Arrangement of space under the pergola - how to create a dream resting corner
Determination of functions and zones
The first step in designing the space under your pergola is to determine how you will use it. Is it supposed to be mainly a seating area with comfortable couches? Or do you dream of an outdoor dining room where you will organize family dinners? Or do you need a combination of both of these functions?
It is worth analyzing the rhythm of your family's day and thinking about what times you will most often use the pergola. If you are planning outdoor breakfasts, pay attention to the setting relative to the rising sun. For evening social gatherings, the right lighting will be key [link to article #6 on pergola configuration].
With a larger space, it is worth considering the division into functional zones. Most often, a layout with a clearly separated seating area (sofas, armchairs) and a dining area (table with chairs) works well. Be sure to keep the appropriate transitions between the zones - a minimum of 80 cm wide will ensure free communication.
Selection and placement of furniture
Furniture for pergolas must meet special requirements. Even though a bioclimatic pergola provides excellent weather protection [link to article #10 on preparing pergolas for different seasons], it is worth choosing furniture adapted for outdoor use.
As for the materials, they will work great:
· Aluminum - lightweight and corrosion resistant
· Technorattan - looks natural, but is more durable than real rattan
· Teak - expensive, but extremely resistant to external conditions
· Technical materials - special outdoor fabrics resistant to UV radiation
Modular furniture is becoming increasingly popular, which allows you to easily change the arrangement depending on your needs. For example, you can create both a corner for evening relaxation and place individual seats for a larger meeting.
When arranging furniture, pay special attention to the movement of the roof lamellas. It is best to arrange the furniture so that the light falling through the adjustable slats creates a pleasant play of shadows, without dazzling the users. In the case of a solar pergola, it is also worth considering the optimal insolation of photovoltaic panels.
Materials and colors
The choice of materials and colors is not only a matter of aesthetics, but also of practicality. Bright colors will heat up less in the sun, but they will also show dirt faster. Dark materials, on the other hand, although elegant, can be unpleasantly hot on hot days.
A good solution is to base it on neutral colors for the main furniture, and to introduce color accents through cushions, plaids and accessories. It will then be easier to refresh the decor, replacing only the accessories.
Outdoor fabrics should not only be weatherproof, but also easy to clean. It is worth paying attention to materials with a water-repellent coating, which will facilitate the removal of dirt. For decorative pillows, removable covers that can be washed will work well.
When combining different materials and textures, it is worth being guided by the principle of contrast - smooth surfaces will look interesting in combination with natural textures, and matte finishes can be broken with subtle sparkles. But remember not to overdo it with the amount of different patterns and textures - too many elements can create visual chaos.
[Link to article #12 on automation and control systems] will help you understand how intelligent control of the pergola can affect the comfort of use of different zones and the matching of lighting to the selected finishing materials.
Lighting system
Adequate lighting under a pergola is much more than just a matter of a good view after dark. This is the key to creating the right atmosphere and extending the time you can spend in that space. Modern bioclimatic pergolas offer an integrated LED lighting system that can be adapted to different needs and occasions [link to article #6 on pergola setup].
The basis is functional lighting, providing the right amount of light for daily activities. In the dining area, a more powerful, focused light will come in handy, which will illuminate the table well. In the recreation area, on the other hand, diffused, soft lighting that creates a cozy atmosphere will work better.
In Solar Breaker pergolas, you can use three types of LED lighting:
· LED strips in crown profiles - provide uniform illumination of the entire space
· Spot lighting in lamellas - creates a spectacular play of light
· Additional lighting in the legs of the structure - emphasizes the architecture of the pergola
Multimedia and entertainment area
A contemporary pergola can be more than just a covered terrace — it's a potentially comprehensive entertainment zone. Thanks to the integration with multimedia systems [link to article #12 on automation systems] you can create a space ideal for evening watching movies or listening to music.
The Solar Breaker pergola audio system uses high-quality speakers that can be mounted discreetly in the structure. The speakers are weatherproof and provide balanced sound throughout the space. Importantly, the system can be connected to the mobile app, giving you full control over your music from your smartphone.
If you are planning a TV zone, it is worth thinking about the issue of mounting the screen. The TV should be adapted for outdoor use or protected by a special case. An alternative can be a mobile projector and a retractable screen, which you will use only when you need it.
Plants and decorative elements
Plants are a natural way to liven up your pergola space and create a connection to your garden. When choosing plants, consider the amount of light that will reach them through the slats [link to article #10 on preparing pergolas for different seasons].
They will work well:
· Shade-loving plants in the deeper parts of the pergola
· Flowering species at the edges, where more light reaches
· Herbs in pots - practical and decorative
· Climbers on the sidewalls (if you do not have zip-screens installed)
The irrigation system can be integrated into the design of the pergola, which will facilitate the care of plants. It is also worth thinking about the choice of planters - they should be sufficiently heavy and stable so that they do not tip over during strong winds.
Practical finishing of the space
The floor under the pergola is not only a matter of aesthetics, but, above all, functionality. WPC composite decking is a popular choice because of its durability and ease of keeping clean. It is important to make suitable dilations that will allow natural movements of the material under the influence of temperature changes.
In colder weather, the comfort of being under the pergola will be provided by infrared heaters. In the Solar Breaker pergola it is possible to install radiators integrated into the structure, controlled by the same application as the rest of the functions. It is recommended to install one heater on about 10m² of area.
Finally, it is worth thinking about practical storage for accessories - pillows, plaids or multimedia equipment. Benches with storage compartments or dedicated boxes made of materials resistant to external conditions can be used.
Did you know that...? “Unlike traditional light bulbs, the integrated LED system in Solar Breaker pergolas can last up to 50,000 hours, which with average evening use (4 hours a day) means more than 30 years of trouble-free operation. And thanks to the power supply from photovoltaic panels in lamellas, the system generates practically no operating costs!”
Lighting system
Adequate lighting under a pergola is much more than just a matter of a good view after dark. This is the key to creating the right atmosphere and extending the time you can spend in that space. Modern bioclimatic pergolas offer an integrated LED lighting system that can be adapted to different needs and occasions [link to article #6 on pergola setup].
The basis is functional lighting, providing the right amount of light for daily activities. In the dining area, a more powerful, focused light will come in handy, which will illuminate the table well. In the recreation area, on the other hand, diffused, soft lighting that creates a cozy atmosphere will work better.
In Solar Breaker pergolas, you can use three types of LED lighting:
· LED strips in crown profiles - provide uniform illumination of the entire space
· Spot lighting in lamellas - creates a spectacular play of light
· Additional lighting in the legs of the structure - emphasizes the architecture of the pergola
Multimedia and entertainment area
A contemporary pergola can be more than just a covered terrace — it's a potentially comprehensive entertainment zone. Thanks to the integration with multimedia systems [link to article #12 on automation systems] you can create a space ideal for evening watching movies or listening to music.
The Solar Breaker pergola audio system uses high-quality speakers that can be mounted discreetly in the structure. The speakers are weatherproof and provide balanced sound throughout the space. Importantly, the system can be connected to the mobile app, giving you full control over your music from your smartphone.
If you are planning a TV zone, it is worth thinking about the issue of mounting the screen. The TV should be adapted for outdoor use or protected by a special case. An alternative can be a mobile projector and a retractable screen, which you will use only when you need it.
Plants and decorative elements
Plants are a natural way to liven up your pergola space and create a connection to your garden. When choosing plants, consider the amount of light that will reach them through the slats [link to article #10 on preparing pergolas for different seasons].
They will work well:
· Shade-loving plants in the deeper parts of the pergola
· Flowering species at the edges, where more light reaches
· Herbs in pots - practical and decorative
· Climbers on the sidewalls (if you do not have zip-screens installed)
The irrigation system can be integrated into the design of the pergola, which will facilitate the care of plants. It is also worth thinking about the choice of planters - they should be sufficiently heavy and stable so that they do not tip over during strong winds.
Practical finishing of the space
The floor under the pergola is not only a matter of aesthetics, but, above all, functionality. WPC composite decking is a popular choice because of its durability and ease of keeping clean. It is important to make suitable dilations that will allow natural movements of the material under the influence of temperature changes.
In colder weather, the comfort of being under the pergola will be provided by infrared heaters. In the Solar Breaker pergola it is possible to install radiators integrated into the structure, controlled by the same application as the rest of the functions. It is recommended to install one heater on about 10m² of area.
Finally, it is worth thinking about practical storage for accessories - pillows, plaids or multimedia equipment. Benches with storage compartments or dedicated boxes made of materials resistant to external conditions can be used.
Did you know that...? “Unlike traditional light bulbs, the integrated LED system in Solar Breaker pergolas can last up to 50,000 hours, which with average evening use (4 hours a day) means more than 30 years of trouble-free operation. And thanks to the power supply from photovoltaic panels in lamellas, the system generates practically no operating costs!”
Solar Pergolas
