As Raleigh’s summer sun is at its peak, it’s important to have a place to escape the sun’s rays and enjoy your outdoor space. What better way to create a shaded sanctuary than with a custom pergola or gazebo? These structures provide not only relief from the heat but also a stylish, functional addition to your backyard oasis this summer season.
Understanding the Difference
Before we have some fun discussing the details, we want to make sure you understand the distinct differences between the two as they both offer excellent options.
Pergolas are typically open-roofed structures, often with a grid-like design, that provide partial shade and a more airy and open feel. They are perfect for homeowners who want a mix of both sun and shade. They also pair wonderfully with climbing plants, such as clematis, english ivy, morning glory, or even sweet pea to add a fragrant scent to your outdoor space to activate the senses. You can picture yourself here enjoying a good book and an iced tea, all while soaking in the slight breeze.
Gazebos feature fully covered roofs, offering complete shade and protection from the elements. They are more enclosed, providing a sheltered space that is perfect for entertaining, relaxing, or enjoying a meal with friends and family without worrying about inclement weather or intense sun beating down on you. Gazebos add a touch of elegance to your backyard, and pair well with string lights, outdoor seating, and even outdoor curtains for a chic retreat.
Now that we understand the difference between the two structures, we can understand that both extend your outdoor living season while setting the scene for entertaining, unwinding, and enjoying time with loved ones.
Whether you are hosting a summer barbeque under the partial shade of a pergola or seeking the complete shelter of a gazebo for a cozy outdoor gathering, these structures enhance your backyard in a way that temporary shade options can’t.
Looking for the perfect shade solution? Contact Sound Hardscape & Design today to learn how we can help transform your outdoor space with a custom pergola or gazebo designed to suit your needs.
Design Options Tailored to Your Style and Space
One of the greatest benefits of choosing a custom pergola or gazebo is the ability to design it exactly how you want it. Whether you are aiming for a traditional, rustic look or a modern, minimalist style, Sound Hardscape & Design offers endless design possibilities that suit your aesthetic.
With a custom design, the options are limitless. Your pergola or gazebo can be as unique as your backyard space.

● Traditional Style: For those who appreciate timeless design, this style features intricate details such as decorative latticework and wood finishes that evoke a sense of elegance. This style pairs well with lush, green gardens to offer a retreat that feels inviting.
● Rustic Charm: If you prefer a more natural look, this can incorporate rough-hewn wood beams, exposed metal hardware, and natural stone accents. This design works perfectly in rural or woodland settings to create a cozy space that blends in seamlessly with the environment.

● Modern Minimalist: For homeowners who favor sleek lines and simplistic design, a modern pergola or minimalistic gazebo can feature less ornamentation, with materials such as steel, aluminum, or wood to create a nice contrast with the surrounding landscape.

● Traditional Style: For those who appreciate timeless design, this style features intricate details such as decorative latticework and wood finishes that evoke a sense of elegance. This style pairs well with lush, green gardens to offer a retreat that feels inviting.
● Rustic Charm: If you prefer a more natural look, this can incorporate rough-hewn wood beams, exposed metal hardware, and natural stone accents. This design works perfectly in rural or woodland settings to create a cozy space that blends in seamlessly with the environment.
● Modern Minimalist: For homeowners who favor sleek lines and simplistic design, a modern pergola or minimalistic gazebo can feature less ornamentation, with materials such as steel, aluminum, or wood to create a nice contrast with the surrounding landscape.

Premium Materials for Long-Term Durability
The materials used in building your pergola or gazebo play a crucial role in its appearance and longevity. We use only the highest quality materials to ensure your structure will withstand the elements and look beautiful in your backyard for many years to come. Whether you choose wood, vinyl, or metal, we offer a range of materials to suit your needs.
Our team is committed to providing you with the highest level of service so you can sit back and relax, knowing that your outdoor space is in expert hands. Get started on your custom pergola or gazebo today! Contact us for a free estimate and take the first step toward transforming your backyard into the ultimate summer retreat.
Design Flexibility for Your Perfect Outdoor Space
Our team at Sound Hardscape & Design offers features that allow you to enhance the beauty and functionality of your pergola or gazebo, turning it into a true extension of your home.

● Integrated Seating: If you love entertaining or want a cozy spot for family gatherings, consider adding built-in seating. Whether it is a curved bench, a set of custom cushions, or even a hammock swing, integrated seating makes your pergola or gazebo a more inviting place to relax and enjoy your backyard oasis. With seating that is seamlessly integrated into the structure, your space becomes both functional and stylish.
● Entertainment Options: For homeowners who love to host or enjoy outdoor activities in the summertime, Sound Hardscape & Design offers entertainment features such as a built-in bar, a TV mount for outdoor movie nights, or even a sound system for music. These elements allow you to entertain guests or unwind in a fully equipped outdoor space, ensuring your pergola or gazebo is the go-to for every occasion.
● Lighting & Ceiling Fans: Illuminate your new pergola or gazebo with integrated lighting options, ranging from string lights to formal chandeliers or outdoor ceiling fans to keep the air circulating during the hottest days. Well-placed lighting not only creates a warm, inviting atmosphere but extends the usability of your space well into the evening.


● Climbing Vines and Greenery: Adding a natural element by incorporating plants offers additional shade and privacy while creating a beautiful environment to enjoy in your backyard. Hanging baskets with ferns, ivy, or petunias help to create a lush, natural atmosphere. Consider adding a few large, decorative pots to bring a sense of style to your space as well.

● Integrated Seating: If you love entertaining or want a cozy spot for family gatherings, consider adding built-in seating. Whether it is a curved bench, a set of custom cushions, or even a hammock swing, integrated seating makes your pergola or gazebo a more inviting place to relax and enjoy your backyard oasis. With seating that is seamlessly integrated into the structure, your space becomes both functional and stylish.
● Entertainment Options: For homeowners who love to host or enjoy outdoor activities in the summertime, Sound Hardscape & Design offers entertainment features such as a built-in bar, a TV mount for outdoor movie nights, or even a sound system for music. These elements allow you to entertain guests or unwind in a fully equipped outdoor space, ensuring your pergola or gazebo is the go-to for every occasion.

● Lighting & Ceiling Fans: Illuminate your new pergola or gazebo with integrated lighting options, ranging from string lights to formal chandeliers or outdoor ceiling fans to keep the air circulating during the hottest days. Well-placed lighting not only creates a warm, inviting atmosphere but extends the usability of your space well into the evening.

● Climbing Vines and Greenery: Adding a natural element by incorporating plants offers additional shade and privacy while creating a beautiful environment to enjoy in your backyard. Hanging baskets with ferns, ivy, or petunias help to create a lush, natural atmosphere. Consider adding a few large, decorative pots to bring a sense of style to your space as well.
Expert Craftsmanship Every Step of the Way
At Sound Hardscape & Design, we believe in providing top-tier craftsmanship and a seamless installation process. From the initial consultation to the final touches, our team ensures that your pergola or gazebo is perfectly designed, constructed, and installed for your backyard space this summer.
Our team is committed to providing you with the highest level of service so you can sit back and relax, knowing that your outdoor space is in expert hands. Get started on your custom pergola or gazebo today! Contact us for a free estimate and take the first step toward transforming your backyard into the ultimate summer retreat.
Why Pergolas and Gazebos Are the Superior Choice
While umbrellas, awnings, and large tents can offer some relief from the sun, none compare to the durability and long-term benefits of a custom pergola or gazebo. These permanent structures not only provide shade but also increase your property’s curb appeal and resale value.
Unlike temporary shade solutions, pergolas and gazebos become a focal point for outdoor activities. Whether you are entertaining guests or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon, it will be a cherished part of your home for years to come.
With a custom design, the options are limitless. Your pergola or gazebo can be as unique as your backyard space.
Stay Cool and Covered with Sound Hardscape & Design
With the hot Raleigh summer days ahead, now is the perfect time to invest in a custom pergola or gazebo to make your outdoor space cooler, more comfortable, and enjoyable. Our team specializes in creating beautiful, functional outdoor structures that provide the perfect balance of shade and style. Whether you are looking for a simple retreat or an outdoor entertaining area, we have the expertise to bring your vision to life.
Unlike temporary shade solutions, pergolas and gazebos become a focal point for outdoor activities. Whether you are entertaining guests or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon, it will be a cherished part of your home for years to come.
With a custom design, the options are limitless. Your pergola or gazebo can be as unique as your backyard space.