Pergolas reach maximum popularity and are most practical during summer when they provide shade and serve as an outdoor recreation and entertainment area. But pergola designs are variate and they each serve their users in different ways. So what is a pergola anyway?
View in galleryWooden pergolas are a popular modern choice
There are several types and various pergola plans, the open top type being the most popular one. They all feature open rafters, a simple, rugged construction and several support posts. They can be freestanding or attached to a structure. So now that you know how to build a pergola, it’s time to think of the little things that can make yours special. Browse through all these pergola ideas and search for inspiration.
View in galleryThe wood can be painted or stained for a plus of styleView in galleryA pergola can be an extension of a home such as a terrace
View in galleryIt can also be a freestanding structure placed in the gardenView in galleryThe pergola usually matches the main house and is considered a part of itView in galleryA pergola can also be a pavilion separate from the house
There are also freestanding pergolas which are structures that are not attached to a home. They are sitting areas situated outdoors and they are protected from direct sunlight by climbing plants and the structures on which they grow.
View in galleryIt’s usually surrounded by vegetation and it’s a relaxing spaceView in galleryAt its origin, the pergola was covered with climbing plantsView in galleryVaporous curtains can be used to offer protection from direct sunlight
Pergolas can be made from a variety of materials. There are cases when they’re made of brick and stone. These designs were popular in the late 19th and easy 20th centuries and they have a strong architectural presence. Modern pergolas, however, are mostly made of wood. They are more affordable and very popular these days.
View in galleryArched pergolas tend to have a more elegant designView in galleryA pergola can be a part of a larger extension that also has an open terraceView in galleryPoolside pergolas are very popular sitting areasView in galleryYou can combine natural materials to give the pergola more charm
Wooden pergolas also tend to be more inviting and cozy cause of the texture of the material and its natural warmth. Generally, they are made from a weather-resistant wood such as cedar or redwood.
View in galleryA more traditional type of pergola with pillars and climbing plantsView in galleryMost often, the pergola feature a small dining areaView in galleryThe architecture can vary very much, according to influences and preferencesView in galleryA green pergola used as a shaded lounge areaView in galleryA wooden pergola on a concrete and stone porchView in galleryThe columns and the open rafters of a pergola can support climbing plansView in galleryYou can add all sorts of features to your pergola, such as an outdoor fireplaceView in galleryPergolas can be either freestanding or attached to the house like in this caseView in galleryThis is a modern version of a promenade pergola, here used as an outdoor living spaceView in galleryA covered pergola provides more shade and protection against rain or snowView in galleryThe lattice screen is a beautiful addition to a pergola surrounded by lush vegetationView in gallerySometimes the pergola is an addition to a deck and a way to define a certain areaView in galleryAccent features such as the fan, the fountain or the potted plants make this pergola extra specialView in galleryIt can take a lot of time to train climbing plants on a pergola but the result is amazingView in galleryA pergola is also an architectural statement, completing the property in a unique way
The designs vary very much. Still, usually the focus is on creating a comfortable environment so the furniture is chosen to subscribe to this concept. You can have a sofa and several armchairs on the pergola but typical wicker furniture is also very popular. Some pergolas are filled with natural plants while others are simpler and more modern, featuring just a few ornamental flowers.