How to Improve the Shade and Privacy of Your Garden Pergola

Pergolas have been a staple of garden design for centuries. Renowned for their beauty and practicality, they're more than just ornamental structures; they're functional art pieces that can completely transform your outdoor living experience.

Pergolas are also a fantastic way to enjoy both shade and privacy. They create a comfortable spot where you can bask in your garden's beauty without having to contend with prying eyes or harsh sunlight. Of course, there are plenty of ways to take this even further!

Broadview have been perfecting high-quality shading solutions for over 50 years. Below, we delve into four key ways that you can elevate the privacy and shading of your pergola, transforming it into the ideal serene retreat.

What is a Pergola?

A pergola is an outdoor architectural structure used to create an open, semi-shaded space in gardens. Traditionally, pergolas were made of wood, but the modern equivalent – such as Brustor's range – is usually crafted from durable aluminium.

They feature vertical posts that support horizontal cross beams, a lattice-like framework, or a canvas roof. Pergolas often have an open roof design, allowing sunlight to filter through the overhead lattice or louvres whilst providing partial shade.

How to Improve Shade and Privacy in Your garden with a Pergola

Pergolas offer a stylish yet practical way to enjoy your garden. They allow you to create a comfortable, shaded retreat, without detracting from its overall style. Thanks to their versatile designs, there are plenty of ways you can increase both the levels of shading and privacy your pergola offers. Here are just a few!

1. Choose a Louvred Roof Pergola

A louvred roof pergola features adjustable horizontal roof slats or panels called louvres. Louvres allow you to precisely control the amount of sunlight, shade, and ventilation entering your pergola, so you can create a comfortable space come rain or shine.

Many of Broadview's pergolas come with rotating louvred roof options, which can be controlled either manually or electronically. Electronic control makes controlling the shading in your pergola even easier – simply open or close the roof at the touch of a button!

2. Incorporate Roller Screens

While roofs do a good job of keeping out direct sunlight from above, they aren't as effective at providing shade when the sun is lower in the sky. This is where roller screens can come in handy! Integrated seamlessly into the frame of your pergola, these screens can be easily rolled down to offer shade from sunlight or protect you from the wind. They're especially handy for enjoying mornings and evenings during the summertime.

Roller shades are also a great way to add privacy to your pergola. They can be utilised for greater privacy when needed and put away to enjoy an open-air experience when not.

We can upgrade your Broadview pergola with custom roller screens, available in a variety of styles, sizes, and colours. These screens are built to handle wind speeds of up to 130 km/h, and feature a unique ZIP system that keeps draughts and water at bay. This means you're fully shielded from both the elements and the sun's rays. Operating them is easy too – you can use the crank handle or take it up a notch with optional remote controls.

3. Place Greenery

Looking for a more natural shading alternative? You might want to consider bringing in climbing plants like vines, roses, or wisteria. These lovely plants can entwine themselves with the pergola's structure, creating a charming canopy that adds to the beauty of your garden as they grow and thrive.

4. Water Features

A less obvious way to improve the privacy of your pergola is to incorporate a soothing water feature, such as a small fountain or waterfall, nearby. The sound of flowing water not only provides a serene ambiance but also helps mask outside noise.

Talk to the South's Leading Pergola Specialists

Thinking about buying a pergola of your own? You're in the right place.

Broadview have been designing, supplying, and installing premium pergolas since 1969, giving us the expertise needed to create the perfect solution for your garden. Whether you're seeking a cosy nook for relaxation or a space for entertaining, we can install a stunning pergola that will provide comfort, shade, and privacy for years to come.

Book a consultation online or call us on 01202 679012 today. We can't wait to make your dream garden retreat a reality!