In any successful architectural project, it is essential to provide users with a comfortable outdoor space. At any time of the year, modular shade structures can create spaces that protect from wind, dust, sun, rain, snow, and noise in a light, flexible and aesthetically pleasing way.

With this in mind, what should we look for when choosing shade structures for outdoor spaces? Below, we’ve provided you with top recommendations.

  1. The shade structure must effectively resist climatic conditions

A good structure should allow users to enjoy the outdoors in all weather conditions: resisting gusts of wind and precipitation, operate as a barrier against dust, dampen noise, and include UV protection, among others. For instance, some structures types can withstand wind gusts of up to 150 miles per hour.

  1. It must maximize the use of space according to the support points, shape, and the size of the shade structure

There are various options that allow us to shade the exterior without hindering or restricting the living space. Umbrella shade sails of a square, rectangle, hexagonal, or octagonal shape – all with a single point of support – can effectively cover large areas by joining different units and distancing their pillars.

Cantilever-type shade sail structures, on the other hand, rise through two support points and fly over the space so as to not interrupt the activities that take place underneath. They work very well in walkways, bus stop seating, bleachers and parking lots.

  1. Choose flexible shade structures

If your outdoor space is designed to be used for various functions, we recommend that you choose a semi-permanent shade sail that is easy to open and close. Umbrella type shade sail structures can be quickly opened and retracted, and some include the option to pivot 360 degrees, orienting the shade when and where required.