Pergolas are becoming the outdoor equivalent of an open-plan room divider, helping homeowners zone, style and make better use of their gardens all year round.

Once considered a purely decorative garden feature, according to the experts at Forest Garden – the UK’s largest manufacturer and distributor of wooden garden products – pergolas are now being used as practical outdoor architecture, giving patios, terraces and lawns a clearer sense of purpose.

Whether positioned over a dining set, used to frame a relaxed seating area or styled with lighting and planting, a pergola can help transform an undefined outdoor space into a considered garden room.

Jenny Davis, Head of Marketing for Forest Garden, said: “A lot of homeowners are sharing the same approach when it comes to styling their gardens as they do their homes. They are creating dedicated areas for relaxing, eating, cooking and growing, and a pergola is a great way to establish these spaces.”

Jenny advises homeowners to use a pergola to create a space that feels permanent, considered and comfortable, rather than somewhere that has simply been furnished for an afternoon.

She said: “Start by anchoring the area with an outdoor rug, as this immediately defines the footprint of the space and makes it feel more like a room. A proper dining table or generous seating arrangement will then give the pergola a clear purpose, whether it is used for family meals, relaxed entertaining or evening drinks.

“Lighting is also key. Festoon lights, wall lights, lanterns or soft integrated lighting can completely change the atmosphere after dark and help the space feel usable beyond the daytime and in darker months. Finishing touches such as cushions, throws, planters and climbing plants will add softness and texture.”

Forest Garden has a range of pergolas to suit all garden schemes, from simple modular offerings and dedicated dining pergolas to premium corner options and attention-grabbing structures.

Jenny said: “A pergola allows homeowners to create an outdoor space that feels intentional, comfortable and built around the way people want to live.”

Forest Garden’s range of pergolas are available now, with prices starting at £472.49.