Elevate Your Outdoor Living: Exploring the Beauty and Functionality of Outdoor Structures

Landscape Architect Josh Eastlake shed some light on the diverse array of outdoor structures available, ranging from free-standing pergolas to attached verandas. He indicated each structure serves a distinct purpose, whether it’s the open, airy feel of a pergola or the enclosed intimacy of a pavilion. Eastlake also emphasized the importance of informed choices. As such, he guides clients through the decision-making process to ensure their vision aligns with their lifestyle and budget.

Enhancing your outdoor living space involves more than just selecting furniture and decor; it’s about creating functional and inviting environments that reflect your style and cater to your lifestyle. Outdoor structures offer a great deal in terms of aesthetics, functionality, and appeal. From open-air pergolas to enclosed gazebos, attached verandas to standalone pavilions, there is sure to be something that will complement your backyard oasis.

But, first, here is a brief description of these structures:

Pergolas: A popular choice, pergolas feature open lattice roofs supported by vertical posts, providing partial shade and a sense of openness ideal for defining outdoor living areas. While pergolas excel in creating outdoor sanctuaries, they also offer practical benefits. By partially blocking sunlight, pergolas provide relief from the scorching heat while still allowing gentle rays to filter through, creating a dappled effect that enhances the outdoor experience. These architectural marvels create an inviting ambiance, ideal for entertaining guests or simply basking in the tranquility of nature.

Gazebos: Gazebos are more than just structures; they’re serene retreats designed to elevate outdoor living. Enclosed with solid roofs and walls, they offer elegant, sheltered spaces for relaxation, dining, or enjoying nature regardless of the weather. With their charm and functionality, gazebos create intimate sanctuaries where you can unwind and connect with the outdoors in style.

Verandas: Verandas seamlessly bridge the gap between indoor coziness and outdoor serenity. Attached to the exterior of homes, these covered outdoor spaces provide sheltered areas for lounging or entertaining while maintaining a strong connection to the comforts of home. Whether you’re enjoying a lazy afternoon reading a book or hosting a lively gathering with friends, verandas offer versatile settings for leisure and entertainment, enhancing the overall charm and functionality of your living space.

According to Eastlake, verandas are custom made and must be tied structurally into the home. He cautioned this does tend to elevate the cost, though. However, if a home has a big blank wall, you can take a pavilion with four posts and install it next to the home and flash it into the house where the pavilion roof meets the house wall so there is no gap.

“Many houses aren’t set up for this, though,” noted Eastlake. “But it is a way to cut costs if you want a veranda structure.”

Pavilions: Pavilions stand as majestic landmarks, beckoning people to gather and celebrate in style. With their expansive, standalone structures featuring open sides and solid roofs, pavilions provide ideal settings for gatherings and events of all sizes. Offering ample space for socializing and enjoying the surrounding landscape, they serve as focal points for memorable occasions, from intimate gatherings to grand festivities. With their blend of grandeur and practicality, pavilions create unforgettable spaces where connections are forged, and memories are made.