Sun beats down on this empty space

Posted June 19, 2016 5:00 am

By Mary Kiaupa of Arlington Heights

We would love to win the Get Your Summer On contest because we need help with what to do with our patio and backyard! For starters, we love the sunlight but we get a lot of afternoon sun, as you can see, on the patio. We have not figured out a way to keep the extreme sunlight off our patio when hosting a late afternoon gathering, other than using a standard umbrella.

We are also transitioning from toys and items for younger kids to a more grown-up backyard and could use help getting our patio and backyard together!

Design by Steinhafels

Budget: $5,000

Space looks bare but has a grill. Lacks function and doesn't feel inviting. The table is pushed against the house and there are no chairs to enjoy the table and have a meal.

Suggestions:

• Cantilever umbrellas are a great solution to creating a versatile shade. They tilt and rotate depending on where the glare of the sun is coming from.

• They currently have a grill, so I wanted to keep a table for entertaining and enjoying a meal on the patio. I also wanted to add some additional lounge seating to create a comfort area for long-term seating and relaxing.

• The area rug just brings life to the patio with pattern and style.

Courtesy of SteinhafelsCantilever umbrellas are a great solution to creating a versatile shade. They tilt and rotate depending on where the glare of the sun is coming from.

Article Comments

Article Comments

Guidelines: Keep it civil and on topic; no profanity, vulgarity, slurs or personal attacks. People who harass others or joke about tragedies will be blocked. If a comment violates these standards or our terms of service, click the "flag" link in the lower-right corner of the comment box. To find our more, read our FAQ.