With careful consideration for design, even a small backyard has the potential to become an outdoor haven. Creating shade in your backyard is the first step towards building a private oasis where you can curl up with a book, enjoy an outdoor dinner, or relax in the hammock for an afternoon nap. On a hot summer day, finding that perfect shady spot can be a challenge, so here are some ways you can create shade in your backyard from the beginning with thoughtful landscape design.

Whether you want to create an additional outdoor space or impactful design element, a pergola is the perfect addition to your landscape. Known for its four-sided, open-walled structure, a pergola can encourage outdoor engagement in unsuspecting ways. Employ these 7 surprising uses of a pergola in your landscaping for a new take on a timeless classic.