Keep your customers cool with effective outdoor cooling solutions

It sounds obvious because it is – customers are more likely to settle in for an afternoon at your outdoor venue if they’re comfortable, and in summer that means shade, and lots of it. Acquaint yourself with the commercial alfresco cooling solutions available for your venue by reading this guide, and make sure you’re set up for the warmer months.

Commercial shade structures

When it comes to commercial outdoor cooling systems, shade is an obvious choice. That means pergolas, shade sails, commercial umbrellas, retractable awnings but how do you know what’s right for your alfresco area setup? If you own the building – or have the owners permission to make changes – a pergola, shade sale or retractable awning make a lot of sense. They provide good protection from the elements, reduce glare, are low maintenance and, while they might have a higher installation fee, they’ll cost less over time. This makes them a practical long‑term investment for businesses looking to improve comfort while managing ongoing costs.

There are a couple of things to consider before diving into this style of outdoor shade solutions for cafes, restaurants and bars. Retractable awnings and pergolas generally need a clearance height of at least 2.4metres from the ground and may need council approval. There are also rules around where they can go, so check with your local council before you do anything else.

If these solutions aren’t right for your space, look at commercial umbrellas instead. Look for umbrellas that have wind ratings to ensure stability and that are made of heavy-duty materials like anodised or powder-coated aluminium frames. They also need to have a sturdy base so they don’t move in the wind.

Commercial outdoor fans

Perhaps adding shade isn’t an option in your space? Maybe you’re working with a semi-enclosed alfresco area? This is where fans come in, and there are a lot of options here, too. High volume, low speed fans, which have very large blades are great for high-ceilinged spaces like beer gardens.

They are an energy efficient option for moving massive volumes of air at a low speed, creating a gentle breeze that won’t blow menus off tables. They’re also a cost‑effective way to improve comfort without significant structural changes – ideal for venues wanting impact with minimal downtime.

For smaller spaces there are other industrial fan options, including energy-efficient DC ceiling fans, wall-mounted oscillating wall fans and pedestal fans – check the Australian Electrical Standards before deciding though as there are installation considerations as well as mandatory safety features on fans with moving parts accessible to the public.

Misting systems for cafes, restaurants and bars

Misting systems work by evaporative cooling: a high-pressure pump pushes water through fine nozzles creating tiny droplets of water. The droplets absorb heat from the air as they evaporate. These types of systems can make a big difference in areas with dry heat but are less effective in areas of high humidity.

As with other cooling systems, there’s a lot to know before you invest – primarily, they need to be installed by licensed professionals, the pump and nozzles need regular maintenance, and the units are ideally only suited to premises with non-slip flooring like outdoor pavers.

Passive cooling techniques

Hospitality and outdoor comfort go hand in hand, and there are small design decisions that will help keep your outdoor area cooler and your customers happier. For example, black or charcoal coloured flooring can absorb heat and radiate it back towards your customers. Instead, go for lighter coloured pavers or flooring. If you’re installing a misting system, the floors also have to be non-slip.

When it comes to outdoor furniture, choose options that work with your cooling systems. It should be heavy enough not to be blown around by fans (or wind, for that matter), and needs to be quick dry if you have a misting system.

These small upgrades can help to improve the overall experience, helping attract repeat customers who are more likely to return – and spend – in spaces that feel welcoming year‑round.

Practical considerations

Installing any cooling systems for businesses comes with considerations. You have to check environmental factors like wind loading, fire safety and noise generation – pumps and fans can generate noise. You also need to consider the most cost-effective option: pergolas and permanent umbrellas may have a high one-off cost while fans and misting systems have ongoing electricity costs. Balancing upfront investment with long term operating costs can help venue managers make choices that offer the best return on investment.

Then there are council approvals. Outdoor structures like pergolas, decks or permanent umbrellas fall under the National Construction Code. This is where you can read up on codes and safety requirements of new structures. Most councils will also require a Development Application for a new structure or a modification to a permanent building, and you also need to ensure you are conforming to the Disability Act Code, which includes not obstructing the ‘path of travel’ for wheelchairs.

Sounds complicated but the good news is the team at Bunnings can help you select summer outdoor dining solutions for your business and provide advice on installation for your area.

Keep your customers cool

Bunnings Trade has outdoor solutions to keep your area cool and your customers happy. Speak to a member of the Business Development Team for expert advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the most effective outdoor cooling solution for Australian hospitality venues?
The best solution depends on your climate and space. Shade structures work well nationwide, while fans and misting systems can greatly improve airflow and comfort in drier regions.

2. Do outdoor misting systems work in humid parts of Australia?
Misting systems are most effective in dry heat but can still provide relief in moderate humidity. They must be professionally installed and placed over non-slip flooring.

3. Do I need council approval for alfresco shade structures?
Most councils require approval for pergolas, awnings and permanent umbrellas. Always check local regulations and the National Construction Code before installation.

4. What should I consider when choosing outdoor fans for my venue?
Look for models that meet Australian Electrical Standards, offer good airflow for your space size and include safety features for public environments.

5. How can I keep outdoor seating areas cooler without major renovations?
Simple changes like using lighter coloured flooring, opting for quick dry furniture and ensuring good airflow can significantly reduce heat and improve customer comfort.