Shari et al,
Our GT didn't come with an awning either, and I have the same door opening 90-degrees vs. flat to the trailer dilemma.
I'm strictly a visual guy. It's why I bought an Airstream, when a tent is quicker, hotels are everywhere, and I don't even travel very much. I'm all about the looks, and the nostalgia. So no offense to those that have these, but there's no WAY I'd put a large, metal, folding awning on our GT - it's too visually cluttered and distracting. I'm sure they work great, and with nothing to assemble, no guy lines to trip over... it makes more sense. But nope, I ain't gonna do it.
Now
THIS is what I'm talking about...
Simple, effective, nostalgic looking. I think these posts are the cat's meow. They compliment the brilliance of the trailer, while their aged appearance nods to the fact they provide shade for a 41-year old Airstream.
I even found a Canadian supplier of fenceposts who quoted me $18 for a pair just like that, in birch, 3 or 4 inches in diameter.
Then, just pop the grommets of our waxed cotton awning (in any pattern we choose) over the 3" spike I'll have drilled into the posts, and game on!