Classic Summer Furniture: The Adirondack Chair
Kick back in a chair designed more than a hundred years ago but updated (or not) for modern tastes
Samantha Schoech
May 26, 2013
Houzz Contributor. I am a former magazine editor specializing in travel and design. I just completed my first remodel, turning my crumbling 1941 kitchen into a beauty of grays, whites and natural wood. If I could, I'd sleep on the countertop. That's how much I love it.
You can also read my parenting blog on Baby Center http://blogs.babycenter.com/author/sschoech/
Houzz Contributor. I am a former magazine editor specializing in travel and design.... More
Yep, it really was designed in the Adirondack Mountains in New York. In 1903, to be exact. Throughout its next 110 years of life, the Adirondack chair has become an iconic image of summer. It's synonymous with front porches, lake house, fire pits, beach cottages and back decks.
Originally these chairs were made of hemlock and came in one color: natural. And while the basic elements of the classic remain, there have been some adjustments, alterations and upgrades. You can get modernist Adirondacks, colorful Adirondacks, Shabby Chic–style Adirondacks and plastic Adirondacks.
But no matter the details, they all translate as casual, yard-friendly summer laziness.
Originally these chairs were made of hemlock and came in one color: natural. And while the basic elements of the classic remain, there have been some adjustments, alterations and upgrades. You can get modernist Adirondacks, colorful Adirondacks, Shabby Chic–style Adirondacks and plastic Adirondacks.
But no matter the details, they all translate as casual, yard-friendly summer laziness.
These classic Adirondacks in lovely, neutral beige and charcoal are fulfilling their purpose in life: to gather around a fire pit in a forested vacation spot.
Their seaside cousins in white prefer an ocean view.
You don't have to have an expansive vacation-like home to use Adirondacks. These two create a cozy hangout on the tiny front porch of this stucco bungalow.
These urban Adirondack-like chairs, a custom design by Northern California artist Jimmy Matcock, are simpler and more modern. The single-board back might be a more comfortable version for people who don't like the feel of the traditional slats.
Another example of a more modern version. The square backs and flat charcoal color take care of any old-timey country flair that might have been lingering.
These bright blue lounging Adirondacks are the focal points of this simple, neutral yard. The paint color is Benjamin Moore's Scandinavian Blue.
Pink and plastic. I really like the way these pop against the natural landscape here. They're fun.
The classic Adirondack takes on a whole new vibe inside the house. Add a few pillows and it becomes sophisticated, streamlined seating. I like how well this one blends into the rest of the decor.
Nothing says vacation cabin like a canoe hanging in your living room and Adirondaks made from old, wooden water skis.
Do you have colorful Adirondack chairs at home? We'd love to see your photos!
Do you have colorful Adirondack chairs at home? We'd love to see your photos!
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Samantha, what a great overview of an amazing chair. I love being outdoors especially in my backyard lounging around, maybe even grilling something. I have always wanted to collect more outdoor furniture to place around my yard. http://lakeviewwoodcrafting.com/gallery.html