A Return to the Classics
Eight traditional pergola projects we love—bold, beautiful, and built to last.
Project by The Great Canadian Landscaping Company
Is your outdoor style modern—or timeless? Good news: Real Cedar has you covered either way. Modern pergolas will always have a place in outdoor design—clean lines, minimal detailing, and that effortlessly crisp, architectural look. (If that’s your style, check out our modern pergola inspiration roundup here.)
And just as much as we love modern, it’s worth celebrating the classics: traditional, timeless builds that never go out of style. Some of the projects ahead are brand new, others have been loved for years. But they all share the same enduring appeal: bigger, bolder posts, substantial beams, and deep shadow lines that bring warmth, dimension, and presence to an outdoor space.
That classic look pairs perfectly with Real Cedar. A naturally durable wood, cedar is a beautiful, long-lasting choice for outdoor pergolas. Bonus: Real Cedar is a renewable, sustainably sourced material—and wood stores carbon, too—so it’s a choice you can feel good about.
In this roundup, we’re featuring eight of our favorite traditional Real Cedar pergolas—each one a standout in its own way.
The Cedar Suite
With this beautifully crafted project, HABITAT Luxury Outdoor Design shows how transformative cedar can be when you use it head-to-toe—deck, pergola, and a slatted privacy screen that makes the whole space feel finished. It’s no wonder pros and DIYers love working with Real Cedar. It stays straight, takes fasteners, accepts finishes exceptionally well—and, nothing looks, feels, or smells quite like it.
Classic Gathering Spot
Providence Outdoor Structures beautifully crafted this traditional Real Cedar pergola to clearly define the outdoor lounge and entertaining zone. We love the big, bold cedar posts and the vintage-style lantern lights mounted on each post. And because Western Red Cedar timber is naturally resists rot, decay, and insects, it will look great for summers to come.
Enhanced Curve Appeal
This Real Cedar pergola turns the patio into a true outdoor living space—complete with a fireplace, BBQ zone, and even living-room lighting. The bold, arched rafters and lattice-style overhead bring a traditional, crafted look with serious presence. In addition to presence, this project speaks to cedar’s versatility. As a material, it’s easy to work with and adaptable enough to make standout designs like this possible.
Cantilevered Shade Maker
This bold, cantilevered Real Cedar pergola by Rock Solid Design stretches 14 feet to shelter an outdoor cooking station, making the space feel intentional and inviting. With substantial beams and a statement chandelier overhead, it’s a great example of how cedar projects brings warmth and balance—especially when paired with more modern, hard-surface elements.
Patio-Defining Pergola
This Old House + Real Cedar project proves that, with the right design, a little cedar can go a long way in defining an outdoor room. The bold posts and semi-curve beam line anchor the patio, create a natural mounting point for the swing. And the natural beauty of wood helps bridge the finished entertaining space with the greenery beyond.
Total Cedar Package
The Great Canadian Landscaping Company leans into Real Cedar with confidence here. They beautifully pair a bold covered pergola (with a cedar-clad ceiling) with a matching cedar deck and slatted privacy screens. It’s the kind of cohesive, all-cedar, all-season build that becomes a true calling card for true craftsmanship.
Timber-Frame Pavilion
Island Timber Frame delivers a true statement build here. This gabled Real Cedar pavilion frames a deluxe outdoor kitchen and bar with massive, bold timbers. It’s the kind of structure designed for long-term enjoyment. And with Real Cedar’s natural durability this outdoor hub will look great season after season.