14 Free Pergola Plans

Stacy is an expert writer for The Spruce covering home DIY projects and crafts. She has over 18 years of journalistic experience, appearing as a DIY expert on the Dr. Oz Show and several radio shows. She has published hundreds of articles and co-authored a book.

These free DIY pergola plans will help you build that much-needed structure in your backyard to give you shade, cover your hot tub, or simply make a space special. There are plans available for a wide variety of pergola styles: You can choose between materials like wood or aluminum, having an attached or freestanding pergola, or one with louvered or static slats. Canopies are also available to lay atop this landscaping feature to give you extra sun or weather protection.

Building a pergola can be a simple or challenging building project depending on what plan you pick, so make sure you know your skill level. But there are items like pergola brackets that can make attaching these structures to a deck much easier.

Every plan here includes building instructions, tool and material lists, diagrams, and photos to make the process go smoothly.

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Free-standing Wood Pergola

Building Strong has a free pergola plan—and you'll love how simple this pergola project is. The structure's 10 x 8 footprint is suitable for smaller-sized yards. And the simple wood material and classic silhouette will work with any landscaping style.

Simple DIY Wood Pergola Plan

Here's a very thorough pergola plan that will help you build a pergola from start to finish in an entire weekend. This small and simple wood pergola is freestanding and perfect for covering a small seating area in your yard. Aesthetically, this pergola offers a rustic-traditional look.

Deck Pergola With Plant Hangers

Here's a free pergola plan to build a pergola that goes over an existing deck. The design includes cables and exposed bolts for a modern twist that can double as plant hangers. This unique wooden pergola looks sleek and modern but gets a touch of extra botanical interest from the frosted glass panels decorated with leaf patterns.

Wood Pergola With Stone Legs

This free pergola plan by Ana White is modeled from the expensive Pottery Barn Weatherly Pergola, which means you can get the same look for a lot less if you build it yourself. This freestanding wooden pergola feels traditional and elevated, with its stone lower posts that complement the stone patio it is set on in this photo.