With summer in full swing and outdoor entertaining high on the agenda, it’s the perfect time to enhance your home’s outdoor areas for maximum comfort and versatility. Whether you’re looking to protect against the sun or keep your indoor spaces cooler, there are stylish shade solutions to suit every style of home from contemporary to coastal and country chic.
“Outdoor awnings not only extend your living space but also provide essential sun protection and airflow for a more enjoyable entertaining area,” says Diana Altiparmakova, Head of Product and Marketing at Luxaflex® Window Fashions.
“Windows are a major source of heat gain, with up to 87%[1] of heat gained through uncovered windows. Stopping the heat of the sun from entering your home is significantly more efficient than attempting to cool your home after the heat has entered. By reflecting harsh Australian UV rays, awnings also help maintain a home’s internal temperature, offering both comfort and energy efficiency.”
“Maximising living spaces with a seamless indoor-outdoor transition has been a key home design trend over the past years, and shows no signs of slowing down. Choosing the right outdoor shading solution is a combination of functionality and design to create spaces that are comfortable as well as visually stunning to add long-term value to their properties.”
Finding the perfect awning
When selecting an awning, consider your home’s architectural style, the area you need shaded, and your preferences for colour, fabric, and functionality.
For Australia’s harsh climate, the Luxaflex® Evo awning range is a versatile option with six different models designed to suit a variety of home styles and layouts, and a choice of fabrics, finishes, and operating systems to meet a homeowner’s unique needs. Luxaflex® Evo MagnaTrack® awnings can eliminate up to 95%[2] of solar heat when paired with Luxaflex® Spectra fibreglass sunscreen fabric. This not only enhances comfort but also reduces cooling energy costs by up to 60%[3], making it a smart choice for energy-conscious homeowners.
If you’re dealing with large openings or challenging weather conditions, the Luxaflex® Evo MagnaTrack® awning is a standout option. Equipped with advanced Neodymium Magnet technology, it’s the most technologically advanced straight-drop outdoor awning on the market, offering superior wind resistance and stability.
Flexibility is key to creating functional outdoor spaces. For ultimate flexibility, retractable awnings such as the Luxaflex® folding arm awning provide shade on demand, allowing you to adjust based on the time of day or weather. In smaller spaces, straight-drop awnings add a stylish and contemporary finish while delivering privacy and sun protection. For a touch of traditional charm, canopy awnings pair beautifully with mid-century homes, adding classic appeal to doors and windows.
Styling tips for your shade solution
The right colour and fabric can transform your outdoor space.
Modern homes: Opt for sleek, minimalistic designs with neutral or solid-coloured fabrics that align with your home’s exterior palette.
Coastal homes: Consider marine-grade, weather-resistant materials in soft greys, whites, or sand tones. Darker fabrics reduce glare, while lighter colours are better for heat control.
Country homes: Classic striped or white canvas fabrics complement period features, offering a nostalgic Australian aesthetic.
Look for UV-resistant, water-repellent, and fade-resistant materials to ensure durability and longevity.
Smart shading with motorisation
Motorisation takes shading solutions to the next level. Automating awnings during the hottest parts of the day helps maintain cooler indoor temperatures effortlessly, adding convenience and energy efficiency to your home.
Style meets sustainability
Luxaflex® awnings create inviting spaces for entertaining, relaxing, and enjoying alfresco living in style while blocking heat, reducing cooling costs, and elevating your home’s aesthetics, offering a sustainable and cost-effective way to beat the heat this summer.
References:
[1] http://www.yourhome.gov.au/passive-design/glazing. Based on research by the Australian Window Association - https://www.awa.org.au/documents/item/214.
[2] http://www.endurisglasscore.com
[3] Based on independent modelling conducted by White Box Technologies in conjunction with Peter Lyons & Associates June 2013. Savings vary based on location, home type and fabric used.
