Made to keep shade

NECESSARY, but not necessarily attractive, the patio umbrella base has some new looks thanks to the Frontgate catalog company. Its teak umbrella stand  shown here, made from slatted wood in a cubic hourglass shape, encloses the umbrella base under a 24-inch-square top, creating a shaded side table for drinks. For vast palazzos requiring several umbrellas, the firm also sells urn-shaped faux-stone tables  that conceal umbrella bases. For the biggest bang and buck, Frontgate's woven umbrella ottoman  is a 4 1/2 -foot-wide circular all-weather wicker piece that surrounds the umbrella pole with a cushioned seat upholstered in Sunbrella fabric.

Source:http://www.latimes.com