ADIRONDACK CHAIR

Few pieces of outdoor furniture are as iconic—or as comfortable—as the Adirondack chair. Born in the camps and resorts of New York’s Adirondack Mountains back in the late 1800s, this chair was originally designed to bring a little extra comfort to life in the wilderness. Today, it remains a favorite for porches, patios, decks, and backyard retreats.

And the best part? With just a little time, some basic tools, and a good set of plans, you can build one yourself.

This chair has a design that’s all about relaxation. The deep seat, wide arms, and gently slanted back make it the perfect place to kick back on a summer afternoon, whether you're sipping a cold drink, reading a good book, or just watching the sunset.

Add the matching footrest, and you’ve got yourself a built-in invitation for a midday nap. And when the seasons change, both the chair and footrest fold up for easy storage—making this project as practical as it is beautiful.

Skills You’ll Learn (and Use Again and Again)

The Adirondack chair is an ideal project whether you’re a beginner looking to level up or an experienced woodworker seeking a rewarding build. Along the way, you’ll gain hands-on experience with several essential woodworking skills:

• Cutting Curves with Confidence
  You’ll shape the signature curves of the seat and back using a jigsaw or band saw—great practice for working with rounded edges and graceful lines.

• Precision Assembly
  Learn how to space the seat and back slats perfectly and evenly for both comfort and aesthetics. Getting this right makes all the difference in how the chair looks and feels.

• Simple but Sturdy Joinery
  The construction may be straightforward, but the result is rock-solid. This is a chair built to last through many seasons of use.

Where It Belongs

The beauty of the Adirondack chair is that it looks right at home just about anywhere outdoors:

• On the Front Porch – A classic invitation to sit and stay awhile.

• Backyard Fire Pit Area – Gather around the flames in total comfort.

• By the Lake or Cabin – Lean into its rustic roots and enjoy the view.

• Garden Nook – Tuck it between the flowers for a peaceful reading spot.

You can paint or stain your chair to match your style—or let the natural wood shine for a more traditional look.

Whether you’re building one chair or a full matching set, the Adirondack chair is a project that pays off every time you sit down and take in the fresh air. It’s more than just a piece of furniture—it’s a piece of history, handcrafted by you.

So roll up your sleeves, fire up your saw, and get ready to build the most comfortable seat in the house.