The Design Feature That’s Transforming Outdoor Spaces
Summer is here, and Canadians are embracing the outdoors like never before. At the heart of this seasonal shift? The pergola. Once considered purely decorative, pergolas have become essential elements of modern outdoor design—offering structure, shade, and style in one sleek package. From compact city patios to expansive country yards, they’re changing the way we live outside.
But pergolas are more than just a design trend—they reflect a broader movement toward making outdoor spaces true extensions of our homes. By defining “rooms” without enclosing walls, pergolas create functional, beautiful zones for lounging, dining, and connecting with nature.
The All-in-One Outdoor Upgrade
At its core, a pergola is a simple structure: vertical posts topped with horizontal beams. But don’t let the simplicity fool you. Whether it’s shading an alfresco dining area, framing a cozy lounge, or elevating an outdoor kitchen, pergolas deliver architectural impact with practical benefits.
What makes them stand out is versatility. Available in materials like cedar, aluminum, vinyl, and fiberglass, pergolas can be customized to suit any style—from rustic retreat to contemporary build. High-tech models now include retractable canopies and motorized louvers, giving homeowners precise control over sunlight, airflow, and privacy.
Choosing the Right Pergola
Wood: Classic and warm, but requires upkeep—think staining, sealing, and monitoring for wear.
Aluminum: A top choice in Canada for its durability, rust resistance, and low maintenance. Powder-coated finishes offer a clean, modern aesthetic and pair beautifully with features like LED lighting, smart sensors, and motorized louvers.
Vinyl: Budget-friendly and easy to maintain, but offers limited customization.
Fiberglass: Strong and flexible—ideal for larger or custom-shaped pergolas, though it comes at a higher price point.
Pro Tip:
Plan Ahead. Consider sun angles, wind exposure, and proximity to features like fire pits or hot tubs. Strategic placement ensures year-round usability.
Built for Canadian Living
Canadian-made systems like those from Suncoast Enclosures—take things a step further. Engineered to handle the country’s harshest weather, their premium aluminum pergolas offer adjustable slats, integrated drainage, retrofit to your space and offer retractable screens LED lighting, radiant heaters, and motorized louvers for true four-season comfort.
These aren’t just shade structures—they’re smart, adaptable outdoor rooms that support everything from midday Zoom calls to evening dinner parties.
Extend the Season with a Sunroom
Looking beyond summer? Consider pairing your pergola with a sunroom. Fully enclosed and insulated, sunrooms offer year-round comfort with expansive outdoor views—ideal for chilly months and transitional seasons.
Pro Tip:
Use your pergola as a transitional zone—connecting the indoor ease of a sunroom with the open-air freedom of your backyard. It’s the perfect flow for modern indoor-outdoor living.
A Smart Investment
Pergolas do more than enhance outdoor living—they boost property value by increasing curb appeal and usable space. Whether for entertaining, relaxing, or just enjoying the breeze, they turn backyards into personal retreats.
There’s something special about stepping outside into a space that feels distinctly your own. For Canadians, those warm summer months are golden—which makes investing in the outdoors not just practical, but deeply meaningful.
This summer, open the doors, step outside, and stay awhile.
You don’t have to go far to feel at home.
Credit: Evelyn Eshun is the founder of Toronto-based award-winning design firm Evelyn Eshun Design, renowned and respected for her thoughtfully designed projects. www.evelyneshun.com
suncoastenclosures.com
