Summer is the time to enjoy your outdoor living spaces — terrace, garden, balcony, or patio, yet consider enjoying them under the shade of one of these fantastic pergola design ideas. Depending on where you live, having a pergola in your backyard may be an essential detail to shelter you from the elements. Where you are going to place your pergola can also impact your material selection.
If you have a garden, natural pergolas with vines or climbing plants are great. Plant them with enough time to cover the structure so you will be able to enjoy the additional shade. If it is a terrace, you can also select between natural materials such as reed, wood, or bamboo, but if you are looking for durable and long-lasting fabric, canvas or fabrics with anti-UV treatments will be your best options.
Don’t rule out the new smart pergolas that allow you to control their operation remotely via your smartphone! Have a look below for some amazing pergola design ideas to help inspire you to add one to your own outdoor living space. Be sure to have a look below each image for more details and sources.
Tell Us: Which one of these pergola design ideas most inspired you and why in the Comments below!
1. Backyard Pergola Design. The beams of this pergola were positioned for optimal sun coverage. The lanterns were custom-made by a company in Santa Barbara called Steven Handelman Studios. They are hardwired into the pergola structure and operate on a switch in the house. The outdoor teak furnishings are Smith and Hawkin, which can be found at Target — similar can be found at Restoration Hardware or Gloster. Pillows are from Restoration Hardware. The patio is approx 10×20. (via Carol Abbott)
2. Pergola Design Attached To The House. A traditional pergola-shaded patio of a home in San Francisco, California. The chairs are from Restoration Hardware. (via Lauren Nelson Design)
3. Outdoor Kitchen And Dining. A pergola-covered outdoor kitchen of a home in Minnesota. (via Mom’s Design Build)
4. Backyard Tree Canopy Shelter. In a Midwestern backyard, a pergola provides shading for the natural stone and Dekton finished outdoor kitchen island. The cooking and dining area is also sheltered by a pine tree canopy. The outdoor kitchen island and bar have cooking and prep space, along with a dimmable pendant task light. This relaxing space is perfect for entertaining. (via Ispiri Design-Build)
5. Pergola With Columns. A backyard patio of a Maryland home features a pergola custom-made out of rough sawn cedar. Sikkens products were used for the stain and sealer. There are 8×8″ posts inside of the columns, which the pergola is fastened to. The flooring is patterned Pennsylvania Bluestone. (via SURROUNDS Landscape Architecture + Construction)
6. Outdoor Fireplace And Pergola. This cozy transitional style patio features outdoor furnishings from Restoration Hardware. The pillows and table are custom fabricated. (via Eugenia Jesberg Interior Design)
7. Inviting Outdoor Patio. This outdoor oasis encourages comfortably living on the outside. Dining alfresco under a shady pergola is complemented by a cozy living space with comfy cushions and throw pillows with a view of the sparkling swimming pool. (via House Beautiful)
8. Reed Pergola Terrace. Natural heather, reed, or wicker roofs are made up of branches of these materials woven with galvanized wire that prevent oxidation, creating a more or less dense surface. They are bought in rolls and there are also artificial versions. This shade structure provides a welcoming respite with comfortable furnishings and jaw-dropping Mediterranean sea views. The Acapulco chairs can be found at CB2. (via El Mueble)
9. Backyard Oasis. An outdoor living room in Wisconsin is shaded by a pergola with comfortable wicker furnishings. Tiki torches provide a wonderful evening-time ambiance. (via Edmunds Studios Photography for contractor Modern Edge Design)
10. Arched Pergola. If you like the french provincial look, this thatched pergola will provide the perfect aesthetic. Dining alfresco surrounded by potted plantings provides for a relaxed atmosphere. (via Carex Design)
11. Pool House Pergola. A pool house features a pergola extension that shades a hanging swing bed. An idyllic spot for a nap after a dip in the swimming pool! (via Mom’s Design Build)
12. Pergola With Foliage. A craftsman-style home in Seattle offers this lushly covered oasis. The fuchsias in hanging baskets provide a pop of color to this outdoor deck. (via RD Interiors)
13. Wood-Tone Pergola Over A Patio. A backyard patio of a home in Boise, Idaho has a shaded pergola that features semicircular stone seating around a firepit. On the opposite side is a dining area. (via Yardscapes Northwest)
14. Fiberglass Pergola Covering Tot Tub. Not only does the pergola help to define this outdoor spa, but it also offers shelter from the elements. The fiberglass pergola is from Arbors Direct. This is an 8′ by 14′ pergola (post to post). The beam is a double 2×8 pre-made fiberglass (wood will sag with this distance). Post is 8″x8″ fiberglass. Panels are made by ACRYLITE — double layer plexiglass used a lot in greenhouses. The flagstone flooring is called Natural Blue Pennsylvania Bluestone. (via Fine Decks Inc.)
15. A Fabric Pergola. Canvas pergolas are a very comfortable and durable option for your terrace. The fabric protects from the elements and you can install it with wooden columns, aluminum, or metal structures. (via El Mueble)
16. Pergola With Fireplace. The pergola is cedar, unfinished, and weathered naturally. Pavers define this outdoor space while a stacked stone fireplace provides warmth and ambiance. (via Green Apple Design)
17.Wisteria Vine Draped Pergola. A 16th-century farmhouse on the Tuscan seacoast features a pergola where up to 25 guests can dine under a centuries-old wisteria that blooms in the months of March and June. During the summertime, relaxing meals can be enjoyed under this rustic pergola, with a table and chairs sourced from Unopiù. (via Veranda)
18. Pergola With Lights. String your pergola-sheltered terrace with lights and simple chandeliers for an enchanting outdoor dining space. (via El Mueble)
19. Pergola Illuminated By Lighting. A home in Los Angeles features this beautiful rustic wood pergola, shading an outdoor living space that is entertainment-ready. (via Baker Patios)
20. Wood With Green Roof. Wisteria is a fabulous climbing plant with which you can cover your garden pergola. It is deciduous and its main attraction is its aromatic flowers that can be pink, lavender, or white. Cold-resistant, expose it to direct sunlight for prolific flowering. Thanks to its suspended bunches, this outdoor dining room gives off a magical halo. (via El Mueble)
21. Pergola Covered Outdoor Bar. A kitchen bar pass-through window opens up and out 90 degrees. This fantastic outdoor entertaining area is ideally located right next to the pool. (via Three Birds Renovation)
22. Pergola And Wooden Horizontal Wall. Pergola In the backyard of a San Francisco home is this farmhouse-style patio with outdoor dining and a grill. Native plantings add to the overall aesthetic. (via Elevation Architects)
23. Louvered Pergola For Elevated Entertaining. This beautiful ipe deck boasts a modern tiled fireplace wall, a wood accent privacy wall, a beer fridge with a keg tap, cable railings, a louvered roof pergola, outdoor heaters, and outdoor lighting. An idyllic space to entertain guests or relax and watch TV with the family.
24. Rustic Pergola. This shady outdoor dining space is perfect for entertaining family and friends. Simple wood tables and chairs deck out this plant-filled oasis. (via Pinterest)
25. Outdoor Living Room. This California home features Honeysuckle climbers for additional shading and a tropical feel. The custom furnishings are designed by Trip Haenisch, upholstered in Perennials outdoor fabrics. The cocktail table is sourced from Holly Hunt. (via Architectural Digest)
26. Outdoor Paradise. A tropical garden surrounds this outdoor space in Bahia, Brazil for a feeling of tranquility, privacy, and shading. Hang rattan swings from your pergola for some outdoor relaxation on the veranda. Similar swings can be found on Serena & Lily. (via Life by Lufe)
27. Midcentury Pergola Design. This patio oasis in Denver features a long bar table and kitchen countertops connected to the pergola posts. A concrete fire pit is surrounded by seating. All of the outdoor furnishings except for the barstools and the dining chairs are from Room and Board. (via Lifescape Colorado)
28. Bamboo Pergola Design. The roof of the pergola is covered with bamboo, intermingled with wisteria. A beautiful and resistant climber, Wisteria is can live up to 100 years and covers a large amount of space, reaching up to 15 meters in height. A java teak table is covered with a tablecloth, while a natural wood bench from Coco-Mat features colorful cushions. (via El Mueble)
29. Outdoor Dining Terrace. This lovely outdoor space features a dining table with a tree stump base. Flagstone pavers are etched with grass instead of grout. A rustic candelabra hangs from the pergola, creating a romantic atmosphere for outdoor dining. See the rest of this gorgeous home here: Tour inside this beautiful rustic entertainment barn in Greenwich, Connecticut. (via Douglas VanderHorn Architects)
30. Outdoor Entertaining Oasis. In Hermosa, Beach California, a backyard deck offers the complete outdoor entertaining experience. A contemporary pergola shelters an eating area that includes a kitchen/bar. The pergola also features a stone column base and heaters. (via JDS OUTDOOR DESIGNS)
31. An Inviting Backyard Retreat. This gorgeous Trex deck is the ultimate in entertaining. A concrete fire table features a custom cedar bench floating above the deck. The dining space is defined by a cantilevered, aluminum pergola and a cable rail system. There is also a grill and prep space. Cedar screen walls create a feeling of intimacy along the terraced landscaped. (via Boyce Design and Contracting)
32. Enclosed Fireplace Area. The pergola is open to the elements, so an outdoor-rated fan was used here — Curva Sky 52-in Oil Rubbed Bronze LED Indoor/Outdoor Flush Mount Ceiling Fan with Light and Remote (3-Blade). The wiring is in the recessed area above the pergola. The outdoor television is weatherproof but comes with a cover which is recommended when not in use. A stone wall is used for additional seating next to the fireplace and serves as a planter. (via GardenWise)
33. Modern Coastal Retreat. This cozy outdoor living space has an elegant beach vibe and a neutral color pallet of sands and blues with organic accents. There is plenty of seating for entertaining, while a fireplace adds warmth and ambiance. (via Smith Firestone Associates)
34. Pool Pavilion Pergola. This Mediterranean-style outdoor living space features a pergola attached to the pool house, covering a beautiful outdoor living room in Woodside, California. (via Dotter & Solfjeld Architecture + Design)
35. Pergola In The Woods. The pergola was constructed used fallen recycled trees for the structure. In the distance, the woodsy view is framed by a large wooden picture frame. (via HomeTalk)
36. Meditation Garden With A Pergola. This tranquil outdoor oasis in Melbourne, Australia features a meditation moon gate/day bed, reflective water feature, and a fire pit — all made from concrete pipes. The color palette consists of blue ad green with lime green highlights. This is a place to stop, reflect and meditate. (via Alison Douglas)
37. Modern Pergola Design. This angular pergola adds a modern touch while allowing for hanging wicker chairs to sway in the breeze. A hanging table provides the perfect spot for a refreshing beverage! (via Three Birds Renovations)
38. Sunshade Over The Patio. A sunshade over the pergola provides additional shelter to this outdoor patio extension off the house. A hanging wicker chair offers a relaxing nook for reading a book or watching the sunset. (via Elle Decoration)
39. Mediterranean Style Pergola. A villa in Turkey features this cozy outdoor living space dressed in white with blue and black accents. Fabric weaves between the wood beams to provide additional shelter from the elements. (via Swanfield Living)
40. Pergola Sheltered Side Porch. In a New Zealand seaside summer home, a pergola-sheltered porch features a hanging swing for afternoon siestas. The table is repurposed — an old gas table from the family’s prior apartment, given a fresh coat of black paint and a remnant of beautiful tiles from the kitchen. (via ALT Magazine)
41.Laser Cut Steel Pergola. An outdoor kitchen and bar area is shaded by a laser-cut steel pergola for a decorative design in your garden. (via Entanglements)
42. Vertical Garden Design With A Pergola. This garden house in Mexico has a seamless connection with the surrounding verdant landscape. A raised patio with a vertical garden provides an oasis for relaxation and entertaining. (via ASP Arquitectura)
43. Cantilevered Pergola Design. A small cantilevered pergola provides just enough shade for this elevated outdoor dining space. The modern design features hanging lights from the wooden beams. A built-in wood bench floats above the deck while providing additional seating for dinner guests. (via COS Design)
44. Swing Beds Hanging From A Pergola. In an Arizona home, a pair of custom hanging daybeds are topped with white terry cloth fabric cushions. The square fire table is from Restoration Hardware. (via Nomad Design)
45. The Ultimate Garden Retreat. A pergola provides shade to this alfresco dining space. The fence color is Ebony by @protekwoodstain. The gravel is Cotswold chippings from @gravelmaster. The Cotswold stone pavers were purchased at @wickes. Tiled floor @artisansofdevizes. Outdoor table @madedotcom. Egg chair @hmhome. For the pergola, it is a simple wooden structure consisting of 4×4 uprights and 2×4 timbers on top. The wooden uprights are cemented into the ground for extra stability. (via @design_at_nineteen)
46. Outdoor Living Room. Ferns and ivy grow on this pergola for lush shading. Comfortable furnishings provide a relaxed environment for entertaining family and friends. (via Jellina Detmar)
47. Lush Garden Oasis. A family home in Brazil features this outdoor dining patio surrounded by a serene garden. Baskets of ferns hang from the pergola structure. (via Casa de Valentina)
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