Though you can buy traditional pergolas in cedar, metal, and aluminum options, they all have the same general shape. Mediterranean-inspired with criss-cross beams and an earth-tone canopy is what you’d expect a pergola to look like. But if you’d categorize your style as modern and sleek, then traditional’s probably not the vibe you’re looking for in your backyard oasis.
Modern pergolas have sharper angles, less decorative beams, and lend themselves to all sorts of decor.
Whether you’re adding something small to your patio or are creating your entire backyard landscape around a piece of pergola art, we’ve found some unique modern pergola designs to inspire you.
Modern Garden Pergola
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There’s nothing like kicking back in a garden pergola and appreciating all of your hard work. The slat design is a common feature in modern pergolas.
Minimalistic Modern Pergola
If you’re looking for a simple, no-frills backyard addition, check out this modern minimalist pergola. This pergola kit includes a pergola canopy and all of the metal hardware needed to support the beams. The lumber isn’t included, so you’ll have to buy that yourself. On the bright side, that means you can choose the wood and finish you prefer.
10′ x 10′ Modern Pergola
One of the features of many modern pergolas is a wall, creating a bit more privacy. This smaller 10′ x 10′ pergola features strong angles and a shade to keep the sun out.
Aluminum Modern Pergola
This larger 10′ x 15′ pergola has an “embedded wood grain” technology giving the illusion that this metal pergola is crafted from wood.
In reality, there’s no need for stain or the worry that the wood will disintegrate over time, as the frame is actually made out of metal.
Sleek Black Modern Pergola Patio
Wide open ceilings and slate patio tiles mesh together to create a modern and sleek outdoor area. When this modern pergola is paired with steel Adirondack chairs and a living wall, all that’s missing is an outdoor fireplace.
Modern Pergola With Outdoor Ceiling Fan
This lean-to modern pergola allows just enough sunlight to peek through without leaving you sweltering all day. The ceiling fan helps cool things down, too. The horizontal slat design of the pergola roof creates a unique shade.
Modern Pergola At Dusk
The recessed lighting on this modern pergola encourages you to stay outside and read just a few more chapters of that book. Amp up the relaxation factor by installing some hammock chairs on the end of the pergola beams.
Rustic And Modern Pergola
This smaller pergola acts as a breezeway and would be the perfect place to kick off those muddy boots before tracking all that gardening dirt inside. The sleek, dark-toned design of this pergola adds a bit of a modern twist on a more rustic home design.
Modern Pergola With Motorized Shade
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With a motorized pergola shade that can be opened or closed with the touch of a button, this pergola is modern in both form and function!
Abstract Cut-Out Modern Pergola
For something especially unique, check out this large backyard pergola. The abstract laser cut-outs reflect an interesting shade that adds an ambiance to your garden. And of course it’s functional, too; just enough sun gets through to illuminate your outdoor activities.
Waterfront Modern Pergola
Modern pergolas tend to be flat on the top, but this design is especially unique with a drop-down roof. Perfect for weddings, birthdays, parties, and you know, morning coffee.
Poolside Modern Pergola
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Modern pergola + firepit + pool = spending the entire summer outside.
Modern Cedar Pergola
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Though a bit simpler in structure, this tall, square modern pergola has a unique, dark stain that is reminiscent of Shou Sugi Ban (charred wood).
The unique orange electric fireplace and matching chairs create a nice balance between modern and 60s-style decor.
Grey Diagonal Modern Pergola
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Just imagine the summer cookouts you’ll have under one of these pergolas! The hot tub isn’t a bad idea, either!
Modern Pergola With Planters
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One unique aspect of modern pergolas is their interior walls. Traditional pergolas tend to be open throughout, but this modern pergola has a slated wall that doubles as a planter holder.
Modern Pergola With A View
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Who says pergolas are just used to block the sun out? What about letting the sunset in?!
Triangular Modern Pergola
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Now here is a pergola design you don’t see every day! The pergola is triangular shaped to match the home’s archway and is truly customized to match the existing architecture. Talk about working with the current decor, not against it.
Outdoor Kitchen/Bar With Modern Pergola
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One way to create a designated gathering space in your yard is by adding a pergola. Add a full kitchen and a bar, and now you really have a place that your family and friends will want to hang out in all day.
A pergola is a shortcut that maximises your usable outdoor space where you get to add outdoor furniture. If one of the walls pergola is attached to the outer part of the building, it creates a windbreak and provides shelter from the rains.