A freestanding, covered gazebo can create a focus in the backyard landscape. Traditional gazebos have been eight-sided, but can be constructed in virtually any shape or size. In warm weather, they provide scenic spots to hold celebrations, quiet dinners and even neighboring weddings. Children can play outdoors and still escape the rain or the heat from the sun’s beams. These structures can be simple or ornate and big or small, depending upon your personal preferences and taste, your budget and the space available.
Location
The location of the gazebo will be dependent on its intended usage. When you’ve got small children in the household who’ll be playing inside it on a regular basis, it may be desirable to keep it close to your property. If the objective of the gazebo is to give peace, quiet and solitude, the far end of the lawn may be a better option. You may even opt to create this getaway at the end of your dock or in the middle of a small pond. Plan your landscaping needs around the amount of sunlight and moisture available in the area where you place the gazebo.
Style
Gazebos fashions vary. Some have straight, simple lines while some come outfitted with curlicues and other ornate architectural accents. Those on a restricted income may opt for mobile, canvas-covered choices that may just charge a few hundred dollars. Others, with more funds, may build a gorgeous lawn addition that can cost thousands of dollars. The kind of landscaping must reflect the gazebo style you choose. As an example, an beautiful statue surrounded by hybrid roses would appear strange out a mobile structure but could seem appropriate with a costly and conventional columned white gazebo.
Getting There
If your gazebo is on a patch of grass halfway round your yard or at the other end of your backyard, you will need to provide a stable method of getting to there. Paver, flagstone or brick walkways are all choices to create a path and prevent grass from being worn down on the way to the structure. If the gazebo is rather close to the main home, an arbor covered with vines and flowering plants makes an attractive and utilitarian addition to your landscaping plan. If the structure is a long distance from the home, quaint benches made from concrete or wood can provide rest stops along the way, especially for the older or very tiny children.
Extras
Your gazebo getaway may be only furnished with just a ceiling fan or hanging lights for function and decoration. You may add privacy with the installation of curtains, screens or trellises. Trumpet vines (Campsis radicans) can be trained to climb around the sides and top for shelter from the sun and extra shade. Low-lying hedges or flower beds help set off the gazebo and add to the relaxing environment. Pots of brilliant geraniums (Pelargonium x hortorum) on both sides of the door help provide a warm welcome to guests. The extras you choose is going to be a reflection of your style along with a reflection of the way you wish to use the space.