Create a shaded outdoor space for customers

← Back to Cool Tips Pro CoolMaps Community

Restaurant terraces, queues, outdoor waiting areas: these spaces are often the most sun-exposed and the least designed for thermal comfort. Adding shade — umbrellas, shade sails, awnings — immediately improves the customer experience and can even extend summer foot traffic.

Shade blocks direct solar radiation, the main source of outdoor thermal discomfort, even when air temperature stays the same. Combined with a bit of ventilation or misting, a shaded area can feel several degrees cooler than one in direct sun.

• Immediately improves outdoor customer comfort
• Can extend foot traffic during hot hours instead of driving customers away
• Moderate investment compared to other improvements
• Enhances the business's image as customer-focused

1. Identify the most used and exposed outdoor areas (terrace, queue, entrance)
2. Choose the right equipment: umbrellas, tensioned shade sails, fixed awnings
3. Add a misting fan or outdoor fans if possible
4. Check local public space regulations if the setup extends onto the sidewalk