If you’re searching for a new outdoor living structure for your garden, you might be wondering what the difference is between a pergola vs gazebo. These two structures are very similar in many ways, with both providing shelter and privacy. However, the design differences between the two might make one more suitable for your outdoor space than the other.
In this blog, the outdoor living experts at Open Space Concepts explain the differences between modern pergolas and gazebos to help you decide which structure is right for you.
Gazebo vs pergola: What’s the difference?
When discussing the difference between the two structures, it’s important to remember that there are many different types of pergolas and gazebos.
Traditionally, the biggest difference was the style of the roof: gazebos generally had a permanent roof canopy that provided complete shelter from the elements, while pergolas had an open roof made up of horizontal lattice beams that offered only partial shade.
However, most modern pergolas now feature retractable roofs, which means they offer far more versatility than gazebos when it comes to how you enjoy your outdoor space. With a remote-controlled retractable pergola, you can open the roof when you want to soak up some sunshine and close the roof when you need shade or shelter from the rain – all at the press of a button.
What’s more, the design style of pergolas has advanced considerably over recent years, with this kind of structure now offering a more sleek and practical option in comparison to gazebos. Pergolas can be attached to the house or integrated into the main structure of your home, unlike gazebos which can only be built as freestanding structures.
Is a pergola or gazebo more suitable for your outdoor space?
Deciding whether to choose a pergola or gazebo for your outdoor space largely comes down to four considerations:
1.Desired amount of weather protection
While a gazebo will keep you sheltered from rain and intense sun, it does not give you the option to let the sunshine in if you want to. This could make it less practical in the summer when having full control over the amount of light and heat that enters your outdoor living space is desirable.
If it’s a versatile, all-weather solution you’re looking for, a contemporary metal pergola might be the best choice. These structures have a retractable roof that allows you to let in just the right amount of sun or shade, so you can relax and enjoy the weather on your own terms. On rainy days, the retractable roof can be closed to form a 100% watertight seal, ensuring the structure can be used all year round.
2.Location
Think about where you want your outdoor structure to be located. A pergola can be attached to your house or built as a freestanding structure elsewhere in your garden, while a gazebo can only be freestanding due to its shape.
This immediately eliminates gazebos as an option if you want your structure to be an extension of your home. However, that’s not to say you’ll be limited in options – most modern wall-mounted pergolas can be fully customised to meet your unique specifications and designed to blend seamlessly with your home’s existing facade.
3.Aesthetic preferences
Another factor to consider is the design and appearance of a pergola vs gazebo. Modern pergolas tend to have a sleek and contemporary design, whilst permanent gazebos often have a more traditional look.
That said, contemporary pergolas are a great choice for any style of property as they can be fully customised, giving you complete control over the appearance of the structure. At Open Space Concepts, you not only get to choose the colour and roof style for your bespoke aluminium pergola, but can also opt to personalise your structure with a wide range of additional features. These include:
- LED lighting
- Infrared heating
- Remote-controlled drop-down screens
- Fixed glazing and glass sliding doors
To see some examples of our fantastic pergola structures, check out our range of case studies.
4.Budget
Of course, budget is also a major consideration when it comes to choosing between a pergola vs gazebo. The cost of a bespoke modern pergola is likely to be more than the cost of a gazebo due to its contemporary features and high-quality design. However, this makes a pergola a more worthwhile investment, as it’s more likely to stand the test of time and will add greater value to your property.
If you’re leaning towards a pergola structure but have a strict budget, get in touch with the Open Space Concepts team. We’ll work with you to design a pergola that meets your needs without exceeding your budget.
So, which is better: a pergola or a gazebo?
Although gazebos traditionally offered greater protection from the elements, contemporary pergolas are now the superior choice, providing ultimate comfort, practicality, and style.
At Open Space Concepts, we specialise in the design and installation of bespoke contemporary pergolas, crafted in collaboration with some of Europe’s leading manufacturers.
We’re one of the UK’s most trusted outdoor living companies, with hundreds of 5-star reviews on Trustpilot demonstrating our commitment to quality work and customer service.
If you’re interested in finding out more about our pergolas, or want to get your project underway, fill out our online enquiry form or get in touch with the team directly on 0808 168 0043.
