Pergolas are ideal for adding shade to your backyard and creating a comfortable spot to dine or lounge outdoors. They typically have a flat roof made from slats of wood or metal, and can either be attached or detached from the house. While similar to a gazebo, a pergola is usually larger in size, doesn’t have a pointed roof and is meant for covering a larger portion of the backyard. If you’re on the lookout for pergola ideas for your patio, check out this handy guide and find inspiration in our photo gallery below.

1. Glowing Lights

When you’ve got a pergola, it’s easy to hang lights that’ll illuminate the patio at night. Whether you prefer string lights or a few statement lanterns, the glowing effect is perfect for summer dinners outdoors.

2. Extra Shade

If your backyard gets a lot of sun, consider attaching a fabric canopy to the top of the pergola. Choose a lighter color, like sage green or blue, that won’t attract too much heat.

3. Elegant Curtains

Another smart pergola idea for your patio is to hang curtains. Cream-colored curtains look gorgeous tied to the sides, but if you prefer full screen protection from the sun, opt for a Roman shade.

4. Crisp White Paint

If you love a classic Cape Cod look, opt for a white pergola. It’ll look gorgeous against navy blue seat cushions or a lush green lawn.

5. Swing Away

Oftentimes, pergolas cover an outdoor dining table, but that’s not all they’re good for! Add some fun to your backyard by attaching a bench swing to your pergola.

6. Clinging Vines

Highlight the natural beauty of your yard by draping some flowering vines along the top slats, allowing light to gently filter through. Wisteria looks particularly striking in the summertime, and would create the perfect backdrop for a garden party.

7. Hot Tub Zone

Another great pergola idea is to use it as a cover over a hot tub. That way, you can hang lights from above and really emphasize that section of the yard.

8. Modern Design

There are a lot of options when it comes to picking out your pergola design. Take things in a modern direction with low-profile wooden or aluminum slats — perfect for a midcentury-style home.

9. Creative Flooring

Don’t forget about the floor underneath the pergola! Your options are nearly limitless here, so have fun with your patio hardscape. Go with a mosaic tile patio, natural stone or concrete pavers bordered with soft grass.

10. Natural Wood Finishes

Pergolas with a natural wood finish look beautiful, and there are all sorts of species to choose from. Cedar is classic, but a light pine with visible knots can look particularly interesting.

11. Cozy Fireplace

Center your backyard patio with an outdoor fireplace just off to one side of your pergola. Simply add in a sofa and chairs and you’ve got the perfect spot to enjoy crisp evenings outdoors.