Discover the fascinating journey of lawn furniture, from its humble beginnings in the 1800s to the iconic Adirondack chair's creation in 1903. Learn how these outdoor staples have evolved into various styles and colors, and how they've become an integral part of our gardens and patios.
In the 19th century, as the appreciation for outdoor spaces grew, people sought to extend their living areas to gardens and patios. However, the furniture they used outdoors had to be frequently moved inside to avoid damage from harsh weather. The solution? Furniture specifically designed to withstand the elements.
In 1903, Thomas Lee was seeking the perfect outdoor chair for his family's summer home in Westport, New York. His innovative spirit led him to craft a chair from a single plank of wood, resulting in only eleven pieces that formed the prototype of what we now know as the Adirondack chair. This chair featured a distinctive fan-shaped back and was designed to sit comfortably on the sloping terrain of Lee's property.
Harry Bunnell, a friend of Lee's, recognized the potential of this unique chair. In need of a winter income, Bunnell patented the design without Lee's knowledge and began producing the chairs in his workshop. He crafted them from hemlock, painted them in dark greens or browns, and even signed each one. Bunnell's Adirondack chairs quickly became a sought-after item for summer residents.
The Adirondack chair has become a symbol of leisure and comfort in outdoor furniture. Its wide, flat armrests are a hallmark of the design, providing a level of comfort that has inspired a range of outdoor furniture pieces. Modern Adirondack chairs are available in a plethora of colors, and the style has expanded to include love seats, gliders, and more, all featuring the recognizable slat construction.
When selecting Adirondack chairs, consider the color scheme of your garden or the exterior of your home. With options ranging from violet to match flowering herbs to vibrant reds, yellows, and oranges, there's a color to complement every setting. The classic green chair remains a popular choice for those seeking a traditional look.
In 1996, artist Joel Sisson from Minneapolis, Minnesota, decided to pay homage to the Adirondack chair by constructing an enormous version for his front lawn. After his creation was stolen, he built another, which also disappeared. Determined to celebrate the chair, Sisson crafted 90 chairs with the help of local students, painting them sea foam green and distributing them to neighbors. To commemorate their triumph over the chair thieves, Sisson and his students brought two giant chairs and 50 regular-sized ones to the National Mall in Georgetown, where they were assembled and painted for display. One of the giant chairs remains there as a testament to the Adirondack chair's enduring legacy.
The story of lawn furniture is not just about utility but also about the cultural significance and the way it has shaped our experiences of outdoor living. The Adirondack chair, in particular, has become an iconic piece of American design, beloved for its simplicity, comfort, and adaptability to various landscapes and styles.
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