Some ideas, to get discussion going:

The first photo that orangecamera posted looks like it fits the style of your house...

Thanks we like the idea of the contemporary shades from the posts, but the posts are so huge and permanent. We don't need shade all the time so we would like something more portable. Thanks for the suggestion though

I like the _se of shade cloths/sails for areas like yo_rs.

thank you ASVInteriors...that sounds so interesting...do you have a picture?

Light weight red/orange outdoor shade fabric to match your barn door. Place four columns at the corners of the patio. Install stainless cable with turn knuckles from the rear column to the front column on each side of the patio. Install d rings every two foot on the edge of the shade fabric thru grommets the length of the patio. Attach the d rings over the cables on both sides of the patio. Make sure the fabric is streched but not to tight. On the first d ring on each side tie a cord and pass it though every d ring in the line to the last one which should be attached to the rear column. Install a cord wrap to the column and when you want the sun just pull the cord and it will fold back. When you want shade pull the fabric to the front poles and secure. The fabric is see thru yet blocks out the suns glare. Will not rot or mold and can be washed off with a garden hose.

That sounds great...but I am not sure I totally understand...wish i could see a design or picture of something similar. Love the idea of the color though. Thanks so much.

sorry I do not have a picture. Just imagine a roman window shade laid on the floor.

cbohar, a little different but same principle

hey thanks so much...I get the idea!

cbohar - I have been hunting high and low for last summer's pictures and you know what. I don't despite the fact I had the shade out all summer!! I will try and get some close ups of the area and shade so you can get the idea.... can't believe no pictures were taken ;-(

Hey...thanks so much...look forward to the pics if you find them!