15 pergola ideas to shelter your garden in style | B&Q (2024)

By Ellie Reeves | 26th February 2024 | 7 min read

Does your garden feel a little... incomplete? A pergola might be the missing piece you never knew you needed! They provide more than just shelter, pergolas add style and dimension to your outdoor space. Think of it as an open-air canvas, ready to be decorated with twinkling lights, cascading greenery, and pretty lanterns. From simple to spectacular, pergolas can liven up any garden!

What is a garden pergola?

A pergola is a structure made up of vertical posts or pillars that support a roof of crossbeams and an open lattice. The beamed roof is typically left open, to allow air to flow through. Garden pergolas provide a shaded area for outdoor dining or relaxation. They’re typically made from wood or metal, but can also be made from other materials, such as vinyl or fibreglass. Building a pergola yourself is easier than you might think, read our guide, and learn how to build a pergola. Or why not browse our extensive range of pre-built pergolas?

Pergola designs to transform your space

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1. Adorn with outdoor lights and hanging plants

The open roof design of a pergola lends itself perfectly to decoration with twinkling string lights and lush greenery. Suspend plants from your pergola using macrame plant hangers for a unique touch. Place potted plants in the corners to create balance. This dark wooden pergola stands out beautifully against the black external walls of this garden structure. The matching outdoor table and chairs bring the whole look together. Beckoning you to sit, be still, and relax in nature.

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2. Add bean bags for a cosy spot

Create the ultimate space for chilling in your garden. Scatter outdoor bean bagsaround a low coffee table. Now you’ve got the ideal spot for sitting and chatting with friends and family. Ideal for when you’re hosting big family gatherings or BBQ parties. You could even set up an outdoor screen and projector to create a makeshift garden cinema – perfect for an alfresco movie night with friends!

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3. Frame your outdoor kitchen

A pergola is a fantastic way of defining specific areas within your outdoor space. In this garden, a corner pergola has been used to enclose and accentuate an outdoor kitchen. Creating a designated and stylish space for cooking up a feast surrounded by the natural beauty of the garden.

4. Add a retractable canopy for shelter when you need it

Don’t let the not-so-great British weather scupper your garden dinner party plans. Add a retractable canopy to your pergola and entertain guests all day long - no matter the weather. A sudden rain shower won't dampen your spirits, and it certainly won't stop you from enjoying your garden!

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5. Create a tranquil corner retreat

Design a spot for quiet contemplation surrounded by nature. This thoughtfully designed corner pergola has a built-in bench, providing a secluded space to unwind and relax. Decorate with outdoor cushions and blankets for extra comfort, creating an inviting nook for relaxation. The trellis panels add another layer of charm, adorn with climbing plants and fairy lights to complete the look.

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6. Add visual interest to your garden pathway

A garden pergola isn’t necessarily just for framing a seating area or for creating a spot for relaxation. Why not install a pergola over your garden pathway? Not only will it add visual appeal to your garden, but it will also create a charming and inviting walkway. Install a pergola besides flower beds and allow gorgeous climbing plants like Honeysuckle or Wisteria to grow upwards and entwine around the pergola posts.

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7. Cultivate a vertical garden brimming with greenery

If your garden is small and primarily made up of decking or paving slabs – a great way to introduce greenery is with a vertical garden. The horizontal slats on this pergola offer the perfect framework for cultivating a vertical garden brimming with trailing foliage and hanging plants. This not only introduces a refreshing burst of nature into your garden, but also maximises the use of vertical space, transforming an otherwise limited garden into a luscious oasis.

8. Embrace curves with a carousel pergola

Most garden pergolas adhere to the traditional square, rectangular or arch design. For a unique look in your garden, choose a carousel pergola to create a captivating focal point. The gentle curve of the wooden beams adds an element of visual intrigue, fostering a sense of fluidity within the garden. A carousel pergola is the ideal space for relaxation, entertainment, or simply admiring the surroundings.

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9. Frame your outdoor living room

Transform the area just outside your back door into an extension of your indoor living space by installing a pergola. This creates a natural transition from the indoors to the outdoors. Add a stylish outdoor coffee set with a comfortable sofa and armchairs to curate your very own outdoor living room. Ideal for unwinding on a balmy summer evening after a busy day.

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10. Install a pergola on a raised patio

Elevate the charm of your outdoor space by installing a pergola on your raised patio. This provides an inviting spot for al fresco meals or relaxed gatherings. Alternatively, you could transform the space into a stage for your children's imaginative garden performances. By building a pergola on a raised patio, you not only enhance the functionality of the area, you also create an enchanting focal point in your garden.

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11. Attach a pergola to your summer house

Design a tranquil and inviting outdoor sanctuary by attaching a pergola to your summer house or garage, providing a serene setting to savour your morning coffee. This addition extends the functionality of your existing structure and creates a charming space for relaxation. Decorate the area with vibrant bedding plants in containers and hanging baskets, infusing the space with bursts of colour and natural beauty. This thoughtfully curated area offers a wonderful retreat to start your day.

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12. Match your garden furniture with your pergola

Create a harmonious aesthetic in your garden by building your own furniture using the same wood as your pergola. By doing so, you can achieve a cohesive look. Whether it's crafting a dining set, lounge chairs, or coffee table, using the same wood as the pergola for your furniture establishes a sense of continuity throughout your outdoor space.

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13. Create a rustic pergola with logs

For a truly unique look in your garden, craft a charming and rustic pergola using natural logs. By using logs as the primary material, you can create a sense of natural beauty and earthy appeal, blending the pergola with its surrounding environment. This style of pergola is perfect for complementing rustic or cottage-style gardens.

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14. Freestanding pergola with built-in benches and table

Transform your outdoor space into a tranquil oasis with a freestanding corner pergola with built-in benches and a table. This idyllic retreat is the perfect place to unwind and seek respite from the sun's rays. Providing a shaded sanctuary, this corner pergola design allows you to bask in the coolness of the shade while enjoying the beauty of the outdoors. Decorate with vibrant outdoor cushions, adding a pop of colour and an extra layer of cosiness to the inviting nook.

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15. Paint your pergola white

Brighten your garden by painting your pergola in a crisp shade of white. This modern pergola provides a versatile backdrop for showcasing lush greenery and colourful blooms. A white pergola reflects natural light, creating an inviting ambience. Whether hosting garden parties or seeking moments of solitude, a white pergola sets the stage for relaxation and enjoyment.

There you have it, our pick of the best pergola ideas for your garden. Liven up your outdoors with our range of pergolas or learn how to build your own pergola.

15 pergola ideas to shelter your garden in style | B&Q (2024)

FAQs

15 pergola ideas to shelter your garden in style | B&Q? ›

In most cases, you want to orient your pergola to target the mid-to-late day sun, as this is when you're most likely to need shade. A contemporary aluminium pergola is a great option for houses with bifold doors, reducing light and glare into the home as well as temperature during the hotter summer months.

Where should a pergola be placed in a garden? ›

In most cases, you want to orient your pergola to target the mid-to-late day sun, as this is when you're most likely to need shade. A contemporary aluminium pergola is a great option for houses with bifold doors, reducing light and glare into the home as well as temperature during the hotter summer months.

What kind of pergola lasts the longest? ›

Aluminum pergolas boast a structural lifespan of 20+ years due to their resistance to rust and decay, requiring minimal upkeep for lasting appeal.

What is the best maintenance free pergola? ›

In many ways, vinyl is the best pergola material as it will last a lifetime with only minimal maintenance on your part. However, all of these advantages come at a price — vinyl pergolas are the most expensive choice on the market. Learn more about vinyl vs.

What is the difference between a pergola and a pergola? ›

Both are designed to provide additional shade for outdoor spaces and both can be used to create wonderful focal points in the garden. The key difference between a pergola and a pergoda is that the latter has a solid roof made of slats.

Does it matter which way a pergola faces? ›

Freestanding pergolas can face any direction, while attached pergolas need to face the house to create a cohesive look. Pergola kits come in different types, and their orientation will depend on the materials and construction of the structure.

Do I need permission for a pergola? ›

Because pergolas are secured to an existing surface, rather than being installed directly into the ground, they can be moved or disassembled easily, which means they typically don't require planning consent.

What is better than a pergola? ›

Gazebos are more robust constructions than pergolas. Pergolas tend to be less expensive and easier to build. Both pergolas and gazebos add shade and flair to your yard. Both structures can increase your home's value.

What are the cons of a pergola? ›

CON: Pergolas provide little protection from weather.

Because a pergola is typically open along the sides and across the top (depending on the design chosen and where it's positioned in the yard), it won't keep out much sunlight, rain, wind, or other elements.

Is it cheaper to build a pergola or buy one? ›

Is it cheaper to build or buy a pergola? It's cheaper to buy a DIY pergola kit. These kits cost between $1,000 and $2,500 on average, and you won't have to pay for labor.

What is the best foundation for a pergola? ›

A pergola should almost always be attached directly to a concrete pad or concrete footings. With a Luxury Pergola, concrete piers are typically recommended, especially if you don't have a concrete slab already.

What is the point of a pergola without roof? ›

What is the point of a pergola without a roof? A pergola without a roof helps define a space and create a focal point in your garden, without creating a fully enclosed area. It's perfect if you're looking for a space to relax while maintaining an open-air feel.

Are pergolas rain proof? ›

While an open pergola may not be watertight, there are certainly design choices you can make to maximise weather protection and water resistance for year-round use. Read on to learn how to make your pergola as rain-ready as possible for our temperamental climate.

What is a pergola with a roof called? ›

Pergolas with a cover are often referred to as pavilions. Although they are quite similar in design, a pavilion is a freestanding pergola with a fixed, stationary cover that generally completely covers the pergola.

Should I put a roof on my pergola? ›

5 Benefits of Putting a Roof on Your Pergola
  1. You will be protected from the elements.
  2. It reduces the amount of upkeep needed.
  3. It can add dimension to an otherwise empty backyard.
  4. A roof on your pergola can raise the resale value of your home.
  5. It gives you some extra privacy in your outdoor space.

Why is pergola so expensive? ›

Materials: The choice of materials can greatly impact the overall cost of the pergola. Common materials used for pergolas include pressure-treated wood, entry-level aluminum, cedar, and higher-quality aluminum. Each material has its own cost, with premium materials generally being more expensive.

What direction do you build a pergola? ›

August 31, 2021 / Comments Off. For optimal morning and afternoon shade coverage, it's best to ensure a traditional pergola's beams orient north and south, with an angle toward the east. The easiest way to do this is by first identifying true north.

How high should a garden pergola be? ›

Factors To Consider When Selecting The Right Pergola Height
8′ – Minimum heightRecommended for small structures, preferably attached to the house. A lower ceiling feels right-sized for intimate gatherings.
10′ – Standard heightSuits most situations and allows ceiling fans or lighting accessories (for tall people).
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Can I put a pergola next to my fence? ›

The answer is yes, you can build a pergola near a fence.

However, there are several reasons for keeping pergolas away from fence lines. For one, the proximity to the fence can detract from the pergola's aesthetic appeal, making it feel like an afterthought rather than a focal point in your backyard.

Does a pergola need to be secured to the ground? ›

Making sure the posts don't move over time will give you peace of mind that your investment will stand the test of time. Even though a pergola is heavy and difficult to move once assembled, it has to be anchored securely to the ground for a number of reasons. Primary among them is safety.

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