Shadespiration for Stylish & Sun-Smart Spaces

Under cover

Story by Alea Wilkins

Keep cool all year long with some new shades. Awnings and blinds shield outdoor areas from unwanted sun, making Lowcountry lounging comfortable no matter what the weather. Plus, enhancements like LED lights and remote-controlled settings add style to practical fixtures. Review projects from local professionals to find the right shade for your home.

Sun block

When the golden hour is too bright, strategic shades can tone down the sun’s intensity. This Budget Blinds project in Sun City aimed to soften the brightness and heat beaming into a homeowner’s enclosed porch. “They get a tremendous amount of sun as a west-facing exposure,” Budget Blinds owner, Bob Engler, says. As a solution, Budget Blinds added several electric shades that can easily be raised and lowered with a remote. Lift to enjoy a cozy sunrise or drop to avoid overheating. Either way, peak relaxation is a breeze.

Retro chic

As this awning in Bluffton proves, vintage never goes out of style. For a classic coastal awning, Nikki Petitt, owner of Seaglass Windowscapes, says stripes are the bee’s knees. “Green-and-white striped fabric adds timeless charm, perfectly complementing the home’s outdoor space,” she says. The pattern recalls nostalgic boardwalk strolls, and with modern fabrics the awning is not only fashionable but functional. Petitt says the weather-resistant design can withstand the Lowcountry’s sun and harmful UV rays, “keeping the area underneath up to 20 degrees cooler.” Enjoy old-fashioned flair with state-of-the-art innovation for comfort that’s made in the shade.

Up, up and away

Blazing sun and blistering heat may be the two quickest ways to send porch-sitters packing. Enter retractable awnings. At the push of a button (or twist of the handle), retractable awnings can extend to any amount of desired coverage from the sun — an especially necessary precaution in the Lowcountry. “Retractable awnings provide a high-grade UVA protection, allowing everyone to enjoy the outdoors longer and more safely,” says Scott Edwards from Coastal Canvas Products. Beyond blocking the sun, retractable awnings can be customized. Edwards mentions upgrades like LED lights, wind sensors, front valances and over 500 fabric options. “Every home is unique,” he says. “Your retractable awning should be too.”