See also:
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Gazebos
Although gazebos make outstanding architectural
features in the garden, they
are also practical,
offering shelter from the sun
and a comfortable
place to relax, entertain, or
read. They
can also be used as potting sheds
or to store
garden tools. Gazebos come in
a wide variety
of styles from rustic to very
formal. They
can be designed to be part of
patios or decks,
or they can stand alone in the
garden and
make dramatic focal points. Small
gardens
can be planted around gazebos,
and climbing
vines such as roses or clematis
can be trained
up and over their tops to provide
even more
charm. Gazebos can be custom
built, but less
expensive kits are available
from garden
centers, home improvement stores,
and online
sites. The following should be
considered
when buying a gazebo:
- Think about the style of gazebo you want.
A gazebo is traditionally a small eight sided
building on a slightly raised platform with
a wooden floor and often with a copula on
the top. A good design will have details
that harmonize with the style of the house;
for instance, Victorian gingerbread or colonial
railings.
- A gazebo that will be used for entertaining
should be large enough for
a bench or several
chairs so that it can comfortably
accommodate
more than one person. Ideally
there should
also be room for a table for
serving food
and drinks.
- Gazebos can be open, but if you plan to use
yours mostly in the evening,
screened walls
are a good idea. If your gazebo
will be a
decorative garden shed, you
should have a
sturdy door that can be locked.
- Wood is the most traditional choice of construction
material. Because gazebos will sit outside
all year, a good quality weather resistant
wood will last the longest. Cedar is a good
choice as it can be left to weather to a
beautiful silver gray. It can also be stained
or coated with urethane. Gazebos made from
pressure treated lumber are usually less
expensive.
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