Arbors

Arbors are structures similar to arches that create a tunnel-like passage over a pathway, entrance, or walkway in the garden. They are often made of wood, metal, or vinyl and often feature a curved or arched top with open sides (though not always). Arbors are commonly used to add a touch of charm and elegance to garden spaces. They can be adorned with climbing plants, such as roses, wisteria, or jasmine, which create a beautiful canopy overhead as they grow and intertwine with the structure. Arbors serve as an inviting gateway or focal point, drawing visitors into different areas of the garden. They evoke a sense of romance and provide a picturesque element for pathways or transitions between garden spaces. 

Here are some ideas for your next arbor project

Colorful arbor with flanking trellis panels

Arbor surrounded by greenery

Tall arbor with brick columns

Pro tip - Always set your arbor with a good foundation, unless you want to be...

Discover this garden house by FineHouse that seamlessly integrates into a brick wall, drawing inspiration from Mt. Vernon's privy. This unique space effortlessly combines historical charm with modern convenience. This garden house stands as a testament to the art of blending the past with the present, offering a unique opportunity to experience history in modern times.

Below is a glimpse into the designing and constructing of this structure.

Architectural drawing

Architectural render

Construction of dome roof

On site construction

On site construction

Completed garden house

In one frame, the Poolside Pergola Pavilion speaks volumes about outdoor living. Its vibrant blue standing seam metal roof stands out, complementing the natural surroundings. This pavilion isn't just about looks; it's a versatile space. Whether you're lounging by the pool or enjoying a lively gathering, it provides a perfect blend of elegance and practicality.

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When you are planning an outdoor kitchen, or bar, or lounging area, think about having at least some of the space covered with a solid roof which protects against rain, and provides full shade! Here are some more examples for your outdoor kitchen.

 
Attached pavilion with outdoor kitchen and fireplace

Pergola with solid roof

Solar in the Landscape

When talking about residential solar systems we usually think about rooftop solar panels, but wait! There are three reasons to talk about landscaping and solar in the same breath. All of them can represent a source of work or collaboration for the landscape pro.

First, people are often installing solar panels on ground mounted systems because they can get better performance due to orientation, and they don't have to worry about roof penetrations or architectural appeal. When ground mounted systems are employed, they are almost always, an eye sore. Case is point; landscaping can be used to obscure a ground mounted array, or through the use of plantings and other hardscape elements, bring it more meaningfully into the landscape. The illustration below is a beautiful example.

A ground mounted solar array with tastefull landscaping.

The second situation, where landscapers and solar installers can collaborate, is in the...

                                 Below view of attached pergola                            Portico

Crafted from the finest Brazilian hardwood, these Ipe pergolas and porticos elevate your outdoor space, seamlessly blending the charm of your home with the tranquility of the natural surroundings. Their rich, natural hues and unparalleled strength not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor area but also provide a durable and long-lasting solution against the elements, creating an inviting ambiance that welcomes you to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors in utmost style and comfort.

Pavilions & Gazebos

Pavilions & Gazebos are freestanding garden structures with a roof and typically open sides supported by pillars or columns. They are designed to provide a sheltered space for outdoor seating, relaxation, or social gatherings. These structures can be made of various materials like wood, metal, or vinyl, and they come in a variety of styles and sizes, from simple and traditional to elaborate and ornate. Pavilions & Gazebos can create a focal point in the garden, offering a place to retreat and enjoy the surroundings while being protected from the sun or rain. They can be adorned with curtains, railings, or trellises, providing additional privacy and a cozy atmosphere.

To learn more about Pavilions & Gazebos please visit our Learn Section here

A gazebo is most often seen with either six or eight sides and a pyramidal roof. 

Pavilions can take various forms but are often more spacious than a gazebo, with square or...

FineHouse thanks you for every tree, flower, shrub, etc. that you plant, because every time you do, you mitigate climate change.

To learn more check out these organizations:

Arbor Day Foundation

Green Roofs for Healthy Cities

National Wildlife Foundation

American Society of Landscape Architects

Association of Professional Landscape Designers

What are Pergolas?

A pergola is an outdoor structure consisting of vertical pillars or posts that support a series of crossbeams or rafters on top. The beams create a grid-like pattern that provides partial shade and defines a designated space within the outdoor space. Pergolas are often made of wood or metal and can be freestanding or attached to a building. They serve as an architectural element that adds height, visual interest, and a sense of enclosure. Pergolas are commonly used to create outdoor seating areas, dining spaces, or to define pathways. They also offer support for climbing plants, such as vines or roses, which can be trained to grow and cover the pergola, providing additional shade and a lush, green aesthetic.

To learn more about pergolas please visit our Learn Section here

A cedar pergola in a rooftop setting

Pergola Elevation & Plan

This project was a compilation of both Accoya and KDII wood. Accoya wood has become one of our favorites for outdoor construction, closely followed by KDII for a more cost effective outcome. (See earlier blog post for more details on Accoya and KDII here or go to Accoya's website here)

The fence depicted below is an all KDII build, designed in a unique and eye catching horizontal pattern with alternating sized slats. This fence wraps the entire back portion of the client's property and matches multiple different aspects of the home. Some of those matching features are the front deck/stairs as well as the stairs leading into the side entrance of the home. The front deck and side stairs we fabricated in Accoya. We provided all of this pre-fabricated and pre-finished for installation by the owner's contractor.

 Front entrance to yard (KDII)

Fencing in the backyard (KDII)

Fencing in the backyard (KDII)

 Front steps and deck...

Column Styles

At FineHouse we have been supplying columns to builders, landscape pro's, and homeowners for over 20 years, hence our credentials for taking an informed look at the market for manufactured columns today.

The most popular styles today would be square, round with taper, and square tapered.

Square columns are by far, the most widely used columns throughout the country, probably because they work architecturally with almost any house style; traditional, contemporary and many vernacular home styles can work with square columns. Square columns can come with different base and capital configurations ie. Tuscan, or just simple trim done in different ways. Square columns are also available in fluted as well as paneled iterations. 

Another category of square columns is the tapered column. This design is often found in an Arts & Crafts or Craftsman style home, and increasingly in subdivisions by the larger home builders.

Round tapered columns are a...