Why Add a Pergola or Summer House to Your Garden?

Pergolas and summer houses are two popular additions to a garden that both create useful outdoor space. Most can be built without planning permission, but it’s always worth checking first. So what are the benefits of each, and how do you choose the right option for your garden?

Why add a pergola?

Pergolas create a beautiful open structure—perfect for climbing plants, outdoor dining and enhancing garden design.

A pergola is an open structure with beams or lattice across the top. It doesn’t usually have a solid roof, making it ideal for climbing plants or creating a shaded seating area. Pergolas can be finished, stained or painted to suit your garden.

• Great natural feature for the garden — ideal for growing plants
• Helps block unpleasant views or provide privacy
• Pairs well with other outdoor structures
• Can add value to your home

You can also use a pergola as a seating area or barbeque spot. Some kits even include optional roof coverings so the space can be used in light rain.

Why add a summer house?

If you want something more substantial, a summer house offers an enclosed, secure space that can be customised with glazing, insulation, electricity and more.

• Create a usable space—office, bedroom, hobby room
• Can be used in all weather
• Enjoy the garden from inside thanks to large windows
• Provides a peaceful retreat away from the house

Summer houses are incredibly versatile and can be built from easy-to-assemble kits in various sizes and layouts.

Comparison: pergola vs summer house

How to choose

Pergolas and summer houses share some similarities, but they serve very different purposes. If you want a natural garden feature for warmer months, a pergola is ideal. If you need a functional room for work or relaxation, a summer house is the better choice.

Always check planning permission requirements before starting—but in most cases, both structures fall under Permitted Development.

Last updated: 26 November 2025