 | Bill Atkinson has been in the lumber business since 1976. He has been the manager for TH Rogers in Pittsburg for the last 5 years. Bill has sold Valspar Paint for the last 34 years. For more information call 620-231-0900 or visit THRogers.com. |
Home Improvement
2010-11-01 13:31:00
Outdoor structures and their descriptions
Question: We’re considering building an outdoor shade structure for our yard. While doing some research, we’ve noticed that there are several different names for outdoor structures. Can you tell us the real differences besides the names?
Answer: Sure! I believe you are referring to arbors, gazebos, pavilions and pergolas.
Let’s begin by how they are similar.
All four are forms of shelter, physical and physiological. Each provides protection from the weather or climate, and add beauty to the larger landscape. All of these types of overhead structures perform similar and related essential design functions. They enclose passageways, provide shade or protection from rain, announce entry and set aside a space designated for certain functions.
Now for how they differ.
An arbor is a structure primarily intended to create shade through the use of vines and climbing flowers. With that in mind, the structure is constructed to support the vines by means of two or more columns supporting an open roof, which the vines then fill in to a great degree. It is frequently used as a statement of entry as over a gate or a gap in a fence or wall. Sometimes it is provided with a bench type seat, which expands its use to that of a destination.
Gazebos commonly have solid roofs and sides that enclose it in a light manner with railings or lattice work, either. The sides may be either fully enclosed with the lattice or other decorative work, or up to railing or hip height, providing one open side for entrance. The sides never obscure view. Traditionally, the roof framing represents the octagon or hexagon shape. These seem to be derived from a romantic and medieval era of architecture, or translated from the more Victorian themes.
Pavilions have solid roof structures with open sides, or may have guard rails on one or two sides. Pavilions can be many shapes but are frequently octagonal or hexagonal in shape. Generally, they are designed to be accessible from many directions.
A pergola is a structure meant to create shade by means of four or more columns supporting an open roof, sometimes covered by vines, but not always. These structures are intended to create a shaded walkway and may be very long.
Whether your project calls for a thin arbor, or the beefier presence of a pavilion, the decision is based upon your intended use and the mood desired for the space. All types of overhead structures can be designed and built to relate to the larger architecture of the site. During the design process keep in mind the simplicity or complexity appropriate for its function and setting.
