5 Ways We Guide Clients to Pergola Perfection
PergolaSmarts with Jeff Mazzarelli: A series where our expert responds to your FAQ, with on-the-job photos and examples from the field
The difference between an ordinary backyard and a truly exceptional outdoor space lies in the details, and getting them right is essential to making sure your finished product is aesthetically excellent. Here are the most common situations where expert guidance makes all the difference.
1. Scale and Proportion: The Difference Between 6-inch and 8-inch Columns
Jeff says it best: “Our mind’s eye has a knack for picking up on things that don’t look quite right.” When it comes to aesthetics, even a small difference—like standard 6-inch versus 8-inch columns—can have a huge impact. “You want the width of the top beam to reflect in the size of the columns. You may not consciously notice it, but when a structure is not proportional, you can tell.” Increasing the column size gives heft and presence to the frame, resulting in a structure that feels balanced and fits seamlessly with your home. For clients wanting a railing integrated, a 4-inch column is often most appropriate so the pergola blends with the existing construction. Minding scale and proportion during design is essential for a pergola that looks beautiful and natural.
Decadent Outdoors original project
2. Which Colors to Choose? It Depends on Your Goals
Choosing a color for your pergola can be overwhelming, with options like wood grain, custom colors, and endless combinations. Expert guidance makes the choice clear: “If you want your pergola to be the focal point go for contrast. This draws the eye.” If you want it to blend in, choose monochrome. “Do you see how the pergola almost disappears? That’s why you choose a monochrome palette.” This allows the exterior of the home to shine. When combining colors, neutrals (black, white, gray) work well together, while natural colors (bronze, adobe, tan) also combine beautifully.
Decadent Outdoors original project
3. Fit and Finish: Where Excellence Prevails
To create sleek and seamless pergola, the angles of the roof must be adequately accounted for. When this is done imperfectly, it has an impact on the aesthetics and durability of your structure. This is where technical excellence and attention to detail is essential, and will ensure maximum durability with no wear over years of use. “That is extremely hard to do correctly, and we go to great lengths to make sure our cuts are clean and it comes together in a seamless fashion. Fit and finish is how you determine the quality of your installation.”
4. Make the Space Flow: Avoid Unnecessary Columns
If you want to maximize your entertaining space, make wise use of columns to preserve the flow of your environment. “Ten foot spaces between columns are typical, but we can bolster the beam size to span up to 20 feet”. When a client wanted no columns at all to span a large space, more specific guidance was needed: “We went back and forth with the engineer – finally we found a design that would work.” There are technical solutions for all of these challenges, advised by us and certified by StruXure. Every StruXure product is certified by International Code Council (ICC) standards for durability—the only pergola on the market to meet this standard. No matter the style or specifications you may want, there are many ways to get there. Whatever your preference, we are able to provide guidance.
5. Project Sequencing: Avoiding Regrets
When planning multiple home improvements, the most important thing a homeowner can do is to ask for guidance early, and our experts are willing to provide it for free. From Jeff: “Know what’s involved before doing any renovations—call us, and let us advise you on-site”. Whether you are installing a new patio, pool, or deck along with you pergola, the order in which you make those changes can be the difference between smooth sailing and unnecessary compromises. “Many things aren’t considered until we ask specific questions during a site visit. We can save a lot of trouble”. Planning add-ons later? “You can prepare for electrical work ahead of time. We offer a free site visit to advise you on exactly what is required and the best way to proceed. Know upfront what you are getting into and that will help with sequencing.”
Excellence by Design, by Practice, and by Reputation
Your home is your showcase – good design is essential, and good advice is priceless. Every project is unique and special considerations abound. Excellence is our standard, and your satisfaction is our priority. For the best transformation experience, avoid regret and proceed with confidence by choosing the right expertise.
At Decadent Outdoors, a formal background in landscape architecture meets decades of experience constructing outdoor spaces on resorts worldwide. For us, “Excellence by Design” means every last detail, and we’re here for you every step of the way. Let’s build something exceptional together.
