The Power of Pergolas: Shade, Style, and Serious Curb Appeal
By: Alexis B.
Enjoying the great outdoors is refreshing, but not when the sun’s frying you like a skillet. But what if instead, the sunlight was gently filtered through slatted beams above you? Pergolas are a great way to make your outdoor space way more livable, even during a heat wave.
From structure and shade to serious style, here are all the reasons a pergola should be in your backyard’s future.
The Stylish Chameleon of Outdoor Design
We love design elements that play well with others, and pergolas do that perfectly. They work with a variety of home styles, from classic to contemporary and everything in between.
Is your home more coastal? Think whitewashed beams with flowing outdoor curtains. Leaning modern? Go for sleek black aluminum with sharp lines.
No matter your home’s style, there’s a pergola out there for you.
Pro Tip: Match the finish or tone of your pergola to your home’s trim, shutters, or front door color to tie the whole look together!
Pergolas Offer Built-In Shade Without the Roof
There’s nothing wrong with a full patio cover or sunroom if that’s what you want! But if you want a breezier, more open-air feel, pergolas are your best friend. They’re perfect when you want coverage but still want a bit of sunshine.
Depending on the style you choose, you can go full slatted roof, retractable canopy, or adjustable louvers. Some pergolas even come with motorized options that you can open or close with the push of a button. Fancy!
If you’re in a particularly warm climate, add in some UV-resistant materials like curtains or vining plants to further filter light and keep things cool.
Pergolas = Major Curb Appeal
If you thought pergolas were just for the backyard, think again. They can actually help boost your curb appeal in a big way!
We’ve seen pergolas frame walkways, define front yard patios, and add drama to entryways. When designed thoughtfully, a pergola can bring symmetry to your home and add more visual interest, giving your home a true designer feel. Think of it like the blazer of exterior design.
You can also use a pergola to zone off an outdoor dining area, fire pit lounge, or poolside cabana. Its versatility knows no bounds!
If you really want it to blend in, flank your pergola with landscaping that mimics the color palette of your home. It’ll give you that polished look deserving of a magazine cover.
Functional Add-Ons For Your Pergola
One of our favorite things about pergolas is how easy it is to dress them up. Just start with the base structure and add whatever features fit your style.
Some of the most common pergola add-ons we’ve seen include:
- Ceiling fans for hot afternoons
- String lights or mounted sconces for cozy evenings
- Hanging planters (you can never have too many plants, right?)
- Outdoor heaters to stretch out your porch season
A pergola is like a blank canvas. With a few thoughtful accessories, it can become a true masterpiece.
Choosing the Right Pergola
Like we mentioned before, there are tons of different types of pergolas out there. Here’s how to pick the right one for your style and needs.
Think Pergola Function
Are you looking for shade? Structure? Just a place to hang out? The purpose of your pergola will guide everything else, from its size to its material. If you want full sun protection, you’ll want a covered or louvered design. But if you’re fully focused on aesthetics, a simple slatted version might be perfect for you.
Choose Pergola Materials Based on Maintenance
Don’t just think appearance – think maintenance, too! If you love the look of wood but not the upkeep, consider composite or vinyl options that mimic the style without the sealing. Aluminum or fiberglass pergolas are sleek and modern, and often come with fewer maintenance headaches.
Don’t Ignore Proportions for Pergolas
This is a big one. A too-small pergola can look silly in your yard, while one that’s too big can quickly swallow your space whole. Match the scale of your pergola to your home and yard.
If you’re still not sure how big to go, our expert designers can help you figure it out in your exterior design plan!
Consider Climate
If you live somewhere with lots of sun and humidity, look for materials and finishes that won’t warp or fade. If your area is windy, skip fabrics and look for more solid, anchored structures. You want a structure that will last for years to come, not something that you’ll have to replace year after year like that cheap outdoor umbrella you got on clearance.
Match Your Home’s Style
You don’t have to match perfectly, but your pergola shouldn’t stick out like a sore thumb. A modern black pergola might look odd next to a cottage-style home, for example. Cohesion matters. Choose a combination that says, “Yeah, this was intentional.”
Don’t Forget Regulations!
Some areas require permits to install a pergola, or your HOA may require certain specifications before installation. Always check the law and your HOA rules before clicking “order” on that shiny new addition. The last thing you want is to deal with a return!
Final Thoughts: Pergolas Make Big Impact With Minimal Fuss
Considering their style and function, we think pergolas are worth the hype. They’re a great way to improve your exterior space without committing to a full renovation. Whether you want shade or a defined hang-out zone, a pergola can help your home look extra put-together.
If you’re still not sure how a pergola will look at your home, that’s where we can help! Our designers can help you visualize the perfect setup that’ll blend seamlessly with your exterior. Reach out today to get started on your design.
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