Swing Into National Hammock Day

July 22 is National Hammock Day. In terms of silly holidays that were likely made up by retailers, this is one I really can get behind. There is nothing like swaying on a hammock on a lazy day. However, hammocks were not always associated with chillaxing. Their history goes back at least a thousand years, with likely origins in South and Central America. They were first made out of bark from the hamak tree and then later from sisal; they kept people more protected from the creepy-crawlies on the ground. Today, in even the most modest of homes in some countries, a hammock is a must-have for sleeping and sitting.

Hammocks were also once common in sleeping quarters on naval ships, where there wasn’t room for bunks. They kept soldiers safely swaying on rough seas. So today if you decide to swing and nap at the same time, feel grateful you aren’t trying to avoid a snake or getting some shut-eye on a ship’s gun deck. Here are 20 favorite dreamy hammock shots from around the world.

Ideal hammock. This is exactly how I envision enjoying a hammock — traditional-style on a porch, bum hanging down, reading with an ocean view.


Posted for two. The tall posts and arrangement of these hammocks make the comfy spot a striking element in the landscape, primitive and modern at once.


Traditional Ecuadoran. Mother, photographer and Houzz contributor Julie Ranee uses this loft space in her farmhouse for home-schooling. She’s found a prime use for the hammock she bought in Ecuador more than 20 years ago. Hung indoors, it’s a favorite spot for reading.


Romantic. Crochet suitable for an antique canopy bed, rose fabric plucked from an English cottage and a spot in a flower garden make this hammock a romantic heaven.


Contemporary. The undulating shape of this wicker hammock is ergonomic and futuristic. It’s in keeping with the architecture of the home and garden.

More information on this hammock


To infinity and beyond! Speaking of futuristic, this three-person hammock is very Gilligan’s Island–meets–The Jetsons. The Infinity Hammock from Trinity Hammocks is not only an outdoor relaxation station, but serves as a sculptural conversation starter.


A burst of color in the garden. Bright orange gives this slip of a hammock a big presence among the mature trees and green and silver plants.


Superplush. This fine-feathered nest is an extra-comfy indoor spot. One might even take a note from the Central and South Americans and use it for overnights.


Space saving. Traditional hammocks do not require a wide berth — they crinkle right up into a narrow sling when unoccupied. If you’re nervous about a hammock’s hogging too much indoor space when not in use, you also can easily unclip one end and hang both ends from one anchored loop.

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Space taking. In a cavernous space like a converted barn, larger-scale elements are necessary. Not only is there plenty of space to swing to and fro here, but the cheerfully striped hammock adds a pleasing slash of color to the open plan.


Upright. Seat hammocks are great for a more upright experience and can also take on some serious reclining. This pair is great for swinging next to your best friend and enjoying the bay views.


Of course, just because it’s upright, it won’t necessarily prevent one from nodding off.

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Accent for a covered porch. In the town of Oak Bluffs in Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts, porches bedecked in carved details are a must. A shaded hammock perch makes the most of the covered space.


Built for napping. Equipped with a plush mattress and neck-saving bolster pillows, this hammock was made for catching a few Z’s on a summer afternoon. This idea has evolved into full-on swinging beds.


A group hang. When I was a kid, three of us would pile into the hammock in our woods and make it swing back and forth like crazy. Usually this ended with the hook coming out of the tree and three of us on the ground with very sore tailbones.

For a calmer group, a large hammock can serve as a conversation pit that gently rocks its occupants.


Seriously ready for woodland naps. Outfitted with a quilt, pillows and even a stump of a side table, this hammock is properly bedecked for a snooze over the ferns.

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Cabin style. Add some patchwork and plaid accoutrements if your hammock is part of a log cabin property.


Hanging poolside. I’ve often dreamed of a hammock placed so that I could just roll off and into the water. Does the splash in this photo mean someone just did that?


Hammock-inspired design. Though not technically a hammock, this netted loft ceiling certainly takes cues from hammock design.

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I hope everyone can enjoy a little to and fro time today. If you’re setting up a hammock, check out the nitty-gritty details like how to hang it properly.

More: Find hammocks in the Products section

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