20 Fresh Design Ideas for Arbors, Arches + Pergolas

Frame the horizon with wood, wisteria and some classic climbing vines.

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February 23, 2018

By: Maria Conti

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Brick in the Backyard

This wood and brick arbor design is classic and would make an idyllic addition to the grounds of traditional homes. Recreate this handsome hardscape by incorporating Irish moss, potato vines and a varied selection of low perennials in your landscape design.

Modern Metal Arbor

Use this striking, modern metal arbor as inspiration when designing your picture-perfect patio. Mixing strong geometric shape of the arbor with lush, layered foliage creates an intimate, eye-catching space for entertaining.

From: Charles Debbas

Contemporary Patio and Pergola

This contemporary white home and pergola prove that sometimes less is more. Skip the paint and opt for fresh, natural wood to pretty-up your patio space.

Partial to Partial-Coverage

A modern arbor is the crowning jewel of this sleek, spacious deck. Use this posh design as encouragement to construct a partial-arbor for your patio.

From: Matt Fajkus Architecture

Pool Views

Location is everything, right? We think these homeowners had the right idea by having their custom-built, natural wood arbor constructed with pretty, pool views in mind. Not only does this create space for pool parties, but it offers sanctuary from the sun in-between laps.

From: LaGuardia Design Group

Anchor with an Arbor

It’s easy to feel intimidated when landscaping an oversized, open backyard. Where do you even begin? Start with the hardscaping. Take a note from this richly-stained, wooden arbor. Constructing an arbor or arch will create intimacy, interest and anchor your space.

From: Aquaterra

Opt Out of the Ordinary

Go against the grain and create your own, unique take on an arbor design. Our muse? This chic sitting area. It features custom furniture and a concrete fire pit beneath a fresh, ipe-wood arbor. #Goals.

From: Aquaterra

Luxe Custom Arbor Living Space

This contemporary seating area just screams "high-end". So, what’s the wow-factor? The curtains, of course. This arbor design combines dramatic drapes, a massive fireplace and plush patio furniture to create the ultimate outdoor living space.

From: LaGuardia Design Group

A Cottage Garden Welcome

A rose trellis on the arched front gate ushers visitors onto the lush and colorful garden pathway leading to an adorable country cottage.

From: Alain Pinel Realtors

Pretty + Private Pathway

A path of dwarf mondo grass and stepping stones give the side entrance of this home a stylish, inviting boost. An aged-wood arbor lines the path overhead and creates added allure to the landscape design.

From: Gurley's Azalea Garden

Your Corner of the World

Hardscaping and landscaping blend seamlessly in this illuminated, Mediterranean-inspired backyard. Soft walkways lead to a brick patio under the Old-World-style pergola. A traditional tiered water fountain is an elegant focal point.

From: Casa Smith Designs, LLC

Elegant Timber Trellis

This romantic master suite is made complete with a private, arched timber trellis and stone walkway. A stone bench serves as a cozy seat for two and climbing vines create softness to the space.

From: Platinum Landscape & Pools

Front Garden Focal Piece

Why reserve hardscape projects for the backyard? The manicured front gardens and warm stone architecture of this Mediterranean home are extenuated by a dashing wood arbor focal piece.

From: PHX Architecture

Wrapped in Wisteria

Use arbors and pergolas to elevate your gardening game — literally. Dreamy, purple wisteria dangles above this outdoor dining area to create a sophisticated spot to enjoy dinner and drinks.

Check Mate

This chic, shadowed deck checks off all the boxes for a striking, stunning design. Take your design chops outside and create an enviable place to entertain and unwind at the end of a long day.

From: NMA Architects

Tropical Patio With Pergola

Who needs to hop on a plane when you have a luxurious, tropical oasis steps from your back door, right? The contrast between the lush, green foliage and the sleek lines of the arbor design create a poolside atmosphere reminiscent of exclusive Caribbean retreats.

From: Design 4 Corners

Old World Charm

Wrought-iron railing, warm brick walkways and a vine-lined, wooden pergola work in tandem to create an enviable, Old World-inspired outdoor space. Create a similar space at home and incorporate petite plants throughout to soften the design.

From: Mark Scott Associates

Minimalist Approach

Simple and chic, this hardscape design proves there’s no need to overthink things to yield stylish results. We’re especially drawn to the laid-back appeal of this arbor and fire pit combo for smaller homes or tiny yards.

Outdoor Dining Room + Courtyard

Opulent outdoor dining, anyone? Inspiration comes easy from this Mediterranean hardscape. The stunning spaces features an expansive pergola, a built-in stone table and a climbing, vine-lined view of Malibu through an elegant garden arch.

From: Paul Brant Williger

Beckoning Beauty

This elegant, arched entryway feels inviting and creates anticipation for guests as they approach the front door. We’re in awe of how nature is integrated into the architecture of this home. The climbing vines are encouraged to grow atop the posh pergola structure through metal beams and string framework.