Hi drmdilip -- While I waited for my trumpet vines to fill in sufficiently to provide summer shade, I sewed three matching striped shower curtains together, using the button holes on each end to tie it in place. I did this because as the vine was growing new, each thin runner would drop between the rafters rather than grow straight across. After a few years now, those thin runners have become a massed layer of thick vines, all of the new growth is straight up and by the end of summer I'll be able to easily remove my temporary support and have a roof of vines. It's not rainproof though -- for that, polycarb is practical, and I love the copper above!

I want an architect in Navi Mumbai who can help make retractable stairs My email id is drsatishmenon17@gmail.com

Hi Vijay, since we dont know what your space looks like and whether you want a covered or semi covered space (as correctly asked by Prabha) - i dont know what will fit your requirement. attaching some more suggestions for the overall look and feel of the space. Hope these help! an english look that peddles on the use of stone and iron. incase youre looking for something classic - this is an easy to maintain and good looking option. if you already have a semi covered stretch - you only need to remodel the interiors - i dont know what flooring you have but a stone tile would blend well. a very modern take on interiors - the wooden partition not only serves as a panel that highlights the sofa in front of it but also extends upwards to jut out into a ceiling that covers the space partially. straight lines mixed with subtle greys and blues with a touch of fresh green definitely make the contemporary vibe take center stage. rugs warm the space and give it a lived in look. incase youre looking for a rustic feel and charm - rustic terracotta tiles and wooden furniture highlighted by plants will give you a right combination. this could be covered by a pergola. incase you want to keep the option open - of having a covered as well as an uncovered space - you could maybe use a retractable awning above - like shown here. a mirror always adds glamour - not only will it reflect the daylight but will also make the place look larger. reflections of green always add a dose of freshness too! in case you have semi covered stretch - you could treat it in this manner. if you wish to make a semi covered area - you could construct a pergola and treat it in this manner from the inside. do post pictures of your place once you do it up!

vedikaseth Bombay rains are harsh! The one thing you can do is use flexible covers that work similar to roller blinds, and are transparent which allows the light to enter. There are many companies that offer such a product. Just choose one where the installation is easy and taking down the sheets is not an issue once the rains are over. Do keep in mind however that the water will still enter the balcony, you will simply be reducing the force of rains, and will require a water outlet.