WHETHER ATTACHED to the house or freestanding, covered in vines or clean and modern, a pergola is an architectural feature that provides a welcome sense of enclosure outdoors, carving out an inviting retreat that allows in fresh air, gentle breezes, and dappled sunlight. "A pergola creates a sense of place and sets the stage for relaxing and entertaining,” says TOH landscape contractor Jenn Nawada.
In its most basic form, a pergola consists of posts topped by beams and rafters, with room-sized proportions and a ceiling height of 8 to 12 feet. Set on a deck or patio and connected to the house, it can define a convenient area for alfresco dining or shield an outdoor kitchen from the elements. Anchored in the yard, it can frame a fire-pit seating area, shelter poolside lounge chairs, create a garden destination, or serve as a passageway from one garden room to another.
Whether it's a DIY project or a custom installation, there's a wide variety of materials, styles, and extras to choose from. Here's how to plan a pergola project.
MATERIAL CONSIDERATIONS
A pergola will integrate seamlessly into your home if it echoes the architecture of your house. Just pick the look and level of maintenance that's right for you
WOOD
This story is from the Summer 2022 edition of This Old House Magazine.
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This story is from the Summer 2022 edition of This Old House Magazine.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
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