On a hot day discovering a shady spot in which to sit can be very enjoyable.  A pergola is a structure that provides a framework for partial shade for just this type of day. Oftentimes, plants or vines are trained to grow up and over the framework. The origin of the word pergola is Latin, referring to a projecting eave.

I would guess that the first pergola was built in Abraham or Moses’ day. This past year we were commissioned with making a modern looking pergola. A combination of wood and metal was decided upon and the results were dramatic!  The owner decided to let the metal I-beam rust to add some patina to the project. 

The new structure was created to replace an existing pergola which had design problems.  The existing unit was built at roof eave height which was no problem in the summertime; however, during the winter, snow and ice accumulated and the build-up would push and stress the pergola.  

We understood that a new structure would need to allow snow and ice movement underneath the pergola.   However, if the pergola was too high it would not provide the needed shade during the summer months. After fashioning some models of the sun’s movement in the back yard, a gentle bending structure was settled upon. The owner affectionately calls the pergola the “Starship Enterprise.”

It was a fun project!