15 Cedar Wood Pergola Ideas Homeowners Built Themselves
These cedar wood pergolas show how homeowners are using solid lumber, clean joinery, and simple layouts to create durable outdoor structures. Cedar is a popular choice for DIY pergolas because it resists rot, handles weather well, and ages naturally, whether left unfinished or stained. From freestanding backyard builds to wall-mounted designs over decks and patios, cedar pergolas offer shade, structure, and a clear visual anchor for outdoor spaces.
On Homedit, we also cover the full process in our detailed guide How to Build a Pergola, which walks through design choices, layout planning, and step-by-step construction, whether you’re building a freestanding pergola or a modern wall-mounted version attached to your home’s exterior.
1. Freestanding Cedar Pergola on a Concrete Patio
DIY cedar pergola built with thick posts and exposed rafters, anchored to a stamped concrete slab. The structure defines an outdoor seating area while keeping the space open.
2. Attached Cedar Pergola for Outdoor Dining
A homeowner-built cedar pergola connected to the house, shading a dining zone. Straight beams and simple joinery keep the design practical and clean.
3. Cedar Pergola Over an Outdoor Kitchen
This DIY cedar pergola frames a grill and bar area without enclosing it. Open rafters allow light while clearly marking the cooking zone.
4. Large Cedar Pergola with Stone Landscaping
A wide cedar pergola supported by heavy posts, integrated with stone planters and greenery. The structure anchors the yard and organizes multiple outdoor functions.
5. Dark-Stained Cedar Pergola in a Modern Courtyard
A cedar pergola finished in a dark stain, paired with modern paving and built-in storage. Strong posts and evenly spaced beams create clear shadow patterns.
6. Cedar Pergola Beside a Pool Lounge Area
This cedar pergola provides partial shade for poolside seating. The open structure keeps views clear while improving comfort.
7. Cedar Pergola Extension Over a Raised Deck
A pergola built from cedar posts extending a raised deck. The beam layout aligns with the deck railing for a unified structure.
8. Garden Cedar Pergola with Climbing Plants
A cedar pergola designed as a garden feature, used to support climbing roses. The structure blends shade and planting support.
9. Entryway Cedar Pergola with Metal Brackets
A compact cedar pergola marking the home’s entrance. Black metal brackets reinforce the beams and add contrast to the wood.
10. Minimal Freestanding Cedar Pergola with String Lights
A simple DIY cedar pergola with straight lines and exposed beams. Integrated string lights make it usable after dark without adding visual weight.
11. Dark-Stained Cedar Pergola on a Concrete Patio
A freestanding cedar pergola finished in a dark stain, built over a concrete slab. Wide beams and close rafter spacing create defined shade for a lounge setup.
12. Cedar Pergola with Decorative Brackets and Hot Tub
A DIY cedar pergola built with thick posts and visible metal brackets. The structure sits on a stamped concrete patio and frames a hot tub area without enclosure.
13. Cedar Pergola with Stone Pier Bases
This pergola uses cedar posts set on raised stone bases, combining wood and masonry. The open lattice roof adds structure to a paved backyard seating area.
14. Attached Cedar Pergola Over a Back Entrance
A cedar pergola connected directly to the house, covering a rear entry and steps. Curved braces and exposed rafters add definition without blocking light.
15. Freestanding Cedar Pergola on a Composite Deck
A clean-lined cedar pergola built on a raised deck, aligned with the fence for privacy. The evenly spaced rafters keep the structure light and open.