Getting the size right is the single biggest decision in planning a pergola — too small and it won't do the job you want it to; too large and it can dominate a garden that isn't built for it. Here's how to think it through.
Start with how you'll use the space
Before you think about metres and centimetres, think about function. A pergola over a small seating area for two needs far less room than one that's meant to cover a full outdoor dining table and a lounge set. Measure the furniture you actually intend to put underneath it — including space to push chairs back and walk around comfortably — rather than guessing at a size that "looks about right."
Measuring your space
Measure the full area available, but also check what's around it: doors that swing outward, downpipes, overhanging trees, and boundary fences all affect where a pergola can actually sit and how close to walls or boundaries it can be positioned. If you're fitting it against the house, check the eaves and guttering height too, since that often dictates the maximum practical height for the pergola roof.
Typical sizes
Because every pergola we supply is built to your measurements rather than picked from a fixed range of sizes, there isn't a single "standard" size — but as a reference point, our largest single-bay model covers up to 4.5m × 6m, with multi-bay bespoke configurations available if you need to cover more than that in one structure.
Why bespoke manufacture matters here
A garden rarely matches a manufacturer's standard size exactly. Building to your precise measurements means the finished structure fits your space properly — no awkward gaps, no overhang you didn't want, and no compromise on positioning to fit a size that wasn't quite designed for your garden.
Things worth considering before you order
- Sun direction — where does the sun sit at the times of day you'll actually use the space?
- Existing structures — walls, fences, and trees that might restrict size or positioning
- Boundary distance, which can also affect whether you need planning permission
Not sure what size is right for your space? Get in touch with our team for tailored advice and a quote.