Blinds & Shutters - Issue 4/2023

SOLAR SHADING
Added attraction
Caribbean Blinds
puts forward the
business case for
adding pergolas to
your range
If the global pandemic and multiple national
lockdowns taught us anything, it’s the
importance and value of our outdoor spaces.
For UK homeowners, it reignited our love for the
great outdoors, creating a “holiday at home”
culture that’s expected to continue to flourish.
According to research, approximately 87% of
British homes have gardens – with 7 out of 8
households having access to either a private or
shared garden – equalling around 23 million
outdoor spaces. The home represents the biggest
ROI, with people spending more time at home
now than before the pandemic. Combine this with
a home improvement sector that’s ripe for
continued growth, and the scope for additional
extended living solutions is huge.
Whether it’s in the form of a freestanding
structure or as an extension of the property, a
modern pergola with a rotating or retracting roof
provides a dedicated outdoor ‘room’ in any garden.
Suited to both classic and contemporary
properties, a bioclimatic pergola extends the use of
any outdoor space by providing instant shelter
from both the rain and sun, whilst permitting you
to play with light and shade – if using a rotating
louvered roof.
Although the UK isn’t renowned for its hot
weather, the past few summers have been an
exception with long spells of uncomfortable heat,
causing the nation to question whether they’re
prepared for the warmer weather and likely
heatwaves the country is predicted to experience
over the coming years
For hospitality and commercial establishments,
previous social distancing rules and restrictions
meant they had to reconsider the use and
functionality of their outdoor areas, and for many,
this is still a priority. Today, the commercial sector
continues to aim to utilise every inch of available
outdoor space – with year-round flexible solutions
being a popular option
As we transition into the winter months, it’s
likely that the more temporary covers such as
brollies, parasols and pop-up marquees won’t stand
up to the UK’s adverse weather conditions. The
ideal solution to this is highly durable louvered roof
canopies and pergolas that offer an open-air
alfresco feel when left fully open, and ensure a
completely water, wind and even snow-tight roof
when closed.
72 Blinds & Shutters • ISSUE FOUR 2023
continues on page 74