21 Stylish Pergola Seating Area Ideas For Every Garden
As the desire for outdoor living spaces soars, it's clear that the garden is no longer just an addition to our homes but a central feature. The global pergola market is set to rise to a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.5% from 2018 to 2030, reflecting the pergola's continuing allure. This newfound interest isn't just a result of aesthetics but the increased awareness of the pergola's ability to transform any garden into a luxurious retreat.
In fact, did you know that adding a pergola can increase the value of your property, with an estimated return on investment ranging from 50-80%? At Harbour Lifestyle, we see the pergola as the canvas for an outdoor masterpiece. Whether you're seeking the cool shelter of a shady nook or planning your next garden soiree, pergolas create the perfect backdrop. So, as you consider the various ways to elevate your garden, remember that a pergola isn't just a shelter - it's a versatile feature that stands out as a smart and stylish choice for any modern garden. Read on to check out our stylish pergola seating area ideas.
What is pergola seating?
A pergola outdoor seating area is an inviting, functional space underneath the lattice or framework of a pergola. Offering a blend of shade and sunlight, pergola seating areas are known for their open and airy roofs supported by columns, are typically adorned with climbing plants and are perfect for relaxing or socialising.
Pergola outdoor seating areas are usually thoughtfully furnished and arranged to provide a comfortable, shaded spot for friends and family to sit, gather and enjoy the outdoors. Seating varies from simple benches to luxurious sofas, loungers and dining sets.
Why have a pergola?
A pergola is a transformative addition to any garden or patio, offering a versatile blend of shade and sunlight. It creates a comfortable outdoor area protected from the harshness of the sun's direct rays while still allowing you to soak in its natural ambience and warmth. They also provide a framework for climbing plants to intertwine, adding a living tapestry of greenery and flowers, as well as defining and enhancing your outdoor space for a sense of luxury in your garden.
Undoubtedly a focal point, pergolas make versatile settings for everything from a peaceful retreat for some relaxing alone time to lively parties and other social gatherings, including:
Cooking in your outdoor kitchen
Integrate bar stools or a high-top table near your outdoor kitchen. Guests can chat and sip drinks while you grill for a social and interactive cooking experience under your pergola. Incorporate a bar cart or outdoor buffet table to keep all the essentials within arm’s reach, ensuring the chef and guests are never far from the fun.
Click here for even more outdoor kitchen ideas.
Relaxing in the shade during the summer
Place loungers or a hammock under your pergola to create a serene escape. Soft scatter cushions and throw pillows add comfort and a cosy feel for those long, lazy summer days. Add a small side table for all of your refreshments and snacks, and even a light fabric curtain for extra shade, privacy and tranquillity.
Snuggling up around a fire pit in the winter
A semi-circle of cosy armchairs around a firepit draped with thick blankets and plush cushions creates a warm and inviting spot for cooler summer, autumn and even winter nights. Add a durable outdoor rug and a few lanterns to enhance the cosy atmosphere.
Hosting garden parties and events
Choose a lush sofa set and tables that can be rearranged whenever you need. Twinkling fairy lights and hanging plants from the beams of your pergola can create an enchanting setting for memorable get-togethers.
21 pergola seating ideas
1. Choose dining sets for outdoor meals
Tivoli 6 Seat Dining Set with Marble Dining Table in Fawn - £4,749
Elevate your outdoor meals with a stylish pergola dining set. Choose a long, rustic table for family-style gatherings or a round table for intimate dinners and pair it with comfortable, cushioned chairs that’ll make your guests want to stay for longer.
To ensure the longevity of your dining and seating sets, consider the materials your furniture is made from and select durable options, like wrought iron, which can withstand the elements and add a touch of elegance to your outdoor dining area.
2. Arrange sofa sets to create a cosy, inviting pergola seating area
Pello Deluxe Curved Sofa Set with Round Coffee Table in Fawn - £4,449
Create a living room under the sky with a plush pergola sofa set. These versatile, modular pieces can be rearranged according to the occasion and seating plan. Introduce captivating focal points in your space with accessories. Incorporate textiles in diverse textures, bringing the essence of a living room through interesting patterns and colours. Finish off the look with a stylish coffee table.
3. Design a fire pit seating area for warmth and social gatherings
Luna Outdoor Fabric Large Corner Group Set with Firepit Coffee Table in Grey - £4,149.00
Make your covered pergola seating area really stand out with a firepit set for cosy evenings. Choose low, comfortable seating that easily encircles the firepit, ensuring all your guests have equal access to toast their marshmallows and bask in the fires' warm glow. Add wooden seating with outdoor blankets for extra warmth and a chic ski chalet feel.
4. Relax on sun loungers under your pergola
Luna Outdoor Fabric Deluxe Sun Lounger with Bolster Cushion in Fawn - £1,099.00
Create your own garden sanctuary with a pair of adjustable sun loungers tucked beneath your pergola. Ideal for soaking up the sun or curling up with your latest read, loungers offer the flexibility to sit upright or lie back entirely during laid-back afternoons or when indulging in a peaceful nap in the shade. Add a small side table and a couple of soft scatter cushions for extra comfort to create the perfect setup for unwinding in style.
5. Indulge in comfort with luxurious daybeds
Selene Daybed in Fawn - £1,899.00
For ultimate relaxation, add loungers or a daybed to your pergola. Not just for summer holidays abroad by the pool, adjustable loungers are perfect for sunbathing or reading in your garden at home. Meanwhile, a daybed can double as a guest bed for lazy afternoon naps or enjoying outdoor film nights with a projector.
6. Add lighting to enhance ambience and extend evening usability
Bob Large Table Light in Charcoal - £69.99
Safe and stylish lighting extends the usability of your pergola into the evening. Illuminate your structure and show off your seating area with a mix of functional, weather-proof and stylish ambient lighting.
String lights create a magical, twinkling canopy, and lanterns and gravity candles add a soft, warm glow with a twist. For targeted lighting, consider eco-friendly solar or LED options around dining areas for an inviting brightness that significantly cuts your carbon footprint.
7. Incorporate pergola heating for year-round outdoor comfort
PergoSTET Wifi & Bluetooth Heater in White - £449
You can use your pergola all year long thanks to a wide range of available heating options. A stylish standing heater will become a focal point and add warmth, while infrared varieties can be mounted to the pergola structure and beams for a more cohesive and integrated look.
Choose from various styles and fuel options, like electric or natural gas, and mix and match with smaller fire lantern styles, larger fire pits and powerful wall-mounted variations to carry on and enjoy the space even when the temperature drops.
For more outdoor heating inspiration, check out our outdoor heating ideas.
8. Add lounge sets to create a laid-back, stylish outdoor retreat
PergoSTET Plus 3m x 3m Square Pergola with 3 Drop Sides and LED Lighting in Grey - £3,599
Lounge sets are perfect for transforming your pergola into a relaxed, resort-style space. With deep seats, low tables and comfy cushions, they’re made for long, lazy afternoons and casual get-togethers.
Choose weather-resistant fabrics and neutral tones for a timeless look, or inject personality with bold prints and plenty of colourful accessories. Great for both entertaining and everyday lounging, a lounge set adds effortless comfort to your outdoor setup.
9. Place outdoor sofas for a sociable pergola setup
PergoSTET Plus 4m x 4m Square Pergola with 3 Drop Sides and LED Lighting in Grey - £5,249.00
Outdoor sofas make creating a social, welcoming seating area under your pergola easy. Whether you choose a two-seater, three-seater or modular layout, sofas offer ample room for friends and family to gather and relax.
Pair with an outdoor rug and a stylish coffee table to anchor the space and create the perfect spot for catching up while sipping over a glass of chilled rosé or simply enjoying the view on a sunny afternoon.
10. Use corner seating to maximise space
Luna U-Shape Outdoor Fabric Sofa Set with Firepit Coffee Table in Fawn - £5,749.00
Corner seating is a clever way to make the most of every inch of your pergola, especially in compact outdoor areas. Tuck an L-shaped sofa into a corner to create a cosy nook that feels inviting and efficient.
A brilliant option for laid-back lounging or entertaining, style your corner seating with soft throws, patterned cushions and a statement coffee table with a feature pendant light hanging directly above to bring the entire area to life.
12. Hang chairs for a fun, bohemian-inspired pergola design
Globo Royal Double Seater Hanging Chair Set Weatherproof in Natura White- £1,755
Add a relaxed, free-spirited feel to your pergola with a hanging chair or two. Suspended from sturdy beams, these swinging seats bring a gentle sense of movement and an effortless boho vibe—perfect for curling up with a book or swaying in the breeze.
Style with a soft throw and a few scatter cushions to amp up the cosiness and make every moment feel like a mini-retreat. For a real statement, go bold with rattan textures or macramé details that double as décor.
13. Add swings to bring playful charm to your pergola seating area
Lima Deluxe Aluminium Swing Seat in Latte - £2,299
Bring out your inner child and add a dash of nostalgia and charm to your garden with a well-placed swing bench under your pergola. Swaying gently with a coffee in hand or unwinding after a long day, a swing provides instant calm, making an everyday moment feel a little more special.
Go for a padded seat and hang it with strong ropes or chains for an old-school look reminiscent of cherished childhood days, or choose a hanging chair for a more modern and stylish solution for unwinding in style. Add cushions or a draped blanket to dial up the comfort and give it a homely feel.
14. Opt for multi-functional seating for adaptable, space-efficient use
Sorrento Armchair with Ottoman in Taupe - £869
Make the most of your space with seating that does double duty. Look for benches with built-in storage, ottomans that can be used as extra seating or side tables, and foldaway chairs that are easy to tuck away when not in use.
Ideal for smaller pergolas or gardens where flexibility is key, these innovative solutions help you stay organised without compromising on comfort or style and are a clever way to keep your outdoor area tidy while staying ready for guests at a moment’s notice.
15. Choose modular sets for flexible layouts
Luna U-Shape Outdoor Fabric Corner Dining with Rising Table in Oyster Grey - 5,499.00
Modular seating sets give you the freedom to shape your pergola space exactly how you want it. Rearrange sections to suit the occasion, whether it’s a solo lounging day, a family dinner, or an evening cheese and wine night with friends.
With endless combinations to play with, these sets are for anyone who regularly likes to refresh their layout without starting from scratch. Add versatile side tables and movable accessories to complete the flexible, fuss-free feel.
16. Style with cushions to add comfort, colour and personality
Cosipouf Heated Tall Comfort in Teddy - £224.99
Cushions are one of the easiest ways to add comfort and character to your pergola seating area. Mix and match textures, prints and colours to suit the season or your mood, from laid-back neutrals to bold, eye-catching designs.
Soft furnishings also make your space feel more inviting and relaxed, perfect for lingering outside a little longer, day or night. Go one step further and be extra boujee with heated cushions and poufs, and don’t forget to coordinate with rugs or throws that echo the same tones and materials to keep everything looking cohesive.
17. Use rugs to define your pergola zones
Apollo 300cm Round Indoor and Outdoor Rug in Prussian Blue - £169
A well-chosen outdoor rug helps anchor your seating area and adds warmth and comfort. It’s an easy way to define different zones within your pergola, such as a dining area, a spot for lounging on lazy Sunday afternoons or a quiet corner for reading. Rugs can also soften harder outdoor surfaces, especially if your pergola is built on stone or decking.
18. Add a side table for convenience
Panama Teak Side Table in Latte - £249
A simple side table goes a long way in making your pergola seating area more practical. Use it to hold drinks, books, sunglasses or a candle for ambient lighting in the evening.
Simple but highly effective, it ties the space together and gives guests a convenient place to set things down. Choose a design that complements your seating, such as a natural wood finish, powder-coated metal, or something more decorative, and consider adding more than one if you have a larger setup.
19. Add a large dining table set for hosting family and friends
PergoSTET Plus 3m x 3m Square Pergola with 3 Drop Sides and LED Lighting with Wood Effect - £3,799
If you love gathering outdoors, a large, extendable dining table set creates the perfect setting for family meals, weekend BBQs or summer evenings spent hosting friends. Invest in a table with plenty of space and durable materials that can easily handle regular outdoor use. Surround it with cushioned chairs or benches, and dress it up with soft lighting and a tablescape with natural décor that reflects each season to make every occasion feel special.
20. Use bistro sets for a compact, stylish seating option for smaller pergolas
Cape Lounge Set in Beige - £899
Bistro sets are ideal for smaller pergolas or tucked-away corners with limited space. A table for two creates a charming spot for morning coffee or casual lunches without taking up too much room.
Lightweight designs are easy to move or fold away when not in use, especially if your pergola doubles as a multi-use space. Add a small plant or lamp to the table for a touch of character and an extra dash of charm.
21. Personalise your space with accessories
Enna 3 Seat Sofa Set with Coffee Table in Fawn - £3,249.00
Accessories are where your pergola seating area really comes to life. Experiment with finishing touches like outdoor lanterns, plant pots, wall art or a stack of cosy blankets for cooler evenings to reflect your personality and make the space feel like an extension of your home.
Try seasonal swaps to keep things feeling fresh, like vibrant colours in summer and soft, warm textures in autumn, and don’t be afraid to mix materials for a layered, lived-in feel that still looks pulled together.
How to make your pergola look good: top design tips
Uncovered vs. covered pergola seating area
For an uncovered Pergola, consider lightweight, movable chairs and a fire pit for a flexible space that allows you to bask in the glowing sun, and accent it with additions like tall, leafy potted and sun-loving climbing plants that are perfect for draping over beams and lattice for a touch of shade. Covered pergola seating areas, on the other hand, are perfect for incorporating a permanent dining set or cosy soft sofas and chairs with weather-resistant fabrics for practical comfort come rain or shine.
Patio vs. garden pergola seating area
If you have a garden pergola seating area, consider natural wood or wicker furniture to complement your natural surroundings. Accessorise with scattered, plush, floral print cushions for a burst of colour and added comfort. For patio-located pergolas, go for sleek, modern furniture to mirror the home’s exterior with cushions with bold patterns and rugs to add personality and create a unified look that’s a natural extension of your interior.
Where to place a pergola
A pergola placed near the home can double up as an outdoor living room, complete with a lounge set and side tables for added convenience, perfect for warmer days!
If you want more space between your property and the pergola structure, opt for a garden corner with a bench and a small table for coffee or cocktails to create a secret getaway. Surround your pergola with outdoor lights like lanterns for soft lighting that’s both functional and creates a magical evening ambience.
Sunken seating area with pergola
Sunken seating areas with a pergola offer an even more cosy vibe! Adorn the space with multiple cushions and throws to create the perfect relaxing sanctuary after a long, hard day. Add a central, low-lying table for somewhere to place all your snacks and drinks and hang string lights or pendant lighting overhead for a warm and inviting glow that enhances the sunken effect.
What height should a pergola be?
In the UK, if your pergola is within 2 metres of the boundary, its height can’t exceed 2.5 metres. However, if it is further away from the boundary, the height of your pergola can be up to 3 metres, and if it has an A-shaped pitched roof, it can even be as tall as 4 metres.
A taller pergola would look great if you have a larger garden with more expansive space and a two-floor home or higher. In contrast, bungalows or homes with smaller gardens would look better with a shorter pergola that isn’t taller than your property and won’t overpower your outdoor space.
Pergola material and colour
For those with wooden pergolas, think about staining or painting your structure in hues that either contrast or complement your outdoor and indoor colour palette, depending on the look and feel you’re going for. Pair with garden furniture that highlights the natural grain and texture.
For metal pergolas, match with sleek, metallic or glass-topped tables for a modern aesthetic. Warm it up and add a pop of vibrant energy with brightly coloured cushions and blankets or neutral colours if your goal is to create a calm and sophisticated area.
Discover more pergola seating area ideas
The potential to create your perfect pergola is limitless — all you need is to add your personal touch and you’re good to go. From seating ideas to materials and decorations, we’ve gone through it all. But remember, each suggestion is merely a starting point and inspiration for your own creativity and style.
Get creative and dive deeper with Harbour Lifestyle’s selection of luxury seating options, and find pieces that speak to your unique needs and tastes to create your perfect outdoor space.
Each piece reflects our commitment to quality and excellence, designed to elevate your outdoor living experience. Our award-winning collections combine durability with style and comfort, guaranteeing your pergola becomes such a cherished extension of your home that you’ll spend all your free time under it!
Choose Harbour Lifestyle and make your pergola seating area the heart of countless memorable moments — click here to browse our full range.
FAQs
Will a pergola block the sun?
Whether or not a pergola blocks the sun depends on your chosen design and structure.
Some pergolas feature an open lattice design that provides partial shades and filters the sun’s rays instead of blocking them altogether, while others have a full roof to block the sun completely. The amount of shade can be increased with climbing plants or added fabrics like curtains and retractable canopies that can be opened and closed as needed.
Are pergolas a good idea?
Pergolas make a great addition to any outdoor space, providing the perfect blend of aesthetic appeal and functionality. They provide a designated area to relax and entertain while enhancing the overall look of your garden or patio, and can even increase the value of your property.
With various design and customisation options to choose from, pergolas can suit a wide range of preferences and needs.
How close can a pergola be to a neighbour's fence?
A pergola's distance from a neighbour's fence is up to 2 metres from the property boundary. However, distances can vary by local regulations, so it's always best to check with your local council and building codes, as well as discuss your plans with neighbours to avoid any potential disputes down the line.
How high can a pergola be without planning permission in the UK?
In the UK, pergolas typically don’t need planning permission. That being said, this is only if they are no higher than 2.5 metres. Once again, it’s always best to double-check with your local council and planning authorities as specific rules may vary.
What is the point of a pergola without a roof?
A pergola without a roof creates a defined outdoor space while still letting in natural light and fresh air. It's a great option if you want something relaxed and open that provides just enough shade once climbing plants start to weave their way across the beams.
What is pergola seating?
A pergola outdoor seating area is an inviting, functional space underneath the lattice or framework of a pergola. Offering a blend of shade and sunlight, pergola seating areas are known for their open and airy roofs supported by columns, are typically adorned with climbing plants and are perfect for relaxing or socialising.
Pergola outdoor seating areas are usually thoughtfully furnished and arranged to provide a comfortable, shaded spot for friends and family to sit, gather and enjoy the outdoors. Seating varies from simple benches to luxurious sofas, loungers and dining sets.
