Having a modest outdoor space does not mean you should be limited to what you can do with it. Whether it consists of a courtyard, terrace, balcony or roof garden, humble spaces can often force you to be a little more inventive and creative. In addition to this, a smaller garden can mean less maintenance and therefore more time spent enjoying it!
An awning is essentially a fabric canopy that attaches to the side of the house and extends and retracts using spring-tensioned folding arms. This type of shading solution is a straightforward and inexpensive way to transform the exterior of any residential property.
A Growing Trend
During the COVID-19 pandemic, we were forced to re-evaluate the function of our homes and gardens, with many of us choosing to invest more in our outdoor spaces than ever before. A survey carried out by Hamptons – “The Home Experts” – revealed that 78% of respondents invest financially in their garden every year, with 61% of those that moved home in the last two years stating that outdoor space was a very important factor when choosing a property.
Because of this, awnings are continuing to grow in popularity as more homeowners are seeking quality products that allow them to utilise their garden by helping blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living.
The Benefits
Awnings not only offer additional privacy – particularly in built-up areas – but they provide instant shade from sunlight; both heat and glare (bright light), outstanding UV protection (typically 97.5% minimum UV block) and shelter from unexpected rain showers, whilst also withstanding wind speeds of up to 31mph (in some cases).
They also offer a much-needed cooling effect to the indoor room adjacent to where they are positioned, ensuring a comfortable living space during both the summer and winter months, whilst filtering UV rays to stop furniture from fading.
Flexible Use
High-end retractable awnings are widely considered to be more versatile than other shading systems including gazebos and parasols due to their ease of use, as well as the adequate shelter, privacy and instant style they add to any property.
Operation can either be manual (using a handle) or motorised (using a remote control), or even an app on your smartphone. A motorised awning that can be adjusted at just the touch of a button – with any add-ons such as lighting and heating – is the ideal solution for those who love to live life outdoors.
Our Managing Director, Stuart Dantzic, said: “Both practical and stylish, retractable awnings can be designed and built to your exact requirements, no matter the size of your outdoor space and façade or what you plan to use it for – whether it be alfresco dining, entertaining guests or relaxing.
“Installing a retractable awning will allow your garden, courtyard, terrace or balcony to be utilised throughout the seasons – even more so when equipped with additional accessories such as LED lighting and infra-red heating – ensuring a cosy and pleasant environment all year round.”
At Caribbean Blinds, we offer a customised design service and are able to meet any specific requirements you may have by working to a bespoke brief. To find out more about our premium range of retractable awnings, contact one of our knowledgeable experts on 0344 800 1947.
