27 refreshing Pergola design ideas for your outdoors

A Pergola is the answer to making your outdoors more inhabitable and enjoyable. Typically, pergolas are useful for their shade and yet with the right design, you can turn an ordinary backyard into a refreshing, inviting sanctuary that keeps the chaos away. You can customize the pergola using different materials and enhancements depending on your budget, style and level of sophistication. These 27 ideas offer you a fresh perspective on installing a pergola for your outdoor living. Dive in!

1. Set up a classic wooden pergola with natural staining to complement your outdoor aesthetic

Photo: Laure Joliet

2. Add climbing plants to the pergola such as jasmine, ivy, wisteria to add to its beauty and fragrance

Photo: Mint Images

3. Attach trellis panels on the sides of the pergola for shade and privacy

Photo: Omer Sedat Yenidogan

4. Put up hanging Paper lanterns to illuminate the pergola and add a Whimsical touch

Photo: Johner Images

5. Install adjustable louvers on the roof of the pergola that allow you to control the amount of sunlight and air flow

Photo: Almost Makes Perfect

6. Use sleek, industrial metal beams for a minimalist and contemporary outdoor structure

Photo: Yardzen

7. Include built-in benches or sofas beneath the pergola for comfortable seating

Photo: Robert Reck

8. Install a porch swing on your pergola for a charming, nostalgic seating option

Photo: Life Created

9. Design your pergola around a central fireplace or firepit for cozy gatherings

Photo: Max Kim-Bee

10. Set up a pergola with slatted roof to allow sunlight to filter through for a partial shade

Photo: Wirestock/Getty Images

11. Design a pergola with a water feature or plunge pool for soothing sessions

Photo: Kelly Cheng

12. Add flowing outdoor drapes or curtains to the pergola to create a breezy resort-like atmosphere

Photo: Nenov

13. Opt for a whitewashed pergola for a clean contrasting look against the natural greenery

Photo: Jeffrey Brian Riemer

14. If space is a challenge, position the pergola in a corner of your yard for tucked-away cozy moments

Photo: Yardzen

15. Design a pergola for your gardening station to shade your planted herb garden or miniature garden

Photo: David Tsay

16. Cover the pergola with bamboo or reed roof for natural shade and a flair of bohemian aesthetic

Photo: Laura Resen

17. Add a retractable fabric canopy to control sunlight and provide shade when needed

Photo: luckyplot13/Instagram

18. Install skylight or use translucent roofing sheets for the pergola to let in light while still providing cover

Photo: Kirsten Diane

19. Decorate using hanging flower pots suspended from the beams of the pergola

Photo: Finmiki Images

20. Build a pergola next to a pool for a shaded poolside cabana

Photo: MelanieMaya/Getty Images

21. Drape string lights along the beams for a twinkling, magical ambience at dusk

Photo: Alex Zarour

22. Install outdoor ceiling fans for your pergola to keep cool during summer

Photo: LivvyLand

23. Use durable roofing options for the pergola like tiled roof to add stability to the design

Photo: Shay Blechynden

24. Create a simple DIY pergola using branch twines and tree canopy

Photo: David A. Land

25. Install an outdoor dining pergola with a full set of dining furniture

Photo: Caitlin Atkinson

26. Use an artistic and contemporary design to create a modern pergola

Photo: Stephen Johnson

27. Create a simple pergola that is attached to the main house for your porch

Photo: Eric Piasecki