When deciding on how to recreate the open space of your yard (back and front), why not choose a feature that has withstood the test of time. The oldest known garden plan, dating back to Ancient Egypt in 1400 B.C., which belonged to the Egyptian high court, showed a pergola at the garden’s entrance. Many have speculated as to why they were originally created. Some have guessed purely for the beauty or guards against the weather. Whatever the reason, the pergola has a storied history throughout the world.
Egypt
Here Egyptians used them as a way to escape the heat. Painting found in ancient tombs showed grapes on top of the pergola as a way to shade the garden. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gardens_of_ancient_Egypt Fruit trees were used to cover elevated walkways, creating a lattice resembling some modern structures.
France
Shortly after the invasion of Italy by Charles VIII in 1494, the French brought back with them many artistic ideas, including gardens centered around a pergola. The French were so taken with the style that Queen Catherine de’Medici and King Louis XII’s daughter Renee had pergola constructed at the Jardin de la Reine at the Chaeteau of Fontainebleau.
Rome
From Ancient Rome came the origin of the word pergula, meaning projecting eave. It was used in 1645 by English gardener and writer John Evelyn in Rome at the cloister of Trinità dei Monti. Later in 1654, he used the term pergola in Salisbury, England.
China
At the same time, the Chinese were creating elaborate pagodas with wood-carved pergola roofs. Here, protection from the sun lead to artistic structures.
For quite some time, the structure fell out of favor, and it wasn’t until the late 19th century, behind the designs of Gertrude Jekyll and Sir Edwin Lutyens, that the structure made a comeback that is still prevalent today.
Modern pergolas come in many shapes and sizes and is available in various materials based on the use. They can house firepits, fireplaces, and outdoor kitchens. They can extend the living space of a house, whether attached or not. They can be rustic, modern, and even built with architectural columns to reflect Ancient Rome. To add a touch of beauty, vines are often placed over the top to grow, creating a natural arch. The experts at Nicklaus Landscaping can help you choose the appropriate greenery, from the leafy Dutchman’s Pipe to the timeless beauty of the Bougainvillea.
While aesthetic beauty does not have a price tag, adding a pergola to your home is a great way to increase your property value. As of 2017, the expected return on your investment is around 50%. Factor in the hours spent relaxing after a tough day or the excitement of your guests at a cozy get-together, and the return is priceless.
In Sonoma, Lake, and Mendocino counties, there is only one company to trust with such an important addition to your home. That’s Nicklaus Landscaping. It is our passion to take your vision and bring it to life. As the top-rated outdoor living contractor in the region, our experts are ready to tackle all of your landscaping needs. Give us a call today for an estimate and know that natural beauty is just a phone call away.
Nicklaus Landscaping
23964 Azalea Pl, Willits, CA 95490
707-513-8747