Whether its autumn, spring or summer we all relish the chance to spend time outside in our gardens. From hosting a barbeque, exercising outdoors or relaxing in the sun, there are many great activities to enjoy in the garden. To get the most out of your space, it’s a good idea to spend some time getting your garden ready for everything you have planned. There are many easy ways to improve your outdoor space, from adding lighting, water features and seating to create a relaxing atmosphere.

Another great way to get more use out of your garden is to add an area of shade. Although we all love the sun, direct heat can leave long-lasting damage on your skin and cause serious health issues. Adding some shade to your space can protect your family from dangerous UV rays while allowing you to still enjoy the warm weather. And there are many stylish ways of adding to shade to your garden, such as shade sails, pergolas, gazebos and parasols. But how else can you use your shaded space? Keep on reading to find out.

• Keep Your Children Cool

We all know how much children love to play and run around outside, but it can be dangerous if they spend too much time in the sun. It’s important that you provide a cool, shaded area in your garden, where they can cool down, enjoy a drink and top up their sun cream. You could also encourage your children to play under the shade when the sun is at its hottest, between 10 am and 3 pm.

• Dine Outside

There’s nothing nicer than enjoying a lovely family meal outside, surrounded by your beautiful garden. You can easily create a shaded outdoor dining area with a shade structure, like a parasol. By adding tables, benches and chairs you can create the perfect spot for a dinner party for your guests too.

• Create an Outdoor Gym

Another great way to get use out of your garden is to turn it into a gym. This is a brilliant option for families with busy days who struggle to fit in a workout in their limited free time. It can feel impossible to find the time to drive over to a gym, let alone complete a session, but installing a gym in your own garden makes this easier than ever. With an awning or another retractable canopy, you can use this space to workout in whenever you want, with added privacy too.

A patio or paved area can make for the perfect spot for your fitness routine, and by adding a shade structure you can exercise outside without worrying about getting burnt or overheated. You’ll never have an excuse not to exercise again!

• Add Style to Your Space

Shade sails are just one of the many structures which can totally transform your outdoor space and enhance your existing features. Highly recommended by designers and decorators, sails present a multiple of benefits for your garden. With the addition of a simple shade sail, you can easily transform a dull area into a trendy and eye-catching space.

Available in a range of materials, designs and dimensions, you can find the perfect model for your space. Often you can find bespoke options too, which can be customised to suit your specific requirements. Waterproof options are also affordable and can withstand a range of different elements and weather conditions, meaning you can leave it up throughout the year.

• Host Outdoors

If you are a fan of hosting get-togethers, then installing a shelter in your garden allows you to bring the party outside. Choose an attractive design to suit your home, and keep your guests cool and comfortable at the same time too.

How to choose the right shade for your garden

When picking a shade structure for your space, you should consider several factors in order to get the best results. Decide whether you want a traditional shade shelter, or whether a modern and trendy design would be better for your garden. When it comes to classic styles, you can pick a parasol, pergola or an awning. But if you want something which will create a statement but will still be durable, consider a shade sail.

You should also consider if you are planning on taking the shade down during the cooler months, as not all structures offer this option. And whether the colour and material of the design will work with the rest of your garden and home.

No matter which model of shade shelter you pick, they are all an effective way of improving your garden and turning it into the place to be. With a wide range of designs on the market, you are sure to find the perfect choice for your home.