Day Beds

The siesta is a custom, not a failing. Day beds are low couches for resting by day, made in many cultures. The Chinese luohan bed, railed on three sides, served as a seat for receiving guests. The Senufo of Ivory Coast carved daybeds from a single trunk, curved and smoothed by use. Ethiopian beds are strung with plaited leather. Contemporary designs, such as the Hamish daybed, translate the form into upholstery.

A day bed sits easily under a window, in a library or on a covered porch, layered with a kilim cushion or two. The afternoon takes care of itself.