With spring just around the corner—and longer days and lighter evenings finally in sight—now is the perfect time to start thinking about getting your garden and patio ready for alfresco living. It’s nearly time to dust off the outdoor furniture, refresh your garden décor, and create a space that’s not just practical, but also super stylish. Our gardens have increasingly become natural extensions of our homes, and with a retractable awning providing the perfect shade solution, you can create an outdoor ‘room’ that’s perfect for everything from early morning coffee to family dining, relaxing, outdoor play, social gatherings, and even working from home (because let’s face it, working outside with a coffee in hand sounds way better than being stuck indoors!).
Why awnings are a must-have to extend your living space
Garden awnings and canopies are #trending, and for good reason! Our customers love how this simple stylish addition enhances their property, not only by providing essential shade and shelter, but also by bringing a designer edge to their outdoor spaces. Plus, they’re not just for sunny days—integrated lighting and heating systems make them a game-changer for year-round entertaining. Spring evenings are lovely, but they can still be a bit chilly. An awning can help trap the day’s heat, making your patio feel warmer for longer. Pair with an outdoor heater, cosy throws, and soft lighting for the ultimate springtime sanctuary.
Create a shaded space to enjoy more time outdoors
Installing a garden awning over your patio or decking instantly transforms it into a comfortable, shaded retreat. With the right patio canopy, you get the best of both worlds: shade when you need it and sunshine when you don’t—no more squinting at your book or overheating while sipping your morning coffee. And awnings aren’t just practical—they’re also a statement piece. With a huge variety of colours, patterns, and styles available, you can choose one that complements your garden’s aesthetic. We offer over 400 hundred easy-clean fabric choices in both classic and sleek modern designs, plus extras like sun and wind sensors, integrated lighting, and heating. Whether you prefer a bold, eye-catching design or a subtle, neutral tone, there’s something to complement every space and tie your outdoor space together beautifully.
Protect your patio furniture
If you’ve invested in stylish garden furniture, why let the unpredictable spring weather ruin it? Waterproof awnings offer protection from those inevitable April showers, ensuring your furniture and accessories look fresh for longer. They’re also brilliant at offering UV protection; not only will your patio be kept cool, but there’s also less risk of your outdoor furniture becoming sun damaged. What’s more, our motorised awnings help regulate indoor temperatures at the touch of a button by shading large windows and bi-fold doors, reducing heat gain and keeping your home comfortable even when the temperature outside rockets.
Our favourite spring-ready patio ideas
We’ve rounded up some of our favourite easy garden ideas to complement your new patio awning and help your garden achieve its best look yet:
- An egg chair or hanging chair is a great way to add instant boho wow-factor to your patio.
- Try growing a micro herb garden in patio planters or under the windowsill. Not only are they visually appealing and easy to care for, but you’ll be able to add fresh herbs to your dishes and drinks all summer long.
- Add an instant pop of colour to your patio by planting spring bulbs in bright pots to make the space look cheery even before the blooms come out.
- String up solar fairy lights for fuss-free ambient lighting when dusk starts to fall.
- Brighten up a drab wall or fence with trailing plants in bucket planters for a DIY living wall
- A fire pit is a stylish patio addition, providing warmth, light, and a touch of cosiness when the sun goes down.
- Outdoor Kitchen’s are trending. If you don’t want to go the whole hog, try adding a countertop pizza oven or BBQ to a simple worktop for effortless alfresco dining.
Ready to elevate your outdoor space with an Apollo Blinds awning?
Our made-to-measure awnings are custom fitted by professionals and come with a five-year guarantee, ensuring quality craftsmanship that stands the test of time.
Create your dream outdoor space, and add style and value to your home, by booking a free consultation to view our awnings range with your local Apollo Blinds.