7 Super Stylish Ways to Shade Your Balcony

Use these shading options for your balcony to get protection from the sun and create a comfortable outdoor space

Pooja Khanna Tyagi 15 January 2020

Houzz India Contributor. An Architect , Interior Designer, Valuer, a Marathon Runner, and love Writing Poetry and Creative Stories on Building Design. Have been practicing since the year 2000 with specialization in the field of Corporate Interiors with projects extensively published in journals of national repute. Recently honoured with the reputed A3 Foundation award for Journalism for the year 2016. Currently practicing and residing in Delhi. Website: www.khannaenterprise.com, Email: poojakhanna224@gmail.com, M:9891993392

Houzz India Contributor. An Architect , Interior Designer, Valuer, a Marathon Runner,... More

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The balcony is an ideal spot to relax and spend time outdoors, but the scorching heat of the sun (especially during summer) can make it uncomfortable to use. Take a look at these shading methods that can be incorporated into the balcony in your home.

Brian Lewotsky Company Inc.

1. Introduce a pergola
A pergola is an open roof system which comprises slats of wood (or metal) spaced equidistant from each other or in a lattice, often with plants trailing over it. It is an effective way to provide shade without blocking the light and warmth of the sun. The pergola also works as a design feature that enhances the overall look of the balcony.

See these inspiring balconies in Houzz photos

Here is a modern take on the pergola, where a steel lattice structure is incorporated to partly cover a section of the balcony. The metal lattice controls the intensity of the sun and creates a shaded seating area.

Tip: Vines can be planted on top of the pergola to provide additional shade to the balcony.

Moriq

In this example, the roof of the balcony is divided into a rectangular grid with an alternate placement of slats and solid roof. This arrangement cuts the angled rays of the sun and also casts interesting shadows on the balcony floor.

Find a designer to help shade your balcony, big or small

STUDIO YAMINI

Take a look at this balcony. A solid concrete roof combines with a pergola to create two distinct sections in the balcony and a comfortable outdoor space.

Studio VeneziaTre arch ass

2. Go for awnings
Install an awning for seasonal shading, as it also works as an accent feature. Awnings are available in a variety of fabrics, colours and patterns that can match with the design of the outdoor furnishings and decor, just as in this image. It is advisable to go for awnings that are UV-resistant and can be retracted when not in use. Note that the awnings can be opened manually or one can opt for awnings that are motor-controlled.

P.S. Designs

3. Buy an outdoor umbrella
Put up an outdoor umbrella, as it is one of the most affordable ways to create a shaded seating area without compromising on the openness of the balcony. Make sure that the umbrella is sturdy and can withstand the force of the average winds, and fold it when there is a storm in the offing.

Dennis Mayer - Photographer

4. Install an acrylic sheet
Another way to shade the balcony is by fabricating a semi-permanent roofing structure in metal and cladding it with an acrylic or a polycarbonate sheet. It is advisable to go for translucent sheets that not only allow light to pass through it but also offer good protection from the heat and rain.

Bryant Alsop Architects

Alternatively, consider a toughened glass roof, as it looks neat, allows light to filter into the balcony and provides shade at the same time. However, one major drawback of using glass as a roofing material is that it is difficult to access and clean.

Shaded your balcony? Now get outdoor furniture from Houzz products

Panageries

5. Hang roller shades
Since the sun changes its angle throughout the day, only overhead protection from the sun is not enough, because heat can penetrate from the sides of the balcony. In this image, the roller shades create a comfortable indoor-outdoor seating space and also provides privacy from the neighbours. Roller shades are available in materials like wood , bamboo, PVC or jute, which are sturdy and long-lasting.

Shabnam Gupta

Check out this balcony, where transparent PVC blinds are used to allow light to pass freely and protect the space from scorching heat and drenching rain.

Linear Concepts

6. Decorative metal grilles
How about creating an outdoor enclosure with decorative metal grilles that can offer both shade and privacy to the balcony? In this example, the decorative grilles on the flooring, ceiling and railing form a dominant feature of the balcony and add to the security of the home. However, one drawback of creating an enclosure with laser-cut grilles is that the balcony may feel claustrophobic.

Smalls Landscaping

7. Add shade with plants
Hanging plants and foliage are another cost-effective way to provide relief from the sun. Here, in this example, the tall plants increase the privacy of the balcony, provide natural shade and also beautify the space by softening the look of the home.

Read more:
5 Clever Balcony Design Solutions to Make the Most of the Monsoon
Home Cooling Tips: 12 Ways to Shade Your Home From the Sun

Tell us:
What shade cover do you have in your balcony? Share some images in the Comments section below.