Pergola ideas: 16 stunning garden structures for added style and shade
15. Buy off-the-shelf for an easy update
For ready-made shade, there are plenty of off-the-shelf offerings like this one, so you can add instant impact to your garden scheme without the fuss of installing a bespoke version or building your own.
We like the sleek style of this one, plus it comes with an adjustable canopy so you can stay in control of how much sun you get.
1. Cover an entertaining space with a super-sized pergola
If you love to host family and friends and have a large patio space to do so, then pergola ideas can provide the perfect finishing touch.
An elegant structure like this defines the zone, and although it's definitely generous in size, the light-toned wood and airy height keep it from feeling imposing. Hanging baskets full of ferns soften the look further, providing some welcome green up high. Pergolas are also handy for suspending a pendant light or two above your outdoor dining table, to keep the scene gently illuminated once night falls.
A sleek grill, like the one in this setup, is a great additional feature for alfresco entertaining.
2. Support a trendy hanging chair
This seating setup is brought together beautifully by the slimline pergola. Painted in a black hue, it makes a striking focal point whilst complementing the on-trend tiles and pared-back fence panels nearby. It also acts as a sturdy support for this season's must-have seating solution – a hanging egg chair.
Statement furniture and bold color palettes are always a good choice for modern gardens, and this example is a case in point.
3. Make an enchanting walkway with climbing plants
Pergolas can make beautiful additions to garden paths, especially when they're covered in clambering climbers.
Recreate the look with the likes of wisteria, roses, or scented clematis. Wandering beneath the canopy of fragranced flowers and lush leaves is sure to bring a sense of joy.
4. Paint your pergola a pretty hue
Make a pergola work for your scheme by transforming it with paint. A pastel color lightens the space and makes a garden feel summery. Combined with sleek paving and chic furniture, the result will feel contemporary and fun. But if you prefer a softer scene, add some cottage garden ideas into the mix.
Prefer a maximalist look? Try a bright pop of color in primary hues for instant impact.
5. Use to divide your garden zones
Just like garden arbors, pergolas can be used to arch over an area of your plot to make it a focal point.
Here, the space between the lawn and the patio is framed by the wooden structure. This draws the eye upwards for added visual interest, whilst creating the sense of distinct garden 'rooms'.
The two borders positioned either side enhance the divide further. Plus, the choice of evergreen shrubs will provide plenty of greenery all year-round.
6. Pick a bold color scheme
A black, charcoal or deep gray adds a dramatic accent to any outdoor space, and is perfect if you're after an industrial edge.
If you opt for this approach, pairing it with neutral accessories is a reliable way to achieve a subtle yet sophisticated vibe. But, if you're after something a touch more playful, try combining the inky tone with a bold yellow hue. We love the use of cozy patterned textiles in a sunshine-like color in this scene – they contrast against the black beautifully. Festoon lights and hanging baskets are a gorgeous way to complete the look.
7. Try topping your fences with a mini pergola
Want to try something a bit different for your pergola ideas? Try adding a miniature version to your fence. It will add height, structural definition, and a boost of shade to its immediate surroundings.
Combined with a trellis, it's also the perfect support for climbing plants, which will soften the look and create a green and leafy screen as they grow. It's definitely one to consider if you're thinking about updating your garden fence.
8. Combine a natural roof with decorative lights
Take a style cue from this setup and grow climbing plants up and over your pergola. It'll provide a natural ceiling that offers protection from sun and showers – perfect for outdoor seating.
To avoid the space feeling too enclosed, train the plants up one side of the pergola and over the top, leaving the other three sides free. Then finish the scene with hanging paper lanterns and strings of festoons for a cozy glow.
9. Curate a brightly-colored space
One of the best uses for a pergola is to create a zoned area, defining key parts of the garden for their various uses – one of which, of course, is relaxation.
Try using your pergola ideas to frame an outdoor living area complete with coffee table and outdoor lanterns. This design uses a pergola along with angular decking to define the lounge space and make it feel like a room of its own.
Opting for bold colors will give the space a summery, laid-back vibe.
10. Create a stylish outdoor dining area
Love the idea of dining alfresco, but not so keen on your food being completely open to the elements? Use a pergola to protect food – and guests – from rain, wind and birds.
With the addition of some string lights and a candle or two, your new dining space will feel cozy and intimate – perfect for an elegant dinner party with friends.
11. Combine home office and covered pergola in one sleek design
Tempted to introduce garden office ideas into your scheme after months of home working? You could integrate a pergola into your design for a covered patio – what better place to take those regular coffee breaks and get some fresh air?
We like this sleek design, which turns the covered space into a room of its own complete with lighting, sofa and even a coffee table.
12. Seize the opportunity to add a dramatic lighting scheme
If you're looking to highlight your zoned outdoor 'room' with lighting, your choice isn't limited to string lights or a smattering of lanterns – consider hanging pendant lights from the top of your pergola for a dramatic look.
This scene is reminiscent of a balmy evening meal at a restaurant table along the seafront.
13. Mix warm tones together
To transport your patio space to sunnier climes, consider painting a statement wall in a terracotta hue. A wooden slatted pergola will complement the tone, and will also provide a structure for hanging pendants, as demonstrated here.
Use soft textiles in warm colors to extend the theme, whilst an array of potted plants will add texture. Opting for pale hued patio paving beneath will keep things feeling well-balanced and prevent the richer colors from overwhelming the space.
14. Enjoy the luxury of an outdoor spa in your garden
Always dreamed of bringing hot tub ideas into your garden? Whether you're all about giggly, music-filled garden parties with your friends or a glass of bubbly with your significant other, a combination of pergola and hot tub, like this shaded sanctuary, is a luxurious addition to a space.
You might never need a spa day again...
16. Get automated with a smart pergola
For those with a big budget, try statement pergola ideas like this. A major step up from your average pergola, this structure features a remote-controlled roof system which can be rotated to protect from sun or increase ventilation whenever you need it.
It's super handy for those summer days that involve sun and rain in equal amounts – beat the unpredictability with this smart design.
These pergola ideas are perfect for sheltering your patio and embracing outdoor living this season.