The Pergola Project
After (left) and Before (below)
Our backyard hasn't ever ranked as a favorite spot to entertain or relax. While we've enjoyed campfires in the 100-year-old brick fireplace during snowy nights, it hasn't had much use. We decided that a structured dining area that provides some shade would be a better use of our long, narrow yard.

We used Western Red Cedar to build a 11-foot-by-9-foot pergola. It took a few days to prep the site and paint the boards, but it has totally transformed our yard into a primo place for gatherings. |