Outdoor life Deck chairs date back to the late 1800s, recalling the golden era of transatlantic sea travel. Also called sun loungers or beach chairs, they were once associated only with cruise ships.
Typically made of slatted wood or plastic, the deck chair is enjoying its moment in the sun, as designers turn this basic outdoor furniture staple into a statement piece.
American furniture brand Coalesse's (coalesse.com; ships internationally) Emu Round lounge chair (below; US$1,195) offers a snug fit and comes in a multitude of colours.
At Vancouver-based Gallant & Jones (gallantandjones.com; ships internationally), the new crop of deck chairs (US$175 to US$350) is inspired by classic English striped versions. The company uses responsibly harvested wood, eco-friendly teak, oil yacht stain and fabric slings in vivid patterns.
Bearing in mind that silhouette is everything, French designer Pierre Lescop (pierrelescop .com) has created the Equilibre (Euro700/HK$6,900). Made of natural fibres and available in fun colours, it is a long, curved, fluid seat with a broad base that rests on the ground.
The Eoli chair by French designer Samy Aitali (aitali.com; price on application) is reminiscent of a wave. It is made of acrylic and available in shades such as brilliant green.