A Guide to the Best of Southern California : HANDMADE : Time to Recline

The Adirondack chair, invented at the turn of the century, has become synonymous with graceful living--picnics on the lawn, cool drinks and a bit of polo before an afternoon nap. This probably doesn’t describe your average summer day in the cost-conscious 1990s, but at least you can get these comfortable outdoor chairs at a practical price.

Ciro Coppa, who makes wood screen doors at his small San Pedro factory, began making the chairs a few years ago as a way to use scrap pine. Now, the unfinished furniture, which he sells in kit form, makes up more than half his business. The classic Adirondack sells for $69.99, a good deal less than most chairs of that design, although other companies do offer classier woods.

Coppa Woodworking, 1231 Paraiso Ave., San Pedro; (310) 548-5332.