Wake Forest, NC · 2024
The Elm Street Pergola
Small pergola deck with planter boxes & garden seating
The Story
Not every project is a full backyard transformation. The Elm Street homeowners just wanted a small, charming pergola over their existing deck with planter boxes and a place to read. Sometimes the simple projects are the most satisfying.
The Challenge
The existing deck structure wasn't designed to support a pergola. Adding posts to the deck surface would require cutting through the deck boards and reinforcing the framing below.
Our Solution
We installed the pergola posts on independent footings adjacent to the deck, with the beams cantilevering over the deck surface. Zero modifications to the existing deck structure.
2 weeks
Build Time
12×10 ft
Pergola Size
Pergola + Planters
Features
120 sq ft
Total Area
Construction Timeline
From ground to glory.
Site Assessment
A plain wooden deck with no shade structure, railing, or personality. The homeowners wanted charm without a full rebuild.
Footing Installation
Four concrete footings poured adjacent to the deck corners. Post brackets set in wet concrete and leveled precisely.
Post & Beam
Cedar 6×6 posts set in brackets and braced plumb. Double 2×10 beams bolted to the posts, cantilevering over the deck.
Rafters & Slats
Cedar rafters notched into the beams, with 2×2 top slats providing filtered shade. All connections secured with stainless steel hardware.
Planter Boxes
Custom cedar planter boxes built to match the pergola, lined with landscape fabric, and mounted along the deck railing.
Stain & Planting
Entire pergola stained to match the deck. Planters filled with trailing vines, herbs, and seasonal flowers. A reading chair placed underneath.
Final Reveal
Dappled shade through cedar slats, planters overflowing with greenery, a cozy reading nook. The Elm Street Pergola proves small can be stunning.
The Transformation
Before & After
BeforeAfter
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