Designing A Pergola? Here Are Some Ideas You Should Consider

Pergola

Pergolas are structures with a roof and pillars attached to a patio. It provides shelter from sun and rain and can be a place to relax and enjoy the evening or host visitors. Pergolas are an extension of the traditional living space. As such, proper planning and design should go into setting it up. 

Pergola design ideas have become in high demand recently. If you desire to create an outdoor area in your backyard, there are factors to consider. Choose a pergola design that would fit the size and structure of your front yard, and then plan on how to set it up. Available in an assortment of shapes and sizes, pergola-style outdoor structures will provide an intimate atmosphere while spending time outdoors. Pergolas give the yard a more traditional look, with designs made of wood or metal pieces and corresponding furniture. Here are some guides and ideas for designing your pergola. 

1. Choose the Right Materials

There are different materials for pergola design ideas. First, to construct a pergola, you would need pergola kits. The traditional option is made of wood, but there are now alternatives such as bamboo, aluminum, and steel. Choose the material that will best complement your outdoor space and keep in mind the seasons in your area. Choose a design and color that will withstand the changing seasons and still look good. Consider the use of a trellis system to create the structure of your pergola. 

These trellises can be free-standing or attached to other structures such as a brick wall. Trellises come in many shapes, sizes, and styles, and each can be decorated in ways that suit the rest of the landscape. As a bonus, many designs include a built-in partial shade structure that allows you to still enjoy a bit of shade even on a hot day. This structure can either be attached to the roof or free standing if preferred.

This trellis can be curved, straight, or even placed in an arch shape. In addition, these trellises are also often decorated so that they provide an addition to the beauty of the surroundings. Various materials are often used to design frames for these patio and backyard pergolas, including slate, bamboo, and iron.

1. Pick the Design

Once you have determined which type of pergola design ideas will work best for you, then it is time to select the style of the roof, support beams, and other structural details. It is essential to follow all local building codes, so you can plan the placement of your pergola to meet all code requirements. The location of your patio will play a significant role in determining the type of pergola that you will want to build. If you have limited space available in your front yard, that will affect the design and structure. For example, a three-sided form might look cozy, but it would be too small to contain a table for a small gathering.

Several great pergola design ideas incorporate functional and simple materials that you can purchase from almost any home improvement store. The most common materials that are used to build these structures include wood, aluminum, and even concrete.

1. Structure

With various sizes and shapes, pergola designs can offer a cozy retreat while still having a delicious snack outside. Remember to buy materials for the roofing. By shading the structure, your pergola can receive a very minimal amount of sunlight each day. This will reduce the risk of damage because of overheating from direct sunlight, especially during hot, sunny afternoons. The shade will also keep insects from flying freely inside the structure. 

If your existing roof is not strong enough to support larger pergolas, consider installing a lattice to hold the upper beams in place. Lattice will provide much-needed structural support. 

Pergolas can also be made with durable materials such as wood, iron, or aluminum. However, these materials are not as attractive as those made of stone, aluminum, or vinyl. For pergola design ideas that emphasize the beauty of the landscape beyond the patio, consider building a walkway or paved path to the main structure. 

1. Decoration

You can decorate pergolas with flowers, vines, and other lush plants that provide flowers and greenery all season long. Choose what best suits your budget and then start buying. Plant flowers or bushes directly along the sides of the structure and add planters to provide a sheltered location for planting.

If you need additional shade, consider installing tall-growing trees to provide shadows over the area where you intend to place the pergola. Consider also choosing different styles of pergolas, such as arbor style, or lattice style, etc. 

1. Furniture 

In choosing the type of furniture for your pergola, you should keep in mind the functions it will provide. Most pergolas are placed on the patio to provide shade and a place for people to dine. However, you can also use them as a storage unit to store extra items. In this case, you can get storage furniture like storage ottomans or storage benches. 

You would also need a dining or seating area. Pergola furnishings may include sofas, dining sets, love seats, center tables, or daybeds. If you need a canopy swing or hamper, you can get one made of wood and sturdy materials. The frame should be strong enough to handle the weight of the swing and the occupant’s weight. 

It will be a good idea to include a bench in your design. This will be ideal for events or hosting friends. This will also be a good idea if you want to have plants on it. In this case, you can use built-in planters. If you desire the pergola to be the focal point of your garden, you can place wicker outdoor chairs or tables in it. 

Conclusion

Pergolas make great additions to any outdoor room, whether it is on a deck, in the garden, or in your backyard. By adding a few attractive pergola design ideas, you can enhance the look of your outdoor space without spending too much money. Keep in mind that outdoor structures are outside. Take care to choose furnishings that will withstand the elements. You won’t want to come back from your trip to the beach to find your deck, sofa, and chairs destroyed by the weather.

Sebastian

Sebastian was born and raised in the busy city of Abbottabad. As a journalist, Saad Mushtaq has contributed to many online publications including the PAK Today and the Huffing Post. In regards to academics, Saad Mushtaq earned a degree in business from the Abbottabad UST, Havelian. Saad Mushtaq follows the money and covers all aspects of emerging tech here at The Hear Up.Thanks