A backyard is a blank canvas, a chance to personalize your outdoor space to your exact specifications. If you’re in the market for a backyard structure, you may be considering a gazebo, pavilion, or pergola. But what exactly are these structures, and how are they different?
Well, in this article, you’re going to find out as we break each structure down and compare them to each other. Once you've educated yourself on what is available and decided which outdoor shade structure is right for your family and home, you'll be surprised by how many special memories will be made underneath its solid or latticed roof.
Freestanding outdoor shade structure
Complete roof
Partially walled or fenced sides
Octagonal or hexagonal shape
Raised floor or built-in floor
Freestanding or attached outdoor shade structure
Complete roof
Completely open sides
Rectangular or square in shape
No built-in floor
Freestanding or attached outdoor shade structure
Flat lattice-style roof
Completely open sides
Rectangular or square in shape
No built-in floor
The gazebo is best suited for a quieter, more private section of your backyard. This structure's more diminutive stature and partially open sides provide the most intimate experiences. Since gazebos are always freestanding, you have more freedom when deciding on the best location for your new shade structure. Gazebos are used to their full potential when utilized to escape from the world for a few hours, be it enjoying the quiet serenity of a dewy spring morning or reading your favorite novel at sunset. The gazebo's roof is completely solid, so the hot midday sun or sudden afternoon downpour can't stop you from enjoying this whimsical structure.
Gazebos and pavilions have a lot in common, but deciding between the two can be a tough task. Both offer protection from the sun and rain, which can be enhanced by installing screens or curtains. The biggest differences are size and usage. Gazebos tend to be smaller and have partially walled sides, giving them a more personal or intimate feel, while pavilions have open sides and can be attached to homes, making them great entertainment spaces.
Many pavilions are erected in public spaces, such as in parks; however, pavilions are just as popular for private use in backyards. Pavilions are open architectural structures that can either stand alone or be connected to a house or pool house. These larger, more open structures can serve many purposes, from being used as an outdoor kitchen or bar to housing one or many tables for an unforgettable outdoor dining experience. While the gazebo is very separate from a home, most pavilions feel like an extension of your house—so it's essential to keep the style of your home in mind when designing this one.
Pavilions and pergolas can both be freestanding or attached structures. The complete roof of the pavilion offers more protection from the sun or rain than the lattice roof of the pergola. But pavilions' more robust design typically makes them more expensive than pergolas. One key feature that these structures have in common is their open sides. Both can easily hold furniture or be used as hangout areas for several people.
Pergolas were traditionally used in gardens to supply small amounts of shade to enhance the experience of the owner, as well as the lives of the plants. This outdoor structure has transcended its original role and, in modern times, has been utilized for various functions. As far as size is concerned, pergolas live in the middle area. It's bigger than a gazebo but smaller than a pavilion. Due to its latticed roof, the subtle shade that a pergola provides is best suited to climates that don't experience excessive rain or extreme weather conditions. Pergolas are most at home when featured on a patio or a deck. However, the spaces separating buildings or houses have also become a common location to place these structures.
Gazebos are never attached to the sides of homes or buildings, whereas pergolas can be attached or freestanding. So if you’re looking for a little private place of serenity, a gazebo is the way to go; but if you’re looking for something a little more versatile that’s not confined by partially closed walls, the pergola is for you. Keep in mind that pergolas don’t fully protect you from the sun or rain.
All three of these shade-providing structures serve specific purposes. Whether you want a gazebo for private moments of reflection or a large pavilion for social get-togethers, it's important to have your intended use in mind before moving forward with a decision. If you just can’t seem to settle on the best option, consider going for a structure that can be multi-functional. Remember, many options are out there, so stay informed and speak to other homeowners before choosing the centerpiece for your backyard space.