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Wood pergola with white finish in Marbella Spain

Cape Reed’s expert team was commissioned to design and build a natural shaded area on a sun-drenched terrace in Marbella. The result is a stunning custom-made wooden pergola that seamlessly blends style, functionality, and comfort.

Cape Reed white-wash semi-shaded pergola with timber laths

Custom Design for Style and Functionality

This bespoke pergola was meticulously crafted to deliver not only the desired shade but also to enhance privacy while adding a touch of boho chic to the client’s outdoor space. The design integrates effortlessly with the terrace, creating a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere ideal for relaxation.

Premium Materials for Durability and Aesthetic Appeal

The main structure features treated radiata pine posts, a material favored for its durability, strength, and ease of use in outdoor constructions. The semi-shaded roof consists of eucalyptus wood slats, chosen for their rustic charm and ability to create a relaxed, inviting vibe. This combination of materials ensures both style and functionality, making the pergola a standout feature of the terrace.

Vistas impresionantes desde la terraza de una casa particular en Marbella

Blending with Mediterranean Surroundings

Now, this beautiful terrace harmonizes with its rich Mediterranean environment, offering an understated yet elegant space to unwind and soak in the scenic views. The pergola’s natural aesthetic complements the landscape, enhancing the outdoor living experience.

Tailored Pergolas for Every Space

With years of expertise in constructing outdoor structures, Cape Reed is committed to delivering the perfect solution for any outdoor space. Our pergolas come in various finishes, with customizable options for wood types, including cylindrical, square, or laminated designs to suit your unique style.

Contact Us to Enhance Your Outdoor Living

Transform your outdoor space with a custom pergola designed by Cape Reed. Reach out to our team today to explore the possibilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What materials are used in Cape Reed pergolas?

Cape Reed pergolas are crafted using high-quality materials like treated radiata pine for the main structure and eucalyptus wood slats for the roof, ensuring durability and a natural aesthetic.

Can I customize the design of my pergola?

Yes, Cape Reed offers bespoke pergola designs with options for different finishes and wood types, including cylindrical, square, or laminated structures to suit your preferences.

How do pergolas improve outdoor spaces?

Pergolas provide shade, enhance privacy, and add a stylish architectural element to outdoor areas, creating comfortable, functional spaces perfect for relaxation and entertainment.

Aüa Playa, Marbella, Costa del Sol, Spain

Discover Aüa Playa, Marbella’s Trendiest Hotspot

Aüa Playa is the newest must-visit beach restaurant on Marbella’s iconic Golden Mile. Located along the Costa del Sol, this stylish venue blends natural beauty with modern Mediterranean design. It offers visitors an elevated dining experience right by the sea. The space feels fresh, elegant and deeply connected to its coastal surroundings.

Aua Playa Marbella Costa Del Sol Restaurant
Aua Playa Marbella Costa Del Sol Restaurant

A Modern Mediterranean Restaurant With Minimalist Charm

This beach restaurant was created to highlight the vibrant Mediterranean landscape. Its design features soft lines, natural textures and minimalist elements that complement the stunning beachfront setting. The architecture avoids clutter and focuses on clean simplicity. As a result, guests enjoy a calm and refreshing environment from the moment they arrive.

Unlike the typical chiringuito, Aüa Playa is a refined beach club with a unique vision. It was crafted by renowned architect Torres of A-Cero in Madrid. His creative approach combines style and functionality to produce a space where food, design and nature harmonize beautifully.

Aüa Playa sombrilla
Aüa Playa sombrilla

A Menu That Mirrors Nature and Freshness

The menu at Aüa Playa reflects the same natural inspiration found in its architecture. Guests can enjoy healthy, colorful and delicious dishes designed for a modern Mediterranean lifestyle. Every plate highlights fresh ingredients and mindful preparation. This balance of taste and wellness creates an unforgettable gastronomic experience.

Cape Reed’s Hand-Crafted Touch

Cape Reed’s Marbella team added several bespoke features to enhance the atmosphere of Aüa Playa. They designed and installed sixteen custom umbrellas that offer elegant shade along the beach. Each umbrella blends seamlessly with the club’s refined aesthetic.

The team also built wooden railings and interior pallets using richly toned eucalyptus laths. These warm, natural materials elevate the space and create a sense of authenticity that aligns perfectly with the restaurant’s theme.

Aüa Playa Marbella
Aüa Playa Marbella

A Perfect Spot to Relax and Make Memories

Aüa Playa is more than a restaurant. It is a serene escape where visitors can unwind and take in the breathtaking views. Guests can enjoy the soft sea breeze, delicious food and spectacular sunsets. The ambiance encourages slow, meaningful moments that turn into cherished memories.

Whether you’re looking for a beachfront lunch, sunset cocktails or an elegant evening meal, this venue offers something special. Its unique blend of style, gastronomy and natural beauty makes it a standout destination on the Costa del Sol.

Vista Exterior de Aüa Playa
Vista Exterior de Aüa Playa

Experience the Best of Marbella’s Beach Lifestyle

Aüa Playa promises a luxurious yet relaxed beach experience. From its thoughtful design to its fresh menu and hand-crafted wooden elements, every detail contributes to its charm. When you find yourself in Marbella, make sure to visit this impressive addition to the Golden Mile.

Boho Club, Marbella, Spain

Boho Club Marbella sits gracefully beneath the iconic La Concha mountain. The venue is surrounded by lush greenery, curated artwork, and serene outdoor spaces. Every corner invites you to unwind and enjoy a refreshing, laid-back atmosphere. Guests enjoy access to vibrant gardens, an elegant art gallery, and a chic poolside restaurant.

A Unique Blend of Bohemian Charm and Luxury Living

This boutique destination lives up to its name. It offers a playful mix of bohemian style and refined comfort. The environment feels relaxed yet sophisticated. Every element contributes to an elevated but easygoing experience. Visitors can stroll through landscaped pathways, admire the outdoor art, or soak in the Mediterranean sunshine beside the pool.

Cape Reed commercial project the Boho Club with a semi-shaded timber pergola over the terrace

Cape Reed Pergolas Enhancing the Outdoor Experience

Cape Reed adds a distinctive touch to the venue. Several custom pergolas create shaded areas across the terrace and the outdoor fitness zone. Each pergola features timber slats that filter sunlight gently. This design provides the ideal balance of brightness and shade. Guests can enjoy an authentic al fresco meal or a rejuvenating yoga session in complete comfort.

Eco-Friendly Whitewashed Walkway Pergola

A whitewashed timber pergola welcomes guests along the beautifully designed walkway. The structure uses sustainable wood that blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Its clean, rustic finish enhances the club’s aesthetic and reinforces its reputation for stylish outdoor living. This thoughtful design helps position Boho Club as one of the most attractive venues on the Costa del Sol.

Vista detallada de la pérgola de madera

A Destination Focused on Laid-Back Luxury

Every detail at Boho Club reflects relaxed elegance. The atmosphere instantly elevates your mood. From the striking pink onyx reception desk to the dazzling azure swimming pool, the venue creates a sense of excitement from the moment you arrive. The combination of bold design, natural textures, and open spaces delivers a refreshing escape from everyday life.

Boho cabina de DJ

A Must-Visit Oasis in Marbella

Boho Club Marbella offers an irresistible blend of creativity, comfort, and luxury. Its thoughtfully crafted outdoor areas, enriched by Cape Reed’s sustainable pergolas, create an unforgettable setting. Whether you want to enjoy fine dining, explore art, or relax in a tranquil hideaway, this venue promises a remarkable experience on the Costa del Sol.

Outdoor entertainment Marbella, Malaga, Spain

Cape Reed was entrusted with the renovation of a stunning villa in Marbella, focusing on a complete transformation of the terrace to create a beautiful, functional outdoor space for year-round enjoyment. Given the clients’ vibrant social lifestyle, it was essential to design dedicated areas tailored for entertaining guests in style and comfort.

A Dedicated Space for Entertaining

The homeowners, passionate about hosting gatherings, prioritized the creation of an exclusive entertainment area. Cape Reed designed a sophisticated wooden structure topped with an African reed thatch roof, offering the perfect setting for alfresco dining and late-night conversations under the stars. The white pickled finish of the wood combined with the warm yellow tones of the natural thatched roof adds a rustic yet elegant ambiance, beautifully complemented by wicker and bamboo lamps and furniture.

Innovative Solutions for Sun-Exposed Courtyards

One of the villa’s courtyards faced the challenge of intense sun exposure, rendering it uncomfortable during the summer months. Cape Reed’s design team addressed this by installing wooden pergolas, transforming the once unusable space into a serene retreat ideal for relaxation. Eucalyptus wood slats were incorporated atop the pergola, providing optimal shade and cooling throughout the hot summer days.

Creating Intimate Zones with a View

The villa’s elevated position offers breathtaking views of lush golf courses and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. However, the openness of the outdoor areas lacked a sense of privacy. To address this, Cape Reed introduced decorative wooden lattices around the swimming pool and entertainment zones, subtly zoning the spaces while adding a touch of intimacy and sophistication to each area.

Transform Your Outdoor Space Today

Ready to redefine your outdoor living experience? Contact Cape Reed for a no-obligation consultation and discover how we can transform your space into a luxurious haven tailored to your lifestyle.

What materials were used for the renovation in Marbella?

Cape Reed utilized high-quality materials, including wooden structures with African reed thatch roofs, eucalyptus wood slats for pergolas, and decorative wooden lattices to create a cohesive, elegant outdoor environment.

How do pergolas help with sun exposure?

Pergolas provide essential shade by diffusing direct sunlight, reducing heat, and creating a cooler, more comfortable outdoor area. The eucalyptus wood slats used in this project offer maximum shade during peak summer months.

How can I start my outdoor renovation with Cape Reed?

Simply reach out to Cape Reed for a no-obligation consultation. Our expert team will work closely with you to design and create a bespoke outdoor space that aligns with your vision and lifestyle.

Casa del Mar: A unique place in the heart of Marbella, Malaga, Spain

Nestled in the vibrant centre of Marbella, Casa del Mar stands as a beautifully preserved reminder of the city’s humble origins—long before it became a modern Mediterranean hotspot. Today, this intimate, boho-chic restaurant continues to enchant visitors with its rustic charm, handcrafted architecture, and a distinctive philosophy built around authenticity, sustainability, and exceptional gastronomy.

From the moment guests approach this cosy establishment, it becomes clear why Casa del Mar is considered one of Marbella’s most atmospheric dining destinations.

Natural Wood Features Crafted by Cape Reed

One of the most striking features of Casa del Mar is its use of natural wood structures crafted by Cape Reed, a leading expert in sustainable timber construction.

A Warm Welcome with Cape Reed Railings

As guests arrive, they are greeted by handcrafted Cape Reed wooden railings, created with saligna slats. These rustic yet refined elements immediately set the tone for the restaurant’s aesthetic: warm, natural, and effortlessly stylish. The railings beautifully enclose the elevated wooden terrace where diners can enjoy a refreshing cocktail, a chilled glass of wine, or a moment of quiet before their meal.

A Stunning Pergola Offering Shade and Style

To the side and back of the restaurant lies a spacious terrace covered by an impressive custom wooden pergola designed and built by the Cape Reed team. Crafted with white-washed pine columns and topped with saligna slatted roofing, the pergola provides natural shade and a breezy escape for patrons seeking comfort during Marbella’s sun-drenched afternoons.

This architectural feature not only elevates the dining experience but also seamlessly complements the original structure’s natural stone façade, resulting in a unique harmony between old and new.

A Testament to Craftsmanship: Over 100m² of Custom Timber Construction

The creation of the restaurant’s signature timber architecture reflects a careful balance of artistry, craftsmanship, and efficiency.

Impressive Structural Scope

  • Nearly 100 square metres of custom-built pergola
  • 19 metres of handcrafted natural wood railings

Every element was meticulously designed, constructed, and installed by the Cape Reed team, demonstrating excellence in both engineering and aesthetics.

Delivered with Precision and Professionalism

Despite the scale and bespoke nature of the project, the build was completed in approximately three weeks, delivered on time and within budget—a testament to Cape Reed’s dedication to quality craftsmanship and seamless project execution.

A Must-Visit Destination

Whether visiting for a long leisurely lunch or a romantic evening dinner, Casa del Mar offers an enchanting escape from the city’s bustling modernity. Its soulful architecture, warm ambience, and dedication to local gastronomy make it a standout location for both residents and visitors seeking a true taste of Marbella’s heritage.

Casa del Mar is more than a restaurant—it is a celebration of craftsmanship, culture, and cuisine in the heart of Costa del Sol.

Alma Forest School: Outdoor Learning

Outdoor learning has become an essential component of modern education, and Alma Forest School leads this movement with remarkable vision. Surrounded by lush vegetation and fresh air, children aged 3 to 9 years old spend their days engaging with the natural environment in meaningful, structured ways.

What sets Alma Forest School apart is its commitment to holistic learning. Alongside the essential academic subjects—reading, writing, and mathematics—the school emphasises:

  • Emotional intelligence
  • Self-awareness
  • Compassion
  • Leadership skills

By allowing children to explore beyond the boundaries of the traditional classroom, the school nurtures creativity, independence, and a strong sense of responsibility toward the environment.

Cape Reed Gazebos: The Foundation of an Outdoor Classroom

A key feature of this innovative educational setting is the use of Cape Reed’s custom-built gazebos. These beautifully crafted structures form the backbone of the outdoor classroom environment, offering both functionality and aesthetic harmony with the surrounding landscape.

Elevated Design and Spacious Layout

Each gazebo is:

  • Elevated from the ground, ensuring perfect airflow and enhanced safety
  • Approximately 25m² in size, providing ample room for teaching, activities, and group learning
  • Designed for year-round use, offering shade from the intense Andalusian sun during summer and cover from rain in cooler months

This intelligent design ensures that learning continues uninterrupted, regardless of weather conditions.

African Reed Thatch Roofing: Beauty, Shade, and Protection

One of the most iconic features of Cape Reed’s structures is the use of African reed thatching. Not only does this natural material complement the organic setting of Alma Forest School, but it also delivers unmatched performance:

  • Superior insulation properties
  • Natural cooling effects, ideal for warm climates
  • High resistance to weathering
  • Timeless aesthetic appeal, blending seamlessly with nature

The thatch roofing is further reinforced with flame-retardant fabric woven directly into the structure, ensuring the highest safety standards are upheld at all times.

Built for Safety: A Top Priority in Every Cape Reed Structure

When designing outdoor structures for children, safety is non-negotiable. Every Cape Reed installation, including the gazebos at Alma Forest School, adheres to strict safety protocols:

  • Flame-retardant reinforcement
  • Non-toxic, eco-friendly treatments
  • Smooth finishes and rounded edges to avoid injuries
  • Strong structural integrity engineered to withstand heavy use
  • Compliance with international safety standards

These features allow children to learn freely, teachers to instruct effectively, and parents to enjoy peace of mind.

Why Choose Cape Reed for Your Outdoor Project

Cape Reed has built a global reputation for excellence by combining traditional craftsmanship with modern engineering. Clients choose their structures because they offer:

  • Authentic natural materials
  • Exceptional longevity
  • Custom-built solutions
  • Eco-friendly construction practices
  • High aesthetic value
  • Low environmental footprint

Each project is tailored to the unique needs of the client, ensuring a personalised solution that enhances both function and beauty.

Request Your Free Consultation and Bring Your Vision to Life

Whether you’re developing a school, launching a commercial project, or enhancing a hospitality venue, Cape Reed’s expert team is ready to help design and build a space that inspires, protects, and endures.

We offer a free, no-obligation consultation and quotation, allowing you to explore the full potential of sustainable, nature-inspired structures.

Top tips for creating a super cool outdoor kitchen

If you’re fortunate enough to own a home in Spain, you were likely drawn in part by the long, hot summers and sultry warm evenings. Despite how beautiful the interior of your home may be, most of us will spend the majority of our time outdoors, where it’s more fun and everyone feels freer.

Expertise in Outdoor Kitchens

Cape Reed boasts many years of expertise in creating beautiful outdoor kitchens in a wide range of styles. All their designs feature Cape Reed’s trademark solid, sustainable construction and thatched roofing.

Customization For Every Client

Every client and project is unique. Some clients require top-of-the-line, restaurant-standard equipment, while others prefer a more rustic feel, perhaps with a BBQ island and comfortable seating area. Outdoor kitchens can be as technologically advanced and sophisticated as their indoor counterparts, ensuring you won’t be ‘roughing it’ outside.

Tip 1. Decide What You Want and Need

The first step in planning an outdoor kitchen is to ask yourself why you want one and what you envision using it for. Whether you see yourself cooking elaborate meals or just grilling snacks and BBQ, it’s crucial to establish your requirements to meet your expectations. Here are some questions to consider before you start planning:

How much space do you have?
How do you plan to use the outdoor kitchen?
Do you need a preparation area?
Do you want a formal dining area?
Do you need an entertainment area (with dining, comfy seating, bar, and kitchen)?
Do you just need a comfy seating area?
Do you want a separate bar?
Do you need to connect utilities (hot water, electricity, etc.)?

Tip 2. Consider The Location

When planning an outdoor structure with a kitchen, it’s important to plan where the kitchen will sit in relation to your house and the layout of the gazebo. Consider how easy it will be to clear up, retrieve items from the house, and how guests will enter the outside space.

Also, take into account the wind direction to avoid smoke and food fumes blowing into the house or lounge area. The location and orientation of the outdoor structure will dictate the amount of shade provided, so try to utilize your garden’s natural shade when deciding where to position the structure.

Tip 3. Plan For Services

If you’re considering preparation and washing up facilities, you’ll likely need access to hot water. While a sink can be connected to a water hose point, hot water will require a water heater. Additionally, for lighting, air conditioning, and electrical kitchen appliances, you’ll need to plan for power points. All external power points must be weatherproof, even on the countertops.

Tip 4: Maximize The View

When looking out your windows, you want to see a beautiful garden and an equally beautiful outdoor structure—something Cape Reed always delivers. However, you may have specific views you want to highlight or avoid obscuring. Therefore, it’s crucial to plan the views from both the new garden structure and from inside your home.

Tip 5: Choose Your Style

Cape Reed’s outdoor structures can be created in any style, from light and airy gazebos with whitewashed wooden poles to rustic, wood-clad structures. They offer a range of outdoor kitchen styles, from professionally fitted restaurant-standard fixtures, fittings, and appliances, to outdoor BBQ kitchens, traditional pizza ovens, and elegant poolside bars. The choice is yours.

Los mejores consejos para crear la cocina de exterior perfecta
Elegante espacio de entretenimiento junto a la piscina con techo de paja y columnas de hormigón y madera.

Conclusion

Creating a super cool outdoor kitchen is a fantastic way to enhance your living space, especially in the beautiful climate of Spain. By carefully considering your needs, the location, necessary services, views, and overall style, you can design an outdoor kitchen that is both functional and stunning. Cape Reed’s extensive expertise and dedication to sustainable, high-quality construction ensure that your outdoor kitchen will not only meet but exceed your expectations. Whether you prefer a top-of-the-line culinary setup or a rustic BBQ island, Cape Reed can bring your vision to life, transforming your outdoor space into a true paradise.

For more information about Cape Reed’s outdoor kitchens and gazebos, visit www.capereed.es or email info@capereed.com

FAQs

What are the key factors to consider when planning an outdoor kitchen?
Consider your space, how you plan to use the kitchen, your need for preparation and dining areas, utilities, and the overall style you want to achieve.

How do I decide on the location for my outdoor kitchen?
Plan the kitchen’s location based on its proximity to your house, ease of access, wind direction, and the amount of natural shade in your garden.

What utilities will I need for an outdoor kitchen?
You’ll need to plan for water (hot and cold), electricity for lighting and appliances, and possibly gas for cooking.

Can I have a fully equipped kitchen outdoors?
Yes, outdoor kitchens can be as technologically advanced and sophisticated as indoor kitchens, with professional-grade equipment and fixtures.

How can I ensure my outdoor kitchen complements my garden and home?
Work with experienced designers like Cape Reed to plan the views and style of your outdoor kitchen, ensuring it enhances the beauty of your garden and home.

Top 5 garden design ideas in wood in 2022

Although southern Spain is blessed with temperate warm weather for much of the year, as summer approaches our thoughts turn to long-lazy weekends and wonderfully warm evenings. This is when your garden really comes into its own, becoming an extension of your home.

Dining alfresco, chilling out, barbequing in your own private space has always been appealing. As a result of the recent pandemic, during which our outdoor spaces allowed us to socialize safely, there is a now a greater appreciation for a creatively designed garden.

Cape Reed Cover Daytime

Planning Your Garde Design

There are many ways to transform your garden, the final design will depend on what you want to use it for, for informal gatherings of family and friends with a play area for the children, an outdoor kitchen, with a fireplace or an outdoor dining area. gazebo. Depending on the atmosphere you want to create, different elements and materials such as lights, furniture or plants will be taken into account.

Structural Elements

However, if you require additional shade or an extra room, then more structural solutions will be required. High quality wooden structures such as Cape Reed’s pavilions, thatched gazebos work as beautiful architectural features whilst providing additional living space and shade. Yet, the type and size of the structures will depend upon the amount of space you have available.

Here are some of the most popular options requested by Cape Reed clients throughout 2022.

Outdoor Kitchens

Our most frequent enquires are about outdoor kitchens and the many different styles available. An outdoor kitchen comes in many permutations, from full-blown chef-standard appliances, to BBQ and grills. What all of our kitchens have in common is a super cool professionally produced wood structure.

Only the best quality wood and thatching (treated with special fire retardant) are used. See our blog Top tips for creating a super cool outdoor kitchen.

Wooden Pergolas

Wooden pergolas can be the perfect solution for the hot sunny months in Spain, giving you a nice dappled shade while protecting you from the elements such as the sun and wind. Wooden pergolas are available in different shapes, sizes and even colours. All of our pergolas are designed and installed using the highest quality treated wood.

La pérgola crea una espacio de sombra que se puede disfrutar durante todo el día

Thatched Gazebos

One of the most glamorous requests we receive at Cape Reed is this stylish pool bar with a low gazebo. Imagine enjoying the scorching sun with a cold drink from the bar… all without leaving the refreshing pool water. This sunken gazebo is constructed from 100% organic materials, including durable natural timber with an African reed roof, to create a style of gazebo tropical roof that everyone loves.

Poolside Entertainment Areas

Speaking of swimming pools…another popular option is to make the most of a beautiful swimming pool by creating an adjoining outdoor space. A stylish and relaxing place to dine and socialise protected from the sizzling midday sunshine. Then when the sun goes down, a cozy venue to hang out and enjoy the evening. The structures can be made with white treated or natural coloured wood beams and beautiful, strong hardwearing thatch roofing. See Serenity in Sotogrande, Spain.

Conclusion

There’s nothing quite like the simplicity of a luxurious gazebo wooden structure with a beautiful African reed roof. Although exotic and tropical in origin and appearance, this type of wooden structure fits perfectly into the lush Spanish gardens. High quality pinewood poles harvested in South Africa and treated for maximum durability are used. A professionally designed and constructed wooden arbour can create a delightful environment to enjoy both in summer and on cooler winter evenings, providing both shade and shelter.

If you would like more information about Cape Reed’s creative garden designs and premium standard wooden structures, please contact our office on +34 95 177 5495 or email info@capereed.com.

FAQ’s

What are the benefits of adding an outdoor kitchen to my garden?
An outdoor kitchen provides a space for alfresco dining, socializing, and cooking in an enjoyable outdoor setting. Cape Reed offers various styles, from BBQ setups to full chef-standard kitchens, all built with high-quality wood.

How can wooden pergolas enhance my garden?
Wooden pergolas provide shade and protection from the elements, making them perfect for hot sunny months. They come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, and are crafted from high-quality treated wood.

What makes thatched gazebos a popular choice?
Thatched gazebos offer a glamorous and tropical feel to any garden. Constructed with durable natural timber and an African reed roof, they create stylish and functional spaces, such as pool bars.

How can I maximize the use of my poolside area?
Creating an adjoining outdoor space next to your pool can enhance its usability. These areas can serve as stylish dining or socializing spots, providing shade during the day and a cozy venue in the evening, with options for treated or natural wood beams and thatch roofing.

What materials does Cape Reed use for their wooden structures?
Cape Reed uses high-quality pinewood poles from South Africa, treated for maximum durability, and other organic materials like African reed for roofing. These materials ensure both aesthetic appeal and longevity.

Thatch roofing: Which is better, natural or synthetic reed?

Thatch Roofing: Which Is Better, Natural or Synthetic Reed?

Natural thatch offers traditional beauty and sustainability, while synthetic thatch provides extended durability in extreme climates. Both have real advantages — the right choice depends on your property, your climate exposure, and what you want the space to do for you.

Natural Thatch: The Traditional Choice

Natural Cape Reed thatch protects against both heat and cold, making it ideal for hot Spanish summers where UV protection and shade matter most. It’s also naturally waterproof, and adapts to almost any outdoor structure — pergolas, gazebos, summerhouses, pavilions. In areas with heavy rain, wind, and humidity, however, these same conditions can shorten the lifespan of natural reed compared to drier, more sheltered settings.

JNCQUOI Beach Club
JNCQUOI Beach Club

Synthetic Thatch: The Resilient Alternative

For high-class establishments in tropical or coastal environments — hotels, beach bars, exposed terraces — synthetic thatch offers a compelling alternative. Manufactured in leaf and tile form and securely fixed to a timber structure, it stays UV-protected, waterproof, and mould-free for significantly longer than natural material in the same conditions, with an expected lifespan in the region of 30 years.

Synthetic thatch - Dominica - Cape Reed
Synthetic thatch – Dominica – Cape Reed

Natural vs. Synthetic Thatch: At a Glance

Natural ThatchSynthetic Thatch
Typical lifespan10–20 years~30 years
Best climate fitHot, dry conditionsHumid, coastal, high-UV exposure
MaintenancePeriodic upkeep and touch-upsMinimal — designed to be low-maintenance
AestheticAuthentic, traditional textureConsistent, uniform appearance year-round
SustainabilityRenewable, biodegradableDurable, longer replacement cycle
Best suited forPrivate homes, gardens, drier inland settingsBeach bars, hotels, high-exposure commercial venues

Thatch Roofing: Natural or Synthetic?

The choice between natural and synthetic thatch roofing depends on the climate and intended use. Natural thatch offers an authentic look and is fully sustainable, while synthetic thatch roofing better resists coastal humidity and requires less long-term maintenance. Our team can advise you on which option best suits your project.

Synthetic thatch - Dominica - Cape Reed
Synthetic thatch – Dominica – Cape Reed

Making the Right Choice for Your Property

When choosing between natural and synthetic thatch roofing, consider the specific environmental conditions your structure will face and the aesthetic you want to achieve. Both options deliver a beautiful, long-lasting thatch roof — the decision comes down to matching the material to the setting.

For personalized advice on which option suits your project, contact Cape Reed’s team of designers and craftsmen — or browse synthetic thatch options in our shop if you already know which direction you’re leaning.

Thatched roofs at Gran Melia Don Pepe
Thatched roofs at Gran Melia Don Pepe

FAQs

What are the main differences between natural and synthetic thatch roofing?
Natural thatch is made from renewable materials like cape reed, offering a traditional aesthetic and eco-friendly benefits. Synthetic thatch, on the other hand, is durable, low-maintenance, and ideal for extreme climates.

How long does natural thatch roofing last?
Natural thatch roofing, specifically from cape reed, can last up to 50 years in many climates and typically comes with a 15-year guarantee.

What are the benefits of synthetic thatch roofing?
Synthetic thatch is highly durable, UV protected, waterproof, and mold-free, with a lifespan of around 30 years. It is ideal for regions with harsh weather conditions.

Is natural thatch roofing waterproof?
Yes, natural cape reed thatch is waterproof and provides excellent protection against heat and cold, making it suitable for various outdoor structures.

Which thatch roofing option is better for high humidity areas?
Synthetic thatch roofing is better suited for high humidity areas due to its resistance to rot and decay, ensuring longevity and minimal maintenance.

8 ways to create the perfect outdoor space in Spain

When you live in a country as beautiful as Spain, with a magnificent year-round climate, it’s all about the outdoor lifestyle. Whether you prefer long, warm lunches under a pergola, whether you prefer to relax by the pool or enjoy the atmosphere around a campfire, the outdoors is where most people want to be.

Of course, this means that you’ll want to make the most of your outdoor space to get as much use out of it as possible. If you have a large private estate, it could be perfect for a pavilion, pergola bar, summerhouse, or any other type of garden structures. There is also so much that can be achieved with a compact patio or terrace to bring it to life and create a cosy corner to entertain, relax and unwind.

Here are Cape Reed’s tips for creating an outdoor space to suit every lifestyle and budget. So, let’s start large with exterior architecture…

Perfect Pergolas

When imaging the perfect long-hot summer holiday, a beautiful vine covered pergola is often part of the picture. A pergola is a wooden installation that can add another dimension to your outdoor space and your home. Providing not only a place to chill or dine out, a prop against which you can grow plants and flowers, but also an extra layer of protection and shade. Cape Reed’s stunning wooden pergolas are custom made and can include slatted wooden roofs for rustic semi shade.

Cape Reed commercial project the Boho Club with a semi-shaded timber pergola over the terrace

Get A Gazebo

Have you ever thought about installing an outdoor kitchen? If you have, you may know that one of the best solutions is to house it in an outdoor kitchen. gazebo outdoor dining. You can choose the style you want, from sophisticated structures to house a standard contemporary chef’s kitchen or a more rustic reed arbour with just a pizza oven.

Of course, there are many ways a professionally crafted gazebo can add value and character to your property and enhance your lifestyle, from al-fresco dining rooms, seating areas and pool entertaining areas. It is also possible to customise your gazebo with features such as wooden balustrades or banister, white stained wood, decking, mood lighting and of course stunning thatch roofing.

Fancy Dozing on a Daybed?

When the weather is warm there is nothing quite so decadently relaxing as sprawling out on your own daybed or covered cabana. Why not commission your very own daybed? You can ask Cape Reed’s designers and craftsmen to create beautiful custom-made cabanas using natural eco-friendly wood, so that they are beautiful, practical and sustainable.

Light Up Your Life

When planning an interior design scheme, the right lighting can make or break a room, the same is true with an outdoor space. Apart from the obvious of illuminating a space to see what you are doing and for safety reasons, it also sets a mood, can create intimate corners and evening ambiance. So, once you have decided upon your outdoor structures, whether you want uplighters or downlights, pendants, strings of fairy lights and or candles, there is nothing quite as cost efficient and effective as a lighting plan.

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Furniture

When furnishing your garden, terrace or gazebo, there is a myriad of options that you can choose, from contemporary, Tuscan to traditional Spanish. It is also possible to commission custom-made wooden furniture and benches to make the most of restricted space and provide storage. It’s important to bear in mind that although garden furniture can be protected, it must be able to withstand the elements. It is advisable to buy the best furniture in your budget to ensure strength and durability.

Update With Upholstery an Accessories

We’ve all seen the transformation that a few well-placed throws, cushions, rugs and ornaments can achieve. Dressing a space is just as important outside as inside. It is not cost-effective to constantly update expensive items of garden furniture, however, accessories can add pops of colour at a much more affordable price.

Accessories allow you to stamp your personality on your outdoor space without investing a fortune. Light, bright table linen, cushions and beachy coloured rugs can provide a laid-back relaxed vibe in the summer, which can be switched for more seasonal shades, fabrics and textures in the winter. Wraps, blankets and throws can provide additional interest and a cosy feeling when the sun goes down and during the winter.

Fanning The Flames – Firepits

Speaking of creating a cosy feeling after sundown… this is where the firepit comes into its own. Again, the sky is the limit, the options range from custom-made table with integral gas fireplace to very simple more rustic models. They are perfect for gathering to share drinks with family and friends.

Plants, Pots and Flower

Last but not least, the addition of well-placed potted plants and seasonal flowers can bring any space to life. If you are not sure about perennials, annuals or shrubs, it can be fun finding out. Any large garden centre will be able provide a range of plants and beautiful pots to give you outside space the finishing touch.

Conclusion

If you would like advice about the benefits of custom-made pergola, gazebos and other outdoor structures, get in touch with our team of designers and craftsman at europe@capereed.com.

FAQs

What are the key elements to consider when designing an outdoor space in Spain?
When designing an outdoor space in Spain, consider elements such as climate-appropriate materials, comfortable seating, shade solutions like pergolas, proper lighting, and incorporating natural greenery.

How can I make my outdoor space comfortable for year-round use?
To ensure year-round comfort, invest in weather-resistant furniture, provide adequate shade with pergolas or umbrellas, and install heating elements like outdoor fireplaces or patio heaters for cooler months.

How can lighting enhance my outdoor space?
Strategic lighting can enhance the ambiance of your outdoor space, improve safety, and highlight key features. Consider using a mix of fairy lights, lanterns, spotlights, and solar-powered lights for a versatile lighting scheme.

What are some low-maintenance plant options for an outdoor space in Spain?
Some low-maintenance plant options for an outdoor space in Spain include lavender, succulents, rosemary, olive trees, and bougainvillea, all of which thrive in the Mediterranean climate and require minimal upkeep.