Modern Pergola Design Ideas: Freestanding & Attached

According to Builder Magazine, over 70% of Americans say a spacious yard would be at the top of their home wish list. However, scorching sun and lack of designated sitting space can make a yard practically unusable. If you feel like you don’t spend enough time in your yard, a modern pergola can transform your outdoor space from unusable to beautiful!

The clean lines and simple structure of a pergola make it perfect for a wide variety of functions. You can turn that unused corner of your yard into a place to gather, provide a spot to lounge next to your pool, or shade your grill and outdoor dining set, all without adding an unsightly umbrella or awning.

Modern pergola designs are more than just structures— they’re statements. Ready to find the perfect pergola for your backyard? Dive into our favorite freestanding and attached designs below or contact us to talk to one of our builders!

Freestanding Contemporary Pergolas

Freestanding pergolas are independent structures that do not require attachment to a building or house. They will typically have four posts but can have more depending on the size of the structure. Click here to learn how to choose the perfect pergola size for your space, or check out some of our favorite freestanding modern pergola designs below:

Poolside Pergola a modern pergola design by a pool

While being in a pool can be refreshing, sometimes you may want a break from the sun. Add some shade and charm to your poolside with a pergola!

Pergola Over Grill a contemporary pergola over a grill

Anyone who’s grilled in the summer knows it’s a sweaty, thankless job. Add a pergola over your grilling area to provide relief from the sun and create a stylish outdoor kitchen area!

Garden Pergola modern pergola in a garden

Want to add shade to your garden without taking away from the natural beauty? Admire your handiwork from the protection of a pergola! Plus, the added shade is perfect for partial-sun plants!

A contemporary pergola that isn’t attached to a house can offer a variety of benefits to your outdoor space, including:

Versatile Placement: You can place a freestanding pergola anywhere in your yard.
360-Degree Design: When a modern pergola is freestanding, you are free to enjoy and design the entire structure. Standing alone, modern pergola designs can be truly appreciated.
Simple Installation: Since freestanding pergolas don’t need to be attached to existing structures, the installation process is extremely straight-forward.
Increased Outdoor Living-Space: A freestanding modern pergola gives you the ability to claim a new piece of your yard as livable. A sunbaked poolside or an empty slab of concrete can become places to enjoy.

Overall, a freestanding pergola provides aesthetic appeal and functionality to your backyard, making it a valuable addition to any outdoor area! Click below to see our full gallery of modern pergolas:

Modern Pergola Attached to House

Attached pergolas, on the other hand, are directly connected to an existing structure, typically your home, garage, or another building. They often require fewer posts because they rely on the attached structure for support on one side. Attached pergolas are as practical as they are stylish. Below are some great examples of how a modern pergola attached to house can act as an extension of your home:

Pergola over Patio modern pergola attached to house with couches underneath

Extend your living room outside with an attached pergola! This is the perfect place to read a book, play games, or just spend time with friends and family while enjoying the outdoors. Click here to see how you can maximize the shade on your wooden pergola with a roof.

Pergola for Dining dining set under contemporary pergola

What’s more fun than eating outside? Gather family or friends under your pergola for the best meal of the summer.

Pergola for Pets modern pergola with a dog underneath

People aren’t the only ones that need shade in the heat of summer; a porch pergola makes a perfect pet perch! Your dog can lounge in the shade for hours, enjoying the outdoors without overheating.

Attaching a pergola to your house is a great way to improve your backyard. Some perks include:

Extended Living Space: By attaching a pergola to your home, you create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor areas. You can easily set up a table and have dinner outside.
Convenient Access: One of the best perks of a modern pergola attached to a house is the ease of access. If it’s a nice day, just open your backdoor and drift back and forth as you please!
Increased Property Value: A modern pergola attached to your house will increase your home’s value. A shaded patio is a huge incentive for home buyers.

Browse Modern Pergola Designs Here!

At B&L Woodworking, we have been hand building contemporary pergolas for years. Our Amish craftsmen are some of the most trusted on the East Coast. We custom-build every project, meaning you get exactly what you’re looking for.

Our hand-built wood and vinyl pergolas offer superior quality, design, and durability compared to cheap box store kits. While plastic kits from big-box stores tend to fade, warp, or become brittle over time, we use materials that don’t.

By designing your own pergola, you have full control over its style, ensuring it complements your home. Plus, we can build it to fit your space, whether you need a freestanding contemporary pergola or a modern pergola attached to your house. Learn more about choosing the perfect pergola size for your space here!

Ready to upgrade your backyard with a beautiful contemporary pergola? Click below to view our full catalog of pergola designs or contact us to talk to an expert!

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