Outdoor living
When it comes to sun protection, it’s time to go with the flow, says Kate Grubb of Suncraft.
What’s new in shade solutions?
The latest trend in sun protection is an emphasis on ambience, both indoors and outdoors. Architects and homeowners are moving away from more rigid permanent structures and towards soft, flowing shade solutions such as wave-shaped shades, outdoor curtains and retractable shade
sails. The retractable nature of these shades allows the user to preserve natural light and maintain unobstructed views when not in use.
What’s driving this new direction?
Its blend of elegance, flexibility and connection to nature. By moving towards softer, flowing shapes and retractable designs, these shade solutions introduce a sense of fluidity and warmth that enhance the ambience of any space – indoors or out.
The adaptability of retractable shades is especially appealing, allowing homeowners to balance shade with natural light and unobstructed views. This flexibility is ideal for creating multifunctional outdoor spaces that feel open and inviting rather than enclosed.
There’s a growing desire for outdoor spaces that feel like seamless extensions of our interiors. Smart technology has also influenced this shift, with sensors and automation making these shades more responsive to changing weather conditions and easier to control.
The trend speaks to a broader lifestyle shift toward wellness, where natural light, fresh air and adaptable spaces are highly valued for enhancing our day-to- day experiences.
How can we get on board?
This trend can be adopted at any stage of the build process, even after completion, making it versatile for both new projects and existing spaces. Choosing materials suited to the climate and opting for UV-resistant, durable fabrics ensures these shade solutions maintain their quality and style over time. This softer aesthetic appeals to a wide range of users. Homeowners looking to create an inviting outdoor living area, hospitality venues like restaurants and resorts wanting to offer stylish and comfortable shaded areas for guests, and commercial spaces seeking a modern, welcoming atmosphere can all benefit from this approach.
It is integrated into all our current and upcoming projects, leveraging our 3D simulation software to design adaptable, visually appealing shading solutions. This method has not only been popular among our clients but has also earned us recognition – recently, we won two national and two international awards for our projects.
One crucial insight is that it often only takes a small change to transform an outdoor area into a light, airy, sun-protected space. All you need is a starting point. Simply send Suncraft any photos or plans, and we’d be happy to come up with ideas tailored to your space. With flexible shading options, even a simple adjustment can make a significant impact, enhancing comfort and style outdoors.