This summer, consider adding a pergola to your garden. These charming structures enhance vertical space, style, and planting opportunities while providing shade for comfort. Although the European look is trending for 2026, its appeal has been around for much longer.
Take Cher's California garden from 1966 as an example, where she and Sonny Bono were constructing a wooden pergola. Even in its unfinished state, the structure clearly promises to enhance the outdoor area with height, planting space, and a European flair amidst the trimmed hedges, adjusting light distribution beautifully.
For additional insight, we consulted Landscape Architect Joseph Richardson from Richardson & Associates in Washington, DC. He highlights the benefits of designing a pergola, emphasizing its timeless appeal and practical advantages. We've also selected outdoor products to help you recreate the look of Cher and Sonny's garden.
Sonny and Cher at their California home, 1966
Explore Our Pergola Selection
These curated picks will enhance your outdoor space for al fresco dining this summer. From ideal pergolas to enchanting lighting, you'll find everything you need to elevate your outdoor experience.
Elegant Design
Somerville Wood Pergola
This sophisticated wooden pergola mirrors the style found in Cher's garden, looking exquisite when draped with climbing wisteria or lush ivy.
Versatile Design
Garveetech 10x10 Ft Pergola Gazebo
This stylish pergola transforms your backyard into a chic retreat, providing ample space for dining, relaxing, or even a hot tub, serving as a perfect focal point for gatherings.
Timeless Choice
Blue Moon Wisteria
This vibrant plant is perfect for climbing structures like pergolas, adding beauty and sophistication to any garden.
Low Maintenance
Japanese Holly Bush
This hardy evergreen, also known as Ilex Crenata, is adaptable and bird-friendly in winter due to its berries. It would look stunning alongside a pergola, reminiscent of the Cyprus trees in Cher's yard.
Stylish Lighting
Gilson Lantern
Available in various sizes, these lanterns are ideal for illuminating your pergola walkway, adding warmth and style to your outdoor space.
Top Quality
Okatsune 103 Pruners
Renowned for their durability and comfort, these pruners are stylish and effective for maintaining the plants that will flourish on your pergola.
Joseph explains: 'A pergola effectively enhances the functionality and enjoyment of a backyard area. Recently, we added one to a terrace to address its southern exposure, filtering sunlight to create a more comfortable outdoor space, especially during peak hours.'
As observed in Cher's garden, this feature creates a dialogue between nature and design. Joseph adds: 'Besides providing shade, a pergola contributes to spatial definition, allowing for privacy without complete enclosure. This balance is crucial; it maintains openness while offering intimacy. A pergola also introduces an architectural element that enriches the overall aesthetic.'
Another reason to incorporate a pergola is the enhancement of outdoor living, which Sonny and Cher certainly recognized in Southern California.
Joseph notes: 'Functionally, a pergola helps delineate areas for dining and lounging, creating a relaxed atmosphere suitable for both gatherings and quiet evenings. Additionally, it strengthens the transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, connecting living areas to the terrace seamlessly.'
Wondering how to bring Cher's vision to your backyard? Joseph suggests: 'Scale is crucial. A pergola that's too small might seem merely decorative, while one that's oversized can disrupt the balance of the space. When properly scaled, it delivers definition, comfort, and presence without overwhelming the area.'
He continues: 'Material choice is vital as well. It impacts durability and maintenance while setting the tone for the entire environment. Thoughtful selections ensure the pergola ages beautifully and continues to add value both visually and practically.'
Creating a backyard can be challenging, but exploring ideas for structures that shape and define your space is a fantastic starting point. From the 1960s to today, pergolas continue to inspire.
