5 Pergola Design Tips to Enhance Your Western Springs, IL, Landscape

Some finishing touches are often what’s needed to bring out the true beauty of a landscape design. You may think these additions need to be dramatic, but simple structures—such as a pergola—can also make a big impact. These wooden frameworks are supported by posts sometimes covered with vines or lights. Consider these five pergola design tips to spruce up your Western Springs, IL, landscape.

Pergola Over an Existing Patio

If your home has a patio right outside the back door, you already have an ideal place for building a pergola. The proximity to your home allows for a cozy dining area underneath the new pergola, or you could gather some comfortable furniture underneath it for relaxing after a busy day. A pergola that is anchored by columns to match the color of your home can allow your structure to blend into its surrounding architecture. Topped with wooden rafters and beams, this pergola can create a convenient, shady retreat.

Freestanding Pergola

A pergola can be just what you need for a vacant section of your backyard, such as the corner of your fence or the space between two trees. For the wood post supports, consider placing them atop stacked stone foundations. Vines could trail upward to fill the pergola top with green leaves and bold flowers. Add comfortable furniture with lots of pillows, and you’ll have a shaded oasis.

Poolside Pergola

Pools and pergolas were made to go together. Consider how a pergola could transform the nearby grassy area—it could create a shaded shelter for keeping an eye on the kids as they swim. You could place the pergola directly on the grass, or you might choose to elevate it on wooden decking. Curtains on three sides can help to block the sun when it is too bright, and they can be tied back to catch the breeze at other times.

Walkway Pergola

If you have a walkway that connects your Western Springs, IL, home and garage or an outbuilding such as a pool house, a pergola covering the connecting walkway can bring instant character to this space. This can take an ordinary walkway from blah to breathtaking.

Contemporary Pergola

Most pergolas tend to have a somewhat rustic appearance, but that may not be your style. If you lean toward a more contemporary architectural look, you can carry it through to your new pergola. A monochromatic appearance for a pergola can present a sleek look. Many modern pergolas have thin slats for the top instead of large, wooden beams. Consider using galvanized pipes for the top of the pergola to bring out an open warehouse effect that’s reminiscent of modern coffee houses.

All pergola designs can benefit from some form of lighting, from twinkle lights to modern round bulbs. This can allow you to use your outdoor structure for longer in the day, especially if you love to entertain. A pergola can set the tone as the shelter of a dining area or an outdoor living room with a fire pit. An experienced landscape specialist can assist you as you contemplate adding a pergola to your landscape.