When it comes to enhancing your garden or outdoor space, the terms pergola, trellis, and arbor are often used interchangeably, but they’re actually different types of outdoor structures — each designed for a unique purpose. Whether you want to create shade, support climbing plants, or define an area in your garden, understanding these garden structures will help you choose the right one.
Below, we explore the difference between these three structures, their features, and how they’re built to support your outdoor living dreams.
Outdoor Living
Your outdoor space is more than just a patio or a garden — it’s an extension of your home, designed for relaxation and enjoyment. Adding structures like a pergola, arbor, or trellis can transform an ordinary area into an inviting place for gatherings, or a quiet retreat surrounded by plants and vines.
These outdoor structures are often built from wood, designed with open sides, and made to blend seamlessly with nature while supporting climbing plants and vines.
Outdoor Structures: The Basics
Here are some key features of each structure, so you can easily see the difference between them:
Pergola
A pergola is a larger outdoor structure, typically freestanding or attached to your home, with a flat roof formed by beams and lattice. Its open design provides partial shade while still letting sunlight filter through.
Pergolas are often built over a patio or seating area, creating a beautiful focal point. They are designed to support climbing plants like roses, vines, or wisteria, which can cover the roof and sides, offering even more shade and privacy.
With their sturdy posts, pergolas are made from materials like wood, metal, or vinyl and are built to last.
Trellis
A trellis is a simpler structure, usually a flat panel of lattice, designed to support climbing plants and vines. Trellises are often used as a decorative feature along walls, fences, or as a freestanding outdoor structure to define an area of your garden.
They are typically made from wood or metal and are built to be lightweight yet strong enough to hold plants. Trellises are perfect for creating a vertical garden or adding height and interest to an outdoor space.
Arbor
An arbor (sometimes spelled arbour) is a charming garden structure, usually freestanding and arched, with posts, a roof, and open sides. Arbors are often used to frame an entrance, pathway, or seating area, creating a romantic space in the garden.
Like pergolas and trellises, an arbor is designed to support climbing plants, which can grow over the roof and down the sides, covering the structure in lush greenery and flowers.
Pergolas Trellises and Arbors: Which One Should You Choose?
When choosing between an arbour vs trellis vs pergola, consider the space, purpose, and aesthetic you want to achieve:
- Choose a pergola if you want to define a large outdoor space, add shade, and create an area for outdoor living or dining.
- Choose a trellis if you want to add vertical interest, support climbing plants, and decorate walls or fences.
- Choose an arbor if you want to frame a pathway, entrance, or small seating area with an arched, romantic structure.
Outdoor Space Inspiration
No matter which structure you choose, each is designed to enhance your outdoor space, provide support for climbing plants, and add character to your garden. Whether you prefer the grand presence of a pergola, the simplicity of a trellis, or the intimate charm of an arbor, these garden structures will transform your outdoor space into something truly special.
Ready to improve your outdoor living experience? At Fencing Services Plymouth, we can help you design and install the perfect pergola, trellis, or arbor for your home and garden. Contact us today to discuss your project!