Photo courtesy of Designer Awnings
From grilling with family to entertaining neighborhood friends, many homeowners like to extend the summer season beyond more than a few short months. But while a sunny afternoon sounds idyllic in theory, it can often end with getting sunburn, uncomfortably sweating, or retreating back inside when the sun gets too intense. Whether you’re hosting friends on the patio, reading by the pool, or enjoying a quiet breakfast on the deck, having the right shade solution can mean the difference between staying outside or packing it in. The good news is there are plenty of attractive modern sun solutions to enhance your outdoor space. From sleek retractable awnings to permanent pergolas, shade sails, and sunrooms, today’s options aren’t just about sun protection, they’re about extending your home’s livable space and customizing it for comfort, function, and style.
Why Shade Matters More Than Ever
Shade is more than a comfort issue, it’s also about protecting your health, preserving your furniture, and creating usable space all day long. UV rays can quickly fade outdoor cushions and damage decking. Plus, extended sun exposure is a concern for children and adults alike, even on mild days. “People underestimate how much more time they’ll spend outside once the space becomes comfortable,” says Dario Tiberii, owner of Designer Awnings in Allentown. “It’s not just about staying cool—it’s about creating a place you’ll actually want to use, from morning coffee to after-dinner drinks.”
Retractable Awnings: Custom Comfort at the Push of a Button
If you’re looking for shade that’s as stylish as it is functional, retractable awnings are one of the most versatile options available. These wall-mounted systems can extend at the touch of a button, creating instant coverage during the hottest parts of the day, then retract cleanly when you want to soak in the sun or enjoy an evening breeze. Motorization is now standard on many models, making it easy to adjust your shade without having to leave your seat—perfect for impromptu gatherings or quiet afternoons alike. Optional wind and sun sensors can even automate the process, protecting your awning and ensuring comfort without a second thought. Today’s retractable awnings are a far cry from the old striped canvas models of decades past. Homeowners can choose from more than 150 acrylic fabric options, ranging from soft neutrals to bold patterns, along with five different powder-coated frame finishes. The result is a fully customized shade system that integrates beautifully with the exterior of the home. Durability is another major selling point. High-quality awnings—like those manufactured by Sunesta—are engineered to withstand strong winds and harsh weather conditions. “People often ask if an awning will really hold up in the Lehigh Valley climate,” says Dario Tiberii, owner of Allentown-based Designer Awnings. “The truth is, the right system can handle a lot more than you’d expect. We install products that have been tested to hurricane-strength wind standards.” Retractable awnings are especially popular for decks and patios where homeowners want flexibility. During cooler seasons or cloudier days, you can retract the awning to let in more natural light. During summer heat waves, full extension creates a shady retreat ideal for outdoor dining, lounging, or working from your laptop without screen glare. For families with children or sun-sensitive adults, they also offer a level of protection that makes outdoor time safer and more enjoyable. “One of the best parts of my job is seeing how much more people use their outdoor spaces once shade becomes part of the equation,” says Tiberii.
Sunrooms Bring the Best Parts of the Outdoors In
For those looking to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors while staying fully protected from sun, bugs, wind, and rain, a sunroom might be the ideal solution. These glassed-in spaces offer year-round usability while still maintaining a strong connection to the backyard. Whether you’re watching a summer storm roll in or catching morning light with your coffee, a sunroom allows you to enjoy it all, without worrying about the forecast. Think of how worry-free party planning will be when you don't have to stress about getting rained out by a sudden thunderstorm, or having to keep your culinary spread covered while fighting off flies and wasps. Depending on the build, sunrooms can be fully insulated for four-season use or designed as three-season rooms with ventilation and fans. High-performance windows and UV-filtering glass help control heat and light exposure, making the space comfortable even during the hottest months. A well-designed sunroom can function as a reading nook, casual dining area, home office, or even a quiet place for plants to thrive. It’s especially appealing for homeowners who want the feeling of outdoor living without the unpredictability that comes with it. And just like patios and decks, sunrooms add both usable square footage and resale value, making them a smart long-term investment as well as a lifestyle upgrade.
Other Shade Options to Consider
Retractable awnings aren’t the only way to stay cool. Depending on your space and style, you might also consider:
Pergolas: Either open or outfitted with a retractable canopy, pergolas add architectural detail and semi-permanent coverage. They work beautifully as anchors for outdoor dining or lounge areas away from the structure of the home.
Shade sails: These tension-mounted fabric panels provide a clean, modern look while casting wide, soft shade across patios, pools, and play areas. They’re especially useful for covering irregularly shaped spaces or working around landscaping.
Retractable screens: For porches or patios, full-length retractable screens can block bugs, wind, and sun without closing you off from the outdoors. They're a game-changer for those who like to dine al fresco or relax at dusk. “These are especially helpful for people who want to enjoy dinner outside without swatting mosquitoes the whole time,” adds Tiberii. Designer Awnings happens to be one of Lehigh Valley’s leading providers of Sentry motorized retractable solutions by Sunesta. Models are available in bug screens, solar mesh, opaque privacy fabrics, and clear vinyl for rain protection.
Gazebos and hard roof covers:
If you’re looking for permanent protection, a hard cover structure like a gazebo offers both shelter and structure and are ideal for outdoor kitchens or year-round lounge zones.
Style + Shade = An Outdoor Space You’ll Actually Use
One of the biggest benefits of adding shade? It turns your patio, deck, or basic backyard lawn into a functional extension of your home. A covered space invites you to eat outside more often, entertain without interruption, and create relaxing outdoor zones for reading, yoga, or work-from-home afternoons.
For families, it adds peace of mind, knowing the kids are protected from the midday sun. For empty nesters, it offers a stylish, comfortable space to unwind without worrying about UV exposure.
Ready to Rethink Your Outdoor Living?
If you’ve been eyeing your backyard, wondering how to make it more inviting—or more bearable in the heat—now’s the time to take action. A well-placed awning, screened enclosure, or sunroom can help you enjoy the rest of summer and extend your outdoor season well into fall. Whether you want a quick solution or a full outdoor transformation, the right shade structure makes it easier to love where you live—indoors and out
You can request a free estimate from Designer Awnings by visiting their website www.designerawnings.com or by calling 610-433-7515.
