Landscape Structures: Trellis | Arbor | Gazebo | Pergola
- Charlie & Sons
- Aug 17, 2018
- 2 min read
While we all often use the terms interchangeably, trellises, arbors, gazebos and pergolas are distinctly different structures. But how exactly do they differ?
From the simplest morning glory to a massive tunnel of wisteria, every garden, even the smallest, can benefit from the whimsy, charm and beauty of adding height with one of these vertical garden structures.
Trellis
A trellis is typically a latticework built to support climbing plants or vines. It can be a simple panel or wire frame attached to the side of a building, or it can be freestanding in a garden or yard. An arbor usually incorporates a trellis into its structure, creating a tunnel-like passageway of climbing plants. Thus, an arbor and a trellis are closely related.
Arbor
Arbors have a continuous run of latticework from one side of the “tunnel” to the other, often in an arched shape. Often referred to as a “gateway to outdoor spaces”. As mentioned, an arbor usually incorporates a trellis into its structure, creating a tunnel-like passageway of climbing plants - but an arbor and a trellis are actually two distinct elements of landscape architecture.
Gazebo
A gazebo is generally a free standing outdoor structure with a floor and a roof. It is sometimes enclosed with screens to keep unwanted flying guests from upsetting your moment of quiet. The word “gazebo” does not have a definite origin, but it is likely a combination of the English word “gaze” and the Latin suffix “ebo,” which means “I shall gaze”, referring to its use as a viewpoint.
Pergola
Pergolas simply have posts supporting a roof-like structure. They’re most commonly used to shade a walkway or a deck. A pergola (“a close walk of boughs” in Italian) combines the best parts of other three structures discussed above, and then adds a splash of ambiance and character to them.