Outdoor living environments are highly desirable for most people, and are one of the factors that are often connected with an increased standard of living. Outside pools, cooking facilities, balconies, and marquee and awning (Markise) structures are all desirable features for people who enjoy entertaining their friends and family in their homes and gardens. Awnings have become increasingly popular in recent times, due in part to the development of retractable awning (Kassettenmarkise) structures and other advanced awning designs. While a lot of people still associate awnings with the overhangs above windows and doorways where they have been traditionally seen, awnings today are just as likely to be used as a way to extend the livable space of a building. For any summer garden party or outside gathering, very few outdoor shade structures have the vesatility and practicality of an awning.

Awnings can be made from a variety of materials, including aluminium, steel and iron frames, and canvas and synthetic coverings. Wood is also sometimes used in the frames, along with transparent materials that are sometimes used to cover solar thermal materials. One of the reasons why awnings have become so popular is due to their advanced methods of retraction and general operation, which can be achieved either manually or through motorized and automated controls. There are advantages and disadvantages to each method of controlling an awning, but whether manual or automated – retractable awning structures all have a number of advantages over the more static designs. A retractable awning enables people to have full control over their living conditions, and makes it easy to manipulate the ratio of sunlight and shade almost instantly.

Awnings can be brought in a number of home improvement and DIY shops, as well as through dedicated home improvement home shopping networks. For people who do not have the desire to install their own awnings, professional builders who specialise in outdoor structures also operate throughout most of the world, with many providing a fully customised service. People all over the world enjoy entertaining their friends and family outdoors at garden parties and events, and awnings are the perfect setting for these gatherings. Whether it is winter time or summer time, spring or fall; having access to an awning makes it much easier to live and party outside.