Apparently my “Southern” is coming out again. As soon as the weather warms up each Spring, I long for a sunny front porch, a cold glass of iced tea, and a cozy porch swing!
Growing up, my grandmother (a UK transplant, funny enough) had a house with one of those quintessential American front porches than are just shy of Heaven. The space, which ran the full width of the house, was painted (naturally) with a ceiling of “haint blue” and featured a jumble of quirky mismatched furnishings, including a porch swing. As a child, it was one of my favorite places to play!
Although my current home does not boast a charming front porch, I still regularly pin dozens of aspirational photos of front porches on my Pinterest boards. And, I’ve lost track of the number of times I’ve stood longingly in front of my house, mentally calculating just how such an addition could possibly be made!
Because a porch swing requires between 26 and 36 inches of clearance on both the front and back to prevent it from hitting the wall, my postage stamp sized back porch isn’t an option for a swing either. But I am nothing if not determined. So, I’ve been searching for some alternatives to give the back porch a touch of that lazy Sunday feeling.
No Space for a Swing? Try a Front Porch Glider
In addition to a front porch swing, my grandmother also had an ancient glider, which was often in danger of tipping over when the kids got a bit too wild. Of course, the new gliders are far safer (even for crazy kids!). As a swing alternative, it’s not perfect, but baring a major renovation, it’s likely the closest I’ll be able to come.
Some quick online sleuthing revealed that porch gliders are very much in evidence. And because they don’t require nearly as much space as a swing, or professional installation, they can be used anywhere from a small apartment patio, to a townhouse backyard, to a proper porch.
The Outdoor Glider Loveseat is a 2-seater wicker loveseat that has a concealed glider mechanism under the front apron! So, you get the style of a wicker seat, but the function of a glider. The all weather “wicker” is man made, which allows it to withstand the outdoors. And, the frame is anti-corrosion powder coated steel for durability.
This glider even comes with neutral beige cushions, which I really appreciate (outdoor cushions can be pricey!). Retail $369.00
This Amish-made Mission Glider in white is just about classic as it gets! Handmade by Amish craftsmen, this glider is made of heavy-duty kiln-dried, pressure treated pine. So, it’s built to last (and last!). In fact, it’s considered commercial grade construction, so it’s perfect for resorts, vacation homes or Air B&Bs.
The “Mission style” is a timeless. And, the white stain ensures that this will pair beautifully with seasonally themed cushions and pillows (pink for spring, blue for summer, rust for autumn and cherry red for winter?). Retail $445.00
Finally, the Bates Retro Metal Outdoor Loveseat Glider is the ultimate throwback to my childhood (and maybe yours too!). This looks exactly how I remember my grandmother’s glider, down to the snazzy turquoise paint.
Also available in rich navy or fire engine red, this is a statement piece for any space. It’s built to last with sturdy steel construction, plus a weather-resistant powder-coated finish. Retail: $306.22
Do you have a favorite? Let me know in the comments!
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Named one of the Top 50 Beauty Blogs in the World by RebateZone, Susan Said… WHAT?! is your guide to a life filled with style. From must-have fashion, handbags, jewelry and accessories, to gorgeous gardens and gardening tips, stunning interior design, plus the latest products and ideas for chic parties, weddings and events, you’ll find it here. Susan Conforte McNeill is an author and entrepreneur, as well as the co-founder of the Delaware based literacy organization Success Won’t Wait!