VOIDS AND SPACE = LANDSCAPE + DESIGN

Golf course landscape architecture is more than gardening (even if it doesn't always get the attention it deserves). Landscape architecture – as golf course landscape architects know – is about striking the balance between existing and new structures, use and function for people, plants and living things (okay, there's some gardening), sky, and empty spaces. Mark Rios is famous for this truly insightful statement:

Landscape architects look at voids, space, systems, based in training in ecology. They deal with bringing spaces together -- how they are transformed through ecology.

Ecology simply means looking at a living thing in its own environment. That's why Rios's other adjective for landscape architecture is "holistic."

So, where does a retractable awning or patio cover system fit into this ecology?

When people use an area in a certain way (walking, sitting, gathering) then the physical structure has to follow that. It orients people in that space. Much like physical delineations, the balance of shade and light define areas and can make them social and welcoming or isolated and uninviting.

When using awnings to delineate usable space in a landscape design, there are a couple of major points to consider:

• What's the color? Awnings don't just provide shade; their fabrics create a diffused colored light. This creates a mood.
• Is this an independent space or is it extending another space? There are a variety of sun protection systems. Some designs are  freestanding, where they are themselves the central structures. Some awning styles integrate with existing architectural designs, from features like fountains and pools to full buildings. The place defines the purpose.
• What's the visual impact you need? For large-scale designs, like parks, then shade elements can be an artistic statement all their own. This can be a way to provide movement and drama to a space without seeming busy – most kinds of awnings have very simple designs, so it preserves the scale and "emptiness" of the land while filling the void. For tight spaces or for commercial designs, retractable shade systems can stylistically recede and provide functionality without imposing on the design.
• Are people staying or passing by? Determine the social function. Do people need to be able to sit or stand for long period in comfort? Do they need a defined path to move from one point to another? Retractable awnings and retractable patio cover systems can provide a clear structure without needing permanent construction.
• What's underneath? People aren't the only things that look for shade on a summer day. Retractable awnings and retractable patio cover systems can be used to protect or to highlight other landscape elements, like terrace gardens prone to evaporation and pots and containers vulnerable to temperature swings.

DON'T BID ALONE (WHEN WE CAN HELP)

In this economy, a good proposal is the key between getting a project and moving on to the next bid. RetractableAwnings.com is here to help you deliver your next project-winning proposal:

• Mock-ups and photo galleries to illustrate your proposal
• Instant thumbnail estimates or detailed accurate quotes
• Experienced advice based on your climate, structure, and proposed design
•  A range of price options, with both economy and premium lines, to meet your project requirements
• Experience (and accessories) for both residential, commercial, public, and multi-use designs

Retractable awnings save property owners money on energy use and UV damage, so you can sell savings as part of your proposal. Even better, retractable awnings and retractable patio cover systems broaden the design horizons with unique features like balcony and multi-story systems, shade and container gardens, water features, and free-standing shade areas. If you need inspiration, we have ideas.

And did we mention it's free?

Entertaining Outdoors
RetractableAwnings.com an A+ Better Business Bureau member for 19 years has been assembling and distributing the highest-quality, best-designed European sun, wind, rain, bug and snow protection systems for 25 years. This is our passion – finding unique and lovely solutions to make the outdoors more comfortable and more useful. From private homes to major architectural and landscape design projects, we have the expertise to help. Just ask: 1-866-438-2964 or 305-628-2424.