Popular Styles of Narrow Pergolas
A well-designed narrow pergola has the power to dramatically change a small outdoor area. Instead of viewing a slender yard as a limitation, see it as an opportunity to craft a unique space that serves as an outdoor extension of your home. Whether you’re aiming for a cozy nook to read in the afternoon sun, a stylish entertaining zone, or just a beautiful walkway, long narrow pergola ideas can truly be a game changer. Transforming a narrow outdoor space into a serene oasis might seem daunting, but with the right design, it can be a rewarding project. A stunning narrow pergola not only enhances the aesthetics of your garden but also creates a cozy retreat for relaxation and entertaining you can enjoy throughout the seasons.
Explore Popular Narrow Garden Pergola Styles
Your narrow pergola can take on many personalities depending on styling choices. From rustic to contemporary, the designs are varied and plentiful!
If you prefer clean lines, neutral colors, and simple quality hardware, your pergola will fit seamlessly into any modern landscape. If rustic cottage if more your style, rough sawn cedar pergolas combine an aseptically pleasing structure with outdoor elegance. Regardless of your design style, premade or prefab pergola kits often include designs that cover a wide range of design features.
Browse Narrow Pergola Kits
The Big Kahuna
Classic and Elegant Design
- Maximum Sun Coverage Pergola
- Base Price Range: $$$$
- Available Sizes: 90 standard + custom sizes
The Sombrero
Sophisticated Structure for Partial Shade
- Medium Sun Coverage
- Base Price Range: $$$
- Available Sizes: 90 standard + custom sizes
The Melbourne
Traditional Pergola Style for Modern Designs
- Light Sun Coverage
- Base Price Range: $$
- Available Sizes: 90 standard + custom sizes
The Fedora
Light Sun Coverage, Dramatic Impression
- Light Sun Coverage
- Base Price Range: $$$
- Available Sizes: 90 standard + custom sizes
The Brim
The Charming Backyard Accent
- Border Pergola
- Base Price Range: $$
- Available Sizes: 90 standard + custom sizes
The Visor
A Charming Backyard Accent
- Accent Pergola
- Base Price Range: $
- Available Sizes: 90 standard + custom sizes
Big Kahuna PLUS
Pergola Kit with Metal Roof
- Covered Pergola Kit
- Base Price Range: $$$$
- Available Sizes: 90 standard + custom sizes
Essential Design Principles for Narrow Pergolas
Before you start sketching your patio plans or buying a pergola kit, it’s important to follow a few design principles. First you’ll decide whether to add a freestanding pergola or an attached pergola. For either choice, the goal is to ensure your narrow pergola attached to house (or freestanding model) feels inviting rather than cramped.
Prioritize Proportions
A successful design compliments the scale of your space. Keep your pergola’s width minimal to fit snugly, but allow enough height and openness to prevent it from feeling confining or forced. Review pergola measurements before you decide on the pergola style and shade coverage.
Focus on Flow
Good design makes walking through the outdoor space feel natural. Position any pathways and furniture to create unobstructed routes. If your pergola runs alongside a home, allow the space between the posts for easy passage.
Layer Shade and Privacy
Consider orientation to maximize comfort from the afternoon sun. Placement on a southern or western exposure offers ample shade in summer or year round in warmer climates. Trellised sides or climbing vines can offer added privacy if you’re close to neighbors, or a shade panel you can find at your local hardware store.
Use Vertical Elements
Vines, hanging planters, and wall-mounted sconces draw the eye upward and expand the space visually. Even a single vertical accent like a tall trellis increases the perception of spaciousness.
Landscaping Enhancements for Your Narrow Pergola
You don’t need a vast garden or backyard to make a big statement. Focus on a pergola that enhances your existing space, and gives you flexibility to be creative. Border pergolas offer a cost effective alternative to larger patio pergolas by creating a focal point in your garden or on your patio.
Vertical Greenery
Add climbing plants like jasmine, clematis, or wisteria for year-round beauty to your narrow pergola. Planters or built-in beds at pergola bases are a good option to keep roots contained.
Layered Planting
Mix tall accent plants with soft ground covers around the base of your pergola structure to create depth. Avoid overcrowding of plants, which can make the space feel smaller.
Edible Additions
Herb planters, strawberries, or compact fruit or nut trees can bring beauty and utility to your pergola in any space whether is big or small.
Bring Your Narrow Pergola Vision to Life
Designing a narrow pergola doesn’t just maximize your space – it reshapes how you live at home. Thoughtful choices in style, materials, lighting, and decor turn the smallest strip of yard into a destination for relaxation and connection.
If you’re eager to create a jaw-dropping outdoor retreat, you don’t have to do it alone. Contact us for a consultation and personalized design that brings your narrow pergola dreams to life.