[notes from an umbrella grove]

400 stone steps down from the Vettica side of Praiano led me to a grove of Christo-Gates-orange beach umbrellas, sounds of dance music and rocks catching waves, and deep green pools where I spent sunup during the next week. In the absence of trees on this rocky cliff-lined coast, 50 para-sole carve a whimsical outdoor space suitable for a 40°C / 100°F summer day. 

 

The author's legs in the grove

With protection from the sun, water, a little garden, and chaises longues for sleeping, basic human needs were covered. Cold white wine, mojitos, tanned Italians, and dance music met other desires.

And then there's Claude Cormier's Sugar Beach project (brilliant) on Toronto's newly renovated waterfront. Another favorite umbrella grove, and an alternative to trees on a grassy lawn...

All images courtesy of Claude Cormier Landscape Architect