15 Patio Covering Ideas

When activities with family and friends move outdoors, it's nice to have shelter from the sun or gentle rain. A covered patio serves the purpose, and cover options run the gamut from a simple umbrella over a cozy table for two to elaborate pavilions that can cover a crowd. Consider your space, your design style and your budget, and click through to check out a variety of ideas.

A pergola is the cover of choice for many patios, and defines the space for the cozy outdoor room above, which features a fireplace and comfortable seating.

A custom steel pergola outfitted with eye-catching hexagonal chandeliers creates a welcoming outdoor dining room on this concrete patio. Douglas fir joists complement the wood dining table below, while an accent wall of potted bamboo pulls the whole space together.

If you're handy, a pergola can be a fairly simple DIY project. Hang plants from the posts and rafters, grow vines over the top for more shade, or string lights overhead to complete the look.

A canvas canopy shields this outdoor kitchen from the elements. The canopy's best feature: In the off-season or when full sun is preferred, the canvas can be rolled up or put away.