Made in the Shade
Stylish shelters ward off the sun while helping you stay—and look—cool.
1. The Crescent lounge is a decadent oasis of plump pillows, sheer draperies and a vented umbrella top, providing cool comfort. $13,545; tuuci.com. 2. The asymmetrical Vizor umbrella has an extended side that blocks the sun any time of day; simply rotate it as the sun rises and sets. $895; dfiro.com. 3. A leaf-shaped shade of hand-woven synthetic wicker arches lazily over the Elitre double lounger. $2,399; frontgate.com. 4. The Voyage Soleil chair’s design draws from the “sun chairs” of the Victorian era, which were designed to preserve fashionable pale complexions. $1,795; jardinsenfleur.com. 5. The Campaign Grande double chaise by Brown Jordan is a study in canopied comfort. $9,300-$12,350; Apenberry’s in College Park and Robb & Stucky, Orlando. 6. The striped acrylic fabric of the Ventura umbrella blocks 98 percent of the sun’s UV rays. 10-foot umbrella with base, $729; Crate & Barrel, Mall at Millenia.
When the summer sun gets to be too much of a good thing, there’s no need to retreat indoors. Instead, incorporate sophisticated shading into your alfresco décor.
Add an awning to cool a patio, use a freestanding umbrella to cast a shadow over seating and dining areas, or make a shade-giving structure, such as a gazebo or pergola, part of your outdoor environment. Such furniture manufacturers as Emu and Brown Jordan even offer individual seating and lounging pieces with built-in shade.
Today’s super-durable outdoor fabrics come in just about every color and pattern imaginable, taking shade providers beyond merely functional to beautifully fashionable. On this and the facing page are some ways to keep your cool, from innovative umbrellas to fanciful furnishings.
