Outdoor Living Space Ideas

Pergola Designs for Shade

There are few moments more relaxing than sitting on your outdoor patio on a warm summer day sharing stories with your loved ones. The grass is green, the flowers are in bloom, and life is beautiful. Backyard covered pergolas offering some relief from the sun are the perfect complement to these happy afternoons. Pergolas are how we sit outside comfortably in the height of the sun's busy day. So what are the best pergola shade designs to keep the sun from burning up the nicest moments of summer? Best Pergola Shade Solutions A lot of consideration goes into adding a pergola to your patio or yard. As the main focus of your overall landscape design, both the look and function of your pergola will alter the way you feel about your yard...

Illuminate Your Pergola: 6 Ways to Incorporate Lighting into Your Outdoor Space

The sky’s the limit when it comes to outdoor pergola lighting. Small, medium, or large pergolas could all benefit from some type of lighting. One of the easiest ways to add an extra touch of style to your pergola is with pergola lighting. Whether you opt for adding lights on pergola posts and rafters, installing a pergola chandelier, or enlisting a contractor to add perimeter lights, you’ll certainly enhance the ambiance of your outdoor space! A great place to begin is defining how much time and effort you’d like to put into your pergola lights. Are you looking for an easy DIY lighting solution or are you considering more elaborate pergola lighting ideas? DIY Pergola Lighting Whether it’s the holiday season or outdoor picnic weather, there are plenty of ways to light...

Patio Design Ideas for Fall Patio Season

Looking for inspiration to create the patio you’ve been dreaming of to enjoy throughout the fall and winter? If you want to create an outdoor space to enjoy more time outdoors during those cool evenings around the corner, there’s a range of ideas you can choose from. Maybe you already have some components in place and are in the home stretch, or perhaps you’re at square one. Either way, check out these fall patio ideas for go-to guidance and pull together a gorgeous and relaxing fall retreat! Fall Patio Design Ideas When planning out your patio ideas for fall, first consider your location and climate. Since autumn in Ohio looks much different than fall in Florida, your fall patio design could look very different! A fireplace feature or hot tub near your...

Poolside Pergola Ideas to Beautify Your Pool Deck & Backyard

When you think of a backyard swimming pool pergola, what comes to mind for the perfect design? The most common answer is shade, classic design, and a structure that blends with natural surroundings. Maybe you're looking for a pavilion style patio cover that provides ultimate shade? A roof that lets a breeze float through but shield you from the UV rays? Either one will work for many types of backyard designs. Two important factors to consider when deciding amount of coverage, is what you’ll be using it for and how much space you have on your pool deck. Wood pergola kits are a way to achieve your objective so you're ready for outdoor gatherings quickly. Compare them with other options and choose the best fit for your space and...

Nine Site Preparation Tips for a Successful Pergola Installation

A pergola adds beauty and a sense of intimacy to any outdoor space. But there are crucial steps you need to take before your pergola installation to ensure the success of your project. This article will provide site preparation advice, yard prep suggestions and other tips to help you get ready for your pergola installation. As you learn how to properly install your pergola, you'll want to follow these steps: Select Your Material Check Local Building Requirements Review HOA Regulations Choose Your Pergola Installation Site With Care Investigate Impediments Look Out for Landscaping Inspect Site Lines Call 811 Consider Hiring a Pergola Installation Professional   Why Build an Outdoor Structure? People choose to build an outdoor structure like a custom-built pergola for many reasons. Wood pergola designs can: Offer shade Extend a home's livable space Create an outdoor living area Add a focal point to...

How to Winterize a Pergola

It's no secret that the general purpose of a pergola is to provide a comfortable oasis that is exclusive to you and your guests. When the weather is sunny and warm, these structures are excellent for relaxing with a good book and nice glass of wine, and for hosting football watch parties or barbecues with the family. But can you use a pergola in winter? And how do you winterize a pergola? As soon as the temperatures begin to drop and you receive the winter season's first snowfall, you may be tempted to retire the pergola until spring. While this is understandable, don't miss out on making lasting memories year-round — learn how to winterize a pergola from the pros at Pergola Depot!   Benefits of Using a Winter Pergola We get it...

Pergola vs. Gazebo: What’s the Difference?

A beautiful outdoor space that can provide a space for outdoor dining and relaxation in the shade is one of the best additions you can bring to any home. Outdoor structures such as arbors, pergolas and gazebos can all elevate a backyard and make it feel like your own personal and private escape. But what is the difference between a gazebo and a pergola? Which is best for your outdoor space? Deciding between the three patio structure styles? Comparing an arbor vs. pergola vs. gazebo can help you decide. If you're updating your backyard space and think that you'd like to add one of these structures, you might be wondering what exactly is the difference between a pergola and a gazebo and where an arbor fits into all of it. While...

How to Boost Your Curb Appeal

When it comes to enhancing your home's curb appeal, most people immediately think of fresh paint, tidy landscaping, and clean paver walkways. While these are all effective, there’s one feature that can completely elevate your property’s aesthetic and leave a lasting impression — a pergola. Whether you’re preparing your home for sale or simply want to create an outdoor oasis that stands out in the neighborhood, a pergola is a fantastic investment. Why Curb Appeal Matters Curb appeal isn’t just for homeowners looking to sell. It represents the character and personality of your home, making it memorable for visitors, neighbors, and potential buyers alike. A home with visually appealing outdoor features doesn’t just look great; it also feels inviting. Investing in thoughtful, standout elements like a pergola instantly boosts your home’s...

Outdoor Pergola Kitchen Ideas

Attention foodies that love fresh air! Quality bonding with friends and family is oftentimes centered around food. Something that makes those experiences even better is cooking outside. Have you decided that it’s time to create that outdoor kitchen pergola you’ve been designing in your mind? One way to begin making your outdoor kitchen dream a reality is to make a checklist. This article provides direction with FAQ and outdoor pergola kitchen ideas to help you get started. Questions to consider as you begin your outdoor kitchen pergola project: 1. Cozy corners or a grand design? What are some of the top features of an outdoor kitchen? Do you envision a large dining table for friends and family to gather for special times? Or do you prefer a cozy intimate setting with...

How to Build a Pergola on a Deck

Are you looking to upgrade your backyard sanctuary with an attractive pergola as the centerpiece of your brand new deck? Pergolas provide shade and respite from the sun, but they also add visual appeal to both large and small decks—not to mention a touch of sophistication! If you're scoping out how to build a pergola on a deck in your backyard design, follow along here for helpful tips and start with these 6 easy steps: Measure the deck space for the pergola. Consider how much space you’d like between the posts, space around the outside, and the height of the pergola.  Choose a pergola style and amount of shade coverage. Decisions include how much desired shade and overall coverage. Gather the installation tools and pergola materials. More materials and tools will be required...