Whether you’re planning on hosting a garden party, firing up the barbeque, or simply relaxing with a good book, the last thing you want is sweltering heat ruining your fun this summer. That’s why we’ve compiled the very best stylish and practical garden sun shade ideas to help you keep cool and make the most of your outdoor space no matter the temperature.
From installing a luxury garden awning to getting creative with your gardening tactics, discover how to beat the heat and create a beautiful outdoor oasis with these inspiring garden shade options.
8 beautiful sun shade garden ideas
No matter how much outdoor space you have available, there’s a garden shade option to suit everyone among these stylish ideas.
1. Stay cool with a patio awning
An electric patio awning is an excellent addition to any outdoor space, providing you with complete shelter from the sun whenever you need it. At just the touch of a button, an electric awning can be extended to provide shade or retracted neatly back into its cassette if you want to soak up some sunshine.
To create an attractive and inviting space that’s perfect for summer, choose a vibrant colour for your awning fabric that reflects the sun well, such as yellow, orange, pink, or lilac. At Open Space Concepts, we have over 250 fabrics and colours for you to choose from, so you certainly won’t be short of options!
2. Enjoy a stylish modern pergola
A modern pergola is not only great for providing shade but also for creating an inviting and sophisticated focal point in your garden, making it one of our favourite garden sun shade ideas. A pergola can be constructed anywhere in your garden, which makes it perfect for creating a defined zone for relaxing, entertaining, or dining.
Most modern aluminium pergolas come with high-tech features that allow you to enjoy your outdoor space to the fullest, such as retractable louvered roofs, adjustable side shades, and LED mood lighting.
3. Plant trees strategically
Use trees to create a shaded area in your garden for a more natural and sustainable approach. Plant them strategically around your outdoor area, taking into account the sun’s path and your desired shade coverage.
This approach will require regular pruning and maintenance to ensure healthy growth and shape the canopies to your liking, but the results are definitely worth it. Not only will you be able to enjoy the added shade, but you’ll also be supporting local wildlife and enhancing your garden’s natural beauty.
4. Create an outdoor dining area
If you want to enjoy more meals out in the sunshine this summer, a shaded outdoor dining area is just what you need. Retractable pergolas are great for providing shade when dining alfresco – the roof can be opened or closed as desired, allowing for a more enjoyable dining experience.
Pergolas can be constructed as freestanding or lean-to structures, so think carefully about where you want your outdoor dining area to be located. A dining area connected to the home is a practical option as you won’t have to carry your plates and cutlery very far, but a dining area built further down the garden can create a beautiful focal point and make eating outdoors feel more special.
5. Add a garden parasol
For small outdoor seating areas, a garden parasol is a great way to provide some much-needed shade. Not only will it provide a relaxing lounge area for you and your loved ones to cool off on hot days, but it can also help protect plants and other garden accessories from the sun’s harsh UV rays.
While parasols do not provide nearly as much coverage as patio awnings, they are fairly easy to move around depending on which areas need the most shade.
6. Relax under a glass veranda
A glass veranda makes a stylish addition to any patio area and provides the perfect covered space to entertain family and friends. This is a great garden shade option if you don’t want the sun to be completely blocked out but still want protection from harsh UV rays, as the glazed glass roof prevents direct sunlight from entering.
Glass verandas are extremely durable and designed to blend seamlessly with any facade, enhancing the value and appeal of your home.
7. Renovate a garden shed
If you’re looking for a DIY project this summer, turning a run-down garden shed into a beautiful garden sun shelter is a great way to keep cool. Sprucing up an old shed can be as simple as giving it a fresh lick of paint, or you might want to go all out with new windows and a roof renovation.
Once the foundations are set, you can transform your shed into a sheltered outdoor gathering space by adding comfortable garden seating, lighting, and decor such as rugs and cushions. Choose materials, colours, and finishes that complement your existing outdoor design choices to ensure your new shelter integrates seamlessly into your garden!
8. Build a zen garden room
Need a sheltered space to relax and unwind away from the hustle and bustle of your home? A zen garden room could be perfect for you.
These sophisticated garden rooms blur the boundaries between the indoors and outdoors, allowing you to enjoy the peace and beauty of your garden while still being in an enclosed space.
The best thing about garden rooms is how versatile they are. Create a secluded retreat for relaxation, a creative haven to pursue your artistic endeavours, or a dedicated space for your workout routine – the possibilities are endless.
Our garden rooms are built with panoramic glass roofs to let you soak up the sunshine, with smart sun blinds installed to provide shade whenever you need it.
Create the perfect shaded garden space with Open Space Concepts
Feeling inspired by these garden sun shade ideas? At Open Space Concepts, we specialise in the design and installation of beautiful bespoke outdoor living structures, made to keep you sheltered from the elements and enhance your enjoyment of your outdoor space.
With over 30 years of experience, you can count on us to deliver a sophisticated and practical structure that meets your every need.
Get in touch with the team today and we’ll help you find the perfect outdoor living structure for your space.
