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What is a Pergola?  (Let’s all say it together now, PUR-guh-luh)

10/18/2013

1 Comment

 
PictureRecently Completed Pergola in Rose Valley, PA
Lets start with the basics here – what exactly is a pergola, and why do I need one?

Well, nobody NEEDS one, just like nobody needs a patio, or even a garden for that matter.  It’s a design element, meant to enhance a space and add value to your outdoor living space.

So what is a pergola, and what is used for?

The dictionary defines pergola as a structure usually consisting of parallel columns supporting an open roof of girders and cross rafters.

OK.  Fair enough, but I do recall learning in high school and college writing classes that the dictionary definition intro is an easy cop-out, and truth be told that definition doesn’t tell us much.  So how is a pergola used, and how is it going to help my patio or garden?

The purpose of the pergola is really more important.  And the purpose of the pergola is to provide a framework for climbing plants and vines, with the end goal of providing a nice natural-looking shady yet open space.

Traditionally the pergola has been a staple of Italian renaissance gardens, and certainly quite common at vineyards.  But over the past century or so, the pergola has enjoyed a renaissance of its own (you liked that tie-in, didn’t you …), becoming quite common in arts-and-crafts gardens.  

They’re perfectly suited for small garden spaces where shade from a large tree isn’t always an option, and a natural, sun-dappled, filtered shade is desired.  It is a great way to add a vertical dimension to an otherwise limited space.

The name “pergola” is often used interchangeably with “arbor”.  They can be large or small, free-standing or attached to nearby structures, part of a fence or entryway, used to define space, or used to hide nearby unsightly structures.  And with the right plants planted, they can also do a great job of muffling nearby street noise or other urban sounds.

So what are the right plants and vines to plant around a pegola?  Well basically anything that climbs.  Here in the Philadelphia region, my favorites are Clematis, Wisteria, Honeysuckle, and Morning Glory.  Ivy works great too, but it’s a bit too ubiquitous for my taste.  Climbing roses are beautiful , but if you’re in close proximity to people, keep in mind they do have nasty thorns.  There’s plenty of other great choices out there, ask your local garden center what may work for your pergola.

As for the design of the pergola itself, like any construction element in the garden, the sky’s the limit.  Have some fun with it, and don’t be afraid to get creative.

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Entry Gate with Pergola
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3-Posted "Triangular" Pergola with Bench Seat
PicturePergola with Round Fabricated Columns
Here’s a couple more pergolas we built for clients in the past.

Have we piqued your interest?  Might you be interested in seeing how a pergola could add a new design element to your yard?  Give us a call or shoot us an email, and the discussion can begin.


1 Comment
Henry Killingsworth link
10/17/2022 12:51:46 pm

It stood out to me when you explained that a pergola is used to provide a framework for climbing plants and vines. Can a pergola be used to create a shady area for gardening and sitting? AS far as I know, pergolas can be pretty wide, so it seems like they could be useful for creating some kind of sitting space.

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    Clark Kent Creations, LLC is a full-service landscape construction company servicing the Pennsylvania communities of Delaware County, Chester County, The Main Line, and the University City, Art Museum, and Manayunk/Roxborough neighborhoods of Philadelphia.  In addition to this blog page, additional information regarding the company and our services can be found on the subsequent pages of the site.
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    Clark Linderman is the president of Clark Kent Creations, LLC, a landscape construction company based in Swarthmore, PA.  He is a proud graduate of the University of Michigan.  In addition to his passion for all things outdoors, he counts Michigan football, Phillies baseball, Superman memorabilia, Memphis R&B music, and good craft brews among his many interests.  He currently resides in Swarthmore with his wife, Sheila, two sons, his dog Krypto, and a really, really messy garage full of work supplies and toys.

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    Swarthmore, PA
    Design and Construction to Maximize Your Outdoor Experience

    707-290-9410
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