Modern Pergolas: Everything You Should Know – Backyard Discovery

Backyard Discovery Pergola

An outdoor pergola is the perfect way to transform your backyard into an outdoor oasis. These open structures create a beautiful covered gathering area. You can enjoy the warmth of a sunny day and still have a shaded retreat by adding a canopy cover.

At Backyard Discovery, you'll find pergolas for all outdoor spaces. It's a gorgeous way to extend living spaces to the outdoors and entertain family and friends in premium comfort.

What is a Pergola?

A pergola is an open-roof structure created from columns, often made of wood or metal, and connected at the top by beams to form a horizontal lattice. It is a free-standing structure that you can put anywhere in your backyard to add style and elegance. Select pergolas also come with an option to add a removable soft shade canopy for protection against the sun. In addition, Backyard Discovery offers cabana pergolas, a smaller option with two walls and an intimate seating area perfect for those looking for some privacy.

Types of Pergolas

There are several different types of pergolas, but the most common are wood and metal. Al our wood pergolas are made with 100% cedar and all metal pergolas are made with galvanized steel.

20x12 beaumont pergola

Cedar Pergolas are a great choice if you’re looking for a wood material. Cedar is naturally rot and insect-resistant, and its finish will prevent it from looking worn out after spending years in the sun. It is one of the most durable types of wood and can withstand adverse weather conditions as well as resist warping and mildew. With proper care, a cedar pergola can last 12 years or longer.

14x10 Stratford Pergola

Steel Pergolas offer a great alternative to wood if you’re looking for a durable structure that requires little maintenance. Galvanized steel pergolas are rust resistant, so you won't have to worry about moisture wreaking havoc. The powder-coated steel that we use for our steel pergolas resists fading, scratching, chipping and wear, so your pergola looks good no matter what type of weather conditions it's exposed to. Steel pergolas are also more durable than aluminum and vinyl pergolas, which means they can withstand harsh outdoor conditions.

Ridgedale Cabana Pergola

Cabana Pergolas are a more intimate and private alternative to traditional pergolas. Our cabana pergolas are smaller than our traditional ones and have two walls. This creates an intimate gathering area that can be assembled in smaller spaces and offers a level of privacy that a traditional pergola doesn’t. We have both steel and cedar cabana pergola options, and some come with a built-in seating area.

Why a Pergola?

A pergola can have many uses. Perhaps you want to elevate your garden space. The beauty of a pergola is that your plants still get the sun while being under a stylish structure that helps separate your yard. It could be that you want to create a gathering space outside. A pergola is a terrific structure to add luxury to your outdoor dining or seating area.

And because some of our pergolas come with an option to add a removable soft shaded canopy, you can enjoy a space filled with sunlight or a shaded retreat, depending on your preference and pergola choice.

What is a Modern Pergola?

Modern pergolas tend to have a simple box frame design with clean lines and 90-degree angles. They are usually four or six-column structures with beams and purlins that create a streamlined style designed to complement the clean lines of modern furniture styles.

Our pergolas come in a number of sizes ranging from 12-20 feet wide and 10-12 feet deep. They also come in a variety of styles based on material and color. No matter your aesthetic, you’re sure to find a pergola that will enhance your outdoor space.

What to Consider When Buying a Modern Pergola

The number one thing to consider when buying a modern pergola is the material. If you want a modern architecture but the feel of a traditional aesthetic, a cedar pergola is a good choice. If you want the look of a modern pergola with virtually no maintenance, steel is your best option. Both cedar and steel are durable materials that are designed to hold up well in adverse weather.

Another thing to consider is the size and design of your outdoor space. If you have a larger space you may have room for a larger size pergola. If you have a pool, you’ll want to measure the area around the pool deck to find the size for you. If you have a small yard or garden, maybe a cabana pergola is best.


No matter your situation, a pergola from Backyard Discovery is sure to enhance your outdoor living space. From a dining area to comfortable seating, poolside chairs to fire pits, there’s no limit to the creativity you can have under your modern pergola.

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