Every great round ends at the 19th hole, but not every golf club makes the most of it. For many courses, the post-game patio is an afterthought: a few tables in the sun, limited seating, and exposure to heat or rain that drives guests inside or off the property entirely. That’s a missed opportunity.

The 19th hole isn’t just a tradition; it’s a chance to build community, increase food and beverage revenue, and leave golfers with a lasting impression. And the key to unlocking its full potential? Retractable shade solutions.

Why Shade Is a Game-Changer

Without cover, even the best-designed patios go unused during peak hours. Direct sun turns seats into hot plates. Sudden showers clear out crowds. Uncomfortable conditions shorten stays and limit what your food and beverage team can offer outdoors.

Adding retractable shade solutions transforms the space from seasonal to all-day, all-weather usable. Golfers can kick back after 18 holes, watch a game, order another drink, or invite guests to join. All without squinting through the sun or ducking for shelter.

And it’s not just theory. ShadeFX has partnered with premier golf courses across North America to bring this vision to life.

At Tavistock Country Club in New Jersey, eight large retractable roofs were installed over the outdoor dining area, providing 1,900 sq ft of rain and sun protection. This addition allows members to enjoy shade during hot summer months without sacrificing the open-air atmosphere.

Similarly, Crestmont Country Club in West Orange upgraded its patio experience with a series of shade structures that blend seamlessly with the club’s traditional architecture while adding functionality. At Big Sky Resort in Montana, our retractable canopy solution brings shelter to an exposed, high-elevation terrace where wind, rain, and sun can change by the hour. North of the border, Bayview Golf & Country Club in Thornhill, Ontario, now boasts sleek, covered terraces with panoramic pool and course views. Perfect for après-golf cocktails and outdoor events.

“Our members come to Bayview to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, to some it’s their cottage.

After our renovations were completed, we quickly realized our dining needed something to finish it off just right. ShadeFX helped us get there by upgrading our pool dining area with five beautiful custom structures and shades.

The feedback from both our members and staff has been fabulous. Thank you ShadeFX!”

– Alex Maggiacomo, General Manager, Bayview Golf & Country Club

Each installation is tailored to the site and climate, but the impact is the same: elevated comfort, better use of space, and a dramatically improved guest experience.

Design Tips for an Inviting 19th Hole Patio

Creating a 19th hole that golfers want to stay on isn’t just about adding tables and umbrellas. It’s about intentional design that reflects your members and supports comfort, function and atmosphere. The visual language of your space directly influences who you attract and retain.

• Retractable Coverage: Use a system that allows you to dial in the perfect balance of sun and shade. Retractable shades give you total control over comfort throughout the day and across the seasons.

• Airflow Matters: Keep the space breathable. Avoid solid, enclosed structures that trap heat or block natural airflow.

• Seating Variety: Offer a mix of communal tables, lounge chairs and bar-height seating. The more versatile the layout, the more it can accommodate everything from solo golfers grabbing a drink to large groups casually celebrating a win.

• Lighting: Integrate warm, ambient lighting, up lighting on columns, or LED rail strips. A well-lit patio encourages members to linger well past sunset.

• Weather Resistance: Choose materials that are fade-resistant, waterproof and built for year-round use. Marine-grade aluminum frames and UV-protected fabrics will ensure your investment looks and performs great over time.

• Fabric & Color Selection: Design isn’t one-size-fits-all, and your fabric choice isn’t just for aesthetics; it’s strategic branding.

  • Classic stripes evoke heritage and tradition. Perfect for legacy clubs with multi-generational appeal.

  • Bold colors can energize a younger crowd or reflect a more modern, playful vibe.

  • Soft neutrals and organic tones feel high-end, relaxed, and resort-inspired. Ideal for clubs leaning into lifestyle and wellness.

Comfort = Revenue

When golfers stay longer, they spend more. A shaded, comfortable 19th hole encourages second rounds, snack orders, and spontaneous conversations. It becomes a hangout, not just a pass-through. With smart design and the right shading system, the patio can become one of the most valuable square feet on your property.

Looking to transform your patio into a destination? Get in touch today to explore retractable shade solutions that add comfort, style, and year-round usability to your golf club or resort. Let’s design something that keeps members coming back. For one more drink, one more round, and one more reason to stay.