Pergolas: Transform Your Outdoor Space

Discover ideas that will transform your backyard into a stunning oasis with the help of this outdoor feature. As we appreciate our outdoor spaces more and more, it becomes necessary to protect ourselves from the sun's harmful rays. A covered pergola is the ideal solution, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors without the risks. But you need to decide what style your space will have – and this is where pergolas ideas come in.

What Makes a Pergola Perfect for Your Outdoor Space?

Before upgrading your outdoor space, it's important to understand the differences between a pergola and a gazebo, among other common outdoor structures. A pergola offers shelter and some shade from the elements, but is designed to let the sun through at least part of the day. It can be freestanding or built into an existing structure.

What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of a Pergola?

Among the benefits of choosing a pergola are aesthetics and durability. “People prefer the look of it more than a sunshade or an umbrella. It looks more integrated, customized and is a more stable structure. You don't have to worry about the wind as much as with an umbrella or sail shade,” says Amber Freda, president of Freda Inc.

Pergolas are also durable enough to be ideal exterior to train climbing plants, although you should take into account that eventually, your begonia may interfere with the retractable pergola roof.

However, a pergola does not become an overly permanent outdoor structure, as a gazebo can sometimes seem. A backyard pergola is also a better choice for those concerned about patio space – a pergola can be easier to fit into a small backyard than an even smaller gazebo. “The gazebos [can look] a bit dated,” says Freda. "Pergolas look more modern."

Another advantage of pergola design over gazebo design is that you can enjoy more of the "outside" part of the "outdoor space". “Pergolas are meant to be open to the elements, so you can let the sun and air in.

The biggest downside to choosing a pergola, especially a freestanding pergola, is that your outdoor space may not be structurally supportive. “A pergola needs to be firmly anchored – it's a substantial structure but it can still tip over,” says Freda. “You can't attach a pergola with 2×2 tiles to a roof.”

And even if one wants to install a fire pit or outdoor kitchen under the new angle of the pergola, this can be a serious fire or smoke hazard. Check your local regulations to see if this is even allowed.

Is It Cheaper to Build or Buy a Pergola?

Like any outdoor structure, pergola design can range from affordable to very expensive. So it's natural to wonder if a DIY patio pergola is the best option for your wallet.

"Prefab pergolas are definitely less expensive," says Freday. "Even when you add in the installation by a contractor, it tends to be about half the price of a regular [custom-built] pergola, so it can be a good solution for people trying to save a little."

Pergola kits tend to be for fiberglass or metal pergolas made from thinner, lighter materials like aluminum. It is critical to ensure that components are designed and assembled in a way that is structurally sound and capable of supporting weight and wind.

Although they cost more, custom pergolas mean you can choose your materials – if you like the idea of a wooden pergola, for example, you may not mind spending more to ensure your yard is equipped with a pergola made of cedar, for example, or satisfy your fantasy of a white pergola with warp-resistant poplar acrylic paint.

Whatever you decide, remember that ultimately the best pergola is one that makes outdoor living part of your everyday life.

The Luxury of White in a Pergola

A pergola with a white finish can be the ideal spot to relax and enjoy the view, especially when placed in a garden with a stunning view, such as in Napa Valley.

Minimalist Approach to Texas

A simple, metal pergola that complements the design of the wooden terrace and the architecture of the house, offering an elegant and simple look.

The Garden of Eden at Your Doorstep

For those who have limited outdoor space or simply want to keep their oasis close to home, a supporting pergola Climbing plants it can provide shade and privacy, turning a small space into a cozy corner for coffee and relaxation.

Pergola Next to the Pool with a View of the Cypress Trees

A white pergola that offers a perfect view of the cypress trees, creating an ideal spot to relax after swimming in the pool, while also providing cover and space for refreshments and snacks.

Pergola with Hanging Garden

Reimagining a rarely used rooftop with a pergola and hanging swings, creating a favorite gathering spot for delightful sunset views.

A Pergola in the Cradle of Heaven

Combining creepers with climbing plants, this urban pergola roof provides shade and privacy, a rarity in the city, and transforms the space into a private garden of relaxation.

Pergola in the New England Wilderness

Using recycled or steel materials, a pergola can feel like it's been there forever, providing shelter for an outdoor dining area framed by climbing plants.

These pergola ideas are just a few of the many possibilities to inspire and transform your outdoor space. Choose the one that best suits your style and needs, creating a space you'll enjoy for years.