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A bioclimatic pergola is a fantastic way to blur the lines between your home and garden, giving you a flexible outdoor space you can enjoy all year round. But what exactly is a bioclimatic pergola, and why are so many homeowners choosing to install one?
In this blog, we’ll break it all down, from what makes a pergola ‘bioclimatic,’ to how it compares to a traditional pergola, and the benefits it can bring to your home. Whether you’re looking for a weatherproof spot to relax or a smarter way to make use of your garden, this guide will help you decide if a bioclimatic pergola is the right fit for you.
What is a Bioclimatic Pergola?
An incredibly innovative outdoor structure, a bioclimatic pergola has an electronically operated roof featuring adjustable louvres that can open, close, and rotate to provide optimal ventilation, shade, or full protection from the elements. Equipped with wind and rain sensors, the pergola automatically adapts to changing weather conditions, ensuring year-round comfort. Beyond the roof, additional smart features such as integrated heaters, speakers, LED lighting, and drop blinds can be discreetly concealed within the ring beam, creating a stylish and versatile outdoor living space. Click here to see a bioclimatic pergola in action!
How does it compare with a fixed pergola?
The biggest difference between a bioclimatic pergola and a fixed pergola is the roof. A bioclimatic pergola has adjustable louvres, whereas a fixed pergola has a set roof that can’t be changed once installed.
A fixed pergola is often the more budget-friendly option, but the design choice you make at the start, whether open or closed, will determine how you use the space. An open-roof design lets in plenty of sunshine and creates a nice balance of light and shade, but it won’t keep you dry in wet weather. A solid roof offers shelter and makes the area feel more like an extension of your home, but you lose the flexibility of an open-air feel when the weather is good. Overall, a bioclimatic pergola gives you the best of both worlds!
What are the key features of Bioclimatic Pergolas?
There are two primary features of bioclimatic pergolas:
Adjustable roof louvres: As mentioned, many pergolas have attractive roof louvres, but only bioclimatic pergolas have ones that can be adjusted. The best part? You can control them at the touch of a button using a remote, letting you fine-tune the amount of sunlight and airflow throughout the day. And when the weather takes a turn, simply close the louvres to create a watertight seal, keeping you dry. With built-in sensors that react to wind and rain, a bioclimatic pergola gives you more freedom to enjoy your outdoor space all year round.
Here at Exterior Spaces, our Selene Pergola takes things a step further with a patented motor drive that sits within a concealed gearbox. Unlike many bioclimatic pergolas that use a piston mechanism which is often loud and clunky, our louvres operate in complete silence. Whether you’re opening, closing, or rotating them, they move effortlessly, making it a talking point whenever you’re relaxing or entertaining under one of our beautifully designed pergolas.
Durable materials: If you want a pergola that lasts and gives you great value for money, aluminium is the superior choice. It’s far more durable than other materials and resistant to corrosion, so it can handle whatever the Great British weather throws at it, rain, wind, or even the occasional heatwave. Another big plus? It’s incredibly low maintenance. There’s no need to worry about regular upkeep, so you can spend more time enjoying your outdoor space rather than fixing it up. And if you’re thinking aluminium limits your design options, think again. With over 300 colours and finishes to choose from, you can easily find a look that suits your space.
These aren’t the only features of bioclimatic pergolas; there are plenty of extra finishing touches you can add to make yours even better. Take a look at our full range of options here!
What are the benefits of installing a Bioclimatic Pergola?
1) Outdoor living
A garden pergola can be a great way to extend your outdoor living space, creating a natural connection between your home and garden. As architect and TV presenter George Clarke puts it, “A building’s connection to the outside is incredibly important, so of course you want to connect your interior space with the outside.” Pairing a bioclimatic pergola with patio doors, like bifold or sliding doors, can blur the lines between indoors and out, giving you a space that feels open and inviting all year round.
2) Weatherproof structure
As highlighted in the key features, one of the biggest advantages of a bioclimatic pergola is that it can be used all year round, thanks to its adjustable louvres. When closed, the slats create a solid, waterproof roof, keeping you dry even when the weather isn’t on your side. On sunnier days, you can open them up to let in fresh air and create a cool, shaded spot, ideal for relaxing in the garden without worrying about the heat.
3) Low maintenance
An aluminium pergola is a hassle-free choice compared to wooden alternatives. There’s no warping, rotting, or endless repainting to worry about; it’s built to last with minimal upkeep. Plus, it keeps its sleek appearance for years, so you can enjoy your outdoor space without the extra maintenance.
4) Adding value
Building a bioclimatic garden pergola is a cost-effective way to add value to your property. A well-planned and carefully installed structure can completely change how you and others experience your home. And if you ever decide to sell, it could be the feature that makes your property stand out; especially with more people working from home and looking for the perfect outdoor office space.
What to consider when choosing a Bioclimatic Pergola
Design: The design of your pergola can make all the difference to your outdoor space, so it’s important to get it right. To create a structure that looks great and works for your needs, think about the size, shape, and colour, making sure it complements your home’s overall style. It’s also worth choosing a manufacturer with real expertise, one that goes beyond the basics to offer features like concealed drainage, silent motors, and smart technology that connects to your home. Our Phanes and Selene pergolas are perfect examples of high-quality craftsmanship that combines thoughtful design with everyday practicality.
Features: All bioclimatic pergolas come with the same core features, but there are plenty of ways to make yours unique. You can add LED lighting, heaters, air conditioning, shutters, sliding doors, or other custom finishes to suit your space. Whether you’re after extra comfort or a specific look, it’s all about choosing the details that work best for you.
Budget: Like any big purchase, budget is always a factor. Because bioclimatic pergolas are bespoke, it’s difficult to give a rough price upfront. But investing in a well-built, durable design means you’ll have a pergola that lasts for years and could even add value to your property, making it a smart long-term choice.
Visit our showroom today
A bioclimatic pergola is an excellent way to create a natural flow between your indoor and outdoor spaces. It’s adaptable, durable, and well-designed, offering a cost-effective way to extend your home’s footprint. With its clever design, you get to enjoy the best of outdoor living while still feeling as comfortable as you would inside.
If you’re thinking about adding a bioclimatic pergola to your outdoor space, why not consider Exterior Spaces? Our industry-leading pergolas are expertly manufactured in-house and built to last. With a range of options tailored to your needs, our knowledgeable team is here to help you design the perfect pergola. Visit our showroom today and start bringing your vision to life.
