Have It Made in the Shade

For summer fun, mid-century-styled patio umbrellas keep it cool with a ‘pop of color’
By Adriene Biondo
Fridays on the Homefront
For mid‐century modern home backyards and atriums needing a bit of shade this summer, well‐placed patio umbrellas can make all the difference. Check out our selection of 8 special outdoor umbrellas…and see which models feel right for you. Above and below: The Safavieh Maui. Photos courtesy the participating vendors.

Ahh…summer's here, and that means hosting poolside BBQs, and spending time in the backyard garden we've nurtured throughout the year.

Since the summer sun can be brutal, it's also an ideal time for creating mini‐shelters that screen the sun, so that friends and family can fully enjoy the outdoors.

For mid‐century modern home backyards and atriums needing a bit of shade, well‐placed patio umbrellas can make all the difference. Their portability allows umbrellas to be convenient standbys, and they can be doubled up to add additional coverage (or to mix n' match colors).

Patio shades and umbrellas come in an array of sizes and styles, from solids to stripes; and are offered in standard single‐post supports to cantilevered models.

A vented umbrella can provide increased stability for those in windy areas. No‐post, canopy‐style shades can nicely cover a picnic table, or shelter a trio of chaise lounges. Bluetooth compatible umbrellas are also on the market, along with lighted solar umbrellas.

We've gathered together a selection of 8 special outdoor umbrellas, curated with mid‐century style in mind. Check 'em out and see which ones feel right for you…

 

  Fridays on the Homefront
  

• Safavieh Maui

Scallops are back—here's one in a citrusy striped orange and white. Standing 9 feet, this octagonal design is a hand‐cranked model crafted of wood and aluminum with a polyester canopy. Available in 5 colors. Assembly required. 100.79 inches across. From $120‐152. bedbathandbeyond.com

 

 

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• Blissun

This solar umbrella is powered by the sun, with 32 energy‐efficient LED lights, 4 mounted to each of its 8 ribs, that illuminate for nighttime entertaining. Easy push‐button tilt and crank, with base available separately. Breathable fabric in 14 colors. 108 inches across. When used as freestanding umbrella, a 26.5‐lb. base is recommended. $72. amazon.com

 

  Fridays on the Homefront
  

• Golf Stripe

Wide white and aqua stripes stream across this nostalgic 9‐foot umbrella that is said to have been inspired by the "relaxed refinement of country clubs and golf resorts." Designed to withstand the elements, this replacement polyester canopy fabric pairs with World Market's 9‐foot umbrella frames and poles, sold separately. 9 feet across. $48. worldmarket.com