colors, and it’s not too matchy.
That brass tripod table is perfect for a morning coffee. And the nautical art keeps the theme going.
If you have a windowed nook, this is the move. Reading spot by day, guest bed by night.
Mint Green Nursery Daybed
Mint green walls make everything feel fresh. This gray daybed with a trundle fits right in.
The grid of framed prints above the bed adds interest without color chaos. Brass sconces on either side give you reading light.
Built-in shelving next to it holds books and decor. Everything has a place.
This setup grows with the kid. Switch out the crib later, and the daybed stays.
Neutral With Throw Pillows
Sometimes you just want calm. This white daybed with storage drawers and a mountain of neutral pillows delivers.
The striped mattress cover adds subtle pattern. Keep the pillows in grays, tans, and whites, and it feels like a cloud.
Two botanical prints above the bed keep it simple. And that round ottoman? Perfect for putting your feet up.
This works anywhere. Guest room, office, bedroom. It’s that flexible.
Vintage Daybed With Turned Legs
This daybed looks like a family heirloom. Those chunky turned legs and the neutral cushion give it character.
The space is minimal. White walls, botanical prints on either side, a small bench at the foot.
When the furniture has this much personality, you don’t need a lot else. Let it breathe.
This is for someone who loves vintage finds and doesn’t want everything to match perfectly.
Minimalist Corner Daybed
This daybed is all about simplicity. Neutral fabric, clean lines, a single side table.
The ribbed texture on the cushions adds just enough detail. One floor lamp, one picture window.
It’s calm. It’s quiet. It works.
Sometimes a small space just needs a place to sit and think. This does that without any fuss.
Cottage Daybed With Colorful Pillows
This built-in daybed sits in a corner with shiplap walls and mismatched pillows everywhere.
Yellow, blue, pink, gray. The pillows make it fun. The gray daybed cushion keeps it from being too busy.
Above, there’s a ledge with vintage finds and a chandelier that feels a little fancy for a cottage. But that’s the charm.
This is the kind of space where you curl up with tea and lose track of time.
Window Seat With Shelving
This daybed doubles as a window seat. Built-in shelving next to it holds books and decor.
The pillows are patterned in coral and navy. A throw blanket adds texture.
Brass sconces give you light for reading. And those gold drawer pulls? Nice touch.
The exposed brick on one side adds warmth. This is a corner you’d actually use every day.
Warm Wood Frame Daybed
This daybed has a solid wood frame that feels mid-century. The cushions are striped in neutral tones.
One geometric print above the bed is enough. A small side table, a throw blanket, and you’re done.
The wood floor and simple rug keep it feeling open. Nothing’s competing.
This is for someone who likes furniture that lasts. Classic, simple, well made.
Sage Green Platform Daybed
That sage green upholstered daybed feels modern. The low platform style is sleek.
Pair it with pink accents in the pillows and throw. The botanical prints in wood frames keep it natural.
Light gray walls and white trim make the green stand out without overwhelming the space.
This works in a small bedroom or studio. It’s grown-up but still has personality.
Soft Abstracts Above Daybed
This daybed is simple. White, clean, trundle underneath for guests.
But those two abstract paintings above it? They’re soft and pretty. Pale blues, pinks, and neutrals that don’t shout.
A floor lamp in the corner adds light. Keep the pillows minimal, and the art does the talking.
This is easy to pull off. Pick art you love, keep everything else quiet.
Moody Floral Daybed Nook
This daybed is tucked into a built-in nook with shelving above. The floral upholstery is bold, dark, and unexpected.
A velvet mustard chair sits nearby. Black curtains add drama. Gray paneled walls keep it from feeling too busy.
This is for someone who’s not afraid of color and pattern. It’s cozy but sophisticated.
The books on the shelf make it feel lived in. This is a space you’d want to spend time in.
Textured Boucle By The Window
This boucle daybed is all texture. That nubby fabric catches the light and makes the whole piece feel cozy.
It sits right by the windows, so you get natural light all day. The neutral color keeps it versatile.
Two pillows, one textured and one solid dark green, add just enough contrast. A sculptural vase on a stone pedestal keeps the decor minimal.
When your daybed has this much texture, you don’t need a lot of extras. Let the fabric be the feature.
This works in a living room or bedroom where you want something soft and modern at the same time.
FAQs About Daybed Ideas For Small Spaces
Can a daybed be used as a sofa in a small living room?
Yes! A daybed can easily double as a sofa in small living rooms. Add a few back cushions and a throw blanket to make it comfortable for lounging during the day and sleeping at night.
Can I use a daybed in a studio apartment?
Absolutely. A daybed is ideal for studio apartments because it serves multiple purposes, it’s a sofa, a bed, and sometimes storage all in one. Choose a design that complements your layout and style.
How do I make a small guest room functional with a daybed?
Pick a daybed with storage drawers or a pull-out trundle. Use decorative pillows and cozy bedding to make it look inviting during the day and comfortable at night for guests.
What’s the ideal size of a daybed for a small bedroom?
A twin-size daybed (around 39” x 75”) is ideal for small bedrooms. It fits comfortably against a wall, leaves room for movement, and can still function as a sofa or guest bed when needed.