Creating Found Space With Residential Pergolas
Pergolas provide shade, frame beautiful views and offer a place to gather. They are also great for creating found space on your property, whether it’s an outdoor office, yoga studio or dining area.
Their open slats and latticework allow breezes to flow through. Climbing plants like roses, bougainvillea and clematis thrive under pergolas, adding height and color.
Material
Wood is a popular material for pergolas, offering classic aesthetics that blend with many outdoor settings. Popular options include cedar and redwood, as well as pressure-treated pine that has been infused with chemicals to repel insects and withstand the elements. However, wood pergolas require regular upkeep to combat moisture and pests that could damage the structure or degrade its appearance.
Aluminum is a more modern alternative to wood, offering the benefits of low-maintenance and durability without the need for staining or painting. It is also resistant to the effects of sunlight, protecting against color fade and oxidation.
Design
Pergolas provide a frame for outdoor living, and their open design fosters a connection with nature. Whether attached to a home or freestanding, pergolas can enhance landscapes and provide shade for gardens and patios.
The main features of a pergola include vertical posts and a roof grid that includes beams and rafters. The latter often feature a crisscross or checkerboard pattern and create the iconic look of the structure.
Lattice walls and curtains can be added to enhance privacy and add a sophisticated, finished appearance. This allows homeowners to customize the look of a pergola and extend its functionality and usability into the night.
Many homes have a unique architectural style that demands a louvered pergola that complements and elevates its distinctive character. A custom-built pergola will blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscaping and architecture. This makes it easy to create a comfortable and inviting space for relaxing, dining, or entertaining. A pergola is also a great spot for climbing plants and other decorations.
Climbing Plants
Many gardeners use colorful flowers and fragrant vines to add shade, privacy and character to their pergolas. Roses, bougainvillea, wisteria and clematis are popular choices because they grow rapidly as they climb upward and provide a lush, colorful display for the focal point of your pergola.
Some woody plants like wisteria can become very heavy once they mature so they require sturdy supports that will not damage the structure. Some vines, such as passionflower and clematis, twine around posts by sending out tendrils, while others like honeysuckle and grapevine grow up the side of structures with their entire stem.
If you want something to bloom all year consider adding a tropical or perennial vine such as mandevilla, a fast-growing plant with white and purple flowers or sweet pea, a fragrant annual that produces saucer-shaped flowers. Bougainvillea is a beautiful choice too and grows from summer to fall but needs some assistance to guide it during its early stages.
Lighting
Adding lighting to your pergola adds another layer of style and comfort. Whether you choose to hang lanterns at different heights for visual variety like this restaurant did or to intertwine your lights with climbing plants for a whimsical touch, lighting can make all the difference in your backyard ambiance after dark.
Paper lanterns are a charming option that can add a rustic, whimsical touch to your backyard. They come in a wide array of colors and sizes to suit your personal style. They’re usually powered by electricity but some are also solar-powered for added convenience.
A popular way to light a pergola is by adding string lights. These are often used for special occasions, but you can also use them to create a calming ambiance year-round. You can even opt for remote-controlled lights to make it easier to set the mood. Alternatively, you can install concealed channels or conduits inside your pergola to house electrical wiring. This method requires more work, but it ensures a tidy appearance that’s free from visible distractions.
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