Comfortable Front Porch Chairs for Homeowners
There's nothing quite like having a set of cozy front porch chairs to relax in while taking in the fresh air and scenery outside your home. For many homeowners, their front porch becomes an extension of their living space - a place to sip morning coffee, host friends and family, or simply sit back and unwind after a long day. That's why having the right kind of seating can make all the difference in creating an inviting oasis.
Key Considerations When Shopping for Porch Chair Sets
When looking for porch chairs, keeping a few key factors in mind will help streamline your search and ensure you select seating well-suited for your space and needs.Measure Your Porch
First, take accurate measurements of your porch's width and depth to determine the dimensions your chairs and optional tables can comfortably fit. This prevents purchasing furniture that's too large or small for your parameters. Be sure to account for enough walkway clearance with the chairs in place so people can easily access and exit the porch. Generally about 32-36 inches of pathway space is ideal.
Decide on Style Preferences
There are many types of porch chairs available, including:
- Classic rocking chairs
- Porch swings and gliders
- Deep seating armchairs and loveseats
- Benches
- Adirondack chairs
Consider if you'd prefer stationary seating or chairs with movement, ones with arms vs armless, cushioned or just wood. There are endless options to match different aesthetic tastes and comfort needs. Think about which chair style best complements your home.
Determine Ideal Height
An important but often overlooked factor is the seat height of porch chairs. Lower to the ground Adirondack chairs around 16-18 inches tall are typical. Gliders, rockers and armchairs may range from around 19-24 inches high. Measure your own height when seated to help choose chairs with ample leg room clearance.
Select Durable, Weather-Resistant Materials
Since porch chairs live outdoors year-round, opt for low maintenance materials that can withstand wind, rain, snow, and sun exposure without cracking, chipping, peeling, rusting or requiring frequent upkeep. Some top options include:
- Teak wood: Naturally weather-resistant and durable hardwood that ages beautifully
- POLYWOOD lumber: Made from recycled plastic polymers and wood fibers for a wood-like look without upkeep
- Wicker: Tightly woven all-weather resin wicker on aluminum frames
- Aluminum: Won't rust and is easy to clean
Our Top Picks for Front Porch Chair Sets
Now that we've covered the key considerations for selecting porch seating, let's explore some of the best options currently available for outfitting your outdoor space with cozy chair sets.Classic Wooden Rocking Chairs
It doesn't get much more quintessential than a set of wooden rocking chairs gracing the porch. The smooth rocking motion instantly evokes relaxation as you gaze out at the sunset or sip an iced tea. Handcrafted from dense, durable eucalyptus wood finished in a rich honey tone, our Malibu rocker set combines timeless style with unmatched comfort thanks to contoured seats and chair backs.
Patio Ready Porch Swing
Miss the feeling of gently gliding on grandmother's porch swing from childhood? Bring back that nostalgia with this striking navy swing suspended from a powder coated steel frame with chains. Generously sized to seat three people comfortably with a sloped seatback, the weather-resistant textilene fabric ensures this beauty stays vibrant outside. Install this patio swing with ou without the included stands.
Handwoven All-Weather Wicker Chairs
Showcasing intricate handwoven wicker over rust-proof aluminum frames, this elegant wicker chair duo adds a refined touch to front porches or back patios. The deep seating design with wide armrests maximizes relaxation during long conversations on warm summer nights. Plush ivory cushions contrast beautifully against the espresso wicker. Durable enough for seasons of al fresco dining yet lightweight to move around.
Recycled Plastic Adirondack Chair Set
Probably the most iconic outdoor chair, Adirondack chairs invite you to settle in with a good book oradmire Mother Nature with their signature sloped seat and tall fan-shaped back. This stylish set crafted from recycled plastic polymers mixed with wood fibers looks and feels like real painted wood but never requires sanding, staining, or painting - just an occasional soap and water clean. Durable enough to weather years outdoors.
Modern Minimalist Armchairs
With sleek low profiles and narrow arms, these contemporary armchairs offer a minimalist take on porch seating. Their compact size with neutral textured gray cushions allows flexibility to arrange in various configurations on narrow porches. Made to last outdoors with hand-welded aluminum frames and all-weather fabric. The perfect blend of modern and function.
Design Tips for Styling Front Porch Chairs
To make the most of your new front porch chair set, incorporate these design ideas for creating an inviting ambiance that encourages visitors to sit back and make themselves comfortable outside your home.Incorporate Decor Touches
Add visual interest around your chairs with outdoor wall art, hanging plants, decorative ceramic planters brimming with flowers, wreaths on the front door, and a bold patterned door mat. An outdoor rug underneath helps define the space. Include side tables for resting drinks.
Angle Seating Inward for Conversation
Position chairs at a slight inward angle facing each other rather than strict rows to cultivate conversation between guests. Place two chairs with a small round bistro table centered in between for an intimate chatting and dining nook.
Arrange Supporting Furniture
Group your new porch chairs with complementing outdoor furniture like benches, side tables, patio umbrellas for shade, and chaise lounges. Repeat colors and materials from chairs throughout for a cohesive style.
Illuminate for Evening Usage
Install pendant lights overhead and accent lighting around the porch perimeter to make the space inviting and safe during nighttime use. You can also incorporate flameless candles on side tables.
Add Plush Decorative Toss Pillows
Toss pillows instantly amp up the cozy charm factor. Opt for weather-resistant fabrics like Sunbrella in fun colors and patterns that pop against neutral chairs. Store pillows indoors if rain is expected.
Consider a Privacy Screen
If your front porch location lacks privacy from the street, mount an decorative screen along the railing for seclusion. Trellis panels, bamboo fencing, lattice, and large planters can all help block views when desired without obscuring the outdoor ambiance.
Incorporate Greenery
Flowing potted plants, vines trailing down from above, giant floor plants, and fresh flower arrangements add life while softening hard edges on porches. Greenery also helps filter views for more privacy.
Caring for Your Investment: Maintenance Tips
To keep your new front porch chairs looking as beautiful as the first day they arrived for years of enjoyment, be sure to follow some basic product care guidelines:Check Assembly and Hardware
Periodically check that all chair hardware and moving joints remain securely tightened. Tighten or replace loose screws to prevent safety hazards or damage over time.
Clean Spills Promptly
Don't allow stains from food, drinks, or dirt to set on chair cushions or frames. Promptly spot treat with mild soap and water to prevent permanent discoloration or saturation into fabrics.