The freestanding pergola, the perfect companion for your relaxation area

Having a garden or a large terrace is a way to relax peacefully during the warmer months. Installing a gazebo or pergola in your outdoor space is a natural step to enjoy the fresh air while sheltered from the sweltering heat, the sun's rays, and the rain.

At Belveo, we offer two types of pergolas : the attached pergola and the freestanding pergola . For a large property, you would gladly opt for the advantages of a high-quality freestanding pergola, which can be configured according to its intended use.

What is a freestanding pergola?

A pergola is a structure supported by posts, its roof covered with a fabric canopy to provide sun protection and create a shaded area for relaxation. A freestanding pergola , unlike an attached pergola, is an independent model that can be installed virtually anywhere thanks to its four posts. It doesn't need to be attached to a house wall, unlike an attached pergola, which essentially forms a veranda.

The advantages of a freestanding pergola are numerous. First and foremost, it offers a choice of location: whether in the middle of your garden or by your pool, installing a pergola provides optimal shelter where it's most needed. It can be situated close to the house, or conversely, create a secluded living space away from the patio and the main living areas.

The pergola can be made of materials such as wood, aluminum, or wrought iron , and its canopy can be changed as needed, or covered with a tarpaulin. Freestanding pergolas can be oriented to suit different needs.

The Galerne Belveo freestanding pergola model has a rust-colored wrought iron frame, treated against corrosion and equipped with stainless steel screws.

The Galerne pergola is available in two different sizes: 3 meters by 2 meters, or 3 meters by 4 meters. Either model can be extended with a 3-meter by 2-meter extension to match the dimensions of the base model. The roof of this pergola is covered in beige fabric; it is a high-quality, micro-perforated material of Spanish origin, but manufactured in France.

The Galerne freestanding pergola system offers the advantage of being demountable and easy to move, allowing it to be relocated to another area of ​​the garden that needs protection from the sun. The pergola extension can be installed in certain locations and not others, depending on the desired shaded area.

Create your own relaxation area under a freestanding pergola

While the freestanding pergola naturally boasts a sophisticated design, one can imagine improving it by integrating curtains, a shade sail or even by wrapping climbing plants around its posts.

On some freestanding pergola models, you might want to install blinds on the roof instead of a fabric canopy. This is the case with a so-called bioclimatic pergola, which is equipped with adjustable louvers that can be positioned according to the sun's position. Choosing a bioclimatic pergola is more expensive due to these features.

Choosing the right location for your freestanding pergola is obviously crucial. You need to find the ideal spot to maximize comfort and views, and carefully measure the space to ensure the pergola fits harmoniously into its surroundings. Sunlight and natural breezes should also be taken into account.

Once installed, your pergola should be furnished with comfortable furniture to your liking: deck chairs, hammocks, and outdoor sofas should each be made of weather-resistant material.

Your choice of decorations is important: both aesthetically pleasing and practical, it can include cushions, outdoor rugs, and various types of lanterns to create a cozy atmosphere under the pergola. A few plants will be welcome to add a touch of greenery and privacy, transforming your shaded area into a living space.

Your pergola can be lit with string lights or solar lamps, making it suitable for nighttime use. Recessed spotlights or lights suspended from the roof can also provide targeted lighting.

For cool summer evenings, you should plan for outdoor heating: infrared heaters or fire pits allow you to extend the use of your freestanding pergola until late in the evening, and bring additional comfort to your space. 

Maintenance and durability of your freestanding pergola

To enjoy the shelter of a pergola for years to come, it's essential to take care of it and ensure its upkeep. Each material requires regular cleaning according to its specific nature : wood, metal, aluminum, and fabric don't all require the same products. Even if treated against corrosion or rust, the components of your pergola can still be damaged by rain or wear and tear from sunlight.

Regular inspection of the structure is recommended to prevent and repair damage. In case of deterioration, worn or damaged parts must be replaced without delay.

Creating a relaxation area under your freestanding pergola requires careful attention to maintenance and repairs, otherwise your structure will deteriorate due to weathering. It's best to enjoy the comfort of this unique living space for years to come.