The most beautiful backyard umbrellas and outdoor shelters

(Image credit: Designer: Richardson & Associates Landscape Architecture photographer: Stacy Zarin-Goldberg Photography)

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Best Labor Day deals
Best arched patio umbrellas
Best playful cabanas
Best parasols
Best pergolas with a canopy

last updated 4 September 2023

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1. Best Labor Day discounts
2. Best arched patio umbrellas
3. Best playful cabanas
4. Best parasols
5. Best pergolas with a canopy

From the boho and playful to the more structural and contemporary look, backyard tents and outdoor umbrellas are a surefire way to make the most of your extra alfresco space. No matter the size of your backyard, they can provide a dedicated zone for entertaining and add a touch of whimsy during the summer months.

'Backyard tents and shelters are a nice addition to a relaxing space,' says Kat Aul Cervoni, landscape designer and founder of Staghorn NYC and The Cultivation by Kat. 'They can provide coverage from sun and sometimes rain, give privacy, helps define a special destination and can help define a style or set a mood.'

Spending long and languid summer evenings may have been your life for the past few months, but if you haven't invested in an outdoor umbrella during summer, now's the best time to pick one up from the best outdoor furniture brands, with a hefty discount of course.

Best Labor Day deals

28% off

Arlmont & Co. cantilever umbrella

Was: $499.99
Now: $359.99

Save $59

Ainfox off-center umbrella

Was: $136.99
Now: $77.99

30% off

Beach/lawn tent

Was: $299
Now: $209.30

Best arched patio umbrellas

The arched patio umbrella provides a structured look that I like. Providing shade and looking smart and chic all at once, the cantilever base prevents it from interrupting furniture groupings and, when used with a dining table, keeps the middle of the tabletop free.

Crate & Barrel umbrella in sand

This sand-colored umbrella spreads a 10-foot square canopy of Sunbrella fabric and is easy-to-use with a simple crank system.

Bunny Williams 10-foot umbrella

A wide-spreading umbrella with a fun trim designed by Bunny Williams. The canopy is made of Sunbrella acrylic to keep it fully waterproof.

Mint umbrella from Overstock

This 9-foot umbrella is oh-so slightly on the smaller side but comes in a range of colors and is also made in Sunbrella fabric to provide protection.

Best playful cabanas

A cabana is a cute addition to any backyard that can bring a boho feel. Easy to set up and adding a touch of whimsy, cabanas are perfect for a backyard party or trip to the beach. Large when open but compact to carry, I've been loving Business & Pleasure's offering. Here are three that I've got saved in my basket.

Premium cabana from B&P

With a fun 70s look, this Business & Pleasure cabana enchants with its block colors. Pink, yellow, cream and green will bring a playful feel to any backyard.

Cabana in sage from Burke Decor

A vintage look in mint green, this cabana from Burke Decor is simple, with a pop of color that would make a great set-up for a backyard party this summer.

Checker cabana stripe from Minnidip

The checker cabana stripe has a cute checked pattern with pom pom fringing, scalloped edge details, and a removable side that can be easily tied back.

Best parasols

While parasols are closely associated with poolside outdoor furniture or a trip to the beach, they can make a nice shaded seating area. Transform an unloved corner of your backyard with an umbrella for that immediate summer feel - add a gas grill or outdoor bar and you're good to go.

Business & Pleasure umbrella

A fringed parasol in beautiful sunshine yellow. With adjustable pole hinge, 180 degree range of motion and a great block from the rays of strong sun.

Bardot umbrella from Frontgate

Inspired by vintage cafe awnings, Frontgate's Bardot design has a classic look in a pretty pastel pale blue. The canopy has been made to withstand the elements.

Rutbeek umbrella from Article

Featuring a solid teak pole and waterproof, UV-resistant shade in a stylish pale olive green, the Rutbeek umbrella would make a nice addition in any backyard.

Best pergolas with a canopy

A pergola is a bit more of a permanent structure for your backyard, and a perfect solution for entertaining during the summer months ahead. A pergola offers outdoor structure consisting of columns that support a roofing grid of beams and rafters, topped with fabric. Make sure you go for a waterproof fabric and pick from a frame that is rust-proof. Aluminium is a go-to for this kind of outdoor shelter. Here are three of my favorites.

10-foot pergola from Walmart

Rust-resistant and durable, this pergola is lightweight, easy to assemble with a fabric ceiling that can retract. An ideal choice for an outdoor party.

10-foot pergola from Wayfair

An aluminium frame supports this fully adjustable canopy, with polyester fabric that glides smoothly down the sides for total shade and coverage.

Retractable canopy from Target

A statement piece for your outdoor space - this pergola provides shade for your patio, made from sturdy aluminum with a rain-proof polyester canopy.

Oonagh is a content editor at Livingetc.com and an expert at spotting the interior trends that are making waves in the design world. Writing a mix of everything and everything from home tours to news, long-form features to design idea pieces on the website, as well as frequently featured in the monthly print magazine, she's the go-to for design advice in the home. Previously, she worked on a London property title, producing long-read interiors features, style pages and conducting interviews with a range of famous faces from the UK interiors scene, from Kit Kemp to Robert Kime. In doing so, she has developed a keen interest in London's historical architecture and the city's distinct tastemakers paving the way in the world of interiors.