Pergola Design and Build
“What can I do with this big empty spot in my yard?”
“That’s the perfect space for a Pergola!”
“Ok what the heck’s a pergola??
What is a Pergola?
One of the best gathering spots for any outdoor space is an ancient design architectural form known as a pergola. A pergola is an outdoor garden feature forming a shaded walkway, passageway, or sitting area. Built of vertical posts or pillars that usually support cross-beams and a sturdy open lattice, often upon which plants grow. It also may be an extension of a building or serve as protection for an open terrace or a link between pavilions.
The origin of the word is the Latin pergula which translates to “projecting eave”. Pergola structures span back to the Egyptians who used them to house figs and fruits. The Greeks and Romans later adapted the structure design to grow grapevines for wine making. Over the ages and across global cultures the pergola has become a common element in the improvement of outdoor spaces. The building styles and construction materials can be as varied as the human imagination.
Design Options:
When designing pergolas the first rule of thumb is to match the style of the home or building that is on the property. The pergola should be an extension of the existing structure’s style. Most of the style options we see in pergolas are classic, romantic, craftsmen and modern.
In the Classic style, we use bright white materials with fluted columns and decorative top caps. These reflect the style of ancient temples and architecture seen in Greece and later Rome. Bright foliage is suggested with the classic style to contrast the white of the structure with wild colors.
The Romantic style is defined by decorative elements and design details that elevate the space into an English garden “fairyland”. Often encouraged to be overgrown with flowering vines and ivy to enhance the style, this elegant look can be found throughout Europe and the American South.
In the Craftsmen style, the pergola is defined by large unadorned beams and columns fit together in attractive joints and slots in 90-degree angles with repeating patterns. The American “arts and crafts” movement in early 20th defines this style of pergola.
The Modern style can incorporate several sub-fields but is mainly defined by minimal structural elements and very straight lines and angles. Often constructed with metal, glass and cables, the modern style pergola looks great with xeriscape landscaping, gravel and cactus.
Build Type Options:
After finding the right spot and style desired for your new pergola, the type of construction and top coverage needs to be considered. Wood slats, full plant coverage, metal screening, or transparent options are the most used.
If shade is your desired effect and you don’t mind the rain reaching the space underneath, a pergola with wood slats is suggested. The space and angle of the slats can determine the amount of light is let in or kept out.
Covering your pergola with vegetation is also always an appealing option. Planting deciduous plants is suggested, Wisteria for example opens the area to sun in the winter but keeps things cool and shady in the summer. English ivy, bamboo, honeysuckle or any creeping ivy plant loves the pergola.
Laser cut metal screens or square tube construction is a sleek and modern way to create a pergola. Glass or high impact optically clear polystyrene roofs can let the sunshine in while keeping the direct heat at bay.
Retractable awnings and ceiling fans can also help adjust the temperature.
Pergola Design and Build:
Highland Lakes Outdoor Living are top notch professionals at Pergola Design and Build and our team is very mindful of the style and functionality our structures. We love pergola projects, they are consistently one of the easiest ways to improve an outdoor space and increase the value of the property. If you are considering a swim spa or hot tub our pergolas are also the perfect covering. Call us or send a quote request today!