How patio furniture sets helped Americans relax in style
In the early 1940s, outdoor furniture was functional, but limited in scope. Think simple metal chairs or wooden benches parked on porches. But by the time the postwar boom kicked in, manufacturers began offering full sets of patio furniture designed to create entire outdoor living rooms. These sets often included coordinated chairs, chaises, tables and serving carts, made from durable materials like aluminum, wrought iron and vinyl-wrapped steel. Designs grew sleeker through the ’50s, with modern lines and bold colors that matched flower beds or poolside umbrellas.
By the 1960s, style and comfort went hand in hand. With more Americans moving to the suburbs, the backyard became a focal point for entertaining, and the patio set was often the centerpiece. Floral prints, citrus tones and mod silhouettes echoed the trends happening indoors, making it easy to blur the line between house and garden.
The 1970s continued the trend, but with even more emphasis on portability and versatility. Folding tables and stacking chairs allowed for easy rearranging or storage, and mesh tops became popular for their practicality and low maintenance. The look was still bold, often with sunburst palettes and playful shapes. The furniture was built to be used, whether you were hosting a barbecue or simply lounging with a magazine in hand.
Below, we’ve gathered a huge collection of photos and advertisements showing how vintage patio furniture sets evolved over several decades. From elegant wrought iron dining groups to colorful lounge setups, these images capture what outdoor relaxation looked like before plastic resin chairs took over.
Vintage patio furniture: 1940s red & white stripes
Vintage 1940s wrought iron backyard table with six chairs
White iron table & chairs overlooking a green valley
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The new outdoor furniture (1956)
Today’s new way of living has inspired a new American style of furniture, at home indoors and out. House & Garden magazine has named it Leisure Furniture.
Its ancestors were restricted to the porch, the patio, the pool or the garden, but the new style, while retaining all the outdoor ruggedness, has acquired a refinement of line and beauty of finish that suit any room in the house.
The designers have made ingenious use of metal, rattan, cane, bamboo, plastic — all materials that are tough yet can be molded into graceful shapes.
The result is furniture that is well proportioned, light in weight, admirably suited to leisure’s uses. There are correlated groups from which you can choose chairs, sofas, chaises, cocktail tables, end tables and serving carts to create complete decorating schemes.
Finishes in bright colors enable you to obtain the same color scheme in furniture that you planned for your flower beds.
Outdoors, as you will see, you can use pastels and bold accent colors to complement nature’s beauty.
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Woodard wrought iron cafe table & chairs, sofa and tables (1959)
Esther Williams for Meadowcraft patio furniture (1960)
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Vintage cast iron patio furniture from 1960
Old metal patio furniture from the 1960s
Retro patio furniture sets from 1968
Elegant white iron patio set from 1966
Retro patio sets with decorative garden umbrellas
Vintage patio furniture: Garden umbrellas
Redwood patio sets with flower print (1968)
Redwood with black wrought iron metal grilles – Supported vinyl upholstery on one side in turquoise, olive and white floral print; blue cotton duck on back.
Redwood backyard furniture with cushions in refreshing citrus colors
Retro ’60s patio sets in yellow and red
Yellow and white backyard vintage patio furniture (1966)
To match the outdoor dining set of yellow and orange woven plastic is a chaise lounge (aka chaise lounge), set on a surface of green and white pavers.
Old-fashioned white wicker garden furniture
Retro 1960s outdoor furniture
Sweet floral design on vintage patio furniture
A covered porch with pretty hanging purple wisteria
A garden luncheon with a view
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Yellow scallop shell-style seats
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Semi-circle outdoor sofa with green and yellow rose fabric
Elegant yellow & white striped outdoor furnishings
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A cozy seating arrangement for family relaxing or entertaining (1970s)
Enjoy it on the patio, a high-rise terrace or in the amusement room. Folding Settee seats 2 with ease; has vinyl padded armrests, shaped seat and back.
Folding Club Chairs are deluxe in every way. Seat and back are extra wide; arms are upholstered in weather-resistant vinyl. Shown, but not included in set: Coffee Table is ideal companion for all seating pieces and Stacking Tables are handy extras for entertaining; 14″ high, 16″ diameter.
Convert limited space into a delightful spot for relaxing or dining
Adjustable Terrace Table has a pedestal base which can be lowered to cocktail height. Folding Chairs boast smart curved lines; have the look of wrought iron with the advantages of sturdy tubular steel.
Terrace set for secluded garden spots
3-pc. Terrace Set is just made for use in those secluded spots in the garden, on the balcony or down by the beach. Made to stand up to outdoor use, but serves as an excellent choice for small indoor dining alcoves or apartment kitchens.
Adjustable Terrace Table moves easily down to 18″ cocktail height; has 30″ diameter top, pedestal base. Stacking Chairs offer contoured comfort, self-leveling feet, tubular arm rests.
Convert even limited space into a delightful spot for relaxing or dining. Adjustable Terrace Table has pedestal base which can be lowered to 18″ cocktail height and raised to dining height.
Cord-wrapped outdoor chairs for comfort
When it comes to elegance in casual furniture, Ames-Aire takes top honors every time. Resilient vinyl cord wrap offers amazing comfort. Plop on it, splash it, leave it outside in any weather … it won’t stretch or sag. Strong tubular steel frames have baked-on enamel finish. Available in Black frame/White cord, Avocado frame/Avocado cord, White frame/Citrus Lemon cord.
5-pc. Dining Set brings all the elegance of indoor dining outside . . . makes even the simplest meal seem extra¬ special. Round Umbrella Table is topped with 48″ diameter, tempered Ripple-Mist glass that’s as strong as it is beautiful;
Sturdy, stackable, Occasional Chair boasts contoured lines, full-cord wrap, self-leveling feet. Shown, but not included in set: Folding Serving Cart with 2 shelves, bottle well, swivel wheels.
Lawn Umbrella has alternating color panels, vinyl cover, 7′ spread, handy crank lift and tilt device. Chairs boast smart curved lines; have the look of wrought iron with the advantages of sturdy tubular steel.
Retro lounge sets make your backyard a showplace
Ames-Aire Lounge Groupings create an outdoor showplace that thrives on use. Just what the decorator ordered for poolside, sun deck or garden area.
Chaise Lounge (Model 2261) offers the utmost in comfort; adjusts to 4-positions from upright to full reclining; 74″ long by 24″ wide. Arm Chair (Model 2211) is contoured to fit body curves; seat is 22″ deep, arms are cord- wrapped.
Coffee Table (Model 2227) has a 30″ diameter Ripple-Mist glass top that’s tempered for durability; has cord-wrapped magazine shelf below. Round Table (Model 2917) serves as handy accessory; stacks for storage; 16″ diameter mesh top.
Serene vintage rooftop patio setup with yellow and coral colors
Sun loungers, ottoman and armchairs for poolside
Ames-Aire Lounge Groupings never scrimp when it comes to quality. Each piece made today must measure up tomorrow as well.
Deluxe Sun Lounger is a sun worshipper’s dream; lays completely flat or adjusts to 4 sit-up positions; 76″ long, 24″ wide. Arm Chair offers man-sized comfort with deep 22″ seat, sleek tapered back, self-leveling feet. Ottoman pulls up to any chair to serve as a foot rest; it also can be used as a table or stool.
5-piece dining set creates an ideal setting for entertaining
Decorative colors set the party mood, and guests love relaxing in such fashionable comfort. Continental Height Umbrella Table has 42″ diameter mesh top, strong double legs, hole and bracket for umbrella. Occasional Chairs are comfortable for dining as well as after-dinner conversation; have deep seat, cord-wrapped armrests.
Shown, but not included in set: Lawn Umbrella with vinyl laminate, alternating panels, automatic crank device.
Deck or terrace vintage outdoor furniture
3-pc. Terrace Set can make a wonderful hideaway for unwinding after a busy day. Adjustable Terrace Table goes from 18″ to 28″ high to serve everything from snacks to dinner. Stacking Chair features full cord wrap and contour-curved styling.
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3-piece terrace table and chair set
Serve up those intimate dinners for two in style. Just the right size for high-rise balconies. Adjustable Terrace Table (Model 2931) can be set at one height for dinner, then lowered to 18″ cocktail height for dessert and coffee; 30″ diameter mesh top; pedestal base. Occasional Chair (Model 2295) offers evening-long comfort with deep 20″ seat, corded arm rests, tapered back.
GENERAL HOUSEWARES CORPORATION is a still-growing “family” of companies with fine, old brand names. In the LEISURE PRODUCTS GROUP you’ll recognize Ames-Aire/Rid-Jid, Arlington House, Vogue Rattan, and Durham.
Each Group continues to produce the fine consumer products you’ve come to know and respect. In this catalog, you’ll recognize the furniture as quality and craftsmanship you’ve trusted for years. Its carefree beauty speaks for itself.
We invite you to experience the satisfaction of Ames-Aire and Rid-Jid Casual Furniture for 1971.
The mood is always sunny with striking AMES-AIRE Casuals
Here’s furniture that’s bright as a sunbeam and just as carefree! Have fun with it anywhere … on porch, patio, terrace or lawn; in sunroom, dining area, even the kitchen. Resilient vinyl cord offers amazing comfort; tubular steel frames provide strength.
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Outdoor furniture sets from the ’70s
Here’s outdoor furniture that’s hard to beat when it comes to styling, craftsmanship and durability. All pieces available with White, Avocado, or Pompeian Green baked-on enamel.
It puts on fashion airs that rival wrought iron, yet has all the advantages of rugged tubular steel construction . . . easy movability, popular prices, airy open mesh design, and most every piece folds for easy storage.
5-pc. Dining Set is as rugged as it is attractive. Versatile, too . . . looks impressive in a small backyard or by an elegant pool.
Folding Umbrella Table boasts 42″ diameter steel mesh top. Tapered legs fold all at once for quick set up. Folding Chair has basket styling with contoured back. Shown, but not included in set: Lawn Umbrella with 7′ spread, crank handle, multiple position tilt; with floral interior.
Folding Cart rolls on rubber tires; features 2 expanded metal trays with top bottle well. Stacking Table has 16″ diameter mesh top; pulls up anywhere; stacks to store. Chaise Lounge adjusts to 4-positions, rolls on large wheels.
Vinyl pads are available to fit Rid-Jid chaise lounge, settee and all chairs in Lime/Avocado floral print or Polka Dot. Chair and Settee pads only are reversible — Avocado with White dots on one side, White with Avocado dots on the other side.
5-pc. Dining Set is a superb choice for the porch, breakfast room or terrace. Folding Table is family-size with 30″ x 52″, mesh top and tapered legs that fold all at once for instant up or down. Folding Chairs are contoured for comfort and make excellent occasional chairs for use anywhere.
Shown, but not included in set: Folding Serving Cart can be such a help to the hostess for serving food, to the host for use as a bar. Has rubber-tired swivel wheels, 2 expanded metal shelves, handy bottle well on top.
5-pc. Dining Setis mighty hard to beat for graceful design coupled with amazing durability. Rugged, yet easy to move about tubular steel has look of wrought iron. 48″ Folding Umbrella Table features curved leg styling, hole and bracket for umbrella
Folding Chair is designed for comfortable dining, and has such elegant lines. Shown, but not included in set: Folding Serving Cart makes a handy accessory for any setting with 2 roomy shelves, top bottle well, easy-rolling swivel wheels, push handle.
3-piece chaise group with stacking chairs
3-pc. Chaise Group is a perfect starter set for that leisure-time retreat area at the cabin, by the garden or on the porch. Chaise Lounge has 4 adjustments from flat to upright; folds to store; is 72″ long with 22″ seating width. Stacking chairs are contoured for comfort; have self-leveling feet, tubular arm rests.
Shown, but not included in set: Rectangular Stacking tables hold beverages, magazines, snacks; measure 14″ by 18″. Vinyl Chaise Pad available in both Floral and Polka Dot as an accessory.
Spring things lounge pieces
Our new and exciting Spring Things were developed to bring a fresh-as-tomorrow look to today’s lifestyle. Their lilting free¬ form design enriches porch, patio or pool.
Resilient vinyl strap color contrasts with sturdy tubular steel frames that have baked-on finish. These beautiful chairs fold up flat for storage. Earth Brown frame/White strap or Spring Green frame/White strap.
Spring Things Lounge Pieces turn any outdoor area into an attractive spot for sunning or relaxing. Contour Sunlounger offers light n’ airy comfort for tanning.
Contour Folding Chair pleases everyone; an exclusive design lets it fold thin for easy storage. Stacking Stools make great extra seats or double as an ottoman. 18″ high Coffee Table has 33″ Ripple Mist glass top that’s tempered for strength, is easy to clean; curved tubular legs add a free-form look.
Outdoor dining set with sun umbrella
5-pc. Dining Set provides a fresh new look that makes any outdoor dining occasion more fun. Set it up on the sun deck, terrace or lawn; in town or at the lake.
Umbrella Table is continental height with 42″ diameter steel mesh top and new double leg styling for added strength and beauty. Contour Folding Chair has unique, exclusive fold-up design; folds with ease for toting or storage. Shown, but not included in set: Lawn Umbrella has 5-position tilt and crank lift device.
Retro patio furniture you can still buy today
- ALL-WEATHER PATIO FURNITURE: Made from durable steel, this outdoor glider patio set is designed to withstand the elements. The powder-coated finish protects the metal from UV rays, rust, and harsh...
- RETRO THROWBACK: This vintage charm of the glider sofa and patio chairs shines through with their vibrant turquoise gloss finish. The seat backs feature a clamshell design with decorative grooves and...
- RELAX OUTDOORS: The patio glider features a smooth glide rocking mechanism, while the outdoor chairs feature a cantilever base with a subtle recline.
- BUILT TO LAST: Made from durable steel, this outdoor chair is designed to withstand the elements. The powder-coated finish protects the metal from UV rays, rust, and harsh weather.
- RETRO THROWBACK: This outdoor metal chair brings vintage charm to life with its vibrant aqua gloss finish and round back featuring decorative grooves.
- RELAX OUTDOORS: Perfect for lounging, this chair features a cantilever base with a slight flex for added comfort.
- ALL-WEATHER PATIO FURNITURE: Made from durable steel, this outdoor glider is designed to withstand the elements. The powder-coated finish protects the metal from UV rays, rust, and harsh weather.
- RETRO THROWBACK: This small outdoor sofa’s vintage charm shines through with its bright red gloss finish. The back features a clamshell design with decorative grooves and the seat is contoured for...
- RELAX OUTDOORS: With seating for up to two people and a smooth glide rocking mechanism, this outdoor couch is a great spot to unwind.
- BUILT TO LAST: Made from durable steel, this outdoor glider is designed to withstand the elements. The powder-coated finish protects the metal from UV rays, rust, and harsh weather.
- RETRO THROWBACK: This small outdoor sofa’s vintage charm shines through with its vibrant turquoise gloss finish. The back and seat feature a unique basketweave design, enhancing the retro vibe while...
- RELAX OUTDOORS: With seating for up to two people and a smooth glide rocking mechanism, this outdoor couch is a great spot to unwind.
- BUILT TO LAST: Made from durable steel, these outdoor rocking chairs are designed to withstand the elements. The powder-coated finish protects the metal from UV rays, rust, and harsh weather.
- RETRO THROWBACK: Each outdoor metal chair brings vintage charm to life with bright red gloss finishes and round backs featuring decorative grooves.
- RELAX OUTDOORS: Perfect for lounging, this chair set features slanted seats so you can recline on smooth metal rockers.
- [Sink Into Its Coziness] With its ergonomic 118° backrest angle and 29.1" wide seat, this outdoor chair set is your personal comfort zone. Just lean back, cross your legs, and let all your stress...
- [Effortless Assembly] With our comprehensive instructions and included tool, setting up your cozy outdoor seating couldn't be easier. In just a few steps, you'll be ready to sit back and relax!
- [Elegant Design] Experience modern elegance with our unique shell-like structure. Its airy design and simple geometric lines make this patio furniture set a harmonious match for various styles
- ALL-WEATHER PATIO FURNITURE: Made from sturdy steel, this retro outdoor chair set is designed to withstand the elements. The weather-resistant powder-coated finish is UV and rust-resistant.
- RETRO STYLE: Enhance your outdoor space with a touch of nostalgia using this retro patio furniture set. The pastel blue satin finish on the chairs and side table add vintage charm to your patio,...
- LOUNGE IN COMFORT: Each chair features a cantilever base for a subtle recline, while the sturdy patio table adds a convenient spot for drinks or a good book. The table has a weight limit of 100 lbs.
- BUILT TO LAST: Made from durable steel, this 3-piece chair set is designed to withstand the elements. The powder-coated finish protects the metal from UV rays, rust, and harsh weather.
- RETRO THROWBACK: The outdoor chairs bring vintage charm to life with their delicate pastel pink gloss finish and decorative cutouts.
- RELAX OUTDOORS: Each chair features a cantilever base for a subtle recline, while the sturdy side table adds a convenient spot for drinks or a good book.
