Hey folks, I'm thinking about adding a pergola out back but kinda stuck on how to make it feel like it belongs there, you know? Seen some amazing setups with climbing plants, hanging lights, and even water features nearby. Um, quick poll—what do you think works best to blend a pergola into the garden naturally?
- Climbing vines/plants
- Hanging lights or lanterns
- Water features (ponds, fountains)
- Matching furniture/decor
- Something else (tell me below!)
Climbing plants are probably your best bet for making it feel like it's always been there. I've flipped a few houses where we added pergolas, and honestly, nothing beats some good old-fashioned ivy or jasmine winding up the posts—really makes the structure feel organic rather than just plopped down. Hanging lights are nice too, but they can sometimes look a bit too "event-y" if you know what I mean. Maybe start with vines and add subtle lighting later if needed?
