A cosy pergola decorated with sheer curtains and fairy lights.

One of the best ways to turn any outdoor space into a relaxing oasis is to add a pergola. These stylish structures add architectural interest, provide shade, and extend the living space from indoors to outdoors. They can even add more value to your home and make it easier to sell in the future.

However, pergola design isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. There are many different directions you can take. The following considerations can help you get the most out of your pergola and ensure that you pick the right pergola for your outdoor space.

Type of Pergola and Location

There are three different types of pergolas you can opt for, i.e., self-supporting pergolas, hanging pergolas, and wall-mounted pergolas. While a self-supporting pergola is its own unit, hanging pergolas are attached to a wall with no supporting pillars. Wall-mounted pergolas are similar and are connected to another structure but have their own columns or posts for support.

While larger gardens can opt for self-supporting pergolas, wall-mounted or hanging pergolas may be more appropriate for smaller spaces and owners who want to use their pergolas for multi-user situations.

Size

The size of your pergola depends on the size of your outdoor space. If you’re having one built instead of buying one, always make sure to double and triple-check measurements before you commit to a size.

To keep things cohesive, you may want to opt for a pergola that’s a similar size to other structures, like a pool. If you choose to build a wall-mounted pergola, it’s best to ensure that the pergola isn’t so large that it makes your home look small in comparison.

Material

There are various materials you can use when planning pergola design, including wood, metal, vinyl, stone, glass, and composite. The material you choose depends on both your style and the setting of the pergola. If you’re going for a classic pergola, you may want to opt for natural materials like wood and stone.

However, if you have a fountain or pool nearby, you may want to opt for metal or composite and use coatings to mimic the look of natural materials. Metal pergolas are popular choices since they are more resistant to harsh weather conditions and can withstand heat and rain. Vinyl pergolas may not be to everyone’s taste, but they blend in with other décor and are convenient because they’re maintenance-free.

Shade

The amount of shade provided depends on various factors, including the size of the slats, the spacing between them, the placement of the pergola itself, and whether or not you choose to add flowers and vines to the roof.

If you want more shade and want a sun-free spot in your garden, pay attention to the rafters and slats and ensure that they’re closer together. If you wish, you can even add a canopy to the pergola or cover the roof with vines and flowers to provide more shade.

Keep these factors in mind when choosing between pergolas so that you end up picking one that fits your needs perfectly.