Pavilions, Pergolas, Gazebos – these words might be ones you come across when you’re doing research online about how to finish your outdoor space, but how can you be sure what these three things actually are, what their differences are and which one is best suited for your outdoor space and your lifestyle. There are distinct differences between these three structures for your outdoor space, and each one has unique benefits. Here is how to know which is which, and which is best suited for your space.
Pavilion
A pavilion is a large tent-like structure, usually with a peak at the top and is completely open on all four sides. They can be built in the square or rectangle shapes and are usually used to provide shelter to an entertaining space, so that it can be used in the majority of outdoor conditions. You might want to put one of these over a table or couch and chairs in order to provide shade on really hot, sunny days.
Pavilions can be elaborately decorated, too. Some will have ornate columns supporting the top peak, or might have vines wrapped around the columns. Some homeowners string lights around the inside of the tent peak so it can be used after sunset, too.
Pergolas
This kind of structure is more typically used in garden settings. Pergolas are structures that provide a shaded, but not completely covered, sitting area or walkway. They are made of a series of vertical posts and pillars with cross beams on top of them, and they usually have lattice of some kind secured to them or have mature vines growing up and around the pillars.
This kind of feature for your backyard does not have a completely covered top, so if you live in a very sunny area or you don’t have large, mature trees in your backyard then this may not be an option for you. It will provide some shade, but it is not a complete retreat from the sun like a pavilion would be. These are also usually smaller than pavilions, so if your entertaining space is smaller, or you only have a sitting space then this might be a better option than a pavilion for you.
Gazebo
These outdoor features are usually constructed in the shape of an octagon and have a domed roof supports by eight columns. Gazebos are completely covered, like pavilions, however they are designed to accommodate smaller gatherings. Where pavilions, depending on the size, are designed for entertaining twenty people, or more, gazebos are ideal for parties smaller than ten people usually. Due to being shaped in an octagon, rather than a square or a rectangle, they are also typically not open on all sides and might have two or three openings with chair rails along the remaining sides.
Gazebos can also provide a great relief from really sunny days, or if it is raining you can still sit outside under the shelter of the gazebo and enjoy your outdoor space. This option is also great if you want complete shade, but you do not have a large outdoor space and, in some cases, they come mostly pre-constructed so all you really need to do is buy the kit and assemble it.
Overall, which one of these is right for you largely depends on what you want to use your backyard for, and how much space you have. If you consistently have large parties then perhaps a pavilion, open on all sides but covered on top, is right for you. However, if you prefer to sit outside and quietly read while enjoying the sunshine then a pergola might be a much better option. Finally if you enjoy entertaining, but it tends to be small and intimate parties but you still want the complete coverage from the sun or rain then purchasing a gazebo will be the best investment for you. There isn’t one right answer, and it ultimately comes down to what you want for your space, but no matter which you choose knowing the difference and the benefits of each will only ensure you have made the right choice for you so that you can get the most out of your outdoor space!
