During hot summers all that we thrive for is cool breeze. Refreshing pools, even the smallest ones, shady gardens and cold drinks are a perfect combo to have a rest in the garden or backyard on a hot summer day but where to get this shade? If your garden or backyard is sunlit, while you need a cool corner, you will have to create this shade yourself, and here are the best ways to do so.
Tall Trees
Tall trees with a lot of leaves are the most natural way to create shade in your garden. All you need to do is to plant a big tree, which will act as a focal point and shade producer at the same time. It can be one or several trees, and the sides of your space can be covered with vines. Place your sitting or dining zone right under such a tree, and voila, you can relax in the shade.

Large and tall trees aren't only for shade, they can be used for many other types of fun, for example, you can hang a swing there. (via gardenista).

Tall trees are always a good idea to create some shade: they will become a lovely part of your landscape.

Place your dining zone under a large tree, and shade is guaranteed! This is the easiest way to protect you from the sun.
Shade Sails
Shade sails are one of the current trends in garden design. These are triangular-shaped sails that are hung over the deck or yard to protect you from the sun. You can use several ones for more sun protection or stick to just one somewhere in the corner. Shade sails come in various colors and models, so I’m sure you can find a proper one.

The beautiful Mediterranean terrace is done with a couple of shade sails over it, which delicately protect from the sun.

The minimalist deck is covered with a couple of white shade sails that matches its aesthetics.

The outdoor dining space is protected from the sun with a shade sail, and fabric lamps match its look.

The deck is covered with a neutral sail that accents the modern aesthetic of the space and protects people from the sun.

The outdoor dining space is composed of wooden furniture, and a white sail over it is a lovely wayt o get rid of the sun.

The dining zone is covered with a tan sail that protects from the sun and lights that illuminate them at night. (via overbeekgroen).

The modern deck is partly covered with shade sails and there are lots of lamps and lights to cheer it up at night.

The stylish contemporary space is done in black and white and tan-colored sails over the tables help to relax. (via seasonsincolour).

The modern garden includes several zones and lots of lush plants, and the shade sail over the space protects the dining zone.

The beautiful Mediterranean space features lush greenery, elegant rattan furniture, tan textural sails for delicate sun protection.

The textural sails match the simple wood and wicker furniture highlighting the rustic style of the space.
Pergolas
The most classic idea is building a pergola. Yes, it will require time and effort but it’s worth it! You will be protected from the sun, especially if you cover the pergola with vines, which will block all or part of the light. More than that, you can hang or install a real cover or a roof that will protect you from the sun very well. All the covers are different and you can customize them if you want to. That’s all, and keep yourself safe in the shade!

This whitewashed bamboo cover allows some light but not much and brings a Mediterranean feel to the space.

A classic pergola is always a good idea: while adding a little shade to the space in its non-treated way, you can completely cover the space with vines, too.

The minimal Scandinavian terrace shows off some covers over the deck, their look and color match the space.

The welcoming modern terrace shows off rattan furniture, a printed rug and potted plants plus a cover that makes it shady.

The rustic space features potted plants used for privacy, a dining table with benches and a cover with lights.

The pergola is covered with green vines that not only add shade but also visual appeal to the space.

The backyard is styled elegant with chic modern furniture, and a black pergola over it matches the style.

The pergola features a delicate woven cover that sets the tone in the space and adds a relaxed feel.

Hang lights on the pergola to illuminate your dining space or other space, over which the pergola is established.

The pergola with a metal roof of corrugated metal is a good idea if you really need sun protection, and lush green vines here cover the side.

The backyard is styled with a pergola, to which an egg chair is suspended. The tall trees are delicate but they protect from the sun, too.

The white pergola is covered with green vines and lights, and this is a delicate way to create a bit of shade in the yard.

This simple white cover will filter some light and won't distract attention from your furniture or landscape.

Need natural shade? Cover the whole pergola with vines and voila, you have a focal point that is functional at the same time. (via homedeco).

The pergola features a burlap cover that echoes with the stumps and is refreshed with blooms all over. (via susanrushton).