This genius parasol style is the perfect solution for small gardens and balconies – and I can’t believe I only found out about them this year
If your outdoor space is too small for a regular parasol, this space-saving style is for you
The sun is out in full force for the next few days – so both you and your outdoor space need protection from it. A parasol is the ideal tool for this – but if your garden or patio is on the smaller side or you’re only working with a small balcony, none of which fit a regular-sized parasol, let me introduce you to the half parasol.
This genius invention is exactly what it sounds like – it’s a parasol shaped as if a regular parasol was cut in half, which means it can easily be placed flush against a wall. It’s the best parasol style if you’re looking for small garden ideas – so it’s no surprise that the half parasol from Charles Bentley, currently available on offer for £34.99 at Amazon, won the Ideal Home Garden Award this year in the ‘best small garden solution’ category.
Equipped with crank function, it makes opening and closing this parasol super easy. And it's designed to protect both against the sun and light rain as the material's water-resistant.
Half parasols are a concept that’s so simple but so clever – so much so that I just can’t believe I’m only finding out about them now.
And it’s not just people with tiny outdoor spaces that are already going crazy for them – shoppers are also using half parasols to shade their windows which is a clever hack. One reviewer of the Charles Bentley half parasol wrote, ‘This parasol was recommended to me by my brother. He had two on his patio to shield his kitchen windows from the sun. I bought one and used it for the same job. Well made, perfect bit of kit. Folded away easily. Much nicer than drawing the curtains.’
While another existing customer wrote, ‘It fits perfectly on a small patio flush up against a hedge. Seems very sturdy and being heavy stays put in windy weather.’
But aside from the popular Charles Bentley design, I’ve found 6 other half parasols worth investing in if you need a space-saving protection from the sun for your compact outdoor space.
Top half parasol picks
This half parasol is one of the bestsellers across different retailers, from amazon to B&Q. It's available in a variety of colours from neutrals to bolder shades like this vibrant orange.
This half parasol is loved by John Lewis customers and even comes with its own base which is a great benefit - it is, however, reflected in the slightly higher price point.
As if a half parasol in itself wasn't genius enough, this Outsunny design from Amazon also comes with added internal LED fairy-style lights for creating a magical atmosphere in the evening.
Available in two colourways - this neutral grey and bold citron green - this crank-operated half parasol comes with an aluminium pole which is known for being durable rust-resistant.
Boasting several positive reviews, this round half parasol is available in a timeless sand colourway and is operated by a handy crank on the robust aluminium pole. The base is sold separately though.
This half parasol comes with a tilt function which allows you to adjust the design to your needs throughout the day. Kettler also doesn't mess about when it comes to sun protection as the material comes with UV50+ protection.
With parasols being the ‘it’ garden buy of this summer, this style makes it attainable for outdoor spaces of all sizes and dimensions. And I'm always very much here for that!
