Summer is here, which means outdoor gatherings with family and friends. If you’re looking to upgrade your outdoor spaces with some retro flair, check out these classic mid-century modern patio furniture designs including originals and modern versions that you can shop online!
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Short on time and looking for mid-mod patio seating with quick shipping? Check out these top picks:
- CleverMade Tamarack Folding Wooden Outdoor Chair:
- Acapulco chair set
- Wood slat bench or table
- Vega outdoor chair with woven cord seat
- Metal retro porch glider
In this Article on Mid-Century Modern Patio Furniture
Acapulco Chair | Paul McCobb | Panamerican Chair | Wrought Iron | Bertoia Chairs | Modern Adirondacks | Lounge Seating | MCM Benches | Rattan Seating | Metal Sets | Butterfly & Sling Chairs | Umbrellas & Sunshades
Acapulco Chair
In the 1950’s and 60’s, Acapulco, Mexico became a jetsetter getaway thanks to an Elvis movie (“Fun in Acapulco”), airline ad campaigns, and stars like Marilyn Monroe who honeymooned there. While its exact origins are unknown, the Acapulco chair emerged during this era as an icon of the vibrant colors of the destination mixed with Hollywood glam. The chair is rumored to have been invented based on classic Mayan hammocks, which solved the problem of regular patio chairs heating up in the tropical sun.
The original Acapulco chair was pear-shaped, but round and oval modern versions can be found, as well as rocking chair designs and conversation sets.
Paul McCobb Wrought Iron Tables & Chairs
American designer Paul McCobb distilled furniture down to line and form to create enduring classics. CB2 has recently begun producing his designs again for the first time in over 50 years. So if you’re looking for classy, timeless mid-century modern patio furniture including dining tables and chairs, indoor/outdoor couches, and sling chairs, be sure to check out CB2.
Want to learn more about Paul McCobb’s designs? See McCobb pieces for sale on design marketplace 1st Dibs.
“Panamerican” Chair
If you’ve vacationed in cities in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula like Cancun or Tulum, it’s possible you’ve also encountered the “Panamerican” chair. This Maya folding chair appeared in designs from the mid mod era, and handmade versions can still be bought throughout the region as souvenirs from local craftspeople.
I recently nabbed two from Costco – they keep selling out, though, so grab them if they’re available! These chairs can also be found at CB2 and at West Elm in bright colors. Also check out Etsy where they’re often called “Kentucky stick chairs.”
Wrought Iron Patio Sets and Pool Loungers
Mid-century patios and pools were fabulous, and so were the lounge chairs that accompanied them! While wrought iron styles by Salterini and Woodard are still classics today, originals can be difficult and expensive to find. Click the vintage versions below to see more of these style icons on the design site 1st Dibs.
Check out these modern, MCM-inspired designs for your pool and patio days this summer and keep an eye out at estate sales for the originals.
Bertoia Metal Chairs
Harry Bertoia was an early contemporary of Charles and Ray Eames who worked to help develop their iconic plywood chair. But it was during time with the Knoll brand that he perfected his own wire metal chairs. Drawing on past studies of body ergonomics and metalworking, he designed airy yet strong chairs that were comfortable and stylish – and still a classic choice for both indoor and outdoor spaces.
Modern Adirondack Chairs
The vacation favorite Adirondack chair might not be an obvious choice for MCM spaces, but slight design tweaks have resulted in a more sleek, modern look. Check out recycled plastic versions from Polywood, Crate and Barrel, Target, and Design Within Reach.
Love this style? Don’t miss my roundup of the best modern Adirondack chairs including the history of the chair’s design!
Mid Century Lounge Seating & Conversation Sets
If you need furniture for a comfy yet stylish mid-century inspired conversation area, check out these sets below.
Mid Century Benches
Slat benches by George Nelson were a classic mid-century design staple. Modern reproductions are perfect for both indoor and outdoor seating. Consider one by your front door, tucked under a tree, or paired with an outdoor dining table. I recently purchased the bench below with triangular legs – it does double duty on my patio as a coffee table and extra seating.
Rattan Seating
The late 60’s and 70’s brought a surge of rattan and wicker furniture, which is again trending. Check out these modern versions perfect for boho vibes and covered outdoor spaces.
Metal Gliders & Patio Sets
Are the fifties more your style? Metal patio furniture is another great vintage design of the era. Reproductions are available including porch gliders, conversation sets, and bistro sets. Be sure to have a pitcher of fresh lemonade ready!
If you find an original piece in need of restoration, contact a local auto body shop that can powder coat it for a shiny new finish.
Sling & Butterfly Chairs
Sling chairs offer a classic retro beach vibe, while butterfly chairs are one of the earliest modernist chair designs. The original butterfly chair was created by three Buenos Aires-based architects, Antonio Bonet, Juan Kurchan, and Jorge Ferrari-Hardoy, who met while working at Le Corbusier’s studio. In 1940 after the chair was exhibited in Argentina, a design curator at MoMA Edgar Kaufmann Jr. exported two to the US: one for MOMA, and the other for his family home, Fallingwater. Knoll began producing them in the US, and about 5 million chairs were sold during the 1950s alone.
If you’re searching for originals, they’re also known as the BKF chair (an acronym of the designers’ names) or the Hardoy chair – see some on 1st Dibs here. Or check out these modern versions that will set your heart aflutter!
MCM Umbrellas and Sunshades
If your outdoor space needs some shade, check out these umbrellas, pop-up tents, and sun sails with mid mod flavor.
Shop at Amazon
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More Mid-Century Patio Styles
Need more ideas? Check out this roundup of more MCM-inspired swank seating options – click on each photo for more details. And don’t forget a pair of flamingos!
Save these mid-century patio furniture picks for later!
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