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tional enough that they can be removed or put away when not in use,” he said. His firm prefers to use shade products that offer a clean, con- temporary style with flexibility in color and fabric. “Particularly with the ones we use, the shade cantilevers over the space and can be positioned off to the side and opened without getting in the way. It’s a very functional, pleasing look and design.” Planning ahead As with any element of outdoor design, a professional land- scaper needs to assess a space’s shade conditions. By first determin- ing how and when the client’s outdoor space will be used, all other aspects of planning can be aligned. In most climates, shade is vital, either to allow homeowners and their guests to completely enjoy the outdoor space, or to encourage customers to stop and linger at a cafe or hotel pool. Once an outdoor space has been completed, other than rain, shade is the most significant element that affects whether or not a space can be used to its fullest de- gree. “It doesn’t matter how beautiful a landscape is if people can’t enjoy it,” Edmondson said. “Incorporating the right amount of shade is crucial to people’s use and enjoyment of a setting.” According to Mahon, important considerations include which direction the area faces, what time of day shade is needed, and how the space will be used when shade is not necessary. “Aesthet- ically, consider the relevance of color, style, fabric and shape. Also, it is recommended to consider the product options, umbrella or awning or shade structure,” he said. “If the client opts for a non- permanent shade product, such as an umbrella, think about how it will look and feel when it is in use and when it is not.” He also advises to predetermine the shade product’s ability to be moved and stored out of the way. Taking good measurements, assessing potential angles and mounting options, and learning about structural requirements are critical to the installation’s success. Designers should visit the con- struction site before making a final determination about the prod- uct. Then, and only then, might it be best to present options to customers based on structural and aesthetic needs. Mahon’s firm develops many rooftop terrace designs, which in- volves working with building codes, anchoring requirements, and being mindful of waterproof membranes in the structures. “We have to take structural capacity and wind into account when de- signing shade for a rooftop garden setting,” he said. “If we’re de- signing something big and permanent, such as a pergola or shade structure, it can’t be too heavy for the roof because it will cause structural problems. Many buildings won’t allow structures to be attached, especially in small spaces, so finding the right solution depends on the client’s taste and building requirements.” Mahon says he has used rooftop terrace products similar to ShadeScapes’ Piccolo and Pendulum umbrellas, both part of the Woodline Collection, as well as the Paraflex umbrella system from Umbrosa. “These work well because they are very functional, and when they are not being used, they are easily moved or retracted.” Noticing new trends Style, functionality and versatility are foremost in high-end outdoor designs. With many customers now preferring umbrellas without a center post, side post and cantilever umbrellas are catch- ing on in residential and public applications. “Another popular growing trend is the need for expansive shade areas for the “chat group” furniture concept,” Edmondson said. “We are watching a growing trend in outdoor couches, oversized chairs, and modular furnishings to accommodate gatherings. Designers need to be able to shade these large gathering areas and can accomplish this with stylish, architectural umbrellas that are as functional as they are beautiful,” she said. Quality is a factor, as always, with commercial and residential clients adverse to replacing high-end furniture or umbrellas every couple of years. People are staying in their homes longer and, as with interior design, homeowners and business owners are often going for a 10-year design in their outdoor areas. Simultaneously, they want all elements of the design to last just as long. Umbrellas are being thought of in the same caliber as high-end furniture, with some designers even choosing umbrellas prior to deciding on furni- ture and other outdoor elements. “It’s a change of perspective, working from the top down instead of the foundation up,” said Ed- mondson. “More designers are thinking of shade in the earlier Left Photo: The Paraflex umbrella system features a flexible arm comparable to the human arm — it tilts and rotates for all-day shade. It can be wall mounted, or one to five umbrellas can be affixed onto one pole. — Photo courtesy of ShadeScapes Americas Middle Photo: This residential poolscape design displays functionality and versatility with a wall-mounted umbrella system. — Photo courtesy of Umbrosa Paraflex / ShadeScapes Americas Right Photo: When specifying or installing for commercial landscapes and pool areas, options for individual-use shade such as the Rimbou Lotus offer landscape companies creative approaches to design. — Photo courtesy of Umbrosa / ShadeScapes Americas www.landscapeirrigation.com Landscape and Irrigation 17