As the long Summer drags on into Autumn, the heat is taking its toll. Are you wishing you had some shade in the garden to keep the place cool?
A simple but strategic design with appropriate plant selection and positioning can radically transform your baking, full-sun yard into a cosy, shady sanctuary that protects you (and your garden) from the most intense of the Summer sunshine.
In this post, we will look at a few reasons why shade is important, as well as some solutions that will provide aesthetic and environmental benefits. With these tips, you'll be keeping cool all Summer long!
The benefits of Summer shade
Reduces temperature of surfaces which can reduce energy costs
Provide micro-climates for shade-loving plants (and people!)
Provides relief from the hot sun for wildlife
What type of structure should I choose?
You will want to consider what ties in best with your house or existing parts of your garden, and whether you want physical connection with the house or if it will be a stand-alone shade structure.
Timber Arbor
Providing instant effect even before the plants have grown in, a robust timber arbor is a great option for clients seeking a naturalistic, rustic garden. As the timber ages and begins to grey, the vine of your choice will be reaching for the stars. The benefits of this material is that no steel fabrication is needed which can help to keep costs and timelines down. If you're after earthy tones and texture then this is the option for you!
Steel Arbor
Steel arbors are a great option for those who want a structure that is extremely durable, and can be painted to tie or blend in with the house or nearby features.
Fabrication and installation by suitably qualified professionals is a must. Depending on the size of the arbor, its position in relation to the house and your local council by-laws a building permit may be required!
Stainless-steel wire cable can be run up the uprights and along the beams to provide additional support for your vine of choice.
If sharp, clean lines are more your style then a steel arbor could be the right material for you.
But if you're still undecided let our design team help!
What to plant...
And what if I want the sun to shine through in Winter!?
Deciduous or Not Deciduous....that is the question!
Deciduous vines for seasonal shade like Ornamental Grape (Vitis vinifera) are perfect for Summer shade/Winter sun situations. As Autumn progresses, the leaves will drop from the vine (just rake them up and put in the compost!), allowing sun through when you need it most. In Spring as the temperature begins to heat up, fresh foliage will burst all along the vine creating, providing shade below.
Evergreen vines for year round shade:
Suppliers we've used:
Posts, beams and galvanised T-brackets supplied by Rustic World Timbers
Steel arbor fabrication by Burbs Customs
Rough-sawn hardwood timber battens supplied by I Got Wood
Check out some of our gardens that feature arbors for further inspo:
If you're ready to start planning your own garden renovation and want to incorporate a pergola, arbor or climbing frame, get in touch today!!
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