Toronto Pergola Builder

Create a Classic Look for Your Outdoor Space

When deciding on how to recreate the open space of your yard (back and front), why not choose a feature that has withstood the test of time. The oldest known garden plan, dating back to Ancient Egypt in 1400 B.C., which belonged to the Egyptian high court, showed a pergola at the garden’s entrance. Many have speculated as to why they were created. Some have guessed purely for the beauty or to guard against weather. Whatever the reason, the pergola has a storied history throughout the world.

Egypt 

Egyptians used them as a way to escape the heat. Paintings found in ancient tombs showed grapes on top of them as a way to shade the garden. Fruit trees were used to cover elevated walkways, creating a lattice resembling some modern structures.

France

Shortly after the invasion of Italy by Charles VIII in 1494, the French brought back with them many artistic ideas, including gardens centered around a pergola. The French were so taken with the style that Queen Catherine de Medici and King Louis XII’s daughter Renee had them constructed at the Jardin de la Reine at the Chateau of Fontainebleau.

Rome 

From Ancient Rome came the origin of the word pergola, meaning projecting eave. It was used in 1645 by English gardener and writer John Evelyn in Rome at the cloister of Trinità dei Monti. Later in 1654, he used the term pergola in Salisbury, England.

China

At the same time, the Chinese were creating elaborate pagodas with wood-carved pergola roofs. Here, protection from the sun lead to artistic structures.

For quite some time, the structure fell out of favor, and it wasn’t until the late 19th century, behind the designs of Gertrude Jekyll and Sir Edwin Lutyens, that the structure made a comeback that is still prevalent today.

Modern pergolas come in many shapes and sizes and are available in various materials based on their use. They can house firepits, fireplaces, and outdoor kitchens. They can extend the living space of a house, whether attached or not. They can be rustic, modern, and even built with architectural columns to reflect Ancient Rome. To add a touch of beauty, vines are often placed over the top to grow, creating a natural arch. The experts at Luke's Landscaping can help you choose the appropriate greenery, from the leafy Dutchman’s Pipe to the timeless beauty of the Bougainvillea.

While aesthetic beauty does not have a price tag, adding a pergola to your home is a great way to increase your property value. As of 2017, the expected return on your investment is around 50%. Factor in the hours spent relaxing after a tough day or the excitement of your guests at a cozy get-together, and the return is priceless.

There is only one company to trust in Scarborough, East York, and throughout the GTA with such an essential addition to your home. It is our passion to take your vision and bring it to life. As the top-rated outdoor living contractor in the region, our experts are ready to tackle all of your landscaping needs.