Six Stylish Outdoor Umbrellas to Keep You Covered This Summer

Bringing the Mediterranean into your home is popular right now in the interior design world. And if there’s one sure way you can add a touch of the European coastline to your home, it’s through outdoor umbrellas. Outdoor umbrellas are the perfect summer addition, combining style and functionality to enhance your outdoor area. So, even if the Mediterranean style isn’t your thing, there are plenty of outdoor umbrella options to suit your space. We’re taking you through six stylish outdoor umbrella types that will have you covered all summer long (literally and figuratively).

Discover the full range of outdoor products in the Style Sourcebook product library.

Image credit: SX Constructions | Zauss House | Brock Beazley Photography 

Different Types of Outdoor Umbrellas

First things first, outdoor umbrellas come in various types, with each one offering unique benefits:

Market Umbrellas: These are the classic garden umbrellas with a central pole and a straight or slightly angled canopy. They fit perfectly into patio tables with a hole in the middle or stand-alone with a weighted base.

Cantilever Umbrellas: Known for their off-centre base, cantilever umbrellas provide shade without obstructing the space underneath. They are ideal over pool lounges or dining areas where a central pole might be a little too intrusive.

Wood vs Metal Frames: Wooden frames offer a traditional, warm look, often used in market-style umbrellas. In contrast, metal frames are durable and can feature more intricate mechanisms like tilting and rotating.

Round vs Square Canopies: Round umbrellas provide a natural, organic shade area, while square or rectangular ones offer a more directed shade, making them suitable for covering dining or seating areas.

Image credit: @hazelhouseberry | Nat Spada 

Image credit: @hazelhouseberry | Nat Spada 

1. Market Outdoor Umbrellas

Let’s dive a little deeper into your choices, starting with market umbrellas. Market umbrellas are the quintessential choice for a classic outdoor setting, given that they’re a popular choice. Typically made from wood and featuring a canvas canopy, they bring a touch of luxury and are incredibly functional around the pool. Plus, market umbrellas come in so many different shapes, colours, and styles, it’s so easy to find a chic one you’re sure to love. 

Mediterranean Pool mood board created by The Sanctuary Interior Design on Style Sourcebook.

Euro Summer Patio + Pool Area mood board created by Valhalla Home Co on Style Sourcebook.

2. Cantilever Umbrellas

Cantilever umbrellas are the epitome of versatility and modernity. With the ability to pivot and tilt, they provide extensive coverage and flexibility, ideal for dynamic outdoor settings where the sun's position changes throughout the day. They’re a little heavier duty in comparison to a market umbrella, but they’ll still make a stylish addition to your pool area. 

Neutral Outdoor mood board created by Ash Fairy on Style Sourcebook.

Bohemian Cottage mood board created by Captain & Queen on Style Sourcebook.

3. Colourful Outdoor Umbrellas

Bright and bold, colourful umbrellas add a pop of colour to your outdoor space and can coordinate with your garden, outdoor décor, or even interior palette. These umbrellas make a statement and can transform your backyard into a lively summer haven.

Take Palm Springs-inspired Doasis, for example. We love how these green and white umbrellas provide the perfect amount of colour, while still complementing the surroundings. 

Image credit: SMUB Studio | Rex Whiticker 

Image credit: SMUB Studio | Rex Whiticker 

4. Upgrade Your Outdoor Dining Space with an Umbrella

A practical combination, an outdoor table with a built-in umbrella ensures that your dining or lounging area is always shaded. This setup is perfect for those who love to entertain outdoors, providing a comfortable, sheltered spot for meals or drinks.

We love how Hazel House, a renovated country cottage, demonstrates how stylish the addition of an umbrella really can be. 

Image credit: @hazelhouseberry | Nat Spada 

5. Outdoor Umbrellas in Neutral Tones

For those who prefer a minimalist or sophisticated look, neutral-coloured umbrellas in shades like taupe, grey, or white blend seamlessly with any décor. These umbrellas offer a chic, understated style that complements modern landscaping and furnishings.

Plus, they’re perfect for matching your interior style, making your space feel connected. Take luxury coastal accommodation, OneSixTwo, for example. These neutral outdoor umbrellas add just the right amount of interest to the pool area, without overpowering the scenery. They also tie in beautifully with the interior spaces. 

Image credit: @houseonesixtwo | Nat Spada 

Image credit: @houseonesixtwo | Nat Spada 

6. Thatch Umbrellas for a Coastal-Style Outdoor Patio

For a tropical or beachfront vibe, thatch umbrellas are perfect. They not only offer shade but also bring an exotic aesthetic that can make your backyard feel like a holiday retreat. These are particularly popular in coastal properties or as a feature in tropical-themed gardens, but don’t let that stop you from adding them to any style home. 

Just like at Selamanya House, a contemporary coastal renovation, these striking additions are perfect for adding character and interest to your outdoor space. 

Image credit: Hennessy Building Projects | Kristian van der Beek 

What to Look for in an Outdoor Umbrella

Now for some practical tips. Choosing the right outdoor umbrella involves several factors to ensure you get both functionality and style:

Size and Shape: Consider the size of the area you want to shade. The umbrella should be large enough to cover the desired space without overwhelming it. Shapes like round, square, or rectangular can define the coverage and fit with your existing layout.

Material: The durability of an umbrella is largely dependent on its material. Look for canopies made from UV-resistant fabrics and frames constructed from robust materials like aluminium, steel, or wood to withstand the harsh Australian sun.

Mechanism: Ease of use is crucial. Options include pulley, crank, or push-button tilt mechanisms that make opening, closing, and adjusting the umbrella straightforward.

Base and Stability: A sturdy base is necessary to secure the umbrella, especially in windy conditions. The base should correspond to the umbrella's size and weight to provide adequate support.

Image credit: The Isla | Anson Smart 

Selecting the right outdoor umbrella for your summer setup involves considering the size, material, and type of umbrella that best fits your needs and style. Whether you opt for a bold, colourful centrepiece or a chic, neutral option, the right umbrella can completely enhance your outdoor aesthetic and even the way you use the space. 

Start bringing your dream outdoor area to life using the Style Sourcebook mood board tool.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How can I style my outdoor umbrella?

Styling your outdoor umbrella can enhance your outdoor space and make it feel like a natural extension of your home. Here are a few tips to help you style your umbrella:

Colour Coordination: Match your umbrella with your outdoor cushions, rugs, or décor to create a cohesive look. Alternatively, choose a contrasting colour for the umbrella to make it a focal point.

Lighting: Add string lights or LED lights around the ribs of the umbrella to create a cosy, inviting atmosphere in the evenings.

Add Greenery: Position potted plants around the base of your umbrella to integrate them naturally into your garden or patio.

Accessorise: Incorporate a stylish outdoor rug under your seating area with an umbrella to tie the space together. Use decorative weights for the umbrella base that complement your décor style.

Where is the best placement for an outdoor umbrella?

The best placement for an outdoor umbrella depends on the layout of your outdoor area and where you need shade most during the day. Here are a few considerations:

Over Seating Areas: Place the umbrella over lounge chairs or dining tables to provide shade where people gather.

Sun Path: Consider the path of the sun throughout the day. Position the umbrella to provide optimal shade during peak sun hours, especially in the afternoon.

Wind Protection: Avoid placing umbrellas in very windy areas unless they are well-secured. Areas protected by walls or hedges can be ideal.

View: Ensure the umbrella does not block any scenic views. It should enhance the outdoor experience, not detract from it.

What shape umbrella gives the most shade?

The shape of the umbrella significantly affects the amount of shade it provides. Here are a few general guidelines:

Rectangular and Square Umbrellas: These shapes often provide more coverage and shade than round umbrellas because they have a larger canopy area that covers more ground. They are ideal for shading larger dining tables or elongated seating areas.

Round and Octagonal Umbrellas: While round umbrellas might not cover as much area as rectangular ones, they provide ample shade for more compact and centralised seating areas. They distribute shade evenly around the pole.

Cantilever Umbrellas: Regardless of shape, cantilever umbrellas are excellent for providing shade over a larger area. Their adjustable angles and the ability to rotate 360 degrees allow you to move the shade as the sun shifts without moving the base.

Choosing the right shape depends on your specific needs and the configuration of your outdoor space. Consider how you use your space to determine which shape will offer the best functionality and aesthetic appeal.