5 Ideas for Incorporating Pergolas and Umbrellas into Your Landscape Design

When it comes to designing your outdoor space, pergolas and umbrellas are two key features that can elevate your landscape design. Pergolas offer a shaded space for relaxation and entertainment, while umbrellas provide portable and adjustable shade options. Here are five creative ideas for incorporating pergolas and umbrellas into your landscape design.

Bon Pergola Wall Mount Louvered Villa Pergola

1. Create an Outdoor Dining Space with a Pergola

If you love to entertain and enjoy al fresco dining, a pergola can create a beautiful and functional outdoor dining space. A pergola with a retractable canopy can provide shade during the hot summer months and protection from the elements during inclement weather. A pergola can also define your dining area and add an element of style to your landscape design. 

When choosing a pergola for your outdoor dining space, consider the size and shape of your table and chairs. You'll want to choose a pergola that is large enough to comfortably shade your dining area, and that is tall enough to accommodate your guests. A retractable canopy is a great feature to have for flexibility, as it allows you to adjust the amount of shade as needed. Choose the perfect amount of sun exposure by simply sliding the convertible roof until it is just right.

Creekvine Designs Cedar New Dawn Pergola

Additionally, you can also consider the materials of the pergola. Aluminum and steel pergolas are durable and require little maintenance, while wooden pergolas can add a natural and rustic look to your space. Bon Pergola is a brand that specializes in the manufacture of high-quality outdoor aluminum pergolas. Founded in 2018, they bring four decades of manufacturing experience to the table, ensuring that each and every one of their pergolas is crafted to perfection. Creekvine Designs, on the other hand, manufactures premium wooden pergolas using classical and high-end western red cedar wood in most of their designs, and from other materials such as oak, cherry, poplar, mahogany, pine, or other wood of your choice! 

2. Add Privacy with a Pergola and Climbing Plants

If you want to create a private and secluded area in your outdoor space, a pergola with climbing plants can create a natural and beautiful barrier. Climbing plants such as wisteria, clematis, and jasmine can grow over the pergola and provide a fragrant and colorful addition to your landscape design. 

When choosing climbing plants for your pergola, consider the climate and amount of sunlight in your area. Some climbing plants prefer partial shade, while others thrive in full sun. Additionally, consider the maintenance required for your chosen plant. Some climbing plants, such as ivy, can be invasive and require regular pruning to prevent damage to your pergola. When choosing a pergola for a private and shaded space, consider one with privacy curtains or mosquito netting for added protection and comfort.

Bon Pergola Manual Wind Resistant Side Shade/Screen

Bon Pergola's Freestanding Louvered Villa Pergolas are an excellent choice for creating a private and shaded space in your outdoor area. One of the great features of these pergolas is the option to add a side shade/screen attachment for added privacy and protection. Choose between Manual or Motorized. This attachment can be opened or closed as needed, allowing you to control the amount of shade and privacy in your space.

3. Create a Cozy Seating Area with a Pergola and Fire Pit

A pergola can create a cozy and inviting outdoor seating area that can be enjoyed year-round with the addition of a fire pit. A pergola with a fire pit can provide warmth and ambiance during cool evenings and create a focal point for your outdoor space. 

When adding a fire pit to your outdoor space, safety is paramount. Choose a fire pit that is made from heat-resistant materials and that includes a spark screen to prevent flying embers. Additionally, consider the placement of your fire pit in relation to your pergola. You'll want to make sure that there is adequate clearance between the fire pit and any overhanging structures, and that the fire pit is not placed too close to any flammable materials. When choosing a pergola for a seating area with a fire pit, consider one with a sturdy and weather-resistant design that can withstand the heat and occasional sparks from the fire.

Bon Pergola Manual Aluminum Louver Starry Pergola

When creating a cozy seating area with a fire pit, choosing a high-quality fire pit is essential for safety and functionality. Patio Pelican offers not only a variety of pergolas but also a wide range of high-quality fire pits from well-known brands, such as GlammFire and Fire Pit Art, that are perfect for creating a warm and inviting atmosphere in your outdoor space.

4. Add Colorful Shade with Umbrellas

If you want a simple and portable way to add shade to your outdoor space, umbrellas are a great option. Umbrellas come in a variety of sizes and colors, and can be easily moved and adjusted to provide shade where you need it.  When choosing an umbrella for your outdoor space, consider the size and shape of the area you want to shade. A larger umbrella will provide more shade coverage but may require a larger base for more stability. Additionally, consider an umbrella with a tilt function and one that includes locking mechanisms to prevent accidental closure.

Umbrosa Nano UX Full Black Umbrella

When it comes to incorporating shade into your landscape design, Umbrosa is a great option to consider. This innovative company offers a wide range of stylish and sustainable shade solutions that boast both elegance and simplicity. Not only do Umbrosa provide portable shade solutions but they have umbrellas that can be wall mounted or anchored into the ground for a more permanent fixture. Umbrosa and its team of designers rely on the ingenious aspect of nature to develop polyvalent and innovative shade creations, distinguished in many ways from the classic umbrella. Its umbrella collections are exported to 95 countries worldwide, and for good reason. 

5. Create a Stylish Lounge Area with Umbrellas

If you want to create a stylish and relaxing outdoor lounge area, umbrellas can be used to define your space and add a pop of color. A grouping of umbrellas can create a cohesive and visually appealing design element while providing maximum shade and protection from the sun.  When creating a lounge area with multiple umbrellas, consider the placement and spacing of the umbrellas. You'll want to make sure that each umbrella provides adequate shade coverage, while also allowing enough space for guests to move around comfortably. 

Umbrosa Spectra Forward 80° Cantilever Umbrella

Additionally, consider the color and design of the umbrellas. Whether you prefer a classic and timeless design or a more colorful and playful shade solution, Umbrosa's collections of umbrellas offer a wide range of options to choose from. With their high-quality fabrics, innovative features, and stylish designs, Umbrosa's umbrellas are a great option to consider when incorporating shade into your landscape design.

Patio Pelican’s Takeaways

Incorporating pergolas and umbrellas into your landscape design can elevate your outdoor space and create functional and stylish areas for relaxation and entertainment. From outdoor dining spaces to cozy seating areas, pergolas and umbrellas offer versatile and customizable options for your outdoor design needs. Consider these five creative ideas and the suggested products from Patio Pelican to inspire your own landscape design project.