Adirondack Chairs - Seats With An Artistic History

You’ve seen them at resorts in the mountains. You’ve likely also seen Adirondack chairs at the beachfront off New England. They are a unique chair that while made of wood, like many other chairs, have a style and design that is all their own. Unlike other chairs that look as if they could double as chairs that work is accomplished in, when you look at an Adirondack chair, they let you know it’s time to put away the work, and kick back, relax, and enjoy the view, no matter where you are.

Adirondack chairs have a unique design that is all their own, being made from a single board. It is a design that was first created in 1903. A man by the name of Thomas Lee was on vacation with his family, and wanted the best outdoor chairs for his summer home. So, while he should have been relaxing and kicking back, he got to work, tinkering to create the perfect summer chair.

Using one initial plank of wood, Lee made only 10 cuts. With a plan in mind he used those 11 pieces to create the back, seat, and armrests of the chairs we know as Adirondack chairs today.

While you may think the slanted design of the chair is meant to let you recline, the truth is they were meant to let you sit straight originally. When Lee was first building his chairs, he was in the mountains, where there were areas of steep incline. The chairs were made to compensate for that incline and let you sit in a normal position while on the mountainside. Yet, when you think of vacation furniture, the reclining position and large armrests may be more appropriate.

The designs have changed a bit over the years with today’s Adirondack chairs having a little more rounded back and seat to better fit the bodies that will be using them. But they still have those trademark large armrests. These armrests are so popular, many cafes in resort towns trying to have that resort getaway feel, have started using Adirondack chairs as part of their seating. The armrests on the chairs are large enough to hold a drink or a plate of appetizers, while the person sitting in it can feel like they are enjoying a mini vacation, any time of year.

Adirondack chairs also saw a growing family over the years. In addition to going from flat to contoured surfaces, the furniture builders realized there could be a need for other types of furniture made in a similar style. First, there was seating for two, Adirondack love seats. After all, many vacationing couples are the ones going on these getaways to the shore or into the mountains. They should not be forced to sit apart. There are also now Adirondack gliders on the market, so instead of sitting still, you can give a little kick and enjoy a light motion as you watch the day go by.

Author Jennifer Akre, owner of many sites dedicated to indoor and outdoor home decor product and information, provides online consumers with advice on purchasing gorgeous Adirondack chairs, luxurious patio furniture and classic
garden benches.

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