Finding a source of peace can be challenging in today’s fast-paced world. When it comes to creating a haven in your backyard, few things can add a feeling of tranquility like an arbor.
Arbor options range from simple, traditional archway kits to custom vine-covered sanctuaries. Their wide variety of uses makes them the ideal way to create a meditative space outdoors.
Form that Mirrors FunctionThe first step toward crafting your own Zen gateway is to combine form with function. Before you decide what shape your arbor will take, it’s important to identify its purpose.
Traditional archway. The arch is what most people think of when they picture an arbor. It usually stands alone as a garden structure, focusing attention on a particular part of your yard and showcasing climbing plants or flowers.
Fence gateway. An arbor framing the gateway of your fence conveys a sense of transition from one place to the next, particularly if you add trailing vines. These arbors can take the traditional arch form, or they can have a more squared-off look, similar to a pergola.
Reading corner. An arbor can help to define and anchor a small outdoor living space. By constructing a slightly wider arbor and placing a bench or chair underneath, you can create a shaded oasis as well as a charming garden reading nook.
Vine-covered tunnel. To create a vine-covered garden walkway, stack several arbors back to back and weave vines, wisteria or other climbing plants through the latticework. Just make sure the arbors are tall enough to allow vines to trail down without brushing the heads of the people walking beneath.
Choosing the Perfect MaterialThe material you choose for your arbor can make a huge difference in how it affects your yard. You can choose an arbor that blends into your landscaping or one that calls attention to itself.
Wood. Cedar arbors have a rustic look and blend well with a natural setting. These work especially well if your yard as a country-style or Asian flair. Most arbors are made of wood, which can easily be shaped into custom designs. Wood arbors do require some maintenance in order to remain protected from the elements.
Vinyl. Vinyl arbors most frequently come in white and tend to stand out in sharp contrast to the greenery of their surroundings. A classic white lattice arbor evokes the feeling of an English cottage and pairs especially well with a white picket fence. As an added bonus, vinyl is a low-maintenance and easy-to-clean material.
Aluminum. Aluminum arbors tend to have a wrought-iron appearance and can give their surroundings a gothic or stately air. Most aluminum materials are low maintenance and treated with a powder coating to resist rust.
Arbors have a special place among home improvement projects. Considering how simple they are to put together, a well-placed arbor can work wonders by adding beauty, tranquility and elegance to any home.
~Ben Serviss, 2010
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