The Sunset Terrace
Coming up with a design for a pergola in this area was quite a challenge as it is quite large and the horizontal beams it would be supporting were quite long (over 3 metres). Most importantly it had to be open from the front elevation as a post here would obscure the view from inside when sitting on the raised deck platform. I came up with a design that used five uprights instead of six, with the central post supporting a longer beam, a kind of cantilever structure with extra support at the back. The structure is self-supporting and has held up well against the elements, withstanding all that the English weather can throw at it! Now the surrounding planting has established it is covered in blooms from a passion flower and a Japanese wisteria which is trained to create a natural canopy. Gallery
The pergola now has a polycarbonate roof as it is so important to have spaces that you can use year round and in all weathers. Last summer I added the log store and 'prosecco bar', and the addition of a garden sofa has made this the perfect spot for a summer cocktail. This is a very special part of the garden to me as it is from here that the last of the sunset can be viewed in the summer.To the side of the deck there is a potting area which now too has a polycarbonate roof and a water butt. I try to build sustainability into everything I do and water harvesting is one thing we can all do to save water. Most plants would much prefer rain water and it is a free resource (and lets face it we have plenty of it in this country) so we might as well make the best of it!
View from the deck.