As summer approaches and COVID-safe gatherings return, there’s no wonder why we’re all looking forward to entertaining outside in our yards again. And what better way to embrace the role of host with a flawless pergola and setup that turns heads?
If you’re yet to invest in a deck or pergola of your own, finding the perfect design for your property doesn’t have to be a huge challenge; it can actually be half the fun of setting your home up for good times when summer rolls around. Adding an easy, beautiful splash of colour and ‘wow factor’ to your outdoor space, you can turn your yard into a truly remarkable nook that offers the perfect balance of peace and tranquillity.
Get inspired with these pergola designs
Shades with style
In the depths of summer, shade is a necessity – especially with Australia’s notoriously harsh rays. You can add shade with style by adding white-slatted walls or lattice as a blocker from the afternoon sun while still allowing the breeze to pass through your pergola.
Meanwhile, lightweight fabrics and outdoor curtains can provide additional shade and coverage to this space as well, creating a chilled, Byron Bay-like coastal vibe. Style with a woven floor rug, deck chairs and throw cushions and you have a great spot for drinks on a sunny Sunday afternoon.
Light the night
Style up your pergola to give off a trendy, inner-city living vibe with paper lanterns and solar-powered string lights. With their soft, orange glow, they create the perfect mood for a fun night out with friends in your very own yard.
Take your pergola one step further and install a chandelier to give off an elegant, classic cocktail bar aesthetic. Complement it further by adding a retro cocktail cart so you can mix a margarita (or three) for your friends on a Friday night.
Outdoor dining at its finest
Turn your pergola into a delightful, alfresco dining area with a large timber picnic-style table that features bench seating. You can brighten it up with colourful scatter cushions and a succulent garden centrepiece to really tie it all together.
Tip: Why not turn your pergola into an outdoor kitchen that’s more than just your old BBQ? An outdoor kitchen or a pizza oven can easily convert this area into a gathering point for any party. For a more relaxed vibe, add an outdoor corner lounge with a firepit or antique wood stove for when the nights get cooler.
Let the plants do the talking
Climbing plants not only provide shade and protection from the weather but also add colour when flowering in spring. Plants like Wisteria and Jasmine are popular for a contemporary pergola, but for a native touch, the vibrant colours of Bougainvillea will make your space a talking point.
If you are looking for something more practical, why not grow grapes or passionfruit vines over your pergola. You will also get the same leafy coverage along with some delicious fruit for the summer – a win-win.
A touch of exotic flavour
Transform your design at home by drawing inspiration from your favourite holiday destination. Bali-style huts with a thatched roof and your favourite dream catcher will turn your pergola into a bohemian oasis.
If you have a pool, building a cabana-styled pergola with lounges will transport you to the Greek Islands. But if zen and tranquillity is more your style, an Asian-inspired look with a hip and gable roof design will be the perfect place to do your daily mediation or morning yoga flow.
Garden swings
Create a sense of style that’s fun for the whole family by adding a garden swing. Even suspended egg-style chairs with cushions and trimmings make for a great little reading nook. Go one step further and add a suspended bench or daybed for the perfect chill-out zone.
