Tag Archives: custom shade arbors

The Art of Building a Shade Arbor

outdoor design

Image via Pinterest

When you are searching for exterior remodeling ideas to add interest to your home, you might want to consider the addition of a shade arbor. Shade arbors can give you both the feeling of being enclosed while staying open to nature.

You can use your shade arbor in a variety of ways.  They are a wonderful opportunity to grow plants that will vine around the exterior of the shade arbor, giving it a natural, cottage garden-style appearance. Your shade arbor could have nice benches underneath it for a relaxing spot to sit and have comfortable conversation in your yard.  You could even add a hot tub underneath it for a luxurious outdoor space.

Shade arbors can be somewhat complicated to build. Concrete footings need to be poured to hold your main posts. You will want to use a wood that resists rot and insects. The cuts on the boards need to be accurate. It is recommended to use a professional to build your shade arbor.

We at Outdoor Environments would be happy to help build a custom shade arbor for your home in Kansas City.  In addition to building shade arbors, we also build decks, gazebos, and room additions.  Contact us by calling 913-897-2706 to get your outdoor area looking the way you want it.

 

Protect the Walkway with a Pergola, Shade Arbor or Overhead

On this blog, we have always discussed ways in which your outdoor space can add value, beauty and functionality to your home. If you’re in need of a new idea before spring arrives, then we’ve got another one for you!

Have you considered protecting your walkway(s) with outdoor structures such as pergolas, shade arbors or overheads?

When protecting your walkway, it literally creates a tunnel that leads up to the entrance of your home. It draws visitors in, forcing them not only to admire the unique outdoor structure, but to anticipate what’s to come once they get inside. As an added benefit, these structures also help to provide an added layer of privacy around your home.

Are you confused about what a protected, tunnel-like walkway looks like? Here are some examples from Houzz.com:

To see examples of our completed pergolas, overheads and other outdoor structures, visit the Outdoor Environments Facebook photo gallery.

Add an Entryway Arbor

A grand way to welcome your guests this season is with an entryway arbor! A custom arbor can be added to most pathways, door ways and other areas that lead guests right into your home.

  • Arbors can easily be decorated with greenery, roses and even mistletoe to create a true holiday spirit.
  • For a really charming arbor entry, a gate or fence may be added as well.
  • A nicely decorate arbor is a unique way to decorate outdoor for neighbors to see.

Here are some examples of beautiful entryway arbors from Better Homes & Gardens :

Although arbors are available in boxed kits, it’s definitely worth it to invest in a custom built arbor just for your home. Call Outdoor Environments at 913-897-2706 to discuss the possibilities of building an entryway arbor for your home today!

 

Get a Shade Arbor This Fall

You might already have a deck or patio attached to your home. If you need a new addition to your home’s exterior, a shade arbor might be the perfect choice for you.

Unlike most decks and patios, shade arbors are covered and cozy spaces that are perfect for the fall season.

What can you use a shade arbor for?

  • Simple fall outdoor dining
  • Adding a touch of privacy from neighbors
  • Add as an extra feature to your current deck or patio
  • Use it as a display area for greenery, flowers and flower pots
  • Create a comfy sitting or reading area with a bench or cushioned seating
  • Makes a great nook to sit and relax while children and pets play in the yard

Pictured below are examples of our shade arbors:

There are so many ways to add personality to your outdoor space this fall. Outdoor Environments would love to start planning a shade arbor addition for your home. Visit our Facebook photo gallery to see more photos of shade arbors we have built.