It started with an ordinary deck. But when one family added a custom timber frame pergola, it transformed into something extraordinary — sparking an idea that would lead to not one, but two more remarkable pergolas in the very next yard.

Custom arched attached timber frame pergola in white stain with cantilevered roof over poolside dining area, evening lighting, and accessible design. — Custom arched attached timber frame pergola in white stain adds elegance and shade to the poolside dining space.

Freestanding timber frame pergola in Rich Cordoba stain covering outdoor kitchen and dining area, with built-in grill, bar seating, and stone patio. — Freestanding timber frame pergola provides shaded comfort for the outdoor kitchen and dining area.

Backyard deck before installation of traditional attached timber frame pergola, elevated design with stone retaining wall and stucco exterior.

Before: The elevated backyard deck stood waiting for shade, comfort, and a touch of handcrafted timber beauty.

Deck Before: Expansive and open to the sun, this deck was ready for the transformation only a timber frame pergola could bring.

Wide view of elevated backyard deck before installation of attached timber frame pergola, featuring composite decking, outdoor furniture, and mountain views. — Before: The expansive deck awaited its transformation with a custom attached timber frame pergola.

The First Project: A Deck Made for Living

The daughter’s home featured a beautiful deck, but it needed definition, shade, and style. The solution came in the form of a traditional attached timber frame pergola. It was built from Douglas Fir in our 6000 Series timbers.

The pergola featured a Rich Cordoba stain, Axis beam profile, and full wrap large roof. Together, these created a comfortable, protected space for family gatherings in every season.

Four classic knee braces added timeless character. Knife plate hardware gave the structure strength and stability. The clean design kept the focus on the beauty of the timber.

Elevated backyard deck with attached traditional timber frame pergola in Rich Cordoba stain, featuring outdoor seating, hanging chair, and landscaped yard with mountain views. — After: The deck is transformed with a traditional attached timber frame pergola, creating an inviting outdoor living space.

Elevated backyard deck with attached traditional timber frame pergola in Rich Cordoba stain, illuminated by string lights at dusk, overlooking landscaped yard and neighborhood. — After: Under the soft glow of string lights, the pergola becomes the heart of the home’s evening gatherings.

This attached timber frame pergola was built with a special purpose. It created a comfortable, shaded space where Christian, the family’s bright light, could enjoy the outdoors year-round. The elevated deck was often drenched in sun. Adding the pergola brought welcome shade. It made it easier for the family to gather outside.

The design is fully wheelchair-accessible. It offers clear, smooth entry and space to move freely. Thoughtful pergola design can open up the outdoors for everyone. It makes it possible to relax, connect, and enjoy fresh air in comfort. For this family, it became more than a structure. It was a place for smiles, conversation, and the kind of moments that turn into cherished memories.

A Grandmother’s Backyard Designed for Connection

After seeing how much joy and comfort the deck pergola brought Christian, his grandmother began to imagine her own backyard differently. She wanted it to be a place where he could feel just as welcome. She pictured spaces for the whole family — children, grandchildren, and guests — to gather, eat, and laugh together. Every design choice would make sure Christian could easily be part of the fun.

Pergola One: Freestanding Traditional Design in Rich Cordoba

The first addition to her yard was a 14×16 freestanding timber frame pergola with a 12×14 footprint. Crafted from Douglas Fir in our 8000 Series, it features 8×8 posts, Axis beams, and eight standard knee braces. The Rich Cordoba stain mirrors the warmth of her daughter’s pergola, creating a visual link between the two homes.

Freestanding timber frame pergola in Rich Cordoba stain with post sleeves, covering outdoor kitchen and dining area on stone patio in landscaped backyard.

Its location allows for open movement all around, with plenty of space to roll up and join in. Whether hosting a barbecue, setting up lawn games, or simply enjoying the shade, it’s a welcoming spot for everyone.

Pergola Two: Custom Arched Attached in White

White arched attached timber frame pergola with cantilevered roof over poolside dining area, illuminated at night with accessible design for all guests. — The custom arched attached timber frame pergola in white stain creates a welcoming poolside dining space, beautifully lit at night.

Her second pergola brought a dramatic and elegant flair. She chose a custom arched attached timber frame pergola in a crisp white stain. The roof measures 22′ 3″ x 15′ 7″ and features a Roosevelt beam profile. A blend of classic and custom knee braces adds architectural beauty. The open design provides generous space underneath.

Just like the other pergolas, the design includes accessibility as a key feature. Wide, open entry points and smooth transitions make it easy for Christian to join the activity. He can be at the outdoor dining table or enjoying the poolside view. The integrated TimberVolt® Firefly™ lighting adds a warm glow, making the space inviting from sunrise to evening.

Custom white arched attached timber frame pergola with cantilevered roof over patio dining area, evening lighting, and accessible design in landscaped backyard. — Custom white arched attached timber frame pergola adds elegance and shade to the patio dining space.

A Family Legacy in Timber

The first pergola transformed the daughter’s deck into a shaded retreat. Two more pergolas soon enhanced her grandmother’s yard. Together, they offered more than shade and beauty. In fact, they created welcoming spaces where everyone, regardless of mobility, could enjoy the outdoors in comfort.

For this family, timber frame pergolas have become the setting for shared meals, long conversations, celebrations, and quiet moments. They stand as a lasting reminder of what matters most in outdoor design. The best spaces invite everyone to share in life’s best moments.