Design 101 - Creating Shade in Your Outdoor Space

Steve Martino Landscape Architect - Las Palmas

With the many creative and decorative shapes and sizes of umbrellas, pavilions and shade sails now available we have been surprised that most residential outdoor spaces still feature only a table umbrella.

So we contacted Director of Marketing Marie Hoyle from Caravita, who manufactures luxury umbrellas, sails and pavilions to get an industry expert’s opinion.  “Homeowners may not know of the many options available to them or understand that shade should be part of their overall space planning. So they need to consider how are they going to use their outdoor space and what is their overall shade goal. Commercial installations are where you find the most creative styles. Homeowners can easily translate these looks to their own backyards.”

Steve Martino Landscape Architect - Las Palmas

Steve Martino Landscape Architect - Las Palmas

Hotel MayaMarie added that “we try and steer people away from using only an umbrella through the table. Unless it tilts or swings it’s only useful when the sun is directly overhead and only covers the table area. So we encourage customers to consider larger umbrellas which can provide shade for an entire outdoor space.”

The type of mounting base used can provide greater shade flexibility. “Some customers will use multiple in-the-ground bases or surface mounted bases placed strategically around their outdoor space. They can then use a variety of umbrellas or move one umbrella from station to station when shade is needed.”

Custom designed shade sails that use ropes and cables to suspend above an entire outdoor space can be a real problem-solver when floor space is too valuable to devote to an umbrella base.

Grace Bay ClubJanet Rosenberg + AssociatesElegant pavilions or gazebos with side curtains are great for creating “private suites” for lounging furniture, a dining area or spa center. They can establish a decorative mood or setting that you can change whenever you choose. These pieces are portable and can be taken down quickly if needed and they offer instant privacy.

Keep all of these points in mind the next time you visit a resort or outdoor restaurant and you may come home with some ideas that will allow you to recreate your outdoor space with lots of shady characters.


Photo Resources
Steve Martino Landscape Architect
Hotel Maya Long Beach
Grace Bay Club Turks and Caicos
Janet Rosenberg + Associates