Creating Essential Summer Shade

With the UK currently enjoying a gorgeous spell of sunshine it’s the perfect time to embrace the outdoors. But as we soak up the sun, it’s also crucial to remember the importance of sun safety. Harmful UV rays can pose serious health risks, and for many of us, staying cool and shaded is just as essential as enjoying the warmth.

Stylish and Practical Sun Protection

Tensile fabric structures provide an elegant, contemporary solution for sun shading. More than just a design feature, these structures offer highly practical benefits – turning outdoor areas into cool, comfortable, and UV-protected spaces.

Fabric canopies are incredibly versatile, available in a wide range of shapes and sizes to suit almost any setting. Whether you're shading a play area or creating a relaxed garden retreat, a tensile canopy can help you enjoy your outdoor space for longer and in greater comfort.

Popular canopy uses include:

• Play areas
• Outdoor dining spaces
• Meeting or breakout zones
• Building entrances
• Queuing and walkway areas
• Event spaces
• Garden chill-out zones

Choosing the Right Fabric

When it comes to selecting a fabric for your sunshade structure, it’s important to consider both function and durability. Most outdoor canopies are designed not only to block UV rays but also to be waterproof, providing year-round weather protection.

The effectiveness of sun protection depends on several factors:

• Fabric weight – Heavier fabrics generally offer more coverage
• Colour – Darker shades may block more UV rays
• Technical composition – Many fabrics include special laminations or treatments that enhance UV resistance.

We’ll work with you to understand your specific needs and recommend the most suitable fabric for your project.

Transform and Elevate Outdoor Spaces

Installing a fabric canopy does more than provide shade – it can completely transform the look and feel of a space. Whether you're revitalising a neglected courtyard or extending a usable area outside, a well-designed sunshade adds both functionality and visual appeal.

If you’re considering a canopy for your space, explore our portfolio for inspiration or get in touch with us – we’d love to help bring your vision to life.

By Abi Smith, 6/26/2025