If you’re wondering where to place a pergola, explore these pergola placement ideas and suggestions below to find a spot that suits your lifestyle.
Pergola Design
As you explore pergola design ideas, remember that pergolas are built in both small and large sizes. Made from a variety of materials such as wood, vinyl, or aluminum–these outdoor structures provide privacy, shade, and partial access to sunlight. You can choose the style, size, and material that best suit your house by considering its surrounding landscape and architecture.
The layout of a pergola varies depending on where you place it. For instance, you can attach it to your house or leave it freestanding. There are usually two, three, or four vertical posts that support the horizontal beams and rafters. Free-standing pergolas are held up by four vertical posts; pergola attachments to the house have two or three. Your desired amount of shade will vary depending on how many rafters are on top.
Ideas for Pergola Placement
Pergola placement can make or break an outdoor space. These magnificent outdoor structures are initially meant to visually provide structure to areas outside your home. When you see one, you immediately recognize that there’s a point to it. It’s often a spot to sit, dine, and relax. They can be uniquely decorated over time with hanging vines or plants and string lights. Use the following pergola placement ideas to visualize options that flow with your home.
Depending on where it’s placed, it will add an element of beauty and grace. It should flow naturally with what is already there. Placement is key to creating a focal point that will be admired over time. It’s helpful to visualize your pergola’s placement with our suggestions below.
Over a Patio or Deck
Carefully consider the size of your patio or deck to decide how best to fit a pergola into the space (e.g., smaller patios or decks than larger ones). For many homeowners, a pergola over patio spaces offers shade and structure without major renovations.
Pros
- Clearly defines patio & deck areas
- Creates visual appeal
- Welcomes bits of shade to gathering spaces
Cons
- Limits open-sky views
- Takes away some walkway space
Beside a Pool
Enjoy the benefits of both sun and shade by placing a pergola beside the pool!
Pros
- Stylish retreat for lounging
- Doubles as dry-off & cool-down station
- Limited sun exposure when desired
Cons
- The possibility of moisture damage from water splashes
- Potentially limits traffic flow around the pool area
Near an Outdoor Kitchen
Position the pergola correctly so you, your family, and your friends can move naturally between cooking, dining, and lounging spots.
Pros
- Provides partial shade for seating, serving, & prep work
- Finishes the overall look of the outdoor living area
- Partially protects furniture & appliances overhead from natural elements
Cons
- Appliance & furniture layout, in addition to pergola placement, potentially crowds the space
- Possible interference with appliance ventilation
Attached to the House
This is a visual investment for your house. Attaching a pergola to it creates an extension that can complement its architecture and add value for a future sale.
Pros
- Helps with the spatial transition from indoor living to outdoor living
- Adds curb appeal
- Provides proximity to the home
Cons
- Careful considerations for existing structure, siding, & roofline
- Longer planning period to cover all desired outcomes
Beside a Garden
Having a pergola beside the garden is a charming way to both experience the fruits of your labor and rest from them.
Pros
- Gives you a spot to relax when taking a break from gardening
- Adds opportunity to be creative by draping extra greenery & florals overtop
- Authentically provides character to the lush atmosphere
Cons
- Requires regular upkeep to prevent unwanted overgrowth around the area
- Takes away from the traditional gardening space
In the Yard
Whether you have a front yard or back yard, placing a freestanding pergola in either area makes an excellent focal point and designates a spot for gathering.
Pros
- Create a sense of privacy to enjoy company or alone time
- Partially shaded seating for cooler relaxation
- Provides a cozier experience outside in the daytime or evenings
Cons
- Preparing the ground for installation
- Longer planning period to ensure everything is set up correctly
Reach Out
From customization to placement to restoration, we care about your pergola just as much as you do. Reach out to a member of our team at Buckeye Elite Decks & Fence to discuss how best to incorporate it into your outdoor living spaces.
Be intentional with the spaces you create outside the home because “the secret of making the best person…is to grow in the open air and to eat and sleep with the earth.” –Ralph Waldo Emerson
Enjoy Where It’s At
Finally, once you’ve placed it in just the right spot, enjoy your pergola! It’s meant to be something you’ll appreciate in the long run. It doesn’t have to be perfect, but it’ll look and feel that way while spending time underneath it!
Our Company’s Pergola Promise
A pergola can make your yard more comfortable, useful, and inviting. At Buckeye Elite Decks & Fence, we offer custom and pre-built pergolas for homeowners across northeast and central Ohio.
Whether you want shade, a place to relax, or a better space for hosting, we’ll help you find the right fit for your home. Contact us today to start planning your pergola project.