Under the Pergola

What is a pergola? Basically, it is a row of vertical columns that support horizontal beams or a trellis above, providing some shade and a structure for vines for additional shade coverage. Although pergolas have been around for centuries, I think my favorite one is Claude Cormier's pop version at a temporary installation in La Havre: http://www.claudecormier.com/project/pergola/ .

Back to the pergola that may make sense for you: According to countless D.I.Y. websites, building your own pergola is a fairly simple project for those with a modicum of carpentry talent. Also, it certainly ups the aesthetics and amount of usable living space in your yard. A pergola can extend from the structure of a building, line a pathway, or be completely free-standing. Here on Houzz, there are many different pergola styles and uses, and below I'm marking some of my favorites - I hope to use them for inspiration as soon as I find that person with a modicum of carpentry talent to help me build my own...