How to Style Pergolas with Your Garden

How to Style Pergolas with Your Garden

Tips for the best way to style your pergola with your garden

Pergolas are a great addition to any outdoor space, offering shade, structure, and a touch of design. However, their true potential shines when they’re styled to complement your garden. Whether you’re creating a cosy seating area, a dining space, or a decorative feature, knowing how to style pergolas can transform your outdoor space into a functional and beautiful retreat. In this guide, we’ll explore practical and creative ways to style your pergola to fit your garden perfectly.


Why Style Pergolas with Your Garden?

Styling a pergola allows you to create a cohesive outdoor space that blends seamlessly with your garden’s design. Here are some reasons to focus on styling:

  • Enhances Aesthetics: A well-styled pergola becomes a focal point that ties together the overall look of your garden.
  • Maximises Functionality: Styling helps define the purpose of the pergola, whether it’s for relaxation, dining, or entertaining.
  • Adds Personal Touches: Customising your pergola with plants, furniture, or decorations reflects your style and personality.

Ideas to Style Pergolas with Your Garden

1. Incorporate Climbing Plants

Pergolas are perfect for supporting climbing plants that add greenery and shade. Popular options include:

  • Wisteria: Known for its cascading flowers, it creates a dreamy, romantic look.
  • Ivy: Adds lush greenery for a timeless and classic style.
  • Roses: Perfect for a traditional or cottage garden aesthetic.

Tip: Use trellises or wire guides to help plants grow evenly along the pergola’s beams.

2. Add Lighting for Ambience

Lighting can completely change the look and feel of your pergola, especially in the evening. Consider:

  • String Lights: For a warm and cosy glow.
  • Lanterns: Adds a touch of elegance and can be solar-powered for convenience.
  • Built-in LEDs: Perfect for modern pergolas, offering a sleek and polished look.

Tip: Ensure your lighting is weather-resistant for long-term use.

3. Use Outdoor Furniture

The furniture you choose defines the pergola’s purpose. For instance:

  • Dining Area: Add a durable outdoor dining set for family meals or gatherings.
  • Lounge Zone: Use weatherproof sofas, armchairs, or daybeds like the Evora Daybed for a relaxing retreat.
  • Minimalist Design: Opt for sleek, simple furniture for a modern and clean look.

4. Include Shade Solutions

While pergolas provide partial shade, adding extra covers can increase comfort:

  • Canopies: Retractable canopies let you adjust the level of shade as needed.
  • Curtains: Add privacy and softness with outdoor curtains in neutral or bold colours.
  • Blinds: Install adjustable blinds for both shade and seclusion.

5. Integrate Decor Elements

Small decorative touches can make your pergola feel more inviting. Ideas include:

  • Outdoor Rugs: Define the space and add a cosy touch.
  • Throw Pillows: Brighten up furniture with colourful or patterned pillows.
  • Hanging Decorations: Use wind chimes, hanging planters, or macramé pieces for added charm.

Matching Pergola Styles to Your Garden Design

1. Modern Gardens

  • Use a sleek aluminium pergola with minimalist furniture.
  • Incorporate clean lines and neutral colours like black, white, or grey.
  • Add LED lighting for a contemporary touch.

2. Traditional Gardens

  • Opt for a wooden pergola with natural finishes.
  • Use climbing plants like roses or honeysuckle to blend with the garden.
  • Choose rustic furniture and decor elements like lanterns or vintage-style cushions.

3. Urban Spaces

  • Compact pergolas like a 3m x 3m model are ideal for smaller gardens or patios.
  • Add retractable canopies for flexibility in shade.
  • Decorate with potted plants and hanging lights to maximise space.

4. Coastal Gardens

  • Pair an aluminium pergola with light, airy fabrics and blue-toned decor.
  • Add driftwood-style furniture for a relaxed beachy vibe.
  • Use climbing plants like jasmine for a fragrant touch.

Tips for Long-Term Styling

  1. Weatherproof Your Space: Choose weather-resistant materials for furniture, lighting, and decor to withstand the UK’s variable climate.
  2. Seasonal Updates: Refresh your pergola with seasonal decorations, like fairy lights in winter or vibrant cushions in summer.
  3. Keep It Tidy: Regularly clean the pergola and its accessories to maintain a polished look.

Conclusion

Learning how to style pergolas with your garden opens up endless possibilities for creating a functional and beautiful outdoor space. Whether you prefer a modern, traditional, or eclectic design, there are countless ways to customise your pergola to reflect your personality and garden style.

If you’re ready to transform your garden with a stylish pergola, visit Exterio to explore a range of high-quality options. For trusted reviews, check out our Google My Business and Trustpilot pages.

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