
A pergola can completely transform your outdoor space — adding shade, beauty, structure, and a natural gathering place. But not all pergolas are the same. The style you choose has a huge influence on the feel of your backyard, the functionality of your patio, and the overall look of your outdoor living space.
Whether you're building a cozy retreat, a modern entertaining area, or a shaded extension of your home, choosing the right pergola style is essential. At Vicente Outdoor Living, we design and build custom pergolas that perfectly match your space and your lifestyle. Here’s how to find the right style for you.
Your pergola should complement your home — not compete with it. A well-chosen pergola blends naturally with your architecture.
Choose sleek lines, darker tones, steel elements, or minimalistic wood.
Opt for classic wood beams, natural finishes, and soft, rounded edges.
Go for thick wood posts, warm tones, and natural textures.
Consider curved details, light wood tones, and warm colors.
A pergola that mirrors your home’s architectural details feels intentional and polished.
Your yard and layout will often determine whether a pergola should be attached or freestanding.
If you want your outdoor space to feel like a natural extension of your home, choose an attached pergola. If you want a standalone outdoor room, choose freestanding.
Shade is one of the primary reasons people build pergolas, but shade levels vary by style.
If your patio faces strong afternoon sun, consider a design with more coverage. If you prefer light filtering through, an open-top pergola may be perfect.
Pergolas come in a range of materials, each with its own look, texture, and maintenance level.
Choosing the right material helps create the look and longevity you want.
A pergola should fit your lifestyle, not just your style preferences.
Choose a pergola with enough coverage to protect from sun during meals.
Opt for a design with built-in shade and comfortable airflow.
Consider a larger pergola with space for seating, lighting, and décor.
Choose a structure with stronger shade or partial roofing to protect appliances.
Knowing how you’ll use the space helps guide the right design choices.
Modern pergolas can be as simple or advanced as you want.
Consider additions like:
These features turn your pergola into a true outdoor living room.
A pergola should feel balanced in your space — not too small, not too large.
A well-placed pergola frames your outdoor space and feels naturally connected to your yard.
Pergolas offer multiple roof styles, and each creates a different effect.
Choosing the right roof style helps shape the mood and usability of your outdoor area.
Landscaping and pergolas work beautifully together. Softscaping can:
Great plant pairings include:
These create a warm, inviting feel around the structure.
Lighting is one of the most powerful ways to enhance your pergola’s ambiance.
Popular lighting options include:
Lighting makes your pergola usable long after sunset and adds a cozy nighttime atmosphere.

Tell us what you envision, and we’ll design a pergola that adds comfort, style, and lasting value to your outdoor living area.