Stacked Daybed
Daybeds are back, thanks to their low-slung silhouettes and air of informality. A version as pared-down as this is totally modern (forget that frilly trundle in your grandma's "Florida room"). As a sofa stand-in that practically demands relaxation, it works under a picture window, against a wall, or floating in a lofty room.

Cover two mattresses.
Paint platform.
Stack.

Daybed How-To
Look for twin mattresses with minimal top padding (solid foam ones are ideal). Wrap each mattress in a linen slipcover or fitted linen sheet; for the latter use sheet suspenders to keep the covers snugly in place. Order a 1-inch-thick wooden base from your local lumber supplier. To calculate the base dimensions, add 14 inches to the mattress's width and length -- that comes to 53 by 89 inches for a standard twin. Paint the top and sides of the base in a bold, high-gloss color; let dry overnight. Center mattresses on the platform, and top with firm, oversize pillows.

Materials: Daybed covers, $79 each, westelm.com. Paint in Big Country Blue (#2066-30), $50 per gallon, benjaminmoore.com for stores. FL/Y suspension lamp, $249, highbrowfurniture.com. Silk pillow, $160, and "Zig Zag" pillow, $275, both ABC Carpet & Home, 212-473-3000. Pillow by Liwan, $106, Layla, 718-222-1933.