Originally Published on July 26, 2023. Last Updated on August 3, 2023.
Originating in New York’s Adirondack Mountains, the aptly named Adirondack chair has long been synonymous with summer vacations, family campgrounds, and waterfront living. The classic silhouette is instantly recognizable with its tall slatted back, sloped seat, wide armrests, and relaxed recline. But throughout the past several years, new iterations of the iconic Adirondack have been cropping up across the U.S. and beyond.
Perfect for bucolic B&Bs or mountainside cabins, the traditional Adirondack design is rustic and charming. But what about urban spaces or homes with contemporary architecture? Enter the modern Adirondack chair. Chic and sleek, it takes shape in cleaner lines and crisper angles. Here are seven designer-approved ways to style our modern Adirondack chairs in your outdoor space—plus some additional inspiration from actual POLYWOOD customers.
1. Poolside Panache
![POLYWOOD Quattro Folding Chair 5-Piece Conversation Set in Slate Grey POLYWOOD Quattro Folding Chair 5-Piece Conversation Set in Slate Grey](https://i0.wp.com/www.polywood.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/PWS280-1-GY-LI-1.jpg?resize=720%2C576&ssl=1)
Not only is this conversation area perfect for post-swim refreshments, but it also allows you to utilize the space near your pool during the off-season. Add a large accent table to keep your craft cocktails or charcuterie board front and center.
2. Chic Campground Scene
![POLYWOOD Modern Adirondack Chair and Nautical 42" Fire Pit Table in Mahogany POLYWOOD Modern Adirondack Chair and Nautical 42" Fire Pit Table in Mahogany](https://i0.wp.com/www.polywood.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/AD420MA-LI.jpg?resize=720%2C480&ssl=1)
Want to bring the magic of camping to the comfort of your backyard? Try a fire pit table encircled by coordinating modern Adirondack chairs. Let nature do its thing by opting for furniture in coordinating colors like brown or dark green.
3. Tranquil Rocking Chair Retreat
![POLYWOOD Modern Adirondack Rocking Chair in Black POLYWOOD Modern Adirondack Rocking Chair in Black](https://i0.wp.com/www.polywood.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/ADR420BL-LI.jpg?resize=720%2C576&ssl=1)
With these Adirondack rocking chairs, paradise is always around the corner. A statement table shines with its metallic gold finish, echoing the chair’s modernity without overpowering the lush landscaping.
4. Rainbow Palette
![POLYWOOD Quattro Folding Adirondack in Lime, Vineyard Adirondack Chair in Pacific Blue, Modern Folding Adirondack in Tangerine, Classic Folding Adirondack Chair and Nautical Adirondack Chair in Sunset Red, Palm Coast Folding Adirondack in Aruba, and Round 48" Fire Pit Table in White POLYWOOD Quattro Folding Adirondack in Lime, Vineyard Adirondack Chair in Pacific Blue, Modern Folding Adirondack in Tangerine, Classic Folding Adirondack Chair and Nautical Adirondack Chair in Sunset Red, Palm Coast Folding Adirondack in Aruba, and Round 48" Fire Pit Table in White](https://i0.wp.com/www.polywood.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/RainbowAdirondackFirePit-SI-9.jpg?resize=720%2C480&ssl=1)
Adirondacks are versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched with wild abandon. Try coloring your seating area in a rainbow of colors and opting for several silhouettes (both classic and modern) to create an undeniably eclectic look.
5. Cozy Hideaway
![POLYWOOD Modern Adirondack Chair in Black POLYWOOD Modern Adirondack Chair in Black](https://i0.wp.com/www.polywood.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/MelissaGayle-MNA110BL-SI-16.jpg?resize=720%2C480&ssl=1)
If you’re outfitting a secluded space on your property, modern Adirondacks are a natural choice. Strike a balance between rustic and refined by keeping the rest of the area informal with rough-hewn wood accents and minimal landscaping.
6. Waterfront Dining
![POLYWOOD Modern 3-Piece Curveback Adirondack Set in Slate Grey POLYWOOD Modern 3-Piece Curveback Adirondack Set in Slate Grey](https://i0.wp.com/www.polywood.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/EvaShockey-PWS420-1-GY-LI-1.jpg?resize=720%2C534&ssl=1)
Modern Adirondacks need not be only reserved for lounging—they work great for casual alfresco dining too. We love how Eva Shockey, TV personality and owner of Eva & Co., styled this set from our Modern Adirondack Collection on her lakefront dock.
7. Happy Hour Hangout
![POLYWOOD Quattro 3-Piece Bar Set in Slate Grey POLYWOOD Quattro 3-Piece Bar Set in Slate Grey](https://i0.wp.com/www.polywood.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/PWS282-1-GY-LI-1.jpg?resize=720%2C576&ssl=1)
The coolest entertaining space, bar none. Whether you have a tall bistro table or a built-in serving space, modern Adirondack bar seating transforms your patio into the hottest destination for a cold drink. Piña coladas, anyone?
Modern Adirondacks in the Wild
Did you know that the Modern Adirondack is our most-loved design? Here are some candid shots from real customers who brought this best seller home.