Last updated: May 2026
Pergolas are freestanding structures that provide seating, shade, shelter and comfort outside the house and add lots of character to an outdoor area.
You don’t have much space, but would really like to have an outside entertaining area. Is it worth constructing a small pergola to create this zone for your home? The short answer is YES, so in this blog, we’ll discuss some design ideas to get you excited about the ways you could incorporate a small pergola in your garden.
5 things to know about pergolas:
Combining old and new to create a beautiful space
This is an awesome example of a traditional styled roof with timber rafters and beams that bring warmth and add character. This style offers the classic ageless corrugated roof sheets and timber beams are left exposed to create this modern outdoor entertaining area. Even small pergola areas offer another zone in the home for dining or living.
Backyard barbecues with outdoor dining
A high, sleek, modern roof to create the perfect outdoor entertaining area. Walk straight out from the home to your outdoor dining area, which connects to the backyard. The perfect place for outdoor entertaining, backyard cricket and Summer barbecues. It doesn’t have to be a large area to make a huge difference to the home.
A Fun and Bright Area
This pergola uses clear sheeting to cover the exposed timber beams. The modern style of this pergola will let the light penetrate through to engulf the area below and gives protection and shelter from the elements. It doesn’t have to be a large area to offer another entertaining area or a special place to relax and unwind. Why wouldn’t you want to be outside enjoying the wonderful Queensland climate?
Re-claim that unused space and create a brand new outside area
This is a great example of creating more liveable outdoor area to the home by the addition of a raised outdoor pergola, which has the benefit of additional storage beneath. This area has given this home an outdoor entertaining zone and also offers plenty of secure storage space underneath for garden equipment and the kids bikes, etc. Again, not a large area, but what a difference it can make to a home.
A raised Pergola overlooking the backyard
This is an example of a timber deck that leads down some stairs. It creates a special little escape corner and is also perfect for watching over the kids. This Pergola has created an amazing outdoor living zone in this area.
A sleek, stylish and modern Gazebo
Okay, this one is a Gazebo (not attached to the home), but again what an amazing use of a small space. This pergola has an open and high roof yet it is closed off from any neighbours prying eyes. The space offers protection from above and provides an amazing dining/entertainment area. Overlooking the pool and built on a raised deck, it adds to the wow factor, which makes perfect use of a small corner in this backyard.
DeKing can help you create the perfect pergola for your outside space and bring your vision to life.
The team offer expert advice and use only quality products so that you can rest assured your investment will last long into the future.
Roofing material selections include: corrugated, Colorbond, clear multiwall, clear corrugated, or any combination of roof types.
Get in touch with the team to discuss your pergola at DeKing to talk about your pergola plans.
Popular pergola styles focus on merging architectural extensions with smart technology. The most sought-after designs prioritise clean-lined minimalism, multi-functional outdoor kitchen areas and BBQs, and hybrid materials that balance sleek metal frames with the warmth of natural timber.
The material for your pergola depends on your budget, how much maintenance you are willing to do, and the style of your home. The most common materials are timber for a classic look, aluminium for modern, low-maintenance durability, and steel for high strength.
Incorporating lighting into your pergola involves blending ambient, task, and accent layers. Start by mapping where you want to eat, lounge or cook. Then, integrate outdoor-rated fixtures directly into the rafters, or use hidden channels for a sleek, modern, and weatherproof glow.
In Queensland’s warm, subtropical climate, pergola plants need to handle intense sun and humidity while providing excellent shade. Top options include fast-growing vines like Bougainvillea, fragrant Star Jasmine, or fruiting Passionfruit vines. Potted Bromeliads and Ferns add lush, tropical aesthetics beneath the structure.
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