A pergola is a garden feature that forms a shaded walkway, passageway, or sitting area. It is made of vertical posts or pillars that usually support cross-beams and a sturdy open lattice, often upon which woody vines are trained. Pergolas are sometimes confused with arbors, and the terms are often used interchangeably. An arbor is generally regarded as a wooden bench seat with a roof, usually enclosed by lattice panels forming a framework for climbing plants. A pergola, on the other hand, is a much larger and more open structure and does not typically include integral seating.

Pergolas date back to the 17th century and have been prominent features of gardens ever since. Construction materials have ranged from wood and stone to more modern materials such as vinyl, fiberglass, aluminum, and CPVC. At Graham Landscape & Design, we typically build our pergolas in the Eugene-Springfield area out of wood with cedar and redwood being the top choices.

Like any wooden structure, regular maintenance is advised to extend the life and beauty of a pergola. A natural or colored stain is advised, and reapplication should take place every couple of years.

Typically, pergolas are paired with climbing plants such as grapes, wisteria, bougainvillea, honeysuckle, passion flower, jasmine, and bleeding heart.

If you're considering a pergola for your yard, you'll want to make sure you have a large enough area so that you don't feel claustrophobic. Your yard should have plenty of open space where the pergola can be freestanding or be featured as an extension of your home. Regarding height, you will want a pergola to be in the 10-12 foot height range to allow for plant growth and to have hanging vines.

To learn more if a pergola will work in your space, give us a call at 541-729-8029 and we can explore your options with you. We serve all of the Willamette Valley in Oregon.

When most people think about ways to spruce up their landscape, the typical “go to” solutions include new plantings and some focal point – maybe a water feature or a fire pit. But did you know that incorporating woodwork can create a visually striking space? Here are a few ways you can do this.

• Fencing -- Nearly every yard today has a fence along its borders, but fences don’t have to be boring. There are several choices of wood, trim, and how you lay the planks. You can even get fancy with the top of your fence with custom lattice work or toppers for your posts. If you’re not too concerned about privacy, you can also consider alternative materials such as metal wire grids and thin slats spaced apart.
• Pergolas & Overhead Structures -- If your fence is in great shape, perhaps you can consider a pergola or other type of overhead structure. Pergolas create relaxing spaces and allow for climbing plants to grow up and over the top. Other overhead structures, such as custom wood patio covers, create opportunities to enjoy your landscape all year round.
• Gates -- Gates can help section off portions of your landscape. For example, when you have company over, you can use gates to keep your dogs in a side yard. Or, you can use gates to keep guests from wandering into your “work area” in the yard, where you keep all your tools and materials. Gates can be short or tall. When paired with walkways and colorful plantings, gates can create a certain charm or mystique, too.
• Decks -- If you’re tired of your concrete patio, consider upgrading to a wood deck. Not only do they last for years, but wood decks also add more visual appeal to your landscape and can be framed with all sorts of plantings and lighting.
• Custom Projects -- Woodwork can be integrated into your landscape in other ways, too, such as with custom sheds, raised planter beds, bridges over a pond or waterfall, or even with privacy screening. If you can think of it, chances are it can be accomplished with a beautiful wood treatment.

At Graham Landscape & Design, we have an exceptionally talented carpentry crew. Our team can meet with you to discuss your specific needs, explore ideas, and construct a project perfect for your space. Give us a call today at (541) 729-8029.