Let's start by asking what we mean by a garden gazebo; because to some it will be a temporary structure a bit like a tent, whilst to others it is a more permanent building. For still others a garden gazebo is a decorative framework for an attractive display of climbing plants. Strictly speaking, an outdoor gazebo is any garden structure that provides shelter or encloses a sitting area from which the garden can be viewed in reasonable comfort. At the same time, a garden gazebo is an attractive feature that can be decorative in its own right or can be incorporated within a planting or landscape setting.



Many garden gazebos are temporary tent-like structures consisting of a metal framework over which a fabric weatherproof membrane is stretched. Sometimes this is simply a roof whilst in other cases there may also be sidewalls or screens that incorporate flexible windows and door coverings. These fabric outdoor gazebos are often used to provide shade or shelter for seating, dining or entertaining areas and are frequently chosen for temporary weather protection over building works in progress. The advantages of these fabric garden gazebos is that they are inexpensive, light and readily portable and can be rapidly erected and dismantled when required. They are easy to clean, dry rapidly and fold away for storage.

The outdoor gazebo in its purest form is likely to be constructed from timber and makes an elegant garden feature that will give many years of lasting enjoyment in all weather conditions. Offering a far more open, airy and accessible environment than a summerhouse, cabin or chalet, a timber garden gazebo will have a solid roof structure to provide shelter come rain or shine, but with open or partially trellised sides to give good views and a sense of freedom. Depending upon the design of the timber outdoor gazebo, it may also incorporate decorative features to suit every garden design from the most traditional to the most modern.

At the more expensive end of the market, there is a wide choice of brick, reconstituted stone or natural stone garden gazebos that will create a permanent and lasting pavilion-like structure which is sure to grace the most elegant of traditional garden designs. At the same time, many designer outdoor gazebos are available which feature metal timber and stone materials, some with canvas or fabric sails to suit the more avant-garde architectural style.

Of course in many cases, the garden gazebo is there to provide a striking and elegant framework upon which the imaginative gardener can display roses, clematis, jasmin or other climbing plants. These outdoor gazebos are mostly constructed from powder coated metal framework which is light, durable and easy to assemble and will give many years of service.

Variety is the name of the game with garden gazebos and you can choose from a huge range of design features including trellis panels, windows and cut outs, seats and storage, plus various roof styles and different construction layouts to suit your needs. Most outdoor gazebos feature durable, high quality materials and some timber models are made from FSC-approved, environmentally friendly timber, which is pressure treated to give all-weather protection against rot and supplied in a natural finish to paint or stain as you choose.

Most garden gazebos are designed for easy assembly using simple DIY tools and equipment and are usually supplied complete with all fixtures and fittings to make the task both simple and enjoyable - those with the right skills can even build their own outdoor gazebo.