Even Small Backyards Can Benefit From a Pop of Poolside Cool
Even Small Backyards Can Benefit From a Pop of Poolside Cool
(Bloomberg Businessweek) -- Providing shade isn’t the only duty of an outdoor umbrella. It must also withstand the elements, open and close easily, and, of course, look good. All these factors come together in Giati’s Apogee, a parasol constructed of sturdy, warm teak in a design that oozes California cool. And at a little more than 7 feet wide, this shade thrower can squeeze into a Lilliputian space without overwhelming the setting.
THE COMPETITION
• Tuuci’s Ocean Master Max Nautical Teak, which was introduced this spring, starts at $4,000. It uses a proprietary telescoping crank that keeps the canopy raised above tables and chairs when it opens and closes.
• On the Cirque umbrella ($3,900) by Santa Barbara Designs, the solid teak frame comes adorned with a playful valance that hangs at the edge of the fabric.
• Designed by founder Stephane de Winter, Manutti’s anodized-aluminum umbrella (price on request) can extend to almost 10 feet wide, and its square shape provides ample coverage.
THE CASE
As the brand of choice at Wynn Las Vegas and Four Seasons Resort Hualalai in Hawaii, Giati has made the Apogee to all but eliminate the typical foibles of outdoor umbrellas. Its solid brass reinforcements make the arms durable, and upper and lower hubs feature an integrated retention ring to hold up no matter the weather. The mast resists warping thanks to finger joints that bind two pieces of wood together, and the pin-and-pulley device eliminates mechanical issues that can sometimes plague cranks. From $2,400; 212 758-0472
©2020 Bloomberg L.P.