December 17, 2014

10 Stunning Pergola Design Ideas for Your Outdoor Space

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Looking to transform your garden or patio? A pergola is one of the most stylish and versatile additions you can make to your outdoor space. Whether you’re creating a cozy backyard escape, a shaded dining area, or an eye-catching walkway, there’s a pergola design for every space and style.

Here are 10 creative pergola ideas to inspire your next outdoor project — from rooftop retreats to poolside lounges.


🌿 1. Attached Pergolas

Attached pergolas connect directly to your home, extending your living space into the outdoors. Mount one outside your French doors or patio entrance to create a seamless indoor-outdoor flow, complete with natural ventilation and filtered sunlight.

Check out our attached cedar pergola kits for easy-to-install options.


🪴 2. Two-Tier Pergolas

A two-tier design adds height and elegance to your pergola. Layering the roof structure creates visual interest while allowing airflow and room for hanging plants or climbing vines. It’s a great way to make your garden structure feel grand and luxurious.


🌙 3. Curved Pergolas

Curved pergolas offer a softer, more intimate look than traditional straight-beam styles. Popular with basket-weave or deep-V lattice tops, these designs are ideal for gardens or patios where you want to balance openness with cozy seating areas.


🧱 4. Disconnected Pergolas

For expansive backyards, try placing disconnected pergolas along stone or gravel pathways. This creates charming outdoor zones — perfect for dining, lounging, or enjoying your garden in sections.


🪟 5. Over-the-Door or Window Pergolas

Small pergolas installed above windows or doors add architectural charm and provide space for flowering vines. Extend one over a large window and pair it with a bench or bistro set to create a cozy garden nook.


🛋 6. Extra-Large Pergolas

Have a large backyard? Consider an oversized pergola that functions as a full outdoor living room. Add a fire pit, furniture, string lights, and even an outdoor kitchen for a four-season gathering space.


🏊 7. Poolside Pergolas

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A pergola near the pool offers shade and luxury. Combine a pergola with a pool house design by incorporating tiled floors, outdoor showers, lounge seating, and storage. Cedar is ideal for humid environments and looks stunning beside water features.

Browse gazebos and pergola combos that elevate your pool area.


🏡 8. Pergola Walkways & Entryways

A pergola-covered path from your gate to your front door offers charm, shade, and structure. It’s a smart way to use lawn space when the backyard is limited — and creates a memorable first impression for guests.


🌇 9. Rooftop Garden Pergolas

No backyard? No problem. Lightweight pergolas can be installed on your rooftop or terrace. While aluminum and steel are common, eco-friendly options like bamboo or raffia are also available for a softer, more natural vibe.


🖤 10. Contemporary Pergolas

Modern pergolas go beyond wood beams. Popular contemporary pergola kits feature aluminum frames, vinyl-mesh panels, and retractable canopies. They’re low-maintenance, stylish, and come in a variety of sizes and finishes to suit your home.


Bring Your Vision to Life

Whether you’re drawn to classic cedar craftsmanship or sleek modern styles, pergolas offer the flexibility to match any outdoor aesthetic. At Outdoor Living Today, we offer a wide variety of Western Red Cedar Pergola Kits that are pre-cut, pre-drilled, and ready to assemble.

Explore more ideas in our Decorating Ideas hub or get support with setup via our Assembly Manuals.

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