18 Patio Pergola Designs, Perfect For The Upcoming Summer Days

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?

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Wooden 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.

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The wood can be painted or stained for a plus of style
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A pergola can be an extension of a home such as a terrace

 

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It can also be a freestanding structure placed in the garden
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The pergola usually matches the main house and is considered a part of it
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A 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.

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It’s usually surrounded by vegetation and it’s a relaxing space
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At its origin, the pergola was covered with climbing plants
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Vaporous 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.

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Arched pergolas tend to have a more elegant design
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A pergola can be a part of a larger extension that also has an open terrace
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Poolside pergolas are very popular sitting areas
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You can combine natural materials to give the pergola more charm
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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.

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A more traditional type of pergola with pillars and climbing plants
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Most often, the pergola feature a small dining area
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The architecture can vary very much, according to influences and preferences
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A green pergola used as a shaded lounge area
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A wooden pergola on a concrete and stone porch
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The columns and the open rafters of a pergola can support climbing plans
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You can add all sorts of features to your pergola, such as an outdoor fireplace
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Pergolas can be either freestanding or attached to the house like in this case
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This is a modern version of a promenade pergola, here used as an outdoor living space
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A covered pergola provides more shade and protection against rain or snow
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The lattice screen is a beautiful addition to a pergola surrounded by lush vegetation
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Sometimes the pergola is an addition to a deck and a way to define a certain area
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Accent features such as the fan, the fountain or the potted plants make this pergola extra special
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It can take a lot of time to train climbing plants on a pergola but the result is amazing
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A 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.

Picture sources: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17 and 18.