High-end terrace: 4 mistakes to avoid when designing it

When investing in a high-end outdoor space, the goal is clear: To create a place of relaxation and refinement that offers the same level of comfort, elegance, and durability as a well-designed indoor space. However, despite the best intentions, certain design or material choices can detract from the final result.

At Ombrasole, we help dozens of customers transform their terraces or patios every year. Here are the four most common mistakes we see and our recommendations for avoiding them.

1.    Choosing materials that are not weather-resistant

One of the most costly mistakes is to prioritize appearance over durability. This is particularly true when it comes to choosing structural materials.

Natural wood, for example, is appealing for its charm and natural look. But in climates like Canada’s, with long winters, humid summers, and constant exposure to UV rays, wood requires regular maintenance: cleaning, sanding, antifungal treatments, and oiling. Despite this, it remains vulnerable to cracks, mold, and warping.

Aluminum, on the other hand, is a discreet but powerful ally. Lightweight, sturdy, rustproof, and resistant to insects and moisture, it offers unmatched durability. Painted and extruded, it retains its new appearance for years without requiring much maintenance. That’s why all Ombrasole structures are made of high-quality extruded aluminum, designed to withstand Quebec’s weather conditions.

Avoid: Untreated solid wood or poor-quality metal structures.

Choose: Sturdy, maintenance-free aluminum structures with high-end finishes.

2. Opt for non-waterproof or medium-quality fabric

The fabric used for your awning and curtains plays a crucial role. It determines your level of comfort in the sun, rain, wind… and even fire.

Unfortunately, many projects fail in this regard: Fabrics that are too thin, non-waterproof, or not very resistant to UV rays end up deteriorating quickly. The result: Water infiltration, furniture stained by the sun, ineffective shade areas, or, worse still, a constant feeling of humidity and heat.

At Ombrasole, we use high-performance canvas and vinyls that are waterproof, fireproof, and resistant to wind and weather. These allow for extended use of the terrace, regardless of weather conditions.

Avoid: Materials that wear out after one season or do not provide adequate protection from the rain.

Choose: Weather-resistant fabrics that have been tested for intensive outdoor use and come with a long-term warranty.

3. Choose a standard product

A high-end terrace should not be rigid or standard. It should be able to adapt to your desires, the time of day, and the whims of the weather.

That’s why one of the most regrettable mistakes is not choosing customized solutions that meet your needs: Options with adjustable slats, retractable awnings, remote-controlled canopies, etc. All this transforms your patio into a smart, evolving living space that stands the test of time without losing its style.

Imagine being able to adjust the orientation of the slats on your Eolo Star Bioclimatic pergola to let in soft light in the morning and create total shade at midday, all with the help of a remote control. Or close motorized retractable curtains in case of a sudden breeze, to maintain an intimate and warm atmosphere.

To avoid: A standardized design, which becomes unusable when we have specific needs to meet.

To favor: Customized products, specially designed to harmonize with the style of your home.

4. Don’t just think about aesthetics, but also about overall performance

A designer piece of furniture or a pergola with clean lines may look attractive in the catalog, but if the structure is fragile, the screws rust, or the fabric can’t withstand the wind, the experience quickly becomes frustrating.

A high-end terrace is much more than just a beautiful object. It is a space that stands the test of time, makes your daily life easier, and adds value to your property. Every detail counts: the integrated gutter system, the finishes and the quality of the materials.

At Ombrasole, we make no compromises. Our products are designed to last, installed by experts, and tested to deliver optimal performance, season after season.

Avoid: Falling into the trap of “beautiful but fragile.”

Choose: A structure designed down to the smallest detail, built for real, everyday, long-lasting use.

Conclusion: Quality makes all the difference

Designing a high-end deck is a demanding process, and that’s what makes it so valuable. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll ensure that you enjoy an outdoor space that is as functional as it is elegant.

Come discover our products in our showroom in Montreal.