Our people are our most important capital. We’re proud of our team and what they achieve every day. And now as part of our planned expansion, we currently have a number of job vacancies (detailed below) we’re looking to fulfil.

With Britain last year enjoying it’s second sunniest year since records began in 1929 and climate change meaning long hot summers are now becoming the norm, sales of external shading have sorn over the past several years, with Caribbean Blinds enjoying growth of 60% over the past 24 months, with similar levels of growth projected going forward.

We don’t usually post Birthday messages on our blog, however, we felt the need to highlight a certain individual who is always behind a lens capturing all the great images and videos used in our catalogues and online across our websites and social media platforms. He’s the face that’s never seen, behind the camera showcasing our team and products in action so as today is his Birthday it’s the ideal opportunity to put him in the spotlight.

With Christmas now a distant memory, it’s time to start thinking about Summer and how you can make the most from your Home and Garden. 

Christmas is almost here (just 4 days to go) and after a busy and extended Summer period that saw temperatures some of the hottest on record, our team deserve a well earned break. Our factory and offices will close today Friday 21st December 2018 at 4pm and re-open at 9am on Thursday 3rd January 2019.  

It has been a great year for Caribbean Blinds as we have been involved in some amazing projects and our Digital Team have been put hard at work gathering content to highlight our workmanship to inspire our clients for their future ventures. This stunning imagery will be used next year on our new brochure and website that we will be expecting to launch Easter next year. These are going to important milestones for Caribbean blinds in 2019 as we push further to progress and give our clients an enhanced experience. Next year we will be pushing to collate more rich content so for now here is a highlight of our favourite photoshoots in 2018.

Since the launch of our Prestige Outdoor Living Pod™ last year we have seen this quickly become the model of choice for garden landscapes across England, whether that be residential or commercial, the sliding louvered roof system has been an alluring feature for all. A particular project in Surrey saw the louvered pergola integrate within a residential building, creating an extension of the home, which is why we sent the Digital Team over to capture the bespoke elements that have made this project special.

It may sound like quite a task but it’s better to do this now than be sorry later. You may not see it but the change of seasons can have an effect on your home so it is important to make seasonal checks especially on the run up to our harshest season of winter. Take a look at this quick checklist and give your home the maintenance it needs to get through winter.

Whether you are a pub, club, restaurant or shop the number one priority should be customer experience, from the moment they enter you need to be able to cater to their needs. By covering all aspects you will be able to ensure a good customer satisfactory level so that customers return.

Earlier this autumn we caught the last of the sunshine and organised another Classic Outdoor Living Pod™ photoshoot and this one was certainly one that we were not going to miss. The clients had taken a lot of time and effort to completely transform their garden landscape and we were ecstatic to find out that our louvered pergola was going to become the centre piece to harmonising their newly developed dedicated outdoor living space.

At Caribbean Blinds we believe that you should make the most of your outdoor living space and we don’t mean just in summer. Your garden space should be a retreat that you can go and relax in and enjoy the benefits of the natural air and light. This can be particularly difficult to do all year round when you do not have the appropriate features in place to aid.

We have been looking forward to showing you these new images from our summer photoshoot from a little coast town in West Sussex. What was once a basic garden landscape has now transformed into a Mediterranean retreat and we are so proud to have been involved in the process of this major renovation.

This is a question we are frequently asked about our louvered roofs and we can see why most clients would, the Outdoor Living Pod™ is a large structure that is as essentially an outdoor room when combined with additional extras. It is an obvious concern to most clients and it is a wise one to have, in most cases you do not need to obtain permission as these non-permanent garden pergolas fall within the Permitted Development Rights, which allow you to make changes without requesting permission. However, in some circumstances PDR is restricted which will require you to seek advice, these circumstances include:

The low winter sun is here and it is causing issues in most homes that consist of large glazed features such as sliding and bi-folding doors, conservatories and glass room extensions. One issue is light glare, this is caused by the sun making direct contact with the glass which can cause quite a distraction and sometimes disrupt your daily routine. If you are in a working environment this is certainly something you want to avoid; when the sunlight hits the computer screens or any digital displays this can be a nuisance as the light can cause glare that makes it difficult to see. For those homes that comprise of a lot of glazing, such as glass room extensions and conservatories, are vulnerable to solar heat gain. This is caused by the sun’s solar rays being magnified by the glass causing a heat build which can cause discomfort. So how can we combat these issues?

Our Outdoor living Pods™ have been designed to combat the elements so that you can enjoy outdoor living for longer. Every feature has a purpose, whether it is to protect or enhance the space. It has screens for wind, sun and rain protection, it has integrated guttering to keep the space dry and electronically operated louvers to adapt to the weather conditions and your needs. The Outdoor Living Pod™ has been recognised for its efforts, it has won awards for its accomplishments due to the detail and quality of its structure.

During the summer we went and visited our lovely clients in the little scenic village of Lavenham, only a stone’s throw from our Head Office in Sudbury.  It’s always great to install our British manufactured shading solutions in our local community and this project was particularly interesting because of its bespoke elements, which is why we had to send our Digital Team over to photograph them.

Whether you have a tiny patio space or large sweeping lawns, having a little patch of outdoors to call your own is a wonderful thing. Allowing you to get back to nature, throw BBQs or simply sit out in the fresh air, an outdoor area can become an extra living space to the house itself. There are times however, where we need a little assistance in shading ourselves from the elements and that is where Caribbean Blinds are here to help.

The Digital Team have been making the most of the late autumn sunshine getting those last few photoshoots in before the winter sets in and takes over. We managed to get an invite to see our clients in their beautiful townhouse home in Richmond, we were very eager to shoot this stunning Puerto Rico Pergola Awning as our team have a done a wonderful job in designing the perfect fabric canopy that coincides with the rest of their external features.

Are you finding yourself cutting your outdoor living lifestyle short because of the chilly evenings we are now experiencing? Well it’s time to put a stop to that so you can extend your evenings and make the most of your garden space all year round. Brits all over the country are now enhancing their spaces and designing a garden with a dedicated outdoor living area that they can use during colder seasons.  

It is starting to get to that time of year where everyone across the country will be getting up a little earlier to clear the frost from their cars to leave for work. This autumn season has been blissful with the sunshine but the early mornings and late nights are when the chill creeps in and sets into our outdoor furnishings, glazing our patios and frosting the tips of the grass. Keep your belongings free from frost damage by storing them in a dry place like the shed or garage.

Don’t let other factors control the way you use external space as you are limiting your gardens potential and property value. Your garden space should be used all year round, night and day. Being cooped up inside all day is never good for the mind and body, as humans we require natural light and air to revitalise ourselves. Creating a dedicated outdoor living space will improve your health and lifestyle dramatically whilst enhancing your landscape design.

Our Cayman External Roof Blinds are commonly associated with shading skylights and roof lights to protect the glazing from the sun’s intense heat and damaging UV Rays. The fabrics have been specially designed with sun controlling elements to help maintain the internal temperature and regulate the light control within the building. Its robust aluminium frame combined with the ingenious mechanical components makes this the perfect and most effective shading solution, but why limit it to skylights and roof lights?

We can all agree that in the summer of 2018 we in the UK were treated to some incredibly hot weather. Many of us made the most of it from the comfort of our gardens and patios, dusting off the BBQ and even blowing up the odd paddling pool when the sun got a little too hot to handle.

The temperature is dropping in the United Kingdom as we delve deeper into autumn and homes all over the country will be switching on the heating and the firing up the fire places. In this current climate change we need to become more energy efficient and look at ways in which we can reduce our energy consumption to better our planet. Recent reports have warned us of the significant risks that could impact our lives if we continue the way that we do. Our habits need to change and we need to adapt our homes and the way that we use our space, by making the right investments you can help to reduce the impact on the planet and save yourself some money at the same time.

Designing a garden can be a thought provoking process that is certain to stimulate the creative juices. A garden is the natural extension to your property and this is a definite space that can be utilised to harmonise the home. Whether it be used to entertain, relax or a place for the children to play, it needs to be designed in a way to cater for your needs adequately and safely.

It is that time of the year again where we are offering you a fantastic opportunity to take advantage of our huge savings on our outdoor living solutions.

With house prices rising across the country it is proving difficult to move for some, if this is something that relates to you then we say ‘don’t move, improve’. Make the most of what you have a take a look at areas of your home that you can adapt to improve your lifestyle and the value of your home.

It is sad to say that summer is over but there is a bright side to the end of this chapter which is the colourful season of autumn. It may be a little chillier but this is the season of transformation where we see plants and trees change colour, ploughed fields and morning dew. It is an exciting time of the year and it is also that time of the year to get your garden ready for the colder months ahead. Here is our top things you need to do.

Last week we experienced some terrible weather as Storm Ali made a visit and caused distress all over the country. Now that we are out of the summer season, weather conditions will change and become more unpredictable, so it is important to be ready, which is why we are writing this article to give you some crucial tips to keep your Blinds, Awnings and Outdoor Living Pods™ out of harm’s way.

Last Sunday was officially the end of the Summer season and we must say what a season it has been. We have been very grateful for natures fruitful offerings as the sunshine has been one of the most consistent we have had. As a company that offers solar shading and outdoor living solutions, we have been overwhelmed with enquiries from clients and it has been a rewarding journey to have changed their lives with transformations using our innovative products.

At Caribbean Blinds we are continuously working on developing new processes to make the user journey a smooth process. Our shading systems are the most advanced in the United Kingdom and we want to be able to highlight the benefits in the most effective way possible, which is why we are now working with a Web Design and SEO company to cultivate a new and improved website.

It’s that time of the year again, the Training Academy for our External Blinds and Louvered Roofs is now open for bookings for all Trade Companies. This is our second year of running training courses using our state-of-the-art training facility in Sudbury, Suffolk. This is a great opportunity to get hands on with our innovative shading and outdoor living solutions and get the chance to speak to experienced members of our team to gain in-depth industry knowledge

As the world’s population increases we are using more resources which is putting an immense strain on our planet causing irregular weather patterns. We have experienced a very intense summer this year as temperatures soared to as high as 40 degrees, a heat that we are not regularly used to hear in the United Kingdom. Unless we really get a grip on global warming then we may be set for a few more scorching summers, so how can we adapt and ensure that we can get through the next one?

The Digital Team visited our lovely clients in Huntingdon to photograph a special project that we completed earlier this summer which highlighted the versatility of our Cayman Roof Blind. This wasn’t on your average skylight window, this was something more than that, we enhanced a Veranda and gave it the ability to provide the clients with more.

Natural light is a resource which we should not take for granted, it has many benefits that can improve our health, increase our productivity and reduce our energy consumption; these are all factors that we want to be taking advantage of for a better lifestyle. Here are just a few key points that will open your eyes.

September is here which can only mean one thing, the summer is slowly slipping away. We have had a very fruitful year with the weather, it has been more that what we had anticipated with temperatures reaching nearly as high as 40 degrees. Let’s hope that the weather sticks out to give us a great end to the season. Just because the summer is ending it doesn’t necessarily mean your outdoor living days should. You can create a garden design that incorporates a weatherproof structure that can be used throughout all the seasons. There are many pergola systems available but most are typically designed for summer purposes, but why limit yourself to one season we say.

The reason the Outdoor Living Pod™ is an Award Winning louvered roof system is because of its stunning design, practicality and innovative features. We have refined the design over a number of years and we understand the fundamentals that are needed to enjoy outdoor living in comfort. With over 30 years of industry knowledge and connecting with our clients we are familiar with the certain needs and desires to provide an outdoor living retreat with no drawbacks.

Our Digital Team took a trip to Roydon in Essex to visit our wonderful clients to photoshoot their stunning two Cuba Awnings situated at the back of their spacious garden. The clients have a large patio area with lots of potential for additional outdoor features to enhance their garden space further. What they had in place already was enough to make the most of outdoor living, especially now they have two retractable awnings to take advantage of and extend their dedicated outdoor living area.

As the temperatures continue to rise year on year the British outdoor living culture continues to increase as more and more people are seeking outdoor living solutions to enhance their garden spaces and commercial properties. We want to take a look a different culture to see how they use outdoor living and the different techniques used to combat the scorching heat.

During the summer season the atmosphere can really change, sometimes its enjoyable to durable in the matter of days. When we have no solution to control the surrounding atmosphere it can get uncomfortable to the point where we will retreat indoors to seek the shade. Why have a garden that you cannot use during a season of sunshine? It is time to create a dedicated outdoor living area that provides you with the shade, ventilation and comfort you need to maximise on the way you use your outdoor space.

At Caribbean Blinds we are firm believers of outdoor living and we want our clients to be able to enjoy their spaces in luxury and comfort and for as long as they can. It can be hard to make the most of your garden spaces when you are up against the British climate, which can be unpredictable at times, with our External Shading Systems we are able to combat the elements so that our clients can enjoy being outdoors for longer.

This summer we were fortunate enough to have been involved in an amazing project over at Westfield in Shepherds Bush. We were specified by our friends at Cada Design and in conjunction with Bluecrow to provide Ichiba, Europes largest Japenese Food Hall with a fantastic alfresco setting using our Award Winning Deluxe Outdoor Living Pod™. It was certain that we were going to send over our Digital Team to capture the stunning aesthetics of their outside dining area to show you how well the automated aluminium louvered pergolas can work in a commercial setting.

At Caribbean Blinds one of our primary focuses is to ensure that we deliver the best Patio Awnings money can buy which is why we take great pride in the detail of the design and manufacturing. We use skilled technicians that are precise and attentive to each garden awning that is produced in our factory with each awning going through a rigorous quality control process. We use the finest materials in the industry to make up our superior retractable awnings so that we equip our clients with an awning that is reliable and robust throughout all the seasons.

The summer season is in full swing as we see temperatures hit as high as 35 degrees, it has been a very blissful summer that has kept on giving but are we doing enough to stay safe in the sun or are we neglecting the detrimental effects that it can have. We list 6 positive and negative effects the sun can have and highlight the importance of how to keep safe.

The weather has been in the digital team’s favour this summer as they continue to venture out to clients to capture their exquisite External Shading and Outdoor Living Installations in situ. We have been even busier due to the consistent hot weather which meant there were a lot of installations for the team to choose from, it was a difficult task for them but we believe they have selected the perfect examples to highlight the great benefits of our systems and to inspire you to improve and transform your own space.

We have experienced a very intense few weeks of heat during this summer period and the whole country was in relief when the clouds let the rain fall and cool the atmosphere, but our summer is far from over yet. We may be due a few light showers over the course of the season but that shouldn’t stop you from enjoying your garden to its full potential whatever the weather.

Over the past few months during this sweltering weather you can imagine how inundated we have been with enquiries regarding our External Shading and Outdoor Living Solutions. The sunshine has uncovered solar heat issues that would not normally be apparent during the cooler months so people are desperate to resolve these problems to restore the balance in their homes and gardens.

When it comes to garden design a pergola is an attractive feature to implement as it serves as a dedicated shaded outdoor living area to relax in and it provides an aesthetic appeal to your external space. Most traditional wooden pergolas can be made bespoke to your requirements to coincide with your landscape design but are these traditional wooden pergolas enough anymore?

As much as we love this hot spell we are experiencing it is hard not to complain about the uncomfortable humid heat and it is only set to get worse as we get deeper into the summer season. Our homes are our sanctuary to relax and unwind after a hard day’s work and it’s not nice to come back to a warm welcome that is going to leave you frustrated. External Shading is the most effective solution to reduce the internal temperature inside your home but first you need to understand why it happens.

The hot weather that we are experiencing is a great way of understanding how External Shading can benefit your home. At this moment of time many of you may be feeling the heat, we have listed some benefits of applying External Solar Shading Systems to your windows and doors so that you can make an informative decision on protecting your home.

The digital team are on a mission this year travelling around the country capturing stunning images of our favourite installs to feature in our new 2019 Product Brochure. Our collection of exquisite hi-res images have been carefully selected by our team to help stimulate you to transform your home and garden. By creating this assortment of lifestyle shots we are able to express the aesthetic appeal of our systems and highlight the great benefits at the same time.

We are currently experiencing one of the most consistent summers in history and it is safe to say that a lot of people are feeling the heat, even those who are lucky enough to have a swimming pool to cool off in may not have a shaded space to relax in afterwards. We have an outdoor living solution so innovative that it will make your parasol seem insignificant and it will make you never look back to those days of positioning the flimsy umbrella every time the sun moved.

Over the glorious weekend we had a member of the public mentioned on one of our advertisements ‘You know it’s going to be expensive when they don’t advertise prices’, we thought this would be a great opportunity to explain why we do not display basic prices on any of our platforms. The main reason being is because the products we manufacture here in the United Kingdom are not your regular ‘DIY’ products, we offer state-of-the-art external shading solutions and luxury outdoor living products which do not come in regular sizes.

When looking for external shading, after doing an online search you will be presented with a whole host of companies claiming to be specialists and after obtaining pricing you will be presented with a differing price scale, so how do you select? 

At Caribbean Blinds we pride ourselves on being specialist in our industry, with over 30 years’ experience we have come to understand our customers and the complexities of some projects. Our team have gathered knowledge over the years that have enabled us to push our designs further to meet the client’s specifications. We do not turn jobs away just because they look problematic, we will assess the situation and accept the challenge and work with the client to come up with the neatest design that will be fit for their purpose.

We are currently experiencing a heat wave this week and I am sure many of you have been wishing that you had a dedicated outdoor living space to come back to after a hard day at work. Nobody wants to be stuck in a stuffy home when you can be outside enjoying the sunshine in a perfectly harmonised space with a comfy outdoor furniture set and the adequate amount of shading to create the perfect balance. We have three options that we would like to share with that will help to transform your garden area.

Our digital team have been busy this season with plenty of photoshoots capturing our favourite installs in some fabulous outdoor living spaces across the country. Our aim is to gather stunning imagery that we can put forward to you and inspire you with. Our external shading and outdoor living products can really change the way you use your space and by capturing hi-res images we are able to highlight the benefits and aesthetic appeals our shading systems have.

Using large expanses of glass in a building design is a common trend in the United Kingdom, it creates an open airy feel but it also comes with its disadvantages which we have mentioned in a previous blog. Glass is commonly known to magnify the solar rays and intensify the temperature within the internal environment which is why it is ideal to apply solar protection on the exterior side of the glass using External Roller Blinds and Roof Blinds, but what if you have a glass room extension that uses seamless glass?

When the sun starts to peak we will naturally venture outdoors to embrace the sunshine in a typically British fashion, we don’t know when it may take a turn so we have to make the most of it when it is here. So it’s time to live the outdoor lifestyle and get the BBQ out, get the deck chairs in position and get the awning out to protect and cool when the sunshine gets too intense. In some situations this may not be as smooth going because you may have neglected the retractable awning and not serviced and maintained it to keep it in good working order.

The growing trend of architectural designs that incorporate glazing is not something that is likely to fade out anytime soon. There are more and more building design masterpieces that are being built with large expanses of glass as the main features, they create a stunning effect, flooding in lots of light into the internal space. If they are not designed right with the appropriate cooling systems in place then they can cause issues later down the line.

Only 14 days to go until summer is officially here, have you got your garden ready for the season ahead? It’s time to make the most of your outdoor living space this year so we have come up with 6 top tips to help you do just that. 

The start to another week and another great review about our professional approach, this time from a client, literally down the road from our factory in Sudbury, Suffolk. 

We have had a great streak of sunshine over the last few weeks, in a typical British fashion the forecast has taken a quick turn as we are expected to see a sea of clouds heading our way. Our weekends are often worked around the weather which can be frustrating at times especially when you are trying to plan a garden party or an alfresco evening. What if we told you we can eliminate that hindrance and give you piece of mind in your planning?

Yesterday was a particularly hot day in most parts of the country and it is safe to say that many of us may have experienced some internal heat issues in the home which would have caused some unwanted discomfort. The fans were probably on full blast and windows wide open to try and catch a slight light breeze to cool us down, it sounds like a lot of effort to us.

Outdoor Living continues to trend as people all over the UK are transforming their external areas with stylish furniture and dining sets, outdoor pizza ovens and fire pits. The sun is on our side this year so it’s time to embrace the Mediterranean lifestyle and maximise on the garden space. So let’s take the party outside and create the ultimate patio feature.

Alfresco dining is all about setting the scene by fashioning an experience that combines food and atmosphere. Creating the right environment is essential to comfortably enjoying the food presented. Your outside space needs to be designed to be able to cater to your guests and have them feeling relaxed so that they can get a full alfresco experience.

Outdoor living and external shading solutions are high investments to make to your home and they can certainly add great value to your property so it is important to get the right information when making crucial decisions like these. As a company that has been specialising in this area for over 30 years you can trust us to continue to deliver innovative products that offer endless features and benefits. We are always able to provide the right solution for each application and requirement.

The weather is starting to become increasingly consistent with sunshine as we go deeper into spring, with summer around the corner we are looking very hopeful for a sunny season. Cooling the internal temperature of our homes is not high on the priority list as most people’s focus will be on other domestic improvements. External shading should not be disregarded as it could potentially save you thousands in the long term and that fact alone is something we certainly do not want you to miss out on.

The bank holiday weekend was the hottest we have had since 1999 and Brits across the country certainly made use of it, the DIY and garden centres were busy as people started to prep their homes for the summer. Spring is the ideal time to make new improvements, a heat spell like this is enough motivation to get those plans started.

Garden buildings do what they say on the tin, they provide another room away from the home in the garden that can be used for a multitude of things, from a home office, to a gym or even housing a hot tub, however, when it comes to outdoor living they lack a true connection to the garden as even with the windows and doors open they are still enclosed due to the permanent roof….

It was only two weeks ago our hopes of a sunny spring were lifted as we had a generous week streak of sunshine that had everyone smiling and actively embracing the healthy outdoors. The typical British climate has proceeded to let us down once again, lifting our spirits to only have them crashing back down.

Since the companies inception over 30 years ago, Caribbean Blinds has been dedicated purely to the field of external shading, so it’s fair to say we are truly experts in the field. Many clients who contact us for external shading have been told by local companies that it is not possible to install external blinds in their application, particular when it comes to glass roofs, however, with experience comes knowledge and ultimately an ability to do projects that others simply cannot. 

Spring has been kind this year with sunshine and blue skies so let’s hope it stays that way, as we all know that the British weather can be disappointingly inconsistent. People all over the country would have made the most of this blissful sunshine, a lot of BBQ’s would have been uncovered and dusted off, parents desperately blowing up the paddling pools for the impatient and excited children and neglected gardens getting the attention they needed. The joyous sunshine is a great stimulant to happiness and fun activities so let’s keep praying that this weather continues so we can all make the most of the great outdoors.

Sunshine has been forecast for the rest of this week and we are certain that this will be lifting a lot of moods. Spring is here and it’s time get out in the sun and start enjoying ourselves and topping up our vitamin D intake and shake off the miserable wet weather we have had over the last few months. Many of you maybe be working through the course of this week but for those that get to spend some leisure time in the outdoors will certainly be basking under the sun. 

Due to continued growth to ensure we meet demand and provide exacting levels of customer services we are looking for additional members to join our team. We have two key roles with 4 positions available, however, if you like our company ethos and believe you can add value and mix to our team, we would love to hear from you.

When it comes to choosing a product there are many factors that ultimately lead to our decision to purchase and that can be based on price, quality, reputation and the service. With the cost of living increasing it is vital to make the right choices and invest in a product with longevity and quality. Premium products can often lead us to choose a cheaper option as we are lead to believe that we would be saving money, quite often this is not the case but only a short term solution. This does not go to say that you should be looking for the most expensive product on the market as this could lead you into a false sense of security. A price tag should not be the lead influence of your purchasing decision, you need to be able to look at the finer detail and see what qualities make that company stand out. These fine details could provide you with a product that will guarantee you a long term investment.

Finding a house with ample garden space in most cities can prove to be quite difficult. For those that do have some space it is important to get creative and make the space work for you. We all spend too much time cooped up inside which is why no matter how small your outdoor area, you should make this an area you can relax and retract to.

We are pretty sure that most people would agree when we say that we are glad that the cold winter days are behind us, despite the weather not feeling too much like spring at the moment but at least the ‘Beast from the East’ is nowhere to be seen. The dark days and chilly mornings can really set the tone of the day, the struggles of getting your car defrosted ready for the gruelling commute to work and to then get back home whilst it is still dark can really dampen the mood.

Caribbean Blinds UK Ltd have been manufacturing and supplying the finest external shading solutions to the trade for over 30 years. We have continuously refined our products and developed lasting relationships with our trade dealers; some of our partnerships have lasted over the duration of our presence in the industry because we are a reliable and trusted manufacturer and strive to provide the best service year after year.

With the arrival of Spring and the extended Easter bank holiday underway our thoughts turn to outdoor living, with many of us looking to prepare and revitalise our gardens, ready to enjoy alfresco living to the full.

There is nothing quite like the ambience of being outside, however, the unpredictable British weather often spoils and dampens the use of the terrace.

A key design feature to consider therefore when investing in your garden is providing flexible shade and shelter, that enables you to enjoy your outdoor space come sun, wind, rain or even snow.

We’ve finally entered Spring which offers us dryer, warmer weather; our first glimpse into Summer which is looming round the corner. It is going to be a great transition as we steer away from seeing brown fields and naked trees to enjoying the sunshine being out on a regular basis and blossoming plants will soon adorn gardens across the country. To get ready for the months ahead we’ve put together a top 5 list of things to prepare your home and lifestyle ready:

Technology is moving at a very fast pace and we are continuously seeing more and more advanced and innovative products on the market, all designed to make our lives easier by using SMART applications that will eliminate the unwanted stresses of life. A technology that is becoming more common in household objects is voice control along with SMART phone software.

Snow decided to make an appearance over the weekend but it did not cause as much disruption as the ‘Beast from the East’ did the other week. As beautiful as the snow may look it can cause some minor issues which we just don’t want to deal with, such as clearing the driveway and gritting, along with washing the car to keep it free from damage causing minerals from the roads but these jobs have to be done.

Domestic architecture is changing as people are looking to feel freer in their homes by creating open plan living spaces that change the way they live. We have become too used to surrounding walls and being enclosed, this new way of living really breaks that mould and creates a better social aspect to how we use space.

As the population continues to grow the stress on our planet sadly increases as we demand much of its resources to function. We have the world’s smartest and innovative people continuously working around the clock to create solutions that will be able to provide us with sustainable energy for a greener future that does not involve such a high carbon foot print. We cannot just rely on these people to pull us out of this situation, we need to start making changes to our own habits and start teaching future generations a new way of life. This can all start at home by implementing these five top energy saving tips, with everyone making the effort we will be making a huge difference already.

There is nothing better than seeing clear blue skies and the sun shining down, when it makes a surprise appearance it really sets the tone for the day. As great as this moment can be this can come with some other unwanted surprises that can stall the start of a great day.

Spring is drawing closer and now is the perfect time to consider making changes to your outdoor living space as this can account for 20% of the property’s value; that is a huge percentage to turn a blind eye to. Outdoor living continues to grow in popularity as people are now making more effort to design their garden and there are many ways to incorporate features to help with enhancement.

We’re pleased to announce the launch of the new World of Sattler premium acrylic fabric collection, exclusively available from Caribbean Blinds and featured as standard on our contemporary patio awnings and available as an option on our external roller and roof blinds.

Wooden pergolas are a popular feature in many gardens all across the United Kingdom. The traditional and elegant style fits in well with most landscapes as they are versatile in their use. When these structures are co-ordinated with plants then they are sometimes used as decorative archways for garden paths, this can create a very aesthetic feature to the garden. Most often they are the main focal point of the external space, used as an outdoor living area where people can relax under.

Over the weekend many of us will have experienced some surprisingly warm weather, for a moment it seemed like winter was a thing of the past until that cold Monday came back around to bring us back to the chilling reality of February. At least we got a taste of what is to come and I am sure this would have triggered some summer senses and habits for a brief moment, it may have also unveiled some common issues that come with warmer weather.

After our recent visit to Budapest there was something that we noticed in a country that experiences far colder temperatures than the United Kingdom, they sure did have a lot of alfresco options in place at their restaurants and coffee shops. The business proprietors took full advantage of their space by providing the alfresco option, whether it is an awning or a canopy they were usually fully fitted with heaters and side screens to help maintain an appropriate atmosphere to serve customers. The weather is very unpredictable in Hungary but at least they were always prepared for that sudden change.

At Caribbean we’re proud of our team who provide exceptional levels of service day in, day out, from the office, to production, to installation and aftercare, everyone plays a key role in delivering the finest external shading systems. By being dedicated to the field of external shading our team are truly specialists in the field and this shows in the way every project is handled, as highlighted by our latest review from Mr Standley in Ipswich following his Tortola model Patio Awning installation.

On average UK motorists lose over 30 hours per year sat in traffic on route to work. Few of us can avoid the traffic and for many it can set the tone to a bad day in the office.

Spring is only six weeks away so now is the ideal time to prepare your garden space for the warmer weather ahead. Gardens are often overlooked when we come to decorating and furnishing, the last ‘room’ in the house to get attention, often consisting of little more than a patio, BBQ, shed and maybe some chairs and a table.

Folding Arm Awnings have been specifically designed as a solar protection solution to provide adequate shading from the sun’s intense heat and to keep you safe from harmful ultraviolet rays, however, awnings are more than just your outdoor living feature. They also provide protection to your internal space by keeping the room temperature cool and preventing your indoor furnishings from getting bleached by the sun as well as averting glare from TV or computer screens.

Technology is fast becoming a part of our everyday lives whether we like it or not. It has no signs of slowing down as we continue to see more and more innovative products make their way into our homes. There is so much choice out there for us, products that can cost you a real fortune and those that simply have a purpose of making us lazy. We want to sieve through all of that and bring to you SMART Home Technology that can truly make a difference to your everyday lives.

Modern homes have changed as people are taking more pride in their living space and making investments that will make an impression as well as increase the value of their property. The home is a place where we can escape from the daily stresses of reality and be in the comfort of our loved ones which is why enhancing our internal living space is an important aspect to experience a comfortable sense of wellbeing. As the outdoor living trend continues to grow people are looking to seek that same feeling from their external living space.

With clearer skies and the days beginning to lengthen, many homes consisting of large expanses of vertical glazed elements such as bi-folding and sliding doors are now suffering from the low winter sunlight, which easily and directly penetrates through, causing excessive light (glare) and for heavily glazed rooms such as glass box extensions excessive heat build-up too. This in turns leads to many people drawing the curtains or blinds which blocks the view and spoils the enjoyment from the space as the outside has been blocked off.

The design is in the detail and it is important to correspond each detail to unify a design that will create the perfect space to tend to our needs. Sizes, positions, colours etc are all elements that need to be considered to craft a living area that coincides with one’s lifestyle. There is a process to creativity and there should be no limits to how far we can go.

Enjoy the growing trend for Outdoor Living and embrace the Mediterranean lifestyle, as we’re set to bask in glorious sunshine this Spring/Summer.

The start of the day and another great review received overnight complementing an external roller blind installation in Croydon, Surrey.

Christmas is now a distant memory and whilst the weather is still cold, many of us have been bothered by the low Winter Sun and it won’t be long till we’re experiencing Mediterranean temperatures (and those occasional British Summer showers) again with Spring just around the corner.

Firstly Happy New Year. We hope everyone had an enjoyable Christmas period filled with much joy and happiness.

They say keeping busy makes time fly by and that certainly feels how 2017 has gone, with the New Year just 10 days away. After a busy season which has seen an increase in sales across all our product lines, its time for the CB team to have a well deserved break and refresh ready for the New Year.

As part of the garden scheme at their newly built property in in Lytham St. Annes, Lancashire, the Hudsons, who love to cook and entertain outdoors, incorporated two Deluxe Outdoor Living Pods into their scheme to provide them with the flexible shade and shelter they needed.

There is a buzz in the air as Christmas draws closer, with precisely 18 days to go we cannot wait. It’s an opportunity to reconnect with family and friends and appreciate what we have by celebrating with food, drink, games and entertainment. Every family has their own set traditions but we want to show you something that could really change the game for Christmas, something unique and special that will have your family and friends talking.

Most of us have experienced the harsh frosty weather we have been having over the last few days, the temperature has really plummeted and disrupted the daily routine. We could be close to a white Christmas with only two weeks away. As beautiful as the snow and frost may be we need to take precautions and be safe.

It’s that time of year where the weather is against us making it hard to judge the day and dress accordingly. Is it going to rain? Is it going to snow? And sometimes the winter sun makes an occasional appearance to throw us right off. It is always good to be prepared and plan ahead, equipping yourself with an umbrella or have the appropriate amount of layers on, but the world is not as perfect as that. The unpredictable British weather can take a sudden turn and have you caught in what feels like the middle of a wind tunnel. Wind can be a disastrous force and it should not be reckoned with, it can take down trees and the tiles on your roof, it can create monstrous waves destructing and eroding the coast lines. If Mother Nature can take down such strong and solid objects it will cause damage to exposed external shading solutions, in particular retractable folding arm awnings.

This past year we have seen some major installations of our Outdoor Living Pod, all with their own unique appeal; some consisting of integrated fireplaces and others with outdoor kitchens and November was no exception.

The McIntyres had a wonderful porch to the rear of their home in Horsham, Surrey, which enabled them to enjoy alfresco living however the open exposed sides prone to driving rain and wind entering the space limited their enjoyment from this feature.

Some of you may have already been to your first Christmas fayre over the weekend and I am sure a lot of you have already noticed how busy everything is with everyone in a rush to get some great deals early on. We are coming ever so close to December and now that the nights have drawn in early it’s time to add some magic to your home with some festive decorations. We have put together a short list of our favourite outdoor decoration ideas that will make your home come to life and stand out.

The popularity of outdoor living in the UK continues to grow and therefore sales of outdoor living products are no surprise on the up. People are looking to reconnect with the outdoors and in order to do so they need to create a living space that will provide a relaxing environment including shelter, warmth, lighting and comfort. At Caribbean Blinds we provide the perfect shelter solution in the guise of our award winning Outdoor Living Pod that enables you to take full control of the elements.

During October we saw a drastic change in the weather as we dwelled deeper into autumn, the trees are bare and the leaves are piling up. The month was full of fun and excitement as we celebrated Halloween and watched the annual fireworks around the bonfire with family and friends. It was also a challenging and thrilling month for us as we had multiple large scale projects on the go that would certainly show off our ability to provide a spectacular outdoor living design.

Today marks the 30^th anniversary of Caribbean Blinds UK Ltd. Over the past three decades we’ve grown from humble beginnings with a single employee working out of a rented unit to today owning our own modern 30,000 sq/ft production facility with staff working across survey, sales, marketing, production, installation and aftercare, producing 1,000’s of premium external shading systems each and every year.

The cold nights are upon us and there is nothing worse than waking up to a cold room and starting your day with a chill. There are ways in which we can help to keep ourselves warm and energy efficient at the same time. It’s not the wisest idea to leave the heating on through the night as it can be very costly and it does not help the environment. By investing time and money in the right energy efficient home improvements you will save yourself a substantial amount on energy bills.

We have been lucky with the weather up until recent, however, we are now beginning to feel a true chill in the air when we wake in the morning and get home from work in the evenings. The Autumn weather is truly here and Winter is just around the corner, with temperatures set to drop.

When you visit a high end restaurant it is sometimes often easy to tell what sets it apart from its competitors and that is usually the small selection of fine food they have on their menu. A clear and precise menu that focuses on the quality of the ingredients and the experience it will leave you with. In other cases I am sure that we have all experienced it one time or another where we have sat down to eat in a restaurant and spent half the experience reading a menu that would put a child to sleep. When we are presented with a long list of options it can quite often be difficult to analyse what it is we actually need and want. This same method is applied to all of our other purchasing processes when it comes to the real world.

It’s Halloween and it’s time to get the decorations out and the pumpkins carved because there will soon be a flooding of miniature goblins and zombies roaming the streets and knocking on doors for treats. It’s a fun festivity that doesn’t just have to be for the kids, here are 4 inspirational quick ideas that you can get done before the kids get home from school.

More great feedback on our highly efficient and professional installation teams, this time from the Clements family in Canterbury, Kent, following the installation of our heavy duty Cuba model patio awning to their single storey living space.

In two months time it will be Christmas eve and many of us will be enjoying quality time with our friends and family, with many of our clients enjoying true alfresco Christmas living under the shelter, warmth and cosyness of our Outdoor Living Pod.

When we think about outdoor living we mainly associate it with Summer but outdoor living is so much more than that. It’s about enjoying the fresh outdoor space all year round from summer to winter and using your living space to its full potential on all occasions.

For 30 years Caribbean Blinds UK Ltd have been transforming all types of outdoor spaces across the country, turning them from occasional spaces into the heart of the home, that can be used come rain or shine, day or night, in the Summer or Winter.

When investing in external shading, you want to make sure that not only the product is of the highest quality so it can withstand the changing British weather and that it performs the function expected, but also that the service provided is of the highest quality and the end result is exactly as you envisaged.

Our Deluxe model Outdoor Living Pod™ is our most popular louvered roof thanks to its flexible design – able to customise to suit all types of outdoor spaces and customer requirements. This model can come as a simple four post freestanding structure, lean to structure supported at the rear by the façade or as a roof only model that can sit within or on top of an existing structure, as was the case in our installation of the month.

2011 was the year that we first introduced the innovative louvered roof to the UK under our unique brand Outdoor Living Pod™. Since then the product has gone from strength to strength with thousands of Pods installed all over the country. Over the years we have continuously made advancements to our aluminium louvered roof system to meet the needs of our clients to ensure that we are the number one choice for such a luxurious outdoor living solution. We have been that successful that our product has been recognised by Grand Designs with an Award for design for the past 5 consecutive years.

It’s always a stressful time when you have external tradesmen at your property, worrying about the mess that could be created, any damage they may cause and whether they will get the work done to your satisfaction and expectations.

Having enjoyed the benefits of owning a patio awning for many years, the Salmons in Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham, decided it was time to upgrade for an upgrade. They wanted a flexible solution like an awning but something that could withstand all weathers, as they enjoyed socialising and throwing BBQ parties and didn’t want wind & rain to keep on bringing these to a halt.

When we develop our systems in conjunction with leading partners, we design systems that will stand the test of the time, withstanding whatever the unpredictable British climate throws at them. This means ensuring the powdercoating is of a certain thickness, the arms will withstand the required wind loads, the aluminium profiles won’t warp under pressure, the materials provide optimum UV block along with not fading or stretching etc. This level of detail results in a product that if used correctly will last a lifetime.  Our systems combine striking design, with performance and function and all coupled with strength and durability

As summer slowly departs the morning dew and the chill in the air arrive to take us into autumn. Some may not like the idea of the colder seasons coming in to take over but it’s a force that is inevitable. We have to be prepared and start making maintenance checks on our homes and make the appropriate adaptations in order to get through the frosty days. We have created a small autumn checklist for you to get stuck into over September and make your home safe and ready for your family.

The Caribbean Blinds team are unceasingly working to look for constructive ways to make our steps and processes better to enhance the customer experience because customer satisfaction is one of our main company priorities. When a client makes an initial enquiry with us our aim is to provide them with a sound service that is hassle free so that they can relax knowing that they are in trusted hands.

Autumn is be fast approaching bringing along its colourful yellows and reds with that chill in the air. Our days will soon get shorter and our layers of clothing will get thicker as we approach the tail end of the year. One thing that will be certain is our energy bills will see an increase as the thermostats get cranked up and gas fires put on blast.

Our installers are normally the last face to face interaction with our company. And they’re typically on site for two days installing an Outdoor Living Pod, so not only do you want a team who are great at their job but also to carry out the installation with a smile. And that’s something you’re always guaranteed when purchasing a terrace covering from Caribbean Blinds.

The summer is nearly over but it doesn’t mean your outdoor living lifestyle should totally change. Whilst you may have to make some slight adjustments to allow for the inclement weather you can still maximise on the time you spend in your garden or patio area. Your home is a place of relaxation, your private sanctuary where you can enjoy quality time with friends and family, so why not create a space that you can use all year round with features that everyone can enjoy.

Whilst we haven’t seen much of the sun this August, we’ve remained extremely busy particulary with our all weather outdoor living solutions that enable you to enjoy your terrace in a pleasant environment whatever the weather. We have been working around the clock to transform numerous terraces all over the country. It has been a challenge particulary because of the poor weather but our experienced installation crews have successfully completed all installations on time and to the high standards our customers expect.

Over the bank holiday weekend I am sure many of you were enjoying the outdoor life as the sun was consistently on point. A rare glimpse of summer had emerged in the latter part of the season, we are undoubtedly taking advantage of this late hot spell. The BBQ’s were out in full force for the garden parties and the dining room was obsolete as alfresco dining was the only option.

Spending time in the great outdoors has been proven to be beneficial to our health but most of us are cooped up inside surrounded by artificial lighting and then left wondering why we feel so tired. We use the term ‘get some fresh air’ when we are feeling stressed, contained or down but once we do retreat outdoors it rejuvenates us as the natural light and fresh oxygen comes into play, making us more alert, productive and feeling more positive. 

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London is a lively and crowded place and it continues to grow and flourish as people flood in to experience city living. As we are all aware that living this life can come with a price, property value is on the rise and rental prices can be very extortionate. If there are ways to reduce costs in areas then Londoners will take the opportunity to do so as we are in the day and age where we now have to be smart about the way we live and take different approaches.

The weather has seen a gradual improvement over the weekend but it is not expected to last as we are going to see more downfalls of rain hit our little island. The summer isn’t feeling so summery but that does not mean you have to change your plans and lifestyle for this long awaited season. We have become accustomed to this weather but there are ways to get around it.

Mr and Mrs Young after having moved into a new build property in Milton Keynes, soon found their tranquil garden was bathed in the sun for most the day – part of the reason they were attracted to it. With a love of the outdoors, they found the space was uncomfortable to use, too hot and too bright, with the adjoining living room also becoming unbearable to sit in.

Cushions

During the summer most people will be relaxing and making full use of their outdoor living space, but for some this is a time for transforming, updating and upgrading the garden retreat. The garden is a private outdoor bubble that is the focal point during the hotter months which is why many will be working hard designing and digging deep to landscape their ideal haven. We have put together an inspirational collection of Outdoor Garden Furniture Ideas that will add a great touch to your garden design.

As of January next year companies who offer the option of card payment will not be able to add surcharges to any card transactions. Many companies add charges to deter customers from using credit cards when it comes to high value items even though this is the safest approach to purchasing.

We are in full swing with the summer season, the kids are off from school, the parks are busy and the shops are rammed, this part of the season is particularly busy for parents as they plan activities and holidays to keep the children occupied.  It is generally a busy time for many of us across the country especially at Caribbean Blinds as demand for external shading soars with the warm weather.

The British weather can be hard to predict most of the time, when the weather is good it is great but when the weather takes a sudden turn and catches us off guard then this can be a disappointment, especially when you have left the clothes outside to dry or mid-way through a BBQ. As technology continues to advance we continuously seek out these solutions to make our lives run smoother with far fewer altercations.

At Caribbean Blinds we pride ourselves on offering the highest levels of customer service, after all, when selecting the finest external shading systems it is natural to expect a service that is second to none from initial contact, through to survey, installation and after sale. After 30 years in the industry we understand our clients and their needs and we are continuously working with them to enhance and maintain our great reputation. We have refined and finessed our customer processes and journeys over the years and believe we offer exceptional and unparalleled levels of customer service. The glowing reviews we receive weekly let us know that the service we provide exceeds expectations which we always aim for. We ensure all of our technicians and staff are trained to the highest level to meet our company standards so that we can deliver great customer service across the board. We are continuously analysing all our methods and training so that we can always adapt and progress wherever we need to.

Design plays an integral part in our lives, the right design will create a positive vibe, it will influence how we feel and act. When designing something you need to take into consideration the two elements that will create a harmonious project, the aesthetics and functionality. When it comes to designing the interior or exterior of your home it is something that you will naturally take your time with in order to find the right look that will fit to your needs. Architects however understand design on a more complex level that requires them to make calculated decisions but also decisions that will create an aesthetically pleasing look.

When most people think of awnings they tend to associate them with being old fashioned wind out shop front features but the development of the patio awning from Caribbean Blinds has come a very long way. It has taken a step into the 21^st century leaving behind the old misconceptions and making new wave in to exterior design world.

One of the best things that we love about summer is the BBQ smells that linger on every street corner, nothing beats that distinctive smell of meat being grilled over a hot fire. As the summer gets into full swing so do the social gatherings and there is no other way to host a party then to invite your loved ones over to gather in your outdoor space to drink, eat and laugh. Most will agree that hosting a BBQ party is the perfect way of getting people together. If you are yet to initiate your summer with grill fest and have not yet purchased a grill or looking to upgrade then let’s take a look at the two main types on offer.

We’ve all noticed that the suns intensity increases year on year and although cooling the home may not be on the top of our agenda, considering our colder seasons (and typical British Summer weather, hot then cold), it is still something that is worth considering as it could save you money in the long term, no matter what the season.

As always the British weather is changing, throwing us off and keeping us on our toes for that next spin of sunshine. As we work through the week we are always clinging on to that hope that the sun will arrive in time for the weekend so that the BBQ’s and parties can commence. As soon as it makes an appearance it is only then in a typical British manner that we start to moan about the heat being too intense to even step foot outdoors, we will never be happy unless we start doing something about it.

June has been an incredibly busy month for us at Caribbean Blinds, as the temperature increased so did the workload, but that did not deter our team from their dedicated efforts. As we transitioned into the summer season we had been endlessly working around the clock to complete our large-scale projects and prepare our new Showsite & Shading Experience Centre for the official launch to our trade dealer network - the pressure was certainly on for all of us.

Having recently built a contemporary house, with expansive glazing to capture the stunning views across the Cromer coast, the Royalls realised they needed to regulate solar radiation entering the space as even early on in the year, the open plan living space was warming to uncomfortable levels.

Yesterday, on the first day of Summer and hottest day for over 40 years, Caribbean Blinds, the pre-eminent name in external shading, launched their new Outdoor Living Showsite & Shading Experience Centre at their head office in Sudbury, Suffolk to their trade dealer network.

The outdoor living lifestyle continues to grow in trend as we see Britons across the country investing in their external retreats to enjoy the delightful warmer seasons. Enhancing your outdoor space can increase the value of your property by as much as 20%, which is why the exterior should not be disregarded when it comes to making home improvements. Over the past few years we have witnessed the Outdoor Living market rapidly grow.

The end of another week and another great customer review received, praising the quality of the whole process and product itself. We’re often asked what the difference of dealing with a company dedicated to external shading is, given we’re the only company in the UK who is and this review from Mrs Horner near Witney, Oxford following the installation of an external roof blind to her pergola sums it up perfectly.

We love receiving feedback from clients, especially when they let us know we have exceeded their expectations! Each team member at Caribbean loves the role they play in creating and providing the finest external shading systems and this shows by the endless positive customer reviews we receive. We all strive to be the best at what we do so when a client lets us know our team have excelled, as Mr Dickens from Milton Keynes did following the installation of his Outdoor Living Pod last week, we know we are doing something right and will continue to do so, being the very best at what we do.

Our home is a place of relaxation, a retreat to block out the world outside so that we can enjoy our time with our loved ones. After a hard day’s work we look forward to getting home for that hot scrumptious dinner or sink into the sofa and read a book. Whatever we do in our own time we want it to be ours which means privacy is key.

The weather has been very good to us over last couple of weeks, many of us have spent our leisure time relaxing in the great outdoors enjoying the benefits of the sun. The heat naturally conveys a joyful atmosphere, bringing in new smells and sounds that are considered summer vibes. The distinct BBQ smells had been a regular occurrence on every street corner, the repetitive sound of the rusty springs on a trampoline and dogs to be seen everywhere you walk. This is what summer is about, socialising and connecting with the outdoors, when the heat is turned up there are smiles all round. As with all good things they usually come to an end, what goes up, must come down.

For three decades we’ve worked to ensure that not only do we provide superior quality external shading systems but that our team provide a first class service, which is one of the reasons we do not use agency staff or sub contract out any of our work and why our team undertake ongoing training in relation to their specific roles. In fact this week, many of our team members have been in for refresher training ahead of the busy Summer months to come.

It has been another busy month for us; our team are on top form and they are continuously working hard to ensure a high standard of customer satisfaction, which is reflected in our reviews. This month we have undertaken some complex and large installations where our team have got to use their individual skillsets to full advantage. It was a difficult choice between two of our projects, however, we chose May’s install based on our ability to install blinds discreetly where others could not.

Although we are still officially in Spring it really is starting to feel like Summer this week. During the week most of us have experienced the common issues that come with the intense suns rays – this weeks warm up is a chance to see and solve those problems before the real heat sets in.

It can be a difficult task to sell a home and get the price that you are looking for; sometimes you may be better to improve instead of move. It is vital to make the right changes as some adjustments may lead to devaluing the home. We take a look at four improvement projects that will make your home more appealing.

After her local patio awning reseller failed to make contact to schedule a survey and was unable to answer some basic questions including an approximate price, Mrs Bates from Stowmarket, took to the internet to find an alternative supplier.

Technology has advanced so far and so quickly over the past few years and it is great to see new innovations making their way into our homes. A lot of products we are seeing have been designed with specific reasons, either to make our busy lives a little less busy or for peace of mind. We have put together a list of 4 Smart Home gadgets that are worth considering.

We are starting to see a rise in the temperature as we go deeper into spring and many of us are already spending our spare time relaxing outside or tending to the garden chores. With summer only a few weeks away, this is when we will start to feel the real heat from the sun.

A pergola is an elegant feature that will add a different aspect to your garden whilst providing shade for your retreat. They can come in all shapes and sizes to fit your exterior requirements, making this an appealing option no matter what kind of space you have. If you are contemplating your options for a pergola then your first obstacle would be to choose what type of material would be best.

Water features are a great way to add diversity to your garden, not only are they pleasing to look at but they are able to add sound and texture to the landscape. Adding this element will enhance the natural surroundings, attracting wildlife and improving your local ecosystem. An eye catching water feature will create a tranquil space, choosing which one is best suited to your gardens aesthetics is the next step.

Over at the edge of the of the Suffolk and Norfolk border there is a stunning traditional hotel called The Oaksmere, it is situated in the tranquil countryside of Eye overlooking acers of scenic private grounds that have been carefully tended to by their groundskeepers. There is even a life size pirate ship that will greet you at the entrance of the hotel, it seems that every corner you take there is something that is satisfying to the eye.

A trend is emerging this year as the nation is spending more time in their outdoor space. This year 75% of homeowners will be out in the garden relaxing, entertaining and tending to the shrubs. We are becoming more connected to our natural environment as our weather warms up; new trends are emerging as lifestyle choices are changing.

Garden lighting can sometimes be overlooked by many of us but adding this element to your exterior space will give you a magical atmosphere to relax in when the sun departs. By transforming your garden to a glowing retreat you can adopt the alfresco lifestyle and extend your outdoor leisure time.

If your home has skylights installed then you may have or still are experiencing issues with condensation forming on the glass surface. As the weather warms up, this may become a regular occurrence that can cause a few issues.

The long Easter weekend has given us a little taste of the summer; the weather is warmer and we are starting to spend more time in the garden relaxing or entertaining. Many of you may have already initiated the outdoor living lifestyle with a BBQ and I am sure these will be a regular occurrence as we get deeper into Spring.

As we start the transition into a colourful season with blooming plants and blue skies, there is a sudden sparkle in the atmosphere lifting our spirits. Easter for many is a time to appreciate what we have and to cherish life for its gifts it presents us. This weekend people all over the country will be celebrating with family gatherings, Easter egg hunts and long walks in the countryside. It is an exciting and pleasant time and I am sure that all the preparations are in order. For those that are a little on the drag or looking to do something different this year then take a look at our 5 inspirational ideas that you could implement into your Easter weekend.

Last week we took a look at the benefits of composite decking and how the trend of artificial replacements to your everyday products are becoming a common site around the average household. Another synthetic manufactured product that has seen an increase in demand recently is Artificial Grass, it has had a rocky past but it has progressed into a more respectable alternative to natural grass.

As we move into summer, most of us look to spend as much time as we can outdoors, whether that be gardening, relaxing or entertaining. Our garden is our private sanctuary - an extended living space where we connect with the fresh outdoors.

As people start to diversify with their habits and opt for a greener lifestyle, we are starting to witness more environmentally friendly products appearing in the consumer market. The way we live and the products that we choose all have an impact on our climate, by breaking the norm and looking beyond the box we can make a difference.

March is a busy month for our installation teams, with numerous products being installed following pre-season orders, so clients can enjoy their outdoor space during the warmer weather we are starting to experience and most importantly their first BBQ of the year of the Easter period, with protection from that typical shower.

With life expectancy increasing, the world is becoming heavily populated which results in more vehicles on the road, more heat being generated from homes and more food consumption. As cities keep on expanding and sponging up the countryside, we are experiencing a detrimental effect on the environment. Climate change has been an ongoing global topic which has to be addressed with solutions to decrease the pressure we are implementing on the earth. We all have a vital role to play to secure a future for the next generations to come, it is up to us to set an example and change our lifestyles to create a more positive effect.

Mr & Mrs Reddy having recently moved into a seafront property in Southsea were after an awning to maximize their enjoyment from the outdoor space, however, it needed to be extremely robust due to their coastal location (see image below). Following a recommendation from a friend who already benefited from a premium Caribbean brand awning which they had installed over a decade ago and was still functioning like new, they contacted us to discuss the options.

As we step into another busy season of shading the nation with the finest, innovative exterior blinds, we reflect on last year’s performance and analyse how we can make further improvements to continue to set ourselves apart. We take great pride in the service we deliver and how we deliver it, which is why we strive to surpass previous year’s achievements by setting the bar higher each time.

We are only a few days away till the British Spring is officially here and already we have been teased with warmer weather. The busy morning commutes seem more bearable as the gradual sun rise boosts morale, setting you up for a productive day. After enduring some very cold months, it is natural for us to be eager to soak up the benefits the season has to offer.

We’re pleased to announce the launch of Twilight Pearl to our range, the innovative textile mesh fabric for external roller & roof blinds. Woven from solution dyed polyester fabrics, which are fade & UV resistant, Twilight Pearl is completely free of PVC and features a NANO technology (TEXgard) self clean effect coating to ensure the materials keep a clean visual appearance.

For many across the country it is proving difficult to secure a new larger home. With this being the case, instead of moving it is time start improving. Enhancing your outdoor space can increase the value of your property by as much as 20%. With spring just around the corner, now is the time start implementing your new development ideas so that you can utilise your garden to its full potential.

Since the launch of our award winning Outdoor Living Pod in July 2011, we’ve transformed 1,000’s of terraces up and down the country, providing a flexible, adaptable all weather living space that can be enjoyed all year round.

Sunlight isn’t limited to tans and good moods it is a vital part of our biological system and is an integral part of maintaining existence on earth. It is constantly delivering many UV rays to the earth, from light, to heat and of course UV (ultraviolet).

It has been a pleasant but wet February with the odd spot of sunshine making an appearance. That did not however dampen the nations desire to want to invest in external shading, with record numbers of enquiries for our products. Now is the time to get prepared for the warmer weather ahead, with spring arriving in a couple of months it makes sense to install a patio awning or Outdoor Living Pod now ready to enjoy to the full over the Spring, Summer and Autumn.

In a world where we are surrounded by technology, we are becoming more reliant on it to increase our productivity. In the past decade there have been some technological breakthroughs which have impacted our lives and the way in which we function.

The UK’s exit from the EU (Brexit) has resulted in an increase in raw material costs (most of which come from Europe) due to the weak pound against the Euro and whilst we have absorbed this throughout the remainder of 2016 and into the start of 2017, we do now need to introduce new prices to allow for these cost increases, along with an increase in fuel (transportation) and labour costs.

Window treatments are something that most of us will firstly think of as products to create privacy and block out the outdoor light. We will naturally select products to improve the aesthetics of our homes before we think about the other benefits. As important as this is to make a home feel comfortable it is also advisable to understand how they will impact your home. Internal blinds are the common household choice with a vast range to choose from - the most popular being the rollerblind. However does this option provide you with value?

A glass veranda can be a great addition to the exterior of your home. A permanent fixture that will provide you with cover from the bad weather but is this the best all weather solution that will give you all the benefits that you are looking for?

Following last weeks blog on Greenery - Pantones Colour of the Year - we thought we would highlight the endless possibilities you have with our products, able to design and create your very own personalised external shading system. With hundreds of fabric designs and colourways to choose from coupled with an endless array of hardware (metalwork) colours in numerous finishes from matt to gloss you have a virtually unlimited scope to style your external blind or awning to suit your landscape and your lifestyle.

Having just completed the build of a new property in East Barnet, the client was concerned with privacy to the 3 sets of sliding patio doors. They wanted to ensure that no one could see into their property whilst they were not there however they didn’t want anything too bulky or cumbersome such as security shutters that would spoil the clean lines and finish of their façade.

During the winter months, we don’t normally consider shading of any description, after all, the wet, cold grey weather doesn’t make us think of keeping cool from the sun, however, with a warming climate and Spring almost as hot as Summer, it’s not long before warm weather becomes a problem, causing our properties to overheat, making them uncomfortable to be in, particular those with heavily glazed elevations along with glass rooms & conservatories.

Since the year 2000, “The Global Authority of Colour” have always carefully selected a unique colour that reflects the Global culture. The selection process takes into account a wide variety of factors that include fashion, food, interior design, politics, travel, and this is just a few of many that have an influence on the new shade of the year. We connect colour with emotion which is why it is an integral element to how we can communicate.

As part of a government mandate, our electricity provider is upgrading our electricity meter tomorrow Friday 27^th January to an AMR (automated meter reading) solution. This change is taking place at 7am and should be complete within 90 minutes, so before our offices open at 9am, however, as with any major electrical installation, this could run over and cause a slight delay in getting our systems (including phones) up and running at the start of the working day.

Before entering the purchasing process we are usually triggered by a need. Once this need has come to light, we look for a solution, one that will benefit us in the long run. We have to consider what we can afford and who will be able to provide us with the quality and service that we seek for the money we are willing to part with.

The weather in Britain never changes but people in Britain are. Outdoor living is becoming more and more a part of our lives as we relax, entertain and dine in our extended natural spaces of our homes. The 2016 UK Houzz Landscaping Trends Survey found that a large number of people in Britain are adapting their outdoor systems and equipment, a result from these changes have led to 75% of homeowners spending more time relaxing in their updated garden space.

Every year we hear stories from customers of other companies making false claims that can’t be substantiated, and intentionally misleading consumers to get that sale and last year this seemed to only be on the increase. When purchasing an external shading system you are spending thousands of pounds, so you want to make sure you purchase a quality product that’s fit for your purpose, correctly installed and from a legitimate company. To help assist you in this process we’ve provided below our top ten tips on what to check before making a purchase:

For 2017 we’re pleased to make our innovative external blinds, patio awnings and louvered roofs available in an additional 8 postcode regions (detailed below) across England, all manufactured by our own skilled technicians and installed by our own expert teams.

Our office telephone opening hours are changing. From today onwards you can speak with one of our friendly advisors at the office between the hours of 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. Whilst the offices are staffed outside these hours, usually from 8am, by having a short period at the beginning of the day with no phones enables our teams to prepare for the day ahead, dealing with the many brochure/information requests and emails received overnight.

Welcome back. For most of us this is the first or second day back to work and Christmas seems a distant memory with thoughts turning to the Spring Summer months where we can enjoy longer, warmer, dryer days.

Christmas is almost here (just 10 days till the big day) and that means we close our doors for our annual Christmas shutdown, allowing the entire CB team to recover after what can only be described as an exceptional year, which saw sales of our award winning Outdoor Living Pod almost double.

Our contemporary Cuba awning is rapidly becoming a best seller, particular with architects and interior designers thanks to it’s unique clean rectangular flush fitting design, enabling it to be built into the façade (as pictured below) or where mounted onto an existing façade appearing as unobtrusive as possible. 

Since launching the first louvered roof to the UK back in 2011 under the name ‘Outdoor Living Pod’, we have continued to develop and evolve the system, continuing to set it far apart from the alternate louvered roofs now being imported into the UK.

Earlier this year we took delivery of two new installation vehicles and are just in the process of ordering an additional vehicle to add to our fleet bringing our total installation vehicles to 3. The right vehicle for the job is an important part of our business, as these transport our products across the country and enable our installers to professionally install them.

Due to continued growth and expansion we currently have two exciting office based roles we are looking to fill.

With the dry warm weather now a distant memory and the inclement weather upon us, awnings can now function to provide shelter from rain showers, that is, with the right pitch.

The end of another week and another great review, this time following the installation of our blackout St. Lucia tensioned roof blinds to two opening bedroom skylights. The blinds were the final element to a complete renovation of a former retail unit into a luxury home nestled in Chelsea.

Since the UK voted to leave the EU (Brexit), the pound has weakened significantly against the Euro dropping by around 20%, meaning the cost of exchanging money and subsequently buying from Europe has significantly increased.

Our products are the very finest available, however, it is personnel who ensure complete customer satisfaction as this latest customer review demonstrates from Mr & Mrs Howell in Tattenhoe, Milton Keynes, following the installation of our innovative Outdoor Living Pod to their terrace.

It might not seem it but Christmas is only 2 months away and the run up to the festive period is an extremely busy time of year for CB, particularly with commercial clients as they look to transform their outdoor spaces, providing shelter and warmth from the elements to capitalise on the trade over the Christmas holidays which sees family’s and friends enjoy socialising, drinking and dining out.

Dedicated purely to the field of external solar shading, for almost thirty years we have been revolutionising the use, functionality and enjoyment of a wide range of spaces, both indoors and out. By understanding the importance exterior shading plays in creating a healthy building, our team are able to provide a thermally and visually comfortable environment for all occupants.

Passivhaus is a building standard that delivers a high level of occupant comfort whilst using very little energy for heating and cooling. Built with exceptional attention to detail through rigorous design and construction, Passivhaus properties incorporate a variety of features to enhance one's lifestyle. If you're yet to see a Passivhaus property, they're set to grow on a global scale, so one could be coming to a street near you soon!

We've recently seen a rising number of homeowners choosing to give their home a sleek, modern makeover with the addition of stylish Aluminium windows. As well as looking the part, Aluminium windows offer a host of benefits, from impressive durability with long-lasting colour to a larger glass area to allow the maximum amount of light into the property.

As a result of the sun's lower position in the sky and its increased intensity, we can often feel dazzled during the Winter months. Furthermore, this sunlight is prone to creating additional glare within our homes and though glare can be an issue all year round, bright Winter sunlight can make it extra difficult for our eyes to focus. This excess glare can lead to eye-strain and overall discomfort, hence why we tend to see an increase in enquiries regarding our innovative external roller blinds during this time of year. 

Following the recent decline in temperatures, it's the perfect time to embark on a few simple home improvements to ensure you can enjoy a stress-free Winter. From servicing your boiler to securing your home, get ahead with these simple maintenance tasks to save you both time and money in the near future.

If you're thinking about moving soon or are wondering which property improvements add most value to your home, the search is over! Following research from a number of estate agents teamed with a study of potential buyers, these six features are a worthwhile investment as well as some great elements to look for within your prospective new home. 

With a new school term underway and Summer holidays a distant memory, it's time to prepare your home for the colder weather! We've rounded up five of our favourite new-season home updates to help you create a dramatically different interior this Autumn.

As well as offering a versatile extension to your existing living space, a well-designed outdoor area can add tremendous value to your home. Whether you own a compact space or have a vast area to work with, there's plenty of ideas that can be adapted to your balcony, patio or terrace to enhance your enjoyment of this outdoor space.

Patients across the country have recently trialled a new 'green' prescription service in a bid to improve public health, with an overwhelmingly positive outcome. A recent survey found that 72% noticed positive changes to their health with more than half feeling stronger and fitter as a result of these lifestyle alterations.

With building work fast completing on their home renovation and extension and realizing their new glass room living space was overheating before they had even moved in, the Malleys from Cambridge, knew they needed to find a suitable shading solution sooner rather than later.  

Caribbean Blinds are delighted to be exhibiting at this month's aspirational Homebuilding & Renovating Show on stand H192 which takes place at Excel, London from 23rd-25th of September. The show with our updated stand, will be our biggest and best yet, with our shading specialists on hand throughout the course of the event to offer sound, expert advice along with showcasing our pioneering products that transform the use, functionality and enjoyment of outdoor spaces of all shapes and sizes.

An open plan living area which effortlessly connects to your garden is a popular way of enjoying your outside space whilst forming the perfect family-friendly zone. With a growing number of homeowners opting for this approach when remodelling their properties, consumer desire for these bright, breezy spaces is only set to escalate, and it's easy to see why. By combining architectural elements with carefully considered design, every home, irrespective of its size, has the potential to expand and blend with its outdoor space. Here's three ideas for making this transition possible: 

If you're thinking about remodelling or renovating your home in the near future, chances are you'll want to ensure you're at the very forefront of current design trends. These five innovative ideas are sure to give you a head-start when creating a property that's the best looking on your street as well as tapping into 2017's hottest looks.

Did you know it requires three times as much energy to cool a building by one degree centigrade than it does to heat it by the same amount? However, with a correctly positioned and specified exterior shading system, interior room temperatures can be reduced by more than ten degrees, which in turn can cut the energy consumption needed to cool down a hot room by more than 80%.

Whilst terraces were once seen as areas to merely sweep, plant and occasionally weed, they're rapidly becoming regarded as 'outdoor' rooms and essentially an addition to our existing properties. Make the most of your space this Summer with our five styling tips which are sure to add some substance to your space. 

“Just want to say how happy we are with our awning. We have had it for about a year and have used it to keep out sun and rain. Wish we had done this years ago.”

1. Pointing a fan towards an open window helps to push the warm air outside to generate a cooler interior temperature. Perfect if you're struggling to sleep in the heat!

Having enjoyed the benefits of a patio awning for many years but now time for an upgrade, the Woodlands in Billericay took to the internet to research what ‘current’ options were available to them. As they loved spending time in their garden, they were looking for a more year-round solution, particularly with sides to help protect from low sun and stop driving wind/rain, which was when they came across our all weather louvered roof pergola canopy and made contact.

Whether you're hoping to reduce noise pollution, prevent prying eyes or hide an unsightly view, there are plenty of clever landscaping ideas for introducing privacy to your patio, terrace or garden. Here's five of our favourite suggestions for creating an exotic escape this weekend:

There are many benefits to manufacturing in the UK, aside from the pride of producing our own products, it means we can ensure we produce the highest quality external blinds and awnings that are crafted to the very pinnacle of precision and suited perfectly to the UK climate, able to withstand our ever changing weather conditions.

The British fondness for barbecuing is only set to continue as popular barbecue brand Outback announced excellent sales figures earlier today, surpassing all of 2016's sales targets. Despite some initial post-Brexit uncertainty, Outback's UK chief executive explained how among top consumer preferences, barbecues in stainless steel were in most demand, as seen above beneath our client's Outdoor Living Pod.

From today onwards we are expecting the arrival of an 'insane Spanish plume' that will bring soaring temperatures of up to 35°C for two weeks to the UK. This predicted weather will put July's warm temperatures firmly in the shade and is more than likely to surpass this year's previous record of 33.5°C which was recorded in Oxfordshire on July 19th. 

The first conservatories, formerly known as 'orangeries,' appeared during the 1660s, and whilst their purpose has evolved over the years, their popularity has remained relentless, with more homeowner's than ever before expressing a love for the classic glass room.  

A new report released today has revealed that Passivhaus properties use a staggering 58% less energy than the average home. These results were generated following the first 12 months of occupancy for a three-bedroom eco-home in comparison to an ordinary British household. 

Following this week's news that 59% of homeowners are making outdoor living a top priority, with 43% replacing the traditional lawn in favour of hard landscaping options, it seems the Brits can't get enough of their alfresco living spaces.

The 2016 UK Houzz Landscaping Survey unveiled an astonishing 59% of homeowners are prioritising outdoor living as the biggest influence in their overall outdoor project design.

Thanks to numerous appearances on the highly-acclaimed home design website Homify, our award-winning Outdoor Living Pod has been attracting plenty of attention as of late, and it's easy to see why! Providing sun, shade or shelter at the touch of a button, our Outdoor Living Pod really is in a league of its own when it comes to transforming your outside. Here's four reasons to consider a louvered roof from Caribbean Blinds to overhaul your outside space:

Unlike the industry norm which is to employ sub-contract fitters, at Caribbean we take great pride in the fact that all our personnel including our installers are employed for and work directly for us, having undergone lengthy training and equipped with the right tools for the job.

As the UK continues to bask in glorious sunshine, Brits up and down the country are flocking to their patios and gardens to make the most of the long-awaited warmer weather. However, if you feel your outside space could do with a little revamp ahead of the weekend, these five ideas are an instant way to breathe new life into your alfresco area.

In this week's news it was unveiled doctors have urged patients to start taking vitamin D pills to balance the effect of a lack of sunlight exposure, particularly during the Autumn and Winter months. With Public Heath England emphasising how vital vitamin D is for our bone and muscle health, PHE now recommended an intake of at least 10 milligrams of vitamin D every day.

A report published today discussed the way in which homeowners' tastes are changing when looking for a new property. The article explained how the search terms 'garden,' 'garage' and 'detached' were the most commonly used words, along with a 51% increase in the phrase 'furnished' compared to last year.

The August 2016 version of Grand Designs magazine (out now), based on the popular C4 TV programme Grand Designs provides a 3 page feature on external shading, looking at the different types of systems on the market, benefits of each, typical costs and most importantly key considerations when thinking about external shading for your property.

Our award-winning opening and closing louvered roof pergola canopy - Outdoor Living Pod, housed a pop up bar and barbecue this Summer for the Wimbledon Strawberries & Screen event from Monday 27th June to Sunday 10th July at Granary Square, King's Cross, London. Run by The Lighterman, part of the Open House London group, tasty Wimbledon inspired food and drink were served beneath our Outdoor Living Pod to the 1,000's who gathered on the square to watch all the Wimbledon action on London's biggest and clearest screen.

Mounted to the top of your conservatory roof, our external conservatory blinds stop the sun's heat before it even reaches the glass and therefore prevents unwanted solar heat gain. This ensures you can enjoy your conservatory without sweltering in the heat, even on the warmest of Summer's day, as Mrs Milne from Farnborough is now experiencing following the installation of our Cayman model external roof blind to her conservatory roof at the end of last month:

The long Summer sunsets are causing chaos for holidaymakers at Stansted Airport by disrupting electronic passport gates at border control. Passengers arriving at Stansted Airport have found the low setting sun shining through the windows is preventing the computer screens from identifying their faces, causing long delays for the Essex airport which deals with more than 40,000 passengers a day. 

It's been another action-packed few months for the Caribbean team as we've been on the go non-stop transforming terraces up and down the country. With the warmer (albeit temperamental) weather upon us, attractive alfresco areas that can be enjoyed all year round, irrespective of the forecast, have never been in such high demand.

In built-up environments outdoor space is limited and this typically occurs with courtyard-style terraces. Furthermore, these type of terraces tend to be the worse sun traps as there is nowhere to escape from the heat besides indoors, which of course is the last place you want to be on a lovely hot Summer's day! 

Calling all tennis fans! We're very excited to announce that our award-winning Outdoor Living Pod with waterproof opening and closing louvered roof, is housing a pop up bar and barbecue this Summer for the Strawberries & Screen event at Granary Square, King's Cross, London.

Having previously experienced the benefits of owning a patio awning, Mr Cato, on moving to his new home in Horsham, decided a patio awning was one of his top priorities so he could continue to enjoy the alfresco lifestyle he loved, especially with the warm weather approaching.

The highly unusual five-bedroom family home includes a 90ft stone tower with a spiral staircase along with five different floors. There is a master room, cinema room and guest suite located in the tower, whilst on the top floor there's an impressive roof garden, hot tub, gym and sauna. 

Whether you own a private or communal, small estate or balcony-style outside space, one thing is for certain and that is that gardens have never been so important to homeowners and tenants in search of an escape from their increasingly busy lifestyles. 

Having recently moved into their modern town house, which benefited from a roof terrace accessed via their bedroom and ensuite, the Paus soon realised their roof terrace could be seen from the neighbouring properties and therefore needed to install blinds of some description.

Today may signify the first day of Summer, but with heavy rain spreading across most of the UK, many of us woke up to a rather miserable Monday morning. However, despite the recent washout, all is not lost, as Summer is finally set to make its long-awaited comeback, with warm sunny spells and temperatures as high as 25°C predicted up and down the country towards the end of this week. 

A recently published Houzz article featured some excellent advice about how to bring light into your home with the addition of a glass roof. The article explained that whilst a large area of glazing is guaranteed to make an impressive architectural statement, as always there is a number of factors to consider before undertaking upon such project, one of which is the importance of considering the correct window treatments for your new roof. 

The U.N. weather agency is warning of 'fundamental change' in the global climate along with continued warming, following the news that the first four months of 2016 were the hottest globally in 136 years. WMO global director Dr. David Carlson revealed the new data showed 370 straight months of warm or warmer-than-average temperatures worldwide, with Carlson explaining that "the state of the climate so far this year gives us much cause for alarm." 

After Government officials issued a warning stating that "people can die from the heat at just 24.5°C," a second news report has highlighted the importance of keeping our properties cool during prolonged periods of warm weather. The report specifically recommends installing external shading outside windows- such as our highly-acclaimed external roller blinds- in order to combat the heat caused by our increasingly extreme Summers.

Rather than separating the individual floors, the remarkable design incorporates a double height open space to provide a glimpse of the two bedrooms above as well as the living room situated beneath the first floor. Additionally, there are two roof terraces on the second floor which provide stunning panoramic views of Lake Zurich that's located just a few hundred metres away. 

As the glorious warm weather continues to sweep across the country, it's no surprise homeowners are keen to get outside and enjoy their outside spaces to their full potential. However, if you've neglected your garden over the Winter months or feel your outside space is in need of a little TLC, here's six quick tricks for transforming your area to an authentic alfresco retreat: 

In a recently-published report, The Government has strongly advised homeowners to 'paint their property white' to protect themselves from heatwaves along with considering metal blinds and dark curtains in a bid to keep their homes cool.

When you think about altering your home's design, chances are you probably don't think about how it can affect the planet. With costs and other practical considerations to bear in mind, it's unlikely that environmental impact is a top priority- and you're not alone. Despite our growing awareness of global warming and the importance of leading a greener lifestyle, according to National Geographic's Greendex Survey, people's consumption habits are slower to come to fruition. 

Despite our famously unpredictable weather, Brits are keener than ever before to put their outdoor spaces to good use, often by introducing an alfresco dining area which can transform a previously unused space to one of the most popular areas of the home. In fact, a recent survey of 2000 people conducted by UK Estate Agents Strutt & Parker revealed that when it came to the most important factors for our dream gardens, 'privacy' and 'space for entertaining' came out on top. 

The aspirational home show Grand Designs Live returned to London's Excel from 30th of April to 8th of May, marking our fourth consecutive year at the show. The show certainly exceeded all expectations and with over 600 exhibitors and more than 100,000 visitors during the nine days, it's safe to say from start to finish our show-stopping stand and award-winning shading solutions attracted plenty of attention as our highlights video above shows.

A heatwave is on the cards as forecasters claim Britain is just 10 days away from the start of what is shaping up to be the warmest Summer for more than a century. A freak movement in weather patterns will see temperatures climb to an impressive 30°C in early June, followed by three months of exceptionally warm weather, meaning it is quite likely the highest ever recorded temperature will be surpassed over the coming months. 

According to a recently published study, people who spend more time in natural lighting have increased productivity levels and alertness compared to those individuals that spend the majority of their day in artificial lighting. This is because light directly impacts the amount of Melatonin a person produces, which affects how awake we feel. 

As the weather finally begins to improve, many of you will begin to think about heating up the barbecue this weekend. After all, there's no better way to make the most of the warmer days than gathering friends and family for some alfresco wining and dining. Take a look at our top tips below for transforming your little get-together into a party to remember: 

Britons are wasting a staggering £672m per year on their gardens, according to a survey conducted by Gardena. Yearly, Londoners splash an average £1,000 on their gardens, but much of this expenditure goes down the drain due to garden calamities, often caused by a lack of knowledge. 

Reports published last week have revealed Skin Cancer is increasing amongst young people, with two-thirds shunning sunscreen in a bid to 'get a better tan.' Teenage sun-seekers admitted to regularly getting burnt, whilst one in ten 13 to 24 year olds said they'd never worn sunscreen in a poll conducted by the Teenage Cancer Trust. 

New research published earlier this week has revealed concern for the environment is playing a big factor in Britons' hotel bookings, with one in five people saying they're more likely to stay somewhere if it uses renewable energy sources.

Following the recent rise in temperatures and prolonged sunshine, during the past week we've seen a notable increase in enquiries regarding our External Roller Blinds, as homeowners begin to experience unpleasant overheating within their properties. 

As global temperatures reach record highs, developers of cool, energy efficient homes are in high demand. And whilst overheating may not appear to be the most pressing environmental issue in Britain with our cold Winters and temperamental Summers, with 83% of Londoners suffering from an uncomfortably home in 2015, this issue is only set to escalate.

With long-awaited blue skies and temperatures expected to be higher than LA this weekend, it's only natural many of us will be looking to wine and dine alfresco style to make the most of the glorious Spring weather. 

Caribbean Blinds recognises that with the passing of a long British Winter comes the desire for quality time spent outdoors enjoying the warmth and sun-filled Summer days. With the addition of a stylish awning above your patio or decking area, you can create your dream outdoor retreat, enabling you to safely soak up the alfresco lifestyle whilst remaining fully protected from the outdoor elements. 

First popular in the 80s, conservatories were an affordable and straight-forward way of increasing living space for families. However, as they were often built from cheap uPVC panelling, and prone to freezing cold temperatures in Winter and unbearably warm temperatures during the Summer, they added minimal, if any value to a home, causing a subsequent reduction in sales. 

Like a growing number of people, the Reeves opted for an all glass lean to pitch roof on the extension to their family home in Guildford, Surrey, complemented with bi-fold doors that opened up onto the terrace. The extension, which housed in an open plan arrangement, the kitchen, dining and day lounge was meant to be the heart of the home, where the family could enjoy quality time together, however, even though the glazing was impregnated with a solar control coating designed to prevent overheating, the Reeves soon found out their new extension was a sun trap, heating up to uncomfortable temperatures, making the space unusable.

Whether you're extending, converting or renovating your property, roof lights are an excellent way of bringing light into your home, and generally speaking the higher the light source, the brighter the space will be. By providing up to 40% more light than a standard window installation, it's clear to see why roof lights have become such a popular choice for the modern-day homeowner.

Global temperatures are set to soar over the next few months as rising levels of greenhouse gases teamed with El Nino bring even more record-breaking warmth to our planet. According to the Met Office's forecast for the next five years, 2016 is set to be the warmest year since records began, followed by a slight decline in 2017 as the effects of El Nino begin to lessen.

The Caribbean Blinds team have just enjoyed an awesome four days exhibiting the UK's best range of external shading systems at this year's Homebuilding & Renovating Show. The exhibition, which took place at Birmingham's NEC, is the biggest event of its kind in the UK, showcasing self-build experts, specialist masterclasses along with plenty of inspiration and ideas to complement your project. 

Paving the way for Passivhaus properties, meticulous attention to detail has resulted in a comfortable, urban home for the client's young family, teaming maximum functionality with minimal energy consumption.

Due to a greater awareness regarding global health and well-being, the world of architectural design is progressing at an exceptional pace, as Catherine McKeown, president of the Aberdeen Society of Architects, explains: “With the world we live in becoming ever more health conscious, it’s no surprise that healthy homes are becoming a must-have asset. The materials used in building, decorating and furnishing houses are key factors for architects seeking to create a home that’s kind to body and mind.”

The latest issue of Blinds & Shutters magazine, the leading journal for everyone involved in the interior and exterior solar shading industry, from manufacturers to retailers features a 2 page exclusive question & answer session with our Sales & Marketing Director, Stuart Dantzic, who reveals all about business and personal…

With the London housing crisis showing no signs of subsiding, a growing number of the city's homeowners are dismissing the high cost of relocation in favour of a “garden room” which can provide that all-important additional living space.

Now that Spring is emerging, it’s time to break out of that Winter rut and update your home ahead of the lighter, brighter days. We show you how to give your a space a fresh new look this April with our six quick tricks. 

We’re currently looking for a flexible, motivated individual with a technical mindset and an eye for detail to join our installation team.

As March draws to a close, it's once again time for this month's Meet The Team feature. Today we're chatting to Billy who works as an Installation Technician at Caribbean Blinds.

James Ellimen, Operations Manager of the impressive project said: “This is a hugely significant project not only for the university and the region, but also the UK as a whole. Further to that it has been extremely exciting for us to work on such a landmark building. Delivering a Passivhaus on such a large scale is not without its challenges and we employed a number of energy efficient mechanisms to ensure that this standard was met.

The Oliphants in Brentwood, Essex, last year moved into a new build house which benefited from a large glazed roof to the open plan kitchen / diner complimented with bi-fold doors that lead out onto the terrace, allowing an abundance of natural light to flood into the heart of the home. However, despite being fitted with a solar control coating to the roof glazing, which they were advised would ensure this space didn’t overheat, it did – find out why in our recent article ‘Magic Glass’.

The survey, conducted by Learning Through Landscapes and the Early Childhood Forum, called for the Government and Ofsted to strengthen the statutory requirement for children in the Early Years Foundation Stages, stating, “providers must supply access to an outdoor play area or ensure that outdoor activities are planned and carried out on a daily basis.”

Therefore, on Monday 21st March there will be no power at our Sudbury factory between 9am - 10.30am. This will include all phone lines, so our 0344 800 1947 telephone number will be temporarily unavailable during this short time span. 

We're back in the office this week following an excellent few days exhibiting at Ecobuild, the UK's leading event for the sustainable construction and energy markets. From start to finish the three-day show, located at Excel London, was jam-packed with cutting-edge technology, innovative products and a number of inspiring seminars, all of which placed an emphasis on sustainability and eco-friendly design. 

And whilst many people are under the impression this type of glass alone will be adequate enough to keep a conservatory cool during the summer; with over 25 years experience in the field of solar shading, we know this simply isn't the case.

Last week new research revealed as many as four out of ten homes in some areas of London have been extended upwards, as homeowners bid to improve their existing properties rather than move.

Following the cold, dark and sometimes uninspiring Winter days, many of us will be waiting in anticipation for the lighter and brighter Spring weather, and few things are more rewarding than enjoying the warmer climate from the comfort of your very own garden.

A recent report has revealed street lights are interrupting the sleep of millions of people in urban areas around the world, with those living in towns and cities of more than 500,000 people at the greatest risk of excessive light exposure.

Following a busy few months preparing for the first of this year’s exhibitions, Caribbean Blinds are thrilled to be returning to Ecobuild this week. The exhibition, which is the UK’s leading event for sustainable design and construction, runs from 8^th-10^th of March at Excel, London.

Due to the sun's lower position in the sky during the Winter months, we've recently experienced lots of bright and sunny weather conditions. However, as much we appreciate these sun-filled days, the sun's increased intensity along with its lower orientation in the sky can leave us dazzled along with causing excess glare within our homes.

However, architects Seymour-Smith's design for the site eventually won the approval of the planners making it one of only twenty properties in the UK to ever to be granted planning permission in an Area Of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The seminar will look at the rising issue of overheating in modern buildings and how external shading provides an effective solution to prevent overheating and is now a part and parcel of green eco build design.

Boasting stunning panoramic views, located in an area overlooking the River Tweed, this private dwelling was completed in 2011. The house was constructed in just six weeks during the harsh Winter of 2010 and has been designed to last 100+ years whilst taking into account the requirements of future generations.

If you're unfamiliar with the phrase Passivhaus (or Passive House) as it is otherwise known, this term refers to a building standard that is simultaneously comfortable, affordable, ecological and energy efficient. 

With features such as external shading systems and low-temperature heating, it's easy to see how green buildings help protect the environment whilst benefiting those that occupy them. This said, the consideration of users during the planning stages is often overlooked. 

If you have had a consultation or have an installation booked you will be able to speak with your consultant / project manager on their direct number provided to you 7 days a week.

Having demolished the previous dwelling with the goal to create a fully sustainable home from scratch, architect Trevor and his wife Steffi successfully completed their Passivhaus project in 2013. Their impressive abode is a textbook example of what can be achieved when great design is combined with an eco-conscious approach to everyday living- and the result is nothing short of stunning.

Bioclimatic architecture refers to the design of buildings and spaces that share a connection to nature. By taking account of cli­matic and envi­ron­men­tal con­di­tions, the interior of these buildings can achieve optimal ther­mal com­fort.

In exactly one month's time, Caribbean Blinds will be exhibiting at Ecobuild, the UK's leading exhibition for the construction industry which places an emphasis on sustainable, innovative design. As the UK’s solar shading experts, the show offers an invaluable opportunity to see our products in action along with understanding the economic, environmental and lifestyle/productivity benefits they provide. 

With just over one month until we'll be exhibiting at this year's Ecobuild exhibition, we felt it would be the ideal time to shed some light on common misconceptions and myths surrounding external shading solutions. From understanding how the benefits of solar shading can be enjoyed on a year-round basis to explaining how our products are subjected to the most stringent of quality tests, we're ready to sort fact from fiction. 

With Spring just around the corner, February is the ideal time to undertake any garden projects so you can enjoy your newly-transformed space to its full potential once the good weather arrives. With that in mind, here are some effortless-yet-effective ways for designing an elegant outside space that’s sure to be the envy of all your friends and family!

Despite the Government-sponsored initiative to build more ‘eco-friendly’ homes, we're beginning to see how this scheme has created many unforeseen, and potentially life-threatening problems. 

With January almost complete, it's time for the first of this year's Meet The Team feature. Today we're chatting to Domus who works as an Installation Technician transforming spaces up and down the country with our innovative external shading solutions. 

Along with generating their own electricity, the eco-conscious couple also have a rainwater harvesting system. This operates by diverting water from the guttering into a 5,000-litre tank so it can be used to flush their toilets. As a result, their water bills – charged through a meter – have been reduced by about 60 per cent. 

Recommended by their interior designer, for the quality of product and service we provide, our surveyor met with the Rooneys at their home in Fulham, London, during its refurbishment to discuss the shading requirements to the 3 skylights over the bedrooms and 2 further skylights over the kitchen.

We’re pleased to announce that we have increased our area of coverage, with our expert advice and superior products now available in 9 additional postcode regions (highlighted on the map above) for 2016, all serviced by our own specialist personnel (no subcontractors) so you can rest assured you will receive the same high quality level of service.

After the expense, excitement and over-indulgence of Christmas, January is the ideal month to get outside and catch up on any gardening jobs that may have been pushed aside during the festive period. With Spring just around the corner, this month is all about preventing damage from harsh weather conditions so your garden’s in tiptop condition when the new season arrives.  

Looking to replace an existing conservatory to achieve an area in the garden that they could enjoy whatever the weather, without a solid structure and whilst still maintaining the ‘size’ of the garden, the Hickmans in Staines took to Google to see what was on the market that met their brief.

We're pleased to announce the launch of our new trade price list and product guide for 2016, providing full pricing and comprehensive technical details on our superior range of patio awnings and window canopies available to the sunblind trade.