Dutchess County Home Trends: Combining Pergolas and Patio Covers for All-Season Comfort

In the past couple of years, patios in Dutchess County, New York, have seen stunning transformations. One of the top trends? Combining pergolas and patio covers for year-round comfort and visual appeal. At Under the Sun Improvements, we can help you design and implement this hybrid outdoor structure, so you can spend as much time outdoors as you’d like.

The perfect patio weather can be hard to come by in Dutchess County. Icy temperatures and snowfall mean that this space is difficult to enjoy during winter. Unfortunately, the high heat and humidity of summer may send you to cooler, shadier spaces, too. That’s why so many people opt for patio covers, which are a roofed extension to protect your patio space. A pergola is another appealing option. It typically comes in a slatted-roof design, allowing for a little bit of sun to peek through.

Let’s review the benefits of combining these options for an all-season outdoor living experience, as well as a few design tips from our team at Under the Sun Improvements.

Combining Patio Covers and Pergolas

Why consider a combined patio cover and pergola for your outdoor space? For homeowners in Dutchess County, NY, here are a few reasons this choice is gaining fast popularity:

• The best of both worlds – A patio cover can be especially well-suited for inclement weather, protecting you from rainy weather and snow. A pergola can allow you to enjoy warmer days with more privacy and a little bit of shade. By combining them, you’ll reap the benefits of both.
• Creating defined spaces – With different structures on your patio, you can create specific zones for dining, cooking, and relaxing. A patio cover can be great for housing an outdoor kitchen or BBQ, while a pergola can offer a breezy space for wining and dining.
• Adding aesthetic appeal – The hybrid structure of a combined patio cover and pergola creates a lot of visual appeal for your property. It can also boost your property’s value, since many homeowners crave that combination of style and functionality.

Design Tips to Consider

A hybrid patio space gives you lots of leeway for design options. To narrow down your choices, here are a few design tips you’ll want to think about:

• Consider functionality – The usability of your patio space will inform your design. Use your patio cover to house costly appliances like a BBQ or outdoor stove, since these will require shielding from the weather. Your pergola may be better suited for items that can be easily moved, such as chairs and tables.
• Create complementary visuals – Combining these two different structures allows you to play with a layered visual effect, while different materials can bring an added wow factor. If you’re not sure where to start, our design team at Under the Sun Improvements can always offer recommendations, too.
• Accessorize each space – Lighting, textiles, and plants can all add striking design accents to each part of your patio. They can also create a more defined identity for each space. You may want practical, high-key lighting for your outdoor kitchen, while an outdoor dining area could benefit from string lights, plants, and other lush features.

Your Experts in Outdoor Living

Enhance your outdoor area by incorporating both a pergola and patio cover. Our outdoor living experts can help you find the perfect style to suit your space. To explore design ideas, homeowners in Dutchess County, NY, can reach out to Under the Sun Improvements today.