Nothing radiates nostalgia quite like a porch swing. Though simple in their design, they're powerful in the emotions they provoke, not least because they're so associated with traditonal family homes and, therefore, childhood memories. In my case, however, when I look at a porch swing, I think of all the celebrities who love this feature, the latest being Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos.
Though the couple famously resides on the Upper East Side, they have a winter home in Telluride, Colorado – the perfect setting for their traditonal porch swing. Painted red, to complement their home's wooden tones, it has a warming, nostalgic feel that looks just as good in December as it does in mid-summer.
Simply put, their arrangement emphasizes the power of a rope swing, an essential when designing a cottage porch, whether you live in the country or not.
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Inspired by the bright red piece on Kelly and Mark's porch, this swing is the perfect piece for getting the look. Handcrafted by skilled Amish artisans, each piece reflects exceptional quality and attention to detail for a refined finish that will look good, year after year.
The Acacia Two-Seater Swing, complete with its own sturdy rope, features a gently curved back for both style and support. Spacious enough to seat two adults, it’s the perfect piece to relax, unwind, and enjoy any indoor or outdoor area (but we suggest starting with the porch).
Nothing radiates nostalgia like this swing bench, perfect for a porch or terrace. Its elegant silhouette adds a touch of timeless style while offering a cozy spot to relax and unwind. Built to withstand sun, rain, and snow, this durable piece ensures lasting comfort and beauty through every season.
Peter Mortin, garden expert at Crane Garden Buildings, agrees. 'There’s something timeless about a porch swing – it’s an evocative focal point that instantly slows the pace of life,' he says.
Since summer has passed, it may seem like a strange time to invest in new outdoor furniture, but as Kelly and Mark remind us (in their winter-scene postcard), the appeal of a rope swing isn't limited to one season. Plus, the right swing will look just as beautiful in summer 2026 as it does this fall, so you can invest without worry.
'From balmy summer evenings spent with a cool drink to crisp fallTo mornings wrapped in a blanket, a swing offers a sense of rhythm and retreat that feels both nostalgic and grounding. Its charm lies in the way it bridges indoors and outdoors, giving you a gentle vantage point to enjoy your home and garden in every season,' Peter adds.
'That blend of comfort, movement and tradition is why porch swings never lose their appeal.'
To continue following Mark and Kelly's example, keep the rest of your porch minimalist, ensuring there's lots of uniterupted room to enjoy your swing without breaking anything. When a piece is this quaint and nostalgic, you don't any other acsessories to distract, after all.
