When considering garden must-haves, a parasol undoubtedly is somewhere at the top of the list. Picture the joy of gathering under its shade, sharing laughter and meals with friends and family, with no strain on the eyes or fears of the young ones getting sunburnt.
Choosing the perfect shape for your garden can make all the difference in creating an inviting and comfortable outdoor space. But how do you decide on the best shape? It’s a crucial decision that impacts not just the look, but also the effectiveness of your outdoor shading. That’s what this guide is all about – exploring the key considerations to help you find the right shape of parasol for your garden.
What to Consider When Choosing Your Garden Parasol
Firstly, think about how you’re going to use your parasol. Are you looking to shade a large area or a specific spot like a dining table? Larger areas might benefit from square or octagonal parasols, which offer more extensive coverage. For narrow balconies, a half-balcony parasol is a smart choice, while square parasols are perfect for dining areas where you need consistent shade over a rectangular table.
Consider the space and layout of your outdoor area. Measuring the available space will give you a solid idea of how your parasol can fit in without overcrowding the area – the last thing you want is not having enough room for furniture and movement! When considering the size of your parasol, add half a metre to a metre wider than the area you want to cover. Matching the parasol shape to your space can help this greatly; square parasols work well in corners or against walls, whereas hexagonal and octagonal parasols excel in open spaces.
Additionally, it’s important to understand the difference between a cantilever parasol and a wind-up parasol. Wind-up parasols are ideal for use with dining tables and the Kettler mesh range, whereas Cantilever parasols offer more flexibility as they are free-arm and can be positioned without a central pole, making them perfect for shading lounging areas or irregular spaces.
Finally, aesthetic and design preferences play a crucial role in your decision-making and you should opt for a parasol shape that complements your décor. Square parasols have an angular and modern look, while octagonal shapes provide a classic appeal that harkens to cafes by the sea. Ensure the parasol’s colour and material align with your outdoor furniture and overall aesthetic to create a cohesive and inviting space.
Square Parasols
If you want to maximise coverage for your outdoor space, look no further than a square parasol, such as our large free-arm garden parasol. Its design is perfect for covering square or rectangular tables and seating areas, ensuring that everyone gets ample shade. Its sleek, contemporary look crafted from UV-resistant, crease-proof polyester seamlessly blends with contemporary outdoor spaces that opt for minimalism and sophistication. Plus, the straight edges mean you can place it against a wall or other structure, adding versatility to your patio configurations.
Half Parasols
Ideal for those with limited space, half parasols like the Menos ½ Balcony Parasol are a godsend. With a flat back that sits snugly against a wall or railing, it cleverly finds a solution to the common issues faced with small patios and balconies. Lighter and easier to move around than full-sized parasols, this compact option makes the most out of those cosy outdoor spots.
Wind-Up Round Parasols
Bring a touch of style and practicality to your garden with our hexagonal wind-up parasol. Its shape suits both round and square spaces and offers a showstopping blend of both classic and en-vogue looks. With fewer sides than an octagon, it means that the individual panels are larger, providing slightly better wind resistance while still giving ample shade. Plus, at Kettler, our round mesh tables have a hole in the centre for wind-up parasols.
Octagon Free Arm Parasols
For a classic design that fits a variety of outdoor settings, an octagon parasol such as our high-tech free arm octagonal parasol with LED lighting and wireless speaker is an excellent option. It’s the best of a square and round parasol shape, its eight-sided structure providing even coverage and creating a pleasing aesthetic symmetry, particularly when paired with round tables and seating arrangements. Able to cover a larger area than most other parasols, this shape is perfect for providing extensive shade and a touch of elegance to your garden.
Which Parasol Shape is Best For You?
The answer is simple yet complicated – it truly depends on your specific needs and space. If your patio area is on the smaller side, a round dining set will be best. But the possibilities expand for larger outdoor spaces – perhaps a square or rectangular table would be more fitting.
At Kettler, we offer a high-quality array of garden parasols in all shapes and sizes, crafted from robust, shower and UV-resistant materials and on certain models, fitted with LED lights and Bluetooth speakers. Our designs not only enhance the beauty of your garden but also create an irresistible urge to spend quality time outdoors. Imagine leisurely afternoons and lively evenings in your garden, surrounded by family and friends. Our products are designed to elevate every moment.
Build Lasting Moments in Your Garden with Kettler
At Kettler, it’s been our mission since the 1960s to create outdoor furniture for the best of times. This commitment still fuels us today, and our team is here to help you find the perfect parasol to shield your outdoor space from the sun, rain and the open. If you have any questions, contact us today, and let’s make your garden a space for lifelong memories to be made.
