Planning a pergola

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 22/07/2014 (4140 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Pergolas add charm, interest, and a distinct separate space within the yard.

As a built structure, they are a feature. Their placement, detailing, and the plants attached to them will make them a source of intrigue. Is this the centre of the action, or the place to get away from the action? You decide.

Pergolas are wall-less structures with open roofs. Doesn’t that sound appealing? Train some vines such as grape or Virginia creeper to wind up the posts and stretch over the crossbeams, and odd transforms into oasis. Appealing indeed. Now add a snazzy contemporary seating arrangement or an outdoor dining set and you’ve got the making of “the action;” add a couple of comfy loungers with a low table to catch your drinks, snacks, and books, and you’ve got the makings of a quiet getaway.

The contemporary-minded may prefer to skip the vines and keep the structure clear and visible. Play up the rafter pattern to give it a bit of spark and create more shade underneath. Ornate is not needed, just more boards to create shadows and shade. A permanent, semi-transparent cover over the top can also serve the purpose. Install it with a bit of a slant to allow rain drainage, and also give some thought to removing leaves that may collect in the fall.

Pergolas are typically constructed of wood, which adds a natural element to the yard. Finishing it in natural colours will add more calm and blend nicely with any planting. If you want to add surprise, paint it in a bold red, orange, chartreuse, or eggplant. Just make sure the structure is well constructed and that you love it, as it will greet you every time you go outside. Plants will tone it down during the summer, but come winter, it will stand out.

The flooring can take several forms. Patio pavers are commonly used, and add a nice contrast in material. Break away from the boxy matchy-matchy look by extending the paving a meter or so beyond the edge of the pergola. This works well in the pergola as the centre of the action scenario. Or, let the lawn creep into the pergola a meter or so. This is ideal in the pergola as a quiet retreat scenario. Timber also works as flooring. Pergolas are often incorporated into the deck itself.

A pergola will command attention. Develop it to serve your needs, and it will happily serve, with panache!

Carla Keast has a master’s degree in landscape architecture and is a Winnipeg-based freelance landscape designer. She can be reached at contact@carlakeast.com.