Transform Your Outdoor Space: Guide to Styling POLYWOOD® Adirondack Chairs in Australia

Creating the perfect outdoor sanctuary is an art that requires understanding both style and practicality. At Poly Outdoors, we've helped countless Australian homeowners transform their outdoor spaces with our sustainable POLYWOOD® furniture. Today, we're sharing our comprehensive guide to styling our bestselling Adirondack chairs, with special attention to regional considerations across Queensland and New South Wales.

Why POLYWOOD® for Australian Conditions?

"What makes POLYWOOD perfect for Australian conditions is its ability to withstand everything from coastal salt spray to tropical downpours," explains Chris Athanasiou, founder of Poly Outdoors. "Our customers particularly appreciate that these pieces are infinitely recyclable and require minimal maintenance – perfect for our outdoor lifestyle."

Regional Styling Guide:

1. Southeast Queensland Coastal Areas

Brisbane & Gold Coast:

• Position chairs to maximise sea breezes while maintaining shade

• Recommended colours: Sand or white for minimal heat absorption

• Style tip: "In Brisbane's subtropical climate, create layers of comfort with quick-dry cushions and easily stored throws for unexpected weather changes," advises local designer Emma Thompson

• Accessorise with:

  • Native frangipani or bird of paradise plants

  • Marine-grade stainless steel side tables

  • UV-resistant cushions in coastal tones

  2. Northern NSW Coastal Regions

Byron Bay & Northern Beaches:

• Arrange chairs to capture both sunrise and sunset views

• Recommended colours: Sand or one of our brighter colour options for a coastal vibe

• Style tip: "For Northern NSW's bohemian coastal style, mix natural textures with your POLYWOOD® pieces," suggests Byron-based stylist Sarah Mitchell.

• Accessorise with:

  • Handwoven jute rugs

  • Macramé cushion covers

  • Native coastal rosemary plantings

  3. Sydney Metropolitan Area

Eastern Suburbs & North Shore:

• Create sophisticated conversation areas

• Recommended colours: Classic White or Mahogany for timeless appeal

• Style tip: "Sydney's outdoor spaces need to transition seamlessly from day to night entertaining," notes Chris from Poly Outdoors.

• Accessorise with:

  • Smart outdoor lighting

  • All-weather side tables for entertaining

  • Geometric planters with structural plants

  4. NSW Wine Country

Hunter Valley & Surrounds:

• Position chairs to maximise vineyard or garden views

• Recommended colours: Teak or Vintage Finish for rustic elegance

• Style tip: "In wine country, outdoor furniture should complement the natural landscape while providing comfortable spaces for wine tasting and relaxation."

• Accessorise with:

  • Vintage wine barrel side tables

  • Australian native gardens

  • Outdoor wine glass holders

Weather-Specific Styling Tips:

Queensland Summer Solution:

• Create movable shade options with market umbrellas

• Install outdoor fans for additional cooling

• Use light-coloured cushions to reflect heat

• Add tropical plants for natural shade

NSW Seasonal Transitions:

• Include outdoor heating options for winter evenings

• Layer with weather-resistant throws

• Create wind-protected nooks

• Add versatile lighting for year-round use

Maintenance Tips by Region:

Coastal Areas:

• Regular freshwater rinse to prevent salt build-up

• Quarterly deep clean

• Check and tighten hardware seasonally

Inland Areas:

• Dust removal as needed

• Protection from UV exposure

• Annual maintenance check

Shopping Guide: Visit our Melbourne warehouse for an in-person experience or shop online with Australia-wide delivery. Our customer service team is available at (03) 8288 1799 to help with styling advice and product selection.

Sustainability Focus: "Our POLYWOOD furniture isn't just stylish – it's a sustainable choice that helps reduce plastic waste," explains Chris. "Each piece is infinitely recyclable and built to last, making it perfect for environmentally conscious Australian homes."

The Evolution of Adirondack Chairs: From Wood to Plastic

Adirondack chairs have been a staple of outdoor furniture for over a century, beloved for their simple design and exceptional comfort. These iconic chairs have evolved significantly, transitioning from traditional wood to modern plastic materials. This transformation has preserved the classic appeal of Adirondack chairs and introduced numerous benefits catering to contemporary lifestyles. Let’s delve into the history and evolution of Adirondack chairs, focusing on the transition from wood to plastic.

A Brief History of Adirondack Chairs

The Adirondack chair was invented in 1903 by Thomas Lee, who sought the perfect outdoor chair for his summer home in Westport, New York, in the Adirondack Mountains. Lee’s original design, known as the “Westport plank chair,” featured wide armrests, a high back, and a slanted seat for maximum comfort and relaxation. The design was simple yet effective, quickly gaining popularity in the region.

Lee’s friend, Harry Bunnell, saw the chair's potential and began producing and selling it without Lee’s permission, patenting the design in 1905. Despite this rocky start, the Adirondack chair’s popularity grew, becoming a beloved fixture in gardens, patios, and porches across North America.

Transition to Plastic: Modern Innovations

Adirondack chairs were crafted exclusively from wood for decades, typically using durable types like cedar, teak, and mahogany. While wooden Adirondack chairs are beautiful and timeless, they have certain drawbacks, such as regular maintenance to prevent weathering, rot, and insect damage.

The introduction of plastic materials revolutionised the Adirondack chair industry. Technological advances allowed manufacturers to create plastic chairs that retained the classic look of wood but offered significant durability, maintenance, and sustainability advantages.

Advantages of Plastic Adirondack Chairs

Durability: Plastic Adirondack chairs are incredibly durable and can withstand harsh weather conditions, including rain, snow, and intense sunlight. Unlike wood, plastic does not rot, splinter, or crack, making these chairs a long-lasting investment for any outdoor space.

Low Maintenance: One of the most significant benefits of plastic Adirondack chairs is their low maintenance requirements. They do not need to be painted, stained, or sealed and can be easily cleaned with soap and water. This makes them an ideal choice for busy homeowners who want stylish outdoor furniture without the hassle.

Eco-Friendly: Many plastic Adirondack chairs are made from recycled materials like high-density polyethylene (HDPE). Consumers can help reduce waste and promote sustainability by choosing recycled plastic chairs. These eco-friendly options provide the beauty of traditional Adirondack chairs while supporting environmental conservation.

Variety of Colours and Styles: Plastic Adirondack chairs come in various colours and styles, allowing homeowners to customise their outdoor spaces to match their personal tastes. From classic earth tones to vibrant hues, a plastic Adirondack chair suits every aesthetic.

Cost-Effective: While high-quality wooden Adirondack chairs can be expensive, plastic versions are often more affordable. They provide the same comfort and style at a fraction of the cost, making them accessible to a wider range of consumers.

Maintaining the Classic Design

Modern Adirondack chairs have stayed true to Thomas Lee’s original design principles despite the shift to plastic. The wide armrests, high back, and slanted seat remain vital features, ensuring the chairs offer the same level of comfort and relaxation as their wooden predecessors. Manufacturers have also developed advanced moulding techniques that replicate the natural wood grain, allowing plastic chairs to capture the aesthetic appeal of wood without the associated drawbacks.

The evolution of Adirondack chairs from wood to plastic represents a significant advancement in outdoor furniture design. By embracing modern materials, Adirondack chairs have maintained their classic charm while offering enhanced durability, low maintenance, eco-friendliness, and affordability. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, enjoying a sunny afternoon on the patio, or relaxing in your garden, plastic Adirondack chairs provide the perfect blend of tradition and innovation for any outdoor setting.