Looking to turn your outdoor space into a permanent vacation? We’ve got all the info you’ll need to transform your patio from a sundrenched desert into a shady oasis - a “shadecation,” if you will. There are quite a few things you can do to spruce up your outdoor space, and we’re going to provide you with exactly what you need to soak up the summer FUN.

The first step to soaking up summer fun: not getting blistered by the sun’s harmful rays. How can you accomplish this? By using exterior shades, of course. If you think about it, outdoor shades provide the ultimate solution to so many issues you experience when it comes to your patio space. When paired with Mermet outdoor shade fabric, shading systems provide you with the ability to enjoy the outdoors with much less exposure to sweltering heat and painful sunburn. Not to mention, Mermet shade fabric aids in keeping pesky insects out of your covered area. Essentially, you get to enjoy most of the benefits of being outdoors but with added protection and comfort. It’s a no-brainer, right? Plus, with the unpredictable inclement summer storms - you’ll want to have durable shade fabric that stands the test of time. 

Now, we kicked off with exterior shades because it enhances everything else we will suggest to you - and it might just be the most important thing you can add to improve your outdoor experience. So without further ado, let’s dive right in. The next crucial element to an enjoyable outdoor space is patio furniture. We’re not just talking about any old furniture. We’re talking comfortable, stylish, and most importantly DURABLE outdoor furniture. While shades help maintain the longevity of your furniture, it’s still important to have weather resistant, carefully crafted seating and tables. For this we have the perfect suggestion: furniture made with solid and strong Outdura upholstery fabrics. Featuring solution-dyed acrylic, Outdura furniture fabric boasts bold colors, fade and stain resistance, water repulsion and more. It’s ideal for sitting back, relaxing, and enjoying summer in the shade!

Next up on our list - ambient outdoor lighting. This is truly a brilliant way to elevate the look of your outdoor space. Using strategically placed lights, you can give your backyard that extra oomph to stand out among the rest in the neighborhood. Let us illustrate the scene for you: you’ve got a cozy patio with exterior shades keeping you comfortable despite the high temps of July. You’re sitting in one of your outdoor lounge chairs sipping some sweet iced tea and reading one of your favorite novels. You’re so wrapped up in the story that you look up and suddenly notice the sun is setting, but you don’t waste any time worrying about how you’ll continue reading. You pick up the remote to your Lutron Caseta system and adjust the lighting specifically to what you want. Not too bright, but just enough to illuminate the pages of your book. If that doesn’t exude comfort, we don’t know what does.

To keep the party going we’re suggesting an adult inflatable pool, of course. In-ground pools are expensive and a little cool water just might save your summer. Inflatable pools like this require simple setup and use a limited amount of water. Make yourself a refreshing cocktail, lay out a patterned beach towel, and you’re practically under the palm trees. Some smaller (but still incredibly fun) additions we suggest are an outdoor griddle, gourmet pizza oven, and mix and match items from Corkcicle’s Barware collection - featuring insulated drink accessories like ice buckets, wine chillers, and can coolers. 

Now that you’ve got the idea, it’s time to have some summer fun. Just remember, apply your sunscreen and most importantly - stay in the shade.