How to Build a Day Bed on a Deck

Placement

• Survey the entire deck to find a spot to build the daybed. This is especially important if you are building the daybed into the deck, as it will remain in the same spot. Consider the available space as well as the view you will create with the daybed's placement. Situate the daybed towards your garden, a favorite tree or near another seating area such as built-in benches, for a comfortable conversation area. Outdoor daybeds are often tucked into one end of the deck and bridge the space between the house and the deck rail.

Building the Daybed

• Determine what type of design will work for your deck. The bed portion of the daybed is generally as wide as a twin mattress, but you can lengthen the bed and have a custom cushion designed for it. Build the daybed with wood stained or painted the same color as the deck, or choose a different color combination for contrast. Creative options to consider when building include the back, the armrests and the posts. Build the daybed yourself or enlist the help of a friend or loved one with woodworking experience.

Canopy or Umbrella

• Top the daybed with a canopy or umbrella if the daybed is not built on a covered deck. Canopies provide shelter from sun and privacy from neighbors and are an ideal opportunity to add a pop of color. Another option is to use a large patio umbrella to hang over the daybed. When building, core a hole in the backrest for the umbrella. Coordinate the daybed's umbrella with that of an umbrella used for a patio set elsewhere in the yard, to unify the space.

Accessories

• Dress the finished daybed with a cushion, mattress or futon for the seat and a selection of throw pillows. Outdoor fabrics are available in a wide range of colors, styles and designs. Make the pillows yourself, have them custom-made or purchase store-bought varieties. Choose fabrics to complement or contrast the color of the canopy. Modern patterns such as damask, arabesque, honeycomb, colorful stripes and bold florals work well for an outdoor daybed. Place a glass and wicker table in front of the daybed for drinks and magazines to ensure hours of lounging.