Pergola Design Ideas to Transform Your Garden

Author John FosterExterior Installation and Service ManagerUpdated 24/02/2026

Think of pergolas and you probably picture a small wooden structure with cross beams and lattice work. But pergolas have had an upgrade and they’re now a high-tech addition to your garden. Read on to be inspired by our pergola ideas.

Outdoor living

Once the cold of winter is over gardens begin to come to life and you begin to think about spending time outside. Having that outdoor escape is not just a practical benefit but it’s also a real bonus for your wellbeing too. So why is a pergola the perfect solution?

Versatile use of space

Pergolas are now an all-weather, year-round solution for your garden. They’re freestanding so they can be installed anywhere in your garden that has a suitably level surface. This flexibility can inspire a whole host of garden ideas and really helps you create your space your way and opens up so many different ways you can style it.

Come rain or shine

The problem with outdoor living spaces is our weather can be such a changeable force that can see you relaxing in the sun one minute and running inside to avoid the rain the next. Our pergolas put a stop to that, because they’re designed to deal with sunshine or rain, thanks to an electric louvred roof. A bit like a shutter, you simply close the louvres using a remote and you’ll stay dry until the shower is over and the sun comes back out.

"A top tip is to consider what areas in the garden you enjoy sitting from the first sunny spring days right until those warm autumn afternoons."
Luke Newnes, Interior Squad

What kind of pergola is right for you?
Pergolas come in a range of materials, each offering a different look and level of performance. Wood gives a warm, natural finish that blends beautifully into garden settings, though it typically requires regular treatment to protect it from the elements. Metal options, such as aluminium, provide a sleek, contemporary style and are highly durable, making them ideal for modern outdoor spaces – this is what our pergolas are made from. Vinyl pergolas offer a low maintenance alternative with a clean, classic appearance; they won’t rot or fade, making them a practical choice for busy households.
Planning permission considerations
In many cases, pergolas fall under “permitted development” and won’t require planning permission, particularly if they are freestanding and below a certain height. However, it’s always worth checking local guidelines, especially if you live in a conservation area, your garden has listed status, or the structure sits close to your property boundary. For planning rules, the UK Government’s Planning Portal offers clear guidance on what counts as permitted development for garden structures. Ensuring your pergola meets height, placement and structural rules will give you peace of mind and help avoid any issues later on.
Installation basics
Most modern pergolas are designed for straightforward installation. A solid, stable surface such as paving, decking, or a reinforced base is essential to ensure safe and secure fitting. If you’re preparing a base for installation, independent decking and ground preparation guides can offer extra peace of mind
Depending on the model, installation may include anchoring posts, connecting structural components and wiring for features like motorised louvres or integrated lighting. While some DIY experience can help, professional installation ensures everything is perfectly aligned and performs smoothly, and with Hillarys installation is always included.

You’ve got your perfect pergola, installed exactly where you want it, and now comes the creative part – styling your pergola your way. Read on for our experts tips and inspiration.

Exterior of a modern house, with a large paved patio down to a lawn with small inset flower beds at random points in the patio and a freestanding grey pergola with louvred roof over four chairs and a table,

A pergola space for…

First things first, you need to think how you’re going to use the space. Is it a tranquil outdoor lounge, a stylish dining area, a social hub for gatherings, a solitary escape? Or perhaps it needs to be a more flexible space that can accommodate all of the above at any time. Establishing its function will guide your design choices and help shape your pergola ideas.

Create a tranquil lounge

Transform your pergola into an outdoor living room with plush seating, outdoor sofas, and accent chairs. Opt for weather-resistant cushions and throws in neutral or earthy tones for a relaxed yet sophisticated look, or bring in brighter colours with cushions and throws. A low coffee table and a few side tables will complete the space, making it perfect for unwinding.

Design an elegant dining space

For those who love eating outdoors, a stylish dining setup is essential. Choose a durable design with comfortable chairs, and layer the table with linen runners, candles, and decorative tableware. Our pergola has integrated dimmable lighting, which is a perfect way to set the right mood. Add LED string lights with suction hooks, hanging lanterns on shepherds’ crooks and hurricane lamps to enhance the ambiance for evening meals.

Outdoor rugs for warmth and texture

Outdoor rugs have become a big trend in recent years and they’re a great option to anchor the space, add warmth underfoot and help create the outdoor room look. They’re available in a wide range of colours and patterns so you’ll easily find a style to complement your setting.

A stack of five pillows in various colors: blue, light purple, green, and two shades of gray, arranged on a white surface.

Personalise with accessories

Bring in personality with stylish accessories. Decorative cushions, lanterns, sculptural pieces, or even an outdoor mirror can elevate the look and make the space feel like an extension of your home.

“I love to hang plants and decorative accessories from my pergola to also utilise space, simply adding a hanging ornament can make my pergola feel more special!"
Luke Newnes, Interior Squad

Multi-functional furniture

If your pergola needs to be all things for all occasions then you need to maximise functionality with versatile furniture, such as storage benches, modular seating, or foldable tables. Reversible fabrics are great for spaces like this too, especially if it’s a pattern and plain colour combination.

Go green

Last but by no means least, turn to nature. Soften the structure with lush plants. Hanging planters, climbing vines, or potted trees will add a natural element and create a seamless transition between your garden and pergola. Consider fragrant plants like jasmine or lavender for an extra sensory experience.

Make sure to keep any plants or accessories away from the roof to avoid them interfering with the motorised louvres, and if your pergola has side panels stick to potted plants rather than climbers to allow the panels to operate smoothly. The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) provides reliable recommendations for climbers and container plants suitable for UK gardens.

"Pergolas transform any outdoor space by defining an area for outdoor living, adding shade and shelter from the elements to ensure I can enjoy my garden in all weather."
Luke Newnes, Interior Squad

Durability and maintenance tips

To keep your pergola looking great year round, a little maintenance goes a long way. Wooden pergolas benefit from periodic sealing or staining to protect against moisture and UV damage, while metal structures may only need occasional cleaning to remove dirt or debris. Vinyl pergolas are the easiest to maintain, usually requiring just a simple wash with mild soap and water. Regularly checking fixtures, bolts and mechanical features, such as louvres, helps ensure everything continues to operate safely and smoothly.

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