6 Ways to Add Shade to Your Outdoor Living
Enjoying your outdoor living space can be a challenge on sunny Minnesota days. You want to soak up the warm weather but still escape the sun when needed. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to add shade to your backyard, creating a cool, comfortable, and luxurious retreat. Here are six ideas to help you make the most of your outdoor space.
1. Simple Umbrellas
Umbrellas are a simple but versatile solution. They can be paired with a table to provide shade while dining or chatting, or they can stand alone as a portable solution. Freestanding patio umbrellas can be moved around to follow where you lounge and often offer larger coverage than a standard table umbrella. This makes them perfect for creating a shaded seating area without a permanent structure.
2. Fully Shaded Cabanas
Cabanas offer a private, stylish retreat in your backyard. Perfect for poolside lounging or a quiet spot to relax, they provide shade and comfort while creating an intimate space for reading, napping, or entertaining.
Related Content: Cabanas, Pergolas & Pavilions: What Each Adds to Your Space
3. Shaded Swimming Pool Pergolas
For a luxurious and functional touch, consider adding a shaded pergola over or near your pool. Pool pergolas provide a cool retreat from the sun while maintaining an open, airy feel. They can be designed with elegant slats, offering both style and comfort while still letting air flow. It’s an ideal way to enjoy your pool without worrying about the harsh Minnesota sun.
4. Private Gathering Pavilions
Pavilions are similar to pergolas but include a full roof for complete protection from the sun and rain. They’re perfect for outdoor kitchens and dining areas, allowing you to entertain comfortably no matter the weather. If your priority is consistent shade for gatherings or dining, a pavilion is an elegant and practical solution.
5. Extendable Awnings
Extendable awnings provide flexible shade for patios and outdoor living areas. These can be stationary or retractable, with many modern electric options that extend or retract at the push of a button. Awnings are durable, long-lasting, and a perfect choice for homeowners who want to adjust the coverage depending on the sun and weather.
Bonus: Landscaped Waterfalls and Ponds
A landscaped waterfall or pond surrounded by tall, shaded trees and lush foliage can create a tranquil backyard retreat while adding cooling effects. While this doesn’t provide shade per se, having these water features helps cool the nearby air, which helps you comfortably enjoy your backyard space.
Explore Fire and Water Features
Create a Shaded, Luxurious Outdoor Space
With the right design and building partner, you can get the shaded, luxurious outdoor space of your dreams. Whether you envision a gorgeous pergola with delicate climbing flowers or a fully covered cabana with a dining space, our team at Outdoor Innovations Landscaping can make it happen.
Outdoor Innovations Landscaping creates elevated backyards for homeowners in Minnesota. From in-ground pools to luxurious grilling stations to outdoor living rooms, we do it all. Explore our past projects and get a quote online to make your dream backyard a reality.
