Made for the Shade

Courtney Mueller -- Casual Living, 1/1/2006 12:00:00 AM

Shade options are no longer limited to drab market umbrellas. Today, consumers can be whisked away to the tropics in their own back yards with modernized gazebos, plush pool chairs, up-to-date umbrella designs and more.

The Pavilion is a modern garden gazebo designed to define space and create shade. Made of stainless steel and pleated vinyl mesh curtains, the system is modular so parts can be mixed and matched. • Suggested retail $25,000-$30,000, depends on configuration, Richard Schultz, 215-679-2222

The spotlight is on design with the Manta umbrella, with razor-sharp edges and contemporary flare. • TUUCI, 305-634-5116

At 9-ft. tall, the Lilypond umbrella is available in a silver or pink finish, topped with a kiwi green shade trimmed with pink binding for a feminine and ultra contemporary look. • Santa Barbara Designs, 800-919-9464

The Crank Life Wood Market Umbrella is made of durable hard-wood and is available in three canopy sizes and a variety of fabrics. • Treasure Garden, 626-814-0168

Designed by Victoria Dawson, the Bella umbrella has a feminine, modern bell shape with a flared edge. • Tropitone Furniture, 949-951-2010

Make a statement with the Island Breeze Genie chair, featuring plush cushions and a dome shape for both privacy and shade. The chair is crafted from hard- wood and water hyacinth. • Environ Trading, 702-558-8656

Laneventure's Outdoor Living Collection brings indoor elegance to the outdoors with a luxurious breakfast gazebo. With PVC windows that can be opened or closed, the gazebo includes a removable screen, polyester canopy and aluminum frame. • Suggested retail $2,990, Laneventure, 800-235-3558