With sunny days being common in Melbourne throughout the year, visitors to your cafe are likely to want to make the most of sitting outside whenever possible whether it’s to enjoy a first-morning coffee or coffee and cake as an afternoon treat. It’s great to get a daily dose of the sun but too much can damage your health and your furniture which is why creating shade for your patio is important.
Fortunately, there are several quick and easy way to create much-needed shade for your cafe patio. So, let’s dive in and take a look.
Patio Umbrellas
These are the easiest and quickest way to avoid sun damage on your patio. Large size commercial umbrellas or parasols can be dotted around your terrace so that the covers overlap, creating a shady haven beneath. They also protect against the odd shower of rain which saves customers from having to dash indoors.
Pergolas
Pergolas provide a more stylish means of providing shade for your patio and can be matched to the style of your property and décor. On their own they don’t totally block the sun so adding features such as shades and plants not only add more style but functionality too.
Pergolas can be built from timber, brick, or a combination of both with shade added in between the slats to block the sun and the heat. You can cover just the areas that are in the sun if you prefer.
Another option is to grow climbing plants on the pergola which will take a few months to establish. Bougainvillea is a great option and provides a wonderful splash of colour, although on the downside they can be messy when the flowers drop off. Clematis is another option, or how about a climbing tea rose to add a spot of whimsy? Ivy is also a great choice and doesn’t require much maintenance. If you use your cafe into the night, then you can also string up some lights onto the pergola to make it look even more attractive and inviting.
Shade for Your Patio – Awnings
Finally, you might want to consider investing in an awning to provide shade for your patio. These are an extremely versatile option since they can be left in place all year round, even offering protection from the rain, plus you can opt for manual or motorised awnings.
The best place to buy outdoor furniture
While we can’t help with shade for your patio, we’re experts in outdoor cafe furniture with many years of experience. Whatever the style of your outdoor cafe patio, we’re here to help you choose tables, chairs and stools that are right for your needs and your budget. Why not browse our online store and order online for delivery or contactless collection.