the french garden chair

I have always admired those friends who know how to 'furnish' their gardens.  You know what I mean: the seat that is placed in just the right position to enjoy the fragrance of a rose bower, the bench that catches the sunshine at the end of the day, or that invites you to pause and admire the view.

I love the slightly ramshackled garden seat.  The one that stays outside all season, and who calls my name on a long summer afternoon, encouraging me to wander down, a good book and a couple of cushions in hand.

Just love these 're-structured' chairs for the garden, available here

When life is busy, the sight of a garden chair gives the comforting feeling that time can be made available to rest.

I often come across old garden furniture in the flea markets here, and I'm looking for some new bits for my place this year.  What I would love is a meridienne, an old iron daybed that could be left out year round, and dressed up for the summer.

Here are a few of my favourite chairs,  tried and tested ...

I wondered what style you prefer?  Do you look for practicality, and like your chairs to look pristine, or do you think a little rust adds character?

All these pictures have been taken over the past year: in Normandy and in the South of France.  Which do you like best?