High-quality European shade systems being marketed out of Arrowtown have a strong following from both residential and commercial customers due to their contemporary and individual design which transforms outdoor living spaces.

Josef Fruhmann and Kate Grubb’s company SunCraft NZ is the exclusive distributor of the Austrian manufactured Soliday products in New Zealand , Australia and the South Pacific and their products particularly in commercial spaces are instantly recognisable.

“Each retractable shade system is designed specifically for the outdoor area it is intended to cover,” says Kate, “ensuring the best shade coverage is achieved. The systems provide a light cover in rain and are also ideal for high wind areas which are common in Central Otago, with wind sensors causing the system to automatically retract in bad weather.”

“An added feature is the UV treated fabric which protects against strong sunlight, blocking up to 98 per cent of the sun’s rays. This drastically reduces harmful exposure.”

Kate says the shades are purpose designed for places such as wineries, cafés, restaurants and hotels.

“ Using specially developed software the company creates a simulation to help clients visualise how the system will look and where the shade will be at different times of the year. The appeal is that they can be fully automated so that staff do not have the worry of operating the system.”

Shades for both private and commercial use are usually available for installation four to six weeks after an order is made.

“We offer a free measure and shade simulation quote and people who wish to have  a system in place by next summer should place their orders during winter,” says Kate, “as our installation slots become very heavily booked.”

Funky Furniture

A recent addition to the Suncraft stable is the Soliday modular outdoor furniture range.

“This furniture can be put together flexibly, is easy to use and has an attractive design, “ says co-owner Kate Grubb. “The Soliday reload system can be configured in several possible combinations with many different fabric types and colours to choose from. The furniture provides multifunction, stylish solutions with the benefit of being able to leave lounge sets outside all-year-round.”

“The furniture is crafted in Europe from high-quality water repellent fabric and custom design is available with around a three-month lead time so orders should be made well in advance of summer.”