A stylish, original, and functional landscape design element, a pergola is an excellent choice for arranging the exterior. Once, such structures served as support for climbing plants. Today, this unusual arched structure made of various materials is often used as a gazebo, canopy, canopy over the door, or interesting decorative element.
Key Elements of Pergola Design
Today, there are many different variations of these structures. The most popular are:
- Awning-type options look like canopy options, but the roof is not solid; it is a series of beams or slats. This model protects well from the sun, but you can’t hide under it in rainy weather.
- Pergola screens. These structures are used to create a shaded area. In addition, this element of landscape design is often used for zoning space.
- Corridor-type models. Such structures are used to form a spectacular green tunnel of climbing plants.
- Pergola canopies. Structures of this type are often added to buildings and create shade near the windows.
Based on the location, landscape structures of this type are divided into two large groups: free-standing models or adjacent to some buildings.
How to Personalize Your Pergola
Add the elements to highlight its uniqueness, making your pergola warmer and fashionable. The screens or curtains will give it privacy and keep the wind at bay. LED strip lighting or hanging lamps will warm it up and be effective for evening events. You may also choose from various roofings – from tensioned fabric to sliding panels that regulate the intensity of the light and protect against rain. These kinds of details add functionality to the pergola and give it a unique appearance.
Choosing the Right Pergola for Your Space
When choosing the pergola’s model and material, it is essential to answer the following questions:
- Will the structure be used as a support for climbing plants;
- Will it have a functional role or only a decorative one;
- Will the pergola be used to mask technical structures that bring imbalance to the overall exterior (barn, poultry house, garage, etc.);
- Will the structure become a place for rest.
Depending on the answers, you can choose the best option for this landscape design element and create an interesting external picture.
A pergola can decorate your property and create a cozy recreation area. Depending on your needs and wishes, you can build a pergola in various styles and materials as a gazebo, screen, arch, canopy, gallery, visor, or awning.
