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Interest in landscape design has clearly grown in recent years. And this is not surprising, because today there are a large number of small architectural buildings that decorate the local area. One of these structures is a pergola. In this article we will tell you how you can use pergolas in landscape design and what types there are. Plus, we invite you to watch the prepared video material, which will visually complement the entire theory.
Pergola - what is it and why is it
A pergola means a canopy-type structure. It imitates arches of several sections, which are connected to each other by crossbars. A pergola can be stationary, as an integral part of the terrace, or free-standing in landscape design. It can be used as a gazebo by installing benches or benches in it. As you can see, this structure takes on a variety of forms. In any case, it has repeating sections, support posts and arched elements, as well as lattice roofing and sometimes walls.
The main and primary task of a pergola in landscape design was protection from the scorching rays of the sun. Grapes or other climbing plants could be directed at it. But over the years, it began to be used in a variety of areas, and in particular:
- For zoning of land.
- As decoration for a recreation area.
- Creation of a vertical green zone.
- Decorative element.
- An element for camouflaging buildings and other structures that do not fit into the overall concept.
- Decoration for gates, gates and garden entrances.
Advantages of a pergola
Among other things, it is worth highlighting the positive aspects of this structure. Mainly, a pergola can protect a playground or other recreation area from the scorching sun. And if climbing plants grow on it, then the pergola can provide the necessary shade on the site. When it rains, you can put a tarpaulin over its roof, which will allow you to hide for a short time.
In modern landscape design, the pergola plays a key role. So, you can grow tabletops on it grape varieties. Of course, the presence of a vineyard on a summer cottage gives more solidity. Also, the building can block the view from curious neighbors or passers-by.
Varieties
When constructing a pergola, beams, gratings and supports can be used. It can be made from a variety of building materials. For example, some build it from stone, metal and wood. These materials can be combined or used strictly alone. Start from the general idea and concept of your landscape design.
In landscape design, the pergola has different designs, due to which it has acquired different types:
- Green corridor. This is a complex structure. It can be made from several arches, which are connected into one tunnel by guides. Mostly such a structure is built over paths. From the outside it looks very beautiful and impressive. It is also used for flowers. You can install a bench in such a green corridor.In this case, this tunnel will be used as a gazebo.
- Visor. This is another type of pergola. If your windows are located on the sunny side, then the installed structure will create the necessary shade. This type of visor is mainly made of wood and transparent material. So, it receives most of the sun's rays and does not darken much.
- Screen. This allows you to retire from the prying eyes of curious neighbors. Plus, this option ideally zones the territory of the landscape plot. In this case, you can read a book in silence and without distractions. Also, such a screen can hide from the eyes of extraneous buildings and structures that have an unsightly appearance.
- Awnings. In this case, the pergola is used as a canopy. The shade from the building will make it easier to endure hot weather.
And this is not surprising, because its main function is different. However, just in case, you can cover the pergolas with a protective material, for example, cellular polycarbonate, plexiglass, and the like.
If you decide to cover your pergolas with rain protection material, remember not to cover it completely. Otherwise, the building will become an ordinary shed. Accordingly, the landscape design will lose such an original structure. Most often, a pergola is used to create a vertical “flower bed”.
Useful tips and tricks
If you decide to build a pergola on your summer cottage, then rest assured that the landscape design will receive a wonderful decorative element that will attract attention. Immediately before construction, it is also worth considering a number of features and nuances.So, no matter what material it is made of, be it metal, wood, plastic, aluminum, forging or other materials, it must be strong enough to withstand wind loads.
If the structure is wooden, be sure to coat all wooden elements with a protective anti-corrosion compound. This will prevent it from rotting and will also make the wood resistant to the negative influences of the environment. The constructed pergola should not be an alien element in the landscape design. Try to think through everything so that it is a beautiful addition to the whole picture. Well, and most importantly, think about its construction so that it lasts as long as possible. If you have the opportunity to choose, then, of course, forged pergolas are much stronger than plastic ones. And if a lot of financial costs are required, the entire structure will be quite reliable.
Conclusion
So, we have discussed with you the question of what types of pergolas there are in landscape design, and the photos in this article clearly illustrate this. We and our readers will be interested in which option you chose. Be sure to leave comments at the end of this article about how you implemented this original landscaping idea.
