You may be tinkering about how you could decorate a large outdoor space, particularly a backyard, while also enjoying the benefits of the decorations. One of the best ways to improve the beauty of a home is to build backyard structures such as outdoor pavilions, pergolas, and gazebos.

A pavilion is one of the best structure options if you have a larger yard. If you’re wondering what a pavilion is, it’s a self-supporting structure with only a roof and no walls. It is the largest when compared to gazebos or pergolas. As a result, it is ideal for large families or large social gatherings with many guests.

Pavilions are designed to add both a unique and elegant touch to your home. Before you go out and buy an outdoor pavilion, consider the following factors: use, type, and design.

Let’s go over each of these so you can make an informed decision about which type of pavilion is best for you, your family, and your home. 

Outdoor Pavilion: Uses 

You’ll be able to select the best outdoor pavilion for you once you’ve determined how you intend to use it. While the list is nearly endless, it is this variety that makes a pavilion such an appealing addition to your landscape. 

If you’re only going to use it occasionally for small gatherings, then a more simple and more compact design will suffice. However, if you intend to use it regularly for large gatherings or even as an outdoor living space, you’ll need something more spacious with additional amenities such as electricity, which we will discuss further under design.

Here is a list of some of the many uses for an outdoor pavilion, as well as some of our personal favorites too! 

•     Venues for events
•     Areas for picnics
•     Covered outdoor kitchen
•     Formal or casual outdoor dining
•     Shaded area by the pool
•     Family BBQ haven
•     Outdoor living space
•     Children’s play area
•     Workout area
•     Seating or reading area
•     Covered hot tub
•     Backyard spa

Outdoor pavilions have been used in more creative ways than ever before. When it comes to pavilion usage, the sky is truly the limit! 

Outdoor Pavilion: Types 

Once you’ve decided how you want to use your outdoor pavilion, you’ll want to find the perfect style to match it.

Here at Backyard Escapes pavilions are classified into three main styles or types: 

Wooden Type Outdoor Pavilion 

Wooden pavilions are the most affordable type of pavilion but still make an attractive backyard centerpiece.  

They are available in a variety of types of wood, but the most common are pressure-treated yellow pine and western red cedar. 

Standard Outdoor Wooden Pavilion Structure: 

•     Unstained, Southern Yellow Pine Lumber
•     Shingles
•     Exposed Rafters with Tongue & Groove Ceiling
•     2×6 Rafters
•     Triple 2×10 Beams
•     7″ Square Laminated Posts with Trim

Wooden-type pavilions are excellent options for providing homeowners across the country with resort-style relaxation, poolside paradise, or a welcoming backyard dining experience. 

Vinyl Type Outdoor Pavilion 

Vinyl pavilions add a contemporary feel to your outdoor space. It is constructed with quality vinyl-wrapped wooden posts, and many styles include the option of adding a vinyl ceiling for the perfect finishing touch. 

Standard Outdoor Vinyl Pavilion Structure: 

•     Pressure treated lumber covered with white vinyl sleeves and trim
•     Shingles
•     2×8 Rafters
•     Vinyl Ceiling
•     3 1/2″ x 9 1/4″ GluLam Beams
•     8″ Square Posts with Trim

Vinyl is a low-maintenance, non-toxic material. It is popular not only for pavilions but also for other outdoor structures because it is a cheaper, long-lasting material that can withstand harsh weather. 

Timber Type Outdoor Pavilion 

Timber-type pavilions are the origin of all the pavilions. It is an age-old method of construction that employs a system of mortise and tenon joints in heavy timber that interlock to provide a very solid joint. 

Standard Outdoor Vinyl Pavilion Structure: 

•     Rough-hewn hemlock lumber
•     Unstained
•     Open A-frame roof
•     Shingles
•     Exposed rafters with tongue and groove ceiling
•     3″ x 8″ Rafters
•     8″ Square solid beams
•     8″ Square solid posts

So, why should you invest in a timber-type pavilion? While timber-type pavilions cost more than the standard wood or vinyl pavilions, you will get a high-end, stunning, and regal structure that will last a lifetime.

Here’s a fun fact: Did you know that the Jokhang Monastery in Tibet, which dates back to the 7th century, is the oldest timber-type building still standing today? So if you want an outdoor pavilion that will last a lifetime, a timber-type pavilion is the best choice.

Aside from the obvious benefits of having a classy pavilion in your backyard, building a timber-type pavilion will also increase the value of your home by increasing curb appeal and livable square footage. 

Outdoor Pavilion: Designs 

The real fun begins once you’ve decided on the purpose and style of your outdoor pavilion. Your choice of design elements will make this pavilion completely unique to you.

Consider your outdoor pavilion to be a blank canvas. When you look at it, what features, furniture and decorations do you want to see?

Electricity is a requirement for any outdoor pavilion. It is one of the most important features because it expands your options for your ceiling fan, kitchen, television, and other appliances.

Some designs are easier to install than others, but they may require more maintenance in the long run, whereas others are more difficult to install, but they will last longer and require less maintenance.

Whatever customizations you choose, the key is to strike the right balance between initial effort and long-term care. This is what truly transforms your outdoor space into a home.

Here are some examples of how our customers use their outdoor pavilions that will surely inspire you!

A Full Living Room Setup 

This layout can accommodate a large number of guests and family members. The accent and focal point of this design can be a stone fireplace with matching stone pillars.

This wood and stone outdoor pavilion could be made even cozier by adding warm ambient lighting to the pillars. The addition of an outdoor sectional sofa and a stunning wooden center table will also make it the ideal place to enjoy sunsets and peaceful nights.

You can finish it off with a wooden roof to give it a more natural feel while admiring your backyard’s serene and breathtaking view. 

An Intimate Outdoor Kitchen 

Adding an outdoor kitchen to your pavilion is a popular trend. An outdoor kitchen, complete with a grill, refrigerator, and plenty of seating, allows you to host and entertain guests in the comfort of your backyard.

It can be provided with a ten-seat dining table, which can accommodate small family gatherings as well as intimate parties with friends.

If you have a large enough backyard, this type of pavilion design can be expanded with other architectural structures that are both decorative and functional, such as a pergola. 

Poolside Shade that is Sleek, Modern, and Simple 

This outdoor pavilion design can be built raised above the existing floor level of the surrounding lawn, giving homeowners a full view of the surrounding landscape and swimming pool.

You can round out the design with a seating and dining area, which is ideal for taking breaks during afternoon swims. This may also provide a great place for family members and friends who prefer not to swim yet still enjoy while staying out of the sun.

If the weather turns bad, this pavilion can provide shelter for swimmers during a sudden rainstorm. Clearly, your sleek, modern, and simple poolside pavilion can be an excellent way to safeguard you and your family from the elements while also providing much-needed shade. 

Pavilion for Hot Tubs 

Because a hot tub is likely to be one of the centerpieces of your pool and backyard design, it makes sense to cover it with a beautiful outdoor pavilion.

Having a pavilion to cover it is an excellent way to protect your hot tub from different climates. It means you can use your hot tub whenever you want, even during summer rain showers or, even better, light winter snow. 

Other features you might want to include in your outdoor pavilion: 

•     Adding a TV can make it the new spot for your family’s next big watch party.
•     Installing a simple propane or electric outdoor heater will help keep those cold evenings warm.
•     Mattresses are more proportional in size than a sofa or daybed and thus work well as sleeping and seating areas.
•     Asian-inspired furniture is appropriate if you want a tropical setting.
•     Sheer curtains tied around posts are an excellent way to add shade without completely enclosing it and obstructing the view.
•     Adding a wall to the back or side can be a great way to give more privacy.

It does not have to be difficult to select the best backyard pavilion for your home. Simply keep the three main considerations of use, style, and design in mind, and you’ll be able to find the best pavilion for your needs.

With so many options on the market today, there’s bound to be one that’s ideal for you and your home. Backyard Escapes takes pride in providing high-quality outdoor pavilions, pool house, and other structures.

You have the option of building on-site or having a kit delivered to your door! If you have any questions, please contact us or request a free quote for your outdoor pavilion today.