Janece Maze is Associate Editor at Country Living, where she covers DIY projects, gardening, and travel. When she’s not in the kitchen creating a new recipe with farm fresh ingredients, you can find her on the road heading to a music festival or browsing a local consignment shop. "},{"name":"Sarah Lyon","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/author/220907/sarah-lyon/","@type":"Person","description":"
Sarah Lyon is a New York City-based freelancer who produces interior design, travel and lifestyle content. Her work is featured in outlets including Apartment Therapy, Architectural Digest, MyDomaine, The Washington Post and The New York Times. Plus, her personal spaces have appeared on Apartment Therapy, The Everygirl, Houzz and more.","jobTitle":"Contributing Writer","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/rover/profile_photos/5051fe22-8a67-4327-ae30-031b88cb40e2_1692817628.file","email":"[email protected]","sameAs":["www.instagram.com/Sarahlyon9"]}],"@context":"http://schema.org","about":{"@type":"ItemList","numberOfItems":33,"itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Create an Outdoor “Room”","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/home-design/decorating-ideas/g25596084/pergola-ideas/#slide-1","description":"Consider adding a pergola to an empty courtyard or garden space, like at this California home. The tall wood pergola and inviting seating enhance this area with a wood-burning brick oven and cooking station with stone counters. The finished project is an outdoor “room” perfect for hosting company or savoring a book alone on a lazy fall afternoon. RELATED: Make Your Porch or Patio the Dreamiest Space Ever","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/countryliving/assets/17/12/1490203394-clx110114henderson-09.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Place a Pergola Over the Patio","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/home-design/decorating-ideas/g25596084/pergola-ideas/#slide-2","description":"Make an exposed patio more user-friendly with a pergola. Not only does this simple wood pergola provide shade, but it also creates an inviting patio space that rivals any sitting room—especially when outfitted with pretty flowers and comfy furniture. For a more enclosed feeling, consider also adding a short wall.RELATED: The Best Outdoor Furniture at Walmart to Revamp Your Patio","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/patio-royalty-free-image-1721132346.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":3,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Take Walkways to New Heights","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/home-design/decorating-ideas/g25596084/pergola-ideas/#slide-3","description":"If you have a plain path in your garden, consider elevating it into a dreamy walkway with a pergola. Then, take your shade to the next level by planting a beautiful and colorful climbing vine.RELATED: 18 Stone Walkways That Will Beautify Your Yard","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/autumn-in-the-park-royalty-free-image-1730235164.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":4,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Add Shade to Sunny Side Porches","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/home-design/decorating-ideas/g25596084/pergola-ideas/#slide-4","description":"Pergola-covered patios (cross-beams and a sturdy open lattice are attached to the side of the home) provide the best of both worlds with a cozy area that gets just enough sunlight and just enough coverage. Here, at a home designed by the architects at Historical Concepts and interior designer Barbara Westbrook, the pergola-covered patio provides both a potting station and an alfresco dining spot. The elegant architecture helps the area seems like a genuine “room.”TOUR THE HOUSERELATED: A Designer’s Guide to Prepping Your Patio","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/historical-concepts-patio-1611343525.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":5,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Get Crafty with Natural Materials","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/home-design/decorating-ideas/g25596084/pergola-ideas/#slide-5","description":"Rather than standard wood boards, repurpose natural elements to create a rustic, organic pergola. Interior designer Hadley Wiggins and husband Daniele Marin sit at a cozy outdoor dining table nestled under a whimsical pergola made from sprawling tree branches and vines. A pea gravel patio helps define the outdoor space.TOUR THE HOUSE","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/land-1-6696472882953.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":6,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Upgrade with Paper Lanterns","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/home-design/decorating-ideas/g25596084/pergola-ideas/#slide-6","description":"When in doubt, add weatherproof outdoor paper lanterns to any pergola for an instant upgrade that transforms it into an inviting and festive space! RELATED: The Best Outdoor String Lights for a Guaranteed Patio Glow Up ","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/table-set-in-garden-royalty-free-image-944304506-1545097862.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":7,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Create a Backyard Haven","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/home-design/decorating-ideas/g25596084/pergola-ideas/#slide-7","description":"The addition of a fire pit nearby or under a pergola will add warmth to cool evenings and it's a wonderful space to pull up a chair around the fire for conversation with friends and a glass of wine.RELATED: 16 Best Outdoor Fire Pits to Make Your Backyard Extra Cozy","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/lovely-outdoor-deck-patio-space-with-white-dining-royalty-free-image-1721133778.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":8,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Elevate Entryways with a Pergola","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/home-design/decorating-ideas/g25596084/pergola-ideas/#slide-8","description":"Take the road less traveled and add a pergola to an entry in need of some shade. Make it even more stunning with the addition of beautiful planters filled with greenery as well as furniture accents like wicker chairs. RELATED: 37 Creative Entryway Ideas for the Warmest Welcome ","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/pergola-ideas-1-65a1c4dd4a64f.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":9,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Liven Up a Fireside Nook","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/home-design/decorating-ideas/g25596084/pergola-ideas/#slide-9","description":"If you’re one of the lucky people with an outdoor fireplace, adding comfortable seating and a complementary pergola to the area will make a cozier lounging area—all day and night! RELATED: 22 DIY Outdoor Fireplace Ideas for a Cozy Backyard ","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/pergola-ideas-22-65a616c71b471.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":10,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Add Whimsical Charm with a Swing","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/home-design/decorating-ideas/g25596084/pergola-ideas/#slide-10","description":"If you’re a big kid at heart and want an excuse to put a swing in your yard, get a pergola swing! You can get a custom unit built by a local contractor or DIY swing kits are available online.","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/pergola-idea-8-65a1dfb8abc2d.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":11,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Jazz Up Multipurpose Garden Areas","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/home-design/decorating-ideas/g25596084/pergola-ideas/#slide-11","description":"When California homeowner Jen Curtis isn’t hosting dinner parties out in her dreamy cottage garden, the pergola-shaded, 10-foot-long farm table (painted with outdoor paint for durability) becomes additional gardening work space.TOUR THE HOMERELATED: How to Plant a Fall Garden","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/curtis-california-lavender-garden-pergola-jpg-1616786556.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":12,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Showcase Flowering Vines","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/home-design/decorating-ideas/g25596084/pergola-ideas/#slide-12","description":"Blooming wisteria adds an air of country charm to a pergola towering over a rustic dining area. Adding pretty flowering vines to outdoor settings will elevate the look of your spaces. RELATED: 30 Best Flowering Vines to Add Vertical Color to Your Yard and Garden","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/table-with-chairs-in-the-gazebo-under-blooming-royalty-free-image-1721131526.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":13,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Create an Alfresco Dining Space","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/home-design/decorating-ideas/g25596084/pergola-ideas/#slide-13","description":"Maybe you want to have lunch under the midday sun? A pergola is just the answer! Consider adding an intimate outdoor dining set from Country Living's Polywood collection to a space under a pergola to enjoy a delicious meal en plein air.RELATED: 8 Stylish Outdoor Wicker Furniture Piece","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/gettyimages-964073872-65a1dd036232c.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":14,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Put Something Pretty on the Side","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/home-design/decorating-ideas/g25596084/pergola-ideas/#slide-14","description":"Do you have a door on the side or rear of your home without overhead cover? Instead of an awning, you may want to add a wood pergola to get relief from the blazing sun or upgrade the look of a plain side entrance.RELATED: 28 Evergreen Shrubs to Plant for Year-Round Beauty","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/pergola-ideas-5-65a1de68b8b43.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":15,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Create a Gather ’Round Spot","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/home-design/decorating-ideas/g25596084/pergola-ideas/#slide-15","description":"Build the ultimate fall and winter gathering space with a DIY pergola and fire pit setup. Created by Lauren Ashworth of Little White House Blog, and featured on Remodelaholic, this unique structure is the grown-up backyard of your dreams. It includes a fire pit, a movie screen, Adirondack chairs, six porch swings, a built-in bar, and a custom pergola. RELATED: The Best Outdoor Fire Pits to Make Your Backyard Extra Cozy","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/countryliving/assets/17/22/1496254437-how-to-build-a-pergola-with-a-fire-pit-by-little-white-house-blog-featured-on-remodelaholic.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":16,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Cover with Evergreen Climbers","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/home-design/decorating-ideas/g25596084/pergola-ideas/#slide-16","description":"Fast-growing bougainvillea flowers crown the top of this elegant stone and wood pergola. The addition of hardy climbers and vines like winter-flowering camellia and winter jasmine adds vibrant color, stylish flair, and shade to pergolas all year long.RELATED: The 20 Best Drought-Tolerant Shrubs for Your Climate","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/pergola-royalty-free-image-1721135512.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":17,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Add Contemporary Flair and Cozy Seating","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/home-design/decorating-ideas/g25596084/pergola-ideas/#slide-17","description":"Austin, Texas, blogger, Olivia of LivvyLand built a cedar plank and polygal pergola to complete a patio renovation. The finished project includes charming string lights, an outdoor wicker furniture set, natural botanical touches, and a jute rug. RELATED: The 10 Best Outdoor Rugs for Every Style and Budget ","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/livvyland-blog-olivia-watson-before-after-outside-patio-renovation-reveal-furniture-austin-texas-lifestyle-blogger-13-1545405942.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":18,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Hang Colorful Seasonal Planters","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/home-design/decorating-ideas/g25596084/pergola-ideas/#slide-18","description":"Plant ladies, this one’s for you! Hanging colorful flower planters bring this otherwise plain pergola to life. Discover some of our favorite fall flowers and plants for a charming fall garden.RELATED: 20 of the Best Hanging Planters and Accessories","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/flower-pots-hanging-from-gazebo-in-garden-royalty-free-image-688944739-1545097953.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":19,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Fuse a Pergola with a Trellis ","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/home-design/decorating-ideas/g25596084/pergola-ideas/#slide-19","description":"This option perfectly pairs a functional pergola with outdoor seating into a garden oasis with the addition of a trellis wall that's covered in lush greenery. Ready-to-assemble options are available at local garden centers or from online retailers such as Wayfair.RELATED: 33 Simple, Smart Garden Trellis Ideas for Vines","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/pergola-ideas32-65a619ce9fcf8.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":20,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Hang Privacy Curtains","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/home-design/decorating-ideas/g25596084/pergola-ideas/#slide-20","description":"Curtains add drama and privacy to this pergola-covered deck from Love of Family and Home that includes an outdoor living room—complete with a freestanding fireplace and dining area. The homeowner used sheets to fashion her curtains, but ready-made indoor-outdoor curtain panels will also work.RELATED: 12 Floating Deck Ideas to Complete Your Backyard","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/back-deckpergola-reveal-110-1545015683.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":21,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Create a Shady Outdoor Living Room","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/home-design/decorating-ideas/g25596084/pergola-ideas/#slide-21","description":"If you’re yearning for an extension of your living room space outside, seriously consider dressing up an empty area with a simple pergola framed idea equipped with shaded coverings, comfy outdoor furniture, and waterproof lights.Related: 13 Best Privacy Trees for Your Backyard","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/gazebo-with-stylish-garden-furniture-royalty-free-image-1721134808.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":22,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Keep Things Cool with a Fan","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/home-design/decorating-ideas/g25596084/pergola-ideas/#slide-22","description":"For areas with year-round warm-weather climates, a pergola with an outdoor fan is absolutely essential. Here, Sara Gibson of Room for Tuesday, chose a modern-style fan to pair with her white and tan sectional. Hanging a fan will require some electrical trenching and a bit of hard work, so you may want the help of a electrician. ","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/backyard-pergola-with-fan-1548194383.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":23,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Soften Spaces with Lights and Natural Elements","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/home-design/decorating-ideas/g25596084/pergola-ideas/#slide-23","description":"Edison bulbs and potted plants look beautiful hanging from this pretty pergola in the backyard of Victoria Smith of SF Girl by Bay. The partially enclosed pergola is made of cedar wood, which is \"naturally resistant to rot, decay, and insect attacks.\" RELATED: The Best Outdoor String Lights for a Guaranteed Patio Glow Up","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/patio4-1545014828.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":24,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Combine a Pergola and Gazebo","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/home-design/decorating-ideas/g25596084/pergola-ideas/#slide-24","description":"This gazebo-pergola hybrid was a time-consuming project for Jami Boys of An Oregon Cottage but it now seamlessly blends into her beautiful backyard sanctuary. RELATED: 50+ Beautiful Backyard Ideas for Big and Small Budgets","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/diy-patio-gazebo-an-oregon-cottage-1545016247.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":25,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Bring Resort Style to the Backyard","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/home-design/decorating-ideas/g25596084/pergola-ideas/#slide-25","description":"This backyard space from Centsational Girl has all the bells and whistles, while curtains add privacy and create a resort-like feel to the relaxing retreat! RELATED: 8 Wonderful Ways to Add Romance to Your Garden","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/outdoor-room-with-canvas-panels-1545097167.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":26,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Add Filtered Light and Modern Finishes","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/home-design/decorating-ideas/g25596084/pergola-ideas/#slide-26","description":"This white slat wood pergola from A Beautiful Mess consists of wood supports covered in tightly spaced lattice strips—and it couldn’t be more stylish and on-trend in an multifunctional. outdoor dining and living space.RELATED: How to Stain a Deck Like a Pro","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/dining-after-1545016382.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":27,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Extend Living Spaces","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/home-design/decorating-ideas/g25596084/pergola-ideas/#slide-27","description":"Pergolas can also be used to maximize space around homes when installed to transition from indoors to outdoors. This sleek white pergola runs the length of the house, extending the amount of living space that can be utilized by the family of Molly Madfis of Almost Makes Perfect.RELATED: How to Hang a Hammock in Your Backyard","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/amp-backyardaddtl-5-1545095724.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":28,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Build a Private Haven","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/home-design/decorating-ideas/g25596084/pergola-ideas/#slide-28","description":"Add some luxe to your backyard with a spa-like pergola that’s home to the ultimate relaxation oasis—yep, a hot tub! RELATED: How to Build a Wood-Fired Hot Tub","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/outdoor-hot-tub-royalty-free-image-1721134173.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":29,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Break Up Outdoors Spaces","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/home-design/decorating-ideas/g25596084/pergola-ideas/#slide-29","description":"Consider a pergola to make an exposed area more kid-friendly and comfortable. Designer Emily Henderson sectioned off this backyard play space for her son, Charlie, next to a outdoor dining space.RELATED: 60 Ways For Kids to Have an Old-School Summer","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/back-deck-area-after-1545406235.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":30,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Add Poolside Flair","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/home-design/decorating-ideas/g25596084/pergola-ideas/#slide-30","description":"Feel like you’re at a 5-star tropical resort with a freestanding wood pergola cabana as a calming poolside escape. It’s ideal for cozying up after making a big splash in the pool and the perfect spot to enjoy a fruity seasonal sipper on a warm afternoon!","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/boho-bamboo-outdoor-sofa-under-driftwood-pergola-by-royalty-free-image-1721125665.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":31,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"FAQ: What Is a Pergola?","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/home-design/decorating-ideas/g25596084/pergola-ideas/#slide-31","description":"A pergola is a structure that provides shade from the sun’s harsh rays and, if enclosed, can keep you dry during periods of heavy rain showers. (Fun Fact: Pergola is an Italian word with ancient origins and is derived from the Latin term “pergola,” which references a latticework or trellis structure that supports climbing plants.","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/yellow-magnolia-and-a-wooden-gazebo-in-spring-in-royalty-free-image-1729010944.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":32,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"FAQ: What is the Difference Between a Pergola and a Gazebo?","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/home-design/decorating-ideas/g25596084/pergola-ideas/#slide-32","description":"A few key features distinguish pergolas from gazebos: A gazebo is a freestanding structure with open sides, a roof, and typically constructed in hexagonal or octagonal shape, while pergolas are structures that consist of parallel columns that hold up an open roof or grid of beams, rafters, or lattice work. They are typically made of wood (and other materials like vinyl and steel) and can be detached or attached to a home.","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/gazebo-plans-bali-1581713236.jpeg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":33,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"What Types of DIY Options Are Available?","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/home-design/decorating-ideas/g25596084/pergola-ideas/#slide-33","description":"There are many plans and pergola kits available if you want to build a pergola on your own. Pergolas can be also customized to include curtains for privacy, string lights for nighttime lounging, picturesque box planters or hanging planters filled with fragrant herbs or flowers, and ornate trellises on which fast growing flowering vines can climb.","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/back-deckpergola-reveal-110-1545015683.jpg"}}]}}
It’s the most magical time of year! Autumn’s crisp air, falling leaves, and colorful landscapes are a prelude to the holiday season. It’s also a great time to relax outside without worrying about getting sunburned or overheated. The cool breeze and gentle warmth of the sun work in sync to make lounging outdoors a welcomed respite. If you’re stumped and looking for a creative way to carve out an inviting space in your yard for gathering with friends and family or even solo, consider adding a beautiful pergola to your space. A pergola is a structure that provides shade from the sun’s harsh rays and, if enclosed, can keep you dry during periods of heavy rain showers too. We’ve pulled together dozens of beautiful pergola ideas to give your outdoor space a refreshed look.
Even the National Association of Landscape Professionals says that pergolas are a top outdoor living space trend for 2024. We know it's challenging to create a multifunctional space that can keep you both cool and warm—especially if your yard lacks shade trees to block the sun’s blazing heat—but that’s exactly a pergola’s primary purpose. Pergolas come in various designs and sizes that make them an attractive choice for any home style—from modern farmhouses to cozy bungalows to charming cottages.
While many pergolas are easy to construct with simple kits if you want to go the DIY route, don't worry if you’re hesitant to tackle a pergola project alone. Take some time to research local contractors who can build a gorgeous pergola for your home. Before you begin, be sure to find out whether or not you’ll need a permit for your project, and consider hiring a professional for more complex builds. Now get started building the garden retreat of your dreams without stylish pergola ideas!
Get more ideas to easily upgrade your outdoor spaces:
Consider adding a pergola to an empty courtyard or garden space, like at this California home. The tall wood pergola and inviting seating enhance this area with a wood-burning brick oven and cooking station with stone counters. The finished project is an outdoor “room” perfect for hosting company or savoring a book alone on a lazy fall afternoon.
Make an exposed patio more user-friendly with a pergola. Not only does this simple wood pergola provide shade, but it also creates an inviting patio space that rivals any sitting room—especially when outfitted with pretty flowers and comfy furniture. For a more enclosed feeling, consider also adding a short wall.
If you have a plain path in your garden, consider elevating it into a dreamy walkway with a pergola. Then, take your shade to the next level by planting a beautiful and colorful climbing vine.
Pergola-covered patios (cross-beams and a sturdy open lattice are attached to the side of the home) provide the best of both worlds with a cozy area that gets just enough sunlight and just enough coverage. Here, at a home designed by the architects at Historical Concepts and interior designer Barbara Westbrook, the pergola-covered patio provides both a potting station and an alfresco dining spot. The elegant architecture helps the area seems like a genuine “room.”
Rather than standard wood boards, repurpose natural elements to create a rustic, organic pergola. Interior designer Hadley Wiggins and husband Daniele Marin sit at a cozy outdoor dining table nestled under a whimsical pergola made from sprawling tree branches and vines. A pea gravel patio helps define the outdoor space.
The addition of a fire pit nearby or under a pergola will add warmth to cool evenings and it's a wonderful space to pull up a chair around the fire for conversation with friends and a glass of wine. RELATED: 16 Best Outdoor Fire Pits to Make Your Backyard Extra Cozy
8
Elevate Entryways with a Pergola
Mint Images//Getty Images
Take the road less traveled and add a pergola to an entry in need of some shade. Make it even more stunning with the addition of beautiful planters filled with greenery as well as furniture accents like wicker chairs.
If you’re one of the lucky people with an outdoor fireplace, adding comfortable seating and a complementary pergola to the area will make a cozier lounging area—all day and night!
If you’re a big kid at heart and want an excuse to put a swing in your yard, get a pergola swing! You can get a custom unit built by a local contractor or DIY swing kits are available online.
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
11
Jazz Up Multipurpose Garden Areas
David Tsay, styling by Page Mullins
When California homeowner Jen Curtis isn’t hosting dinner parties out in her dreamy cottage garden, the pergola-shaded, 10-foot-long farm table (painted with outdoor paint for durability) becomes additional gardening work space. TOUR THE HOME
Blooming wisteria adds an air of country charm to a pergola towering over a rustic dining area. Adding pretty flowering vines to outdoor settings will elevate the look of your spaces.
Do you have a door on the side or rear of your home without overhead cover? Instead of an awning, you may want to add a wood pergola to get relief from the blazing sun or upgrade the look of a plain side entrance.
Build the ultimate fall and winter gathering space with a DIY pergola and fire pit setup. Created by Lauren Ashworth of Little White House Blog, and featured on Remodelaholic, this unique structure is the grown-up backyard of your dreams. It includes a fire pit, a movie screen, Adirondack chairs, six porch swings, a built-in bar, and a custom pergola.
Fast-growing bougainvillea flowers crown the top of this elegant stone and wood pergola. The addition of hardy climbers and vines like winter-flowering camellia and winter jasmine adds vibrant color, stylish flair, and shade to pergolas all year long.
Austin, Texas, blogger, Olivia of LivvyLand built a cedar plank and polygal pergola to complete a patio renovation. The finished project includes charming string lights, an outdoor wicker furniture set, natural botanical touches, and a jute rug. RELATED: The 10 Best Outdoor Rugs for Every Style and Budget
This option perfectly pairs a functional pergola with outdoor seating into a garden oasis with the addition of a trellis wall that's covered in lush greenery. Ready-to-assemble options are available at local garden centers or from online retailers such as Wayfair. RELATED: 33 Simple, Smart Garden Trellis Ideas for Vines
Janece Maze is Associate Editor at Country Living, where she covers DIY projects, gardening, and travel. When she’s not in the kitchen creating a new recipe with farm fresh ingredients, you can find her on the road heading to a music festival or browsing a local consignment shop.
Sarah Lyon is a New York City-based freelancer who produces interior design, travel and lifestyle content. Her work is featured in outlets including Apartment Therapy, Architectural Digest, MyDomaine, The Washington Post and The New York Times. Plus, her personal spaces have appeared on Apartment Therapy, The Everygirl, Houzz and more.
