How to Transform Unused Outdoor Areas into Guest-Favorite Spots

If you’ve ever strolled through the grounds of your property—perhaps your hotel’s rooftop terrace, an empty courtyard behind your restaurant, or that small patch of grass near the pool—and thought, “This space could be so much more…” you’re not alone. In the competitive world of hospitality, it’s no secret that memorable outdoor areas can set your venue apart. From hotel owners looking to revitalize their space to food & beverage directors trying to capture more evening dining guests, the question often becomes: How can we turn these underutilized outdoor spots into inviting extensions of the guest experience?

The good news? It’s much easier than you might think. With the right planning, a bit of creativity, and the addition of a few well-designed solutions—like custom aluminum pergolas and modern, customizable umbrellas—you can transform these neglected corners of your property into buzzing, guest-favorite destinations.

Why Outdoor Spaces Matter More Than Ever

Before we jump into the “how,” let’s talk about the “why.” In recent years, travelers and diners have been gravitating toward unique, open-air experiences. People enjoy savoring their morning coffee in the fresh breeze, sipping a glass of wine under the soft glow of string lights, or partaking in a casual business lunch alfresco. Outdoor areas provide a sense of relaxation, authenticity, and escape—feelings that indoor spaces, no matter how beautifully designed, can sometimes struggle to replicate.

For hoteliers, resort managers, and restaurant owners, outdoor areas can also help optimize your property’s footprint, creating profitable spaces out of what might previously have been just a patch of grass or unused concrete. In short, these revamped areas can lead to increased foot traffic, higher guest satisfaction, and a stronger competitive edge.

Step One: Identify Potential Outdoor Spaces

Your property might have more opportunities than you realize. Not every outdoor area has to be a sprawling lawn or panoramic rooftop. Consider some of these often-overlooked spots:

Narrow Side Courtyards: With the right furnishings and greenery, even a long, narrow space can feel intimate and cozy—perfect for private dinners or small gatherings.
Rooftop Nooks: The forgotten section of your rooftop can be elevated with comfortable seating, a pergola for shade, and some decorative lighting.
Corner Patios Near the Pool or Garden: These tucked-away spots can be turned into quiet reading corners or mini wine bars for guests wanting a break from more bustling common areas.

Ask yourself: Which sections of my property feel “dead” or unwelcoming? Are there underutilized corners that could become multi-functional guest spaces? Once identified, these areas become blank canvases, ready to be transformed into places your guests actively seek out.

Step Two: Consider the Essential Elements of a Great Outdoor Space

Think about what makes an outdoor space truly enticing. It’s rarely just a table and a few chairs. Instead, it’s a balance of comfort, ambiance, aesthetics, and functionality. Here are key elements to keep in mind:

Shade & Weather Protection: No matter how beautiful the view, guests won’t linger if they’re overheating in direct sunlight or getting drizzled on.
Comfortable Seating & Furnishings: High-quality, durable seating that suits the intended function—be it dining, lounging, or enjoying a drink—goes a long way.
Inviting Aesthetics: Lush greenery, ambient lighting, decorative accents, and a cohesive color palette help set the mood.
Flexibility & Adaptability: Spaces that can transition from morning coffee spots to evening cocktail lounges, from small-group seating to larger event configurations, deliver greater ROI.

Step Three: Harness the Power of Custom Aluminum Pergolas

Let’s talk about a design element that’s both functional and visually striking: custom aluminum pergolas. Pergolas have long been a favorite for adding architectural interest to outdoor areas, but the modern twist of using aluminum brings multiple advantages.

Durability & Low Maintenance: Aluminum stands up to the elements—resisting rust, warping, or fading—so you won’t have to worry about constant upkeep.
Versatile Designs & Customization: From sleek, minimalist frames to more ornate patterns, pergolas can be tailored to complement your brand’s aesthetic.
Adjustable Shade & Sun Protection: Many pergola designs offer retractable canopies, motorized louvered roofs, or integrated shades that can be adjusted based on the time of day or weather conditions.
Integration of Amenities: Add ceiling fans, lighting, heaters, or speakers directly into the pergola frame for a seamless, all-in-one experience.

Imagine this: The previously unused patch of grass behind your hotel’s lobby could become a stylish seating area shaded by a custom aluminum pergola. It protects guests from midday heat, creates a defined “room” in an open space, and invites them to linger—enjoying a craft cocktail or an informal work meeting in a setting that feels both upscale and comfortable.

Step Four: Don’t Underestimate Customizable Umbrellas

If a pergola offers structure and architectural flair, customizable umbrellas deliver flexibility. With a wide range of colors, sizes, fabrics, and branding opportunities, umbrellas can transform a space in a matter of minutes.

Instant Shade Anywhere: Umbrellas can be moved and adjusted as the sun shifts, ensuring optimal comfort for guests throughout the day.
Branding Opportunities: Choose umbrellas that match your property’s signature colors or even feature your logo. It’s a subtle, tasteful way to reinforce your brand identity.
Pop of Color & Style: Umbrellas can bring a bright, cheerful tone to an outdoor area. Pair them with stylish outdoor furniture for a cohesive look that photographs beautifully—encouraging guests to share their experience on social media.
Ease of Maintenance: High-quality umbrellas are designed to withstand wind and rain, and their canopies can often be replaced if needed, ensuring a long-lasting investment.

Step Five: Add Finishing Touches That Drive the Experience Home

Once you’ve addressed shade, seating, and structure, it’s time for those extra details that turn a “nice” outdoor area into a “must-experience” spot. What small touches can elevate your space?

Thoughtful Lighting: Consider string lights draped under a pergola, decorative lanterns, or subtle uplighting to highlight natural features like plants or architectural elements. Lighting can create ambiance, extend usable hours, and help define your space’s character.
Lush Greenery & Décor: Potted plants, vibrant flowers, trellises with climbing vines—these natural elements soften the look and feel of metal and stone. They also help guests feel transported, as though they’ve stepped into a private garden oasis.
Multi-Functional Furniture: Consider modular seating that can be rearranged for different events. Add small side tables, poufs, or stools so that guests can customize their seating arrangement.
Small Delights & Surprises: Maybe it’s a self-serve beverage station with flavored ice waters, a corner dedicated to local artwork, or a discreet shelf with guidebooks about the surrounding area. These little details make guests feel cared for and encourage them to return.

Putting It All Together

So how do you bring this vision to life? Start by identifying an underutilized space on your property and consider how a custom aluminum pergola or a set of stylish, customizable umbrellas might transform it. Think about your typical guest profile: Are they families seeking a quiet spot for afternoon snacks, or business travelers who need a casual meeting area? Tailor the ambiance, furnishings, and finishing touches accordingly.

As you refine your outdoor space, keep in mind that this investment isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about enhancing the guest experience, driving loyalty, and creating new revenue opportunities. With strategic upgrades, your once-overlooked corner can become a guest-favorite hotspot.

What’s Your Next Step?

Ready to start brainstorming a transformation of your own? Try walking around your property with a fresh perspective, camera in hand. Take pictures of the underused areas you’ve been overlooking. Then, jot down a few ideas about how a pergola or umbrellas could bring those spaces to life. Talk to your team, consult with a designer, or reach out to suppliers who can guide you through custom options (contact us!).

We’d love to hear from you: What’s the one spot on your property that you’re now seeing in a new light? Contact our team to learn how you can transform it into a stunning, guest-favorite outdoor haven. Your guests—and your bottom line—will thank you.