Made in the Shade, the Modern Way
I have an almost reptilian affinity for the sun. On days when most people run for shade, I slather on the SPF and drag my chaise longue into the warmest, sunniest spot I can find. Maybe it’s because I’m always cold, or maybe I’m just crazy, but I’ve never been one to spend a warm afternoon lazing in the shade.
Until now.
We’re fortunate that our home has a spacious, sunny deck. Until last year two large eucalyptus trees on a neighboring property diffused the light, satisfying my craving for rays while providing the perfect amount of cooling, dappled shade. Over the winter one of those trees fell and nearly hit another neighbor’s house. Fortunately, no one was hurt, and there was no property damage, but our neighbors were worried they wouldn’t get so lucky the second time and took the remaining tree down.
The result: My deck is now blindingly hot. And while I may enjoy an hourlong roasting, I’m finding myself running back inside to avoid being burned. While the simple solution would be to add an umbrella, we’d need a large one to shade our space, and we’re worried it will significantly block our view when folded up.
So I’ve been thinking of creative ways to create shade while honoring our home’s modern aesthetic. Here are the eight best ideas I’ve found.
1. Add a retractable awning. The idea of an awning may call to mind a cheerfully striped traditional shade, but these days more modern options abound, including high-tech versions that are automatically raised and retracted depending on weather conditions.
Bonus: This option also helps shade windows, which keeps the house cooler and saves on energy costs.
2. Go retro with a sunshade. A disc-shaped midcentury-style sunshade is delicate and unobtrusive, blocking the sun in areas where you may not have space for an umbrella.
It’s especially great in spaces like this one, where a bulky umbrella stand would’ve partially blocked the view and separated conversational groups.
3. Say ahoy to shade sails. Shade sails make a sculptural statement while blocking up to 95 percent of harmful UV rays. They can be mounted via existing walls or poles, making them a versatile solution for a variety of spaces. Use a single shade or layer them — as in this custom design — for a more dramatic look.
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Made in the Shade, the Modern Way
