What's the Difference Between a Pergola and an Arbor?
A Google image search for “pergola” and “arbor” may confuse someone. They are distinct from one another but people use the names for these outdoor structures interchangeably. Even Wikipedia links to the page for pergolas when referring to garden arbors. No wonder people can’t tell the difference! In this blog, we want to adequately explain the different characteristics of arbors and pergolas.
FAQs: Pergola vs. Arbor
Pergola = large shaded gathering space; Arbor = small passage/entrance. Pergolas are larger structures with at least four supports and an open, cross-beam roof for airy shade. Arbors are smaller, placed on paths or at garden entrances, and are meant to be walked through—not lingered under. Both may feature lattice sides and climbing plants.
Pergolas can host small to large groups; arbors are compact. Pergolas range widely—some fit two people, others accommodate twenty. They create comfortable shade for gatherings. Arbors are intentionally small and transitional; they frame an entry or walkway rather than serve as a hangout zone.
Pergolas: patios, gardens, walkways; Arbors: paths and entrances. Pergolas can stand alone or attach to a building, shading patios or long walks. Arbors typically sit over paths or at garden gates, often supporting vines to create a welcoming threshold into a space.
Both often wood with cross-beam roofs; lattice sides optional. Pergolas are commonly wood but also steel, aluminum, or vinyl. Arbors are often wood, but iron, steel, and aluminum are seen too. Both may be open-sided or include lattice panels, and both can be dressed with vines.
Pergolas: freestanding or attached; Arbors: often free or fence-attached. Pergolas may be freestanding in a yard or attached to a house. Arbors can be placed mid-path or attached to fencing to form a doorway—ideal for creating a defined garden entry.
Entertaining/shade: pergola. Framing entries/paths: arbor. Pick a pergola to host guests with breezy, filtered shade. Choose an arbor to add romance and structure to a walkway or gate, guiding people into a garden area.
Go with outdoor dining or sofa sets; consider pergola kits. A large pergola pairs well with outdoor dining (e.g., a 9-piece Urbana Dining Set) or a cozy lounge zone (e.g., 4-piece Urbana Sofa Set). Modern pergola kits are affordable, easy to set up, and elevate any patio’s vibe.
This introduction only touches the surface, keep reading to discover the key differences between a pergola and an arbor.
Similarities Between Pergola and Arbor
The similarities between a pergola and an arbor are what throw people off. Both of them are found in outdoor spaces such as gardens, patios, and parks. They are most commonly made of wood and feature a cross-beam design for the roof. They can both have sides made of lattice or be completely open with no sides.
Both can be decorated with plants and vines or have little to no decoration at all. Once you understand what they are used for, it will be easier to distinguish them. Check out our brand new collection of outdoor pergola kits! Modern, affordable, and easy to set up, they make a great addition to any patio space.
What is a Pergola?
Let us begin with Pergolas. The most telling features of pergolas are their size and function. They tend to be large wooden structures with at least four support beams and open sides. The roof comprises wooden cross-beams spaced apart to allow air and sunlight through. Pergolas are typically meant for gatherings and entertaining groups of people. It provides a comfortable shaded area without losing the feeling of being outdoors.
A classic wooden pergola designed for social occasions - Image via flickr
Keep in mind that all of these features can vary. Although wood is a popular material, it can also be made of others, such as steel, aluminum, and vinyl. Some pergolas are open with no sides and others have lattice walls. Some are solely for entertainment and others are meant to provide shade along a walkway. Some are small enough for only 2 people, while others can accommodate 20. Some of them are freestanding, while others are attached to the sides of buildings.
At a park, this pergola keep chess players comfortable under the shade - Image via flickr
This large pergola extends down a long walkway - Image via Wikimedia Commons
What is an Arbor?
On the other hand, an arbor is distinct because of its placement, purpose, and size. Arbors are placed on paths, walkways, and entrances. The most common place for an arbor is at the entrance to a garden or on a garden walkway. Since they are used in gardens, arbors can feature plants and vines growing on them. Compared to a pergola, they are small in size. They are not meant for people to linger but walk through them.
Arbor standing over a walkway in a garden - Image via flickr
There are variations for arbors as well. Most are wooden but they can also be made of other materials such as iron, steel, and aluminum. Some are highly decorative lattices and growing vines, while others are very minimal. Some are attached to fencing to form a doorway and others are placed in the middle of a pathway.
Iron arbor on a garden path - Image via flickr
This arbor is attached to a fence to create an entrance - Image via flickr
Another arbor entrance that leads to the patio - Image via flickr
Conclusion
Once you understand the differences, it is easy to tell between a pergola and an arbor. Each of them serve different purposes despite sharing common design features. While size is essential for an arbor, appearance is not as important as purpose. For more information on outdoor structures, check out our previous blog post about the difference between a pergola, gazebo, and pavilion.
We carry a wide selection of outdoor dining sets, such as the 9 piece Urbana Dining Set, which would look great underneath a large pergola. Or perhaps the 4 piece Urbana Sofa Set for a more relaxing area to entertain guests.
