Pergola Designs – Using One Structure In Three Different Ways

Pergola Designs – Using One Structure In Three Different Ways

These days, many homeowners are using pergola designs as more than just a feature of their garden – they are becoming a versatile part of the landscape. With summer just on the horizon, many homeowners are also quickly realising the benefits of being able to entertain outdoors (especially of an evening, when it cools down a little). In this article, we have outlined three of the more popular ways that you can dress your pergola – if you can’t decide, why not purchase pieces that will enable you to utilise the space as all three?

• Outdoor or Alfresco Dining

This is probably the most popular use for pergolas at the moment, as all you need is an outdoor setting. If you really want to go all out, why not construct an outdoor kitchen that incorporates your barbeque, a sink and even a refrigerator? This will ensure that everything you need for entertaining is at your fingertips. Some homeowners like to attach some speakers to the pergola for when they hold dinner parties, whereas others like to add a fireplace or patio heater for when it gets a little cold.

Outdoor or Alfresco Dining

• Personal Oasis

A pergola design that is fast growing in popularity is the idea of a personal oasis – think resort style. The addition of some sheer, outdoor curtains will help to create a sense of privacy without blocking the beauty of your garden. A ceiling fan can also help to keep the pergola cool on hot summer days, and is also useful in repelling insects. Some home owners also like to invest in outdoor storage units so that items of relaxation (such as magazines) are always within reach.

Personal Oasis

• Outdoor or Alfresco Living

Another use that is growing in popularity is the outdoor living room; all you need to do is add some comfortable seating! These days, there is plenty of lounge furniture available that has been designed for outdoor use – choose from couches, arm chairs, coffee tables, sun loungers, ottomans, daybeds and side tables. Some homeowners have taken it a step further and installed a television in their pergola, ensuring that there is plenty to keep you and your guests occupied.

Things to consider when choosing a pergola material

Keep in mind that timber can be stained to suit your décor. Cedar is a popular choice due to its lovely colour and distinct scent (it’s also decay resistant). Also remember that plastic is a weather resistant material that is a little more affordable. It is quite easy to maintain and won’t rust or rot.

Personal Oasis

As you can see, there are a number of ways that you can increase your usable space. The best way to decide the perfect use for your space is to think about what you spend a lot of time doing when the weather is fine – do you hold a lot of barbeques, do you like to relax by yourself or do you like to host casual parties? And, if you cannot decide how you would like to use your pergola, you can always do what we suggested above and use it as a combination of all three!