Below you will find a guide to help you choose the best pergola for your business

Adding a pergola to your pub or restaurant’s outdoor area can create a beautiful and functional space for guests to enjoy, enhancing their dining experience while also increasing your seating capacity. With a variety of pergola styles and materials available, there’s plenty of flexibility to find the perfect fit for your establishment. In this guide, we’ll explore the types of pergolas, materials, and design ideas to help you choose the best pergola for your pub or restaurant.

Types of Pergola

Pergolas come in different designs, each offering unique benefits and aesthetic options. Here are some popular types to consider:

1. Freestanding Pergola
   A freestanding pergola is not attached to any building, allowing you to place it wherever you like. This style is ideal if you want a pergola near a pool, garden, or as a separate seating area. Freestanding pergolas give flexibility in layout and are perfect for creating distinct zones in a large outdoor space.

2. Attached Pergola
   An attached pergola is connected to your pub or restaurant building, often over a patio or deck. This design makes the pergola feel like an extension of your indoor area, creating a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor seating. Attached pergolas are great for providing shade and shelter near entrances or windows.

3. Arched Pergola
   Most pergolas have flat roofs, but arched pergolas feature curved tops, adding a unique and elegant touch. The arched design gives a sophisticated look, perfect for upscale pubs or restaurants wanting to add a romantic ambiance to their outdoor area.

4. Louvered Pergola
   Louvered pergolas have adjustable slats or louvers as rafters, allowing you to control the amount of sunlight and ventilation. These are ideal for establishments where flexibility is essential, as you can open or close the louvers based on weather conditions or guest preferences.

5. Awning Pergola
   Awning pergolas are smaller and typically attached directly to a wall without columns or posts. They work well as shade over entrances, windows, or outdoor seating areas close to the building. Awning pergolas are a space-efficient way to provide shade and can also be decorated with climbing plants or vines for added charm.

Choosing the Right Material

The material of your pergola impacts its look, durability, maintenance needs, and cost. Here’s a breakdown of popular pergola materials:

1. Wood Pergola
   Wooden pergolas offer a classic, natural look that blends well with most outdoor settings. Cedar and redwood are popular choices due to their resistance to rot and insects. Wooden pergolas work well for rustic or traditional themes but require regular maintenance, including staining or sealing to prevent weather damage.

2. Vinyl Pergola
   Vinyl pergolas are low-maintenance and long-lasting, needing only occasional cleaning. They provide a clean, modern look but are available in limited colours, usually white or beige. Vinyl is a practical choice for establishments that want a durable pergola with minimal upkeep.

3. Aluminium Pergola
   Aluminium pergolas are lightweight, durable, and resistant to rust, making them ideal for urban or coastal settings. Aluminium suits modern and industrial themes, as it often has sleek lines and a contemporary appearance. It’s also easy to maintain, making it a popular choice for busy commercial spaces.

4. Steel Pergola
   Steel pergolas are sturdy and can support larger structures, which is great for areas that experience high winds or need a more robust setup. Steel provides an industrial, heavy-duty look, but it requires some maintenance to prevent rust, especially in rainy or humid environments.

5. Fibreglass Pergola
   Fibreglass pergolas are durable, weather-resistant, and can be painted in various colours. They are low-maintenance and ideal for custom designs, though they tend to be more expensive. Fibreglass is a great choice if you’re looking for a high-quality pergola with a modern finish.

6. Concrete Pergola
   For a unique, long-lasting option, consider a concrete pergola. Concrete structures provide a classical look reminiscent of ancient architecture and can be customised for a more modern or minimalist style. Concrete pergolas are extremely durable, though they may require professional installation due to their weight.

Uses for Pergolas in a Pub or Restaurant Setting

Pergolas are versatile structures that can enhance various parts of your establishment. Here are some ideas on how to use a pergola in a commercial setting:

1. Outdoor Room for Dining
   Use a pergola to create an outdoor dining area that feels like a comfortable extension of your indoor space. Add outdoor furniture, weather-resistant seating, and string lights to create a relaxed yet elegant dining atmosphere. Pergolas give your guests the pleasure of dining outdoors with the added shade and shelter of a semi-enclosed structure.

2. Patio Cover
   An attached pergola can be placed over a patio to provide shelter and shade. This setup allows you to expand your seating capacity by turning a patio into an outdoor room that’s protected from the elements. If you add a retractable canopy or louvres, you’ll have control over the amount of shade provided.

3. Enhanced Pool or Hot Tub Area
   Pergolas are perfect for poolside settings, providing shade and creating a stylish retreat for guests. A pergola with privacy screens or climbing plants can offer additional seclusion, giving guests a more exclusive feel while enjoying the outdoor area.

4. Decorative Garden Feature
   Adding a pergola over a garden can bring visual interest and an architectural element to your landscaping. You can use it as a focal point, framing paths or seating areas, and adding climbing plants like wisteria or roses for a natural canopy. This is ideal for pubs or restaurants with a garden or lawn that can be transformed into a unique, green retreat.

5. Walkway Frame
   Use a pergola to line a walkway, creating a shaded path that guides guests from one area to another. Pergolas make walkways more inviting and can be decorated with hanging plants, lights, or seasonal decorations to match your establishment’s theme.

Cost Considerations

The cost of a pergola for your pub or restaurant will depend on its size, material, and design complexity. Here’s an approximate cost range:

• Wooden Pergola: £1,500 - £3,500
• Vinyl Pergola: £2,000 - £4,000
• Aluminium Pergola: £2,500 - £5,500
• Steel Pergola: £3,000 - £6,000
• Fibreglass Pergola: £4,000 and up
• Concrete Pergola: Custom pricing

While wooden pergolas are generally the most affordable, materials like aluminium or fibreglass may require less maintenance over time, which can be cost-effective in a commercial setting.

Conclusion

A pergola can significantly enhance your pub or restaurant, providing a stylish, functional space for guests to enjoy. With options like freestanding, attached, and louvered pergolas, you can create a customised outdoor area that aligns with your brand and meets the needs of your patrons.

If you’re ready to explore pergola options, visit Exterio for high-quality designs and materials suited for commercial spaces. For insights from other businesses, check out our Google My Business and Trustpilot pages.