15 DIY Gazebo Design and Decorating Ideas for Any Backyard
Revive your backyard centerpiece—or build a new one!
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Gazebos make us think of that magical Sound of Music scene where Leisl and Rolf sing "Sixteen Going on Seventeen," but you don't have to go to Austria to create a haven from storms and sun alike. Better yet, you can save some money and build your own gazebo, DIY style. Whether you are envisioning a classic octagonal design or a more modern Bali-style retreat, we have inspiration for just the right gazebo for your backyard, large or small. Once it's built, you can outfit your gazebo for with a table and chairs for al fresco dinner parties or patio furniture for hosting gatherings or sibling lounging yourself with a good book, and a light fixture or ceiling fan, plants and curtains can make it all the more cozy to enjoy and complement the landscape around it. Your gazebo could also be home to a grill, outdoor kitchen, or hot tub.
Not sure if you want to build a gazebo or a pergola? Keep in mind pergolas have cross beams on top that let in light and other weather elements, while gazebos have a roof that keep those elements out.
And now for 15 designs to get you dreaming, planning, and hammering. Come storm or sun, the backyard party will go on in style with your new gazebo!
Rustic Glam Gazebo
The focal point of this rustic glam gazebo is a stunning whitewash wood beaded chandelier, but the real beauty is in the details. Check out this makeover for tips on how to make your gazebo lounge area more inviting with plants and neutral touches.
Get the look at Liz Marie Blog.
Whimsical Outdoor Cafe Gazebo
Stained glass lanterns and brightly colored patterns bring preppy style to this traditional white wood gazebo. This space is equally perfect for romantic dinners for two or entertaining friends.
Get the look at Atta Girl Says.
Colorful Garden Gazebo
It’s summertime and the living's easy thanks to this colorful and sunny gazebo refresh. But this charming hideaway can be enjoyed year-round, thanks to a fabric awning.
Get the look at Caradise.
Black and White Cabana-Style Gazebo
Black and white striped curtains and a few patterned pillows are all you need to create a cabana-style getaway in your own backyard. This tutorial offers an excellent way to bring modern flare to a traditional wood gazebo.
Get the look at Pattie Wack.
Romantic Iron Gazebo
A gorgeous but rusty grape arbor is brought back to life with the addition of a new iron gazebo and recycled brick patio. Simple white curtain sheers are the perfect romantic (and affordable!) finishing touch.
Get the look at DIY Show Off.
Outdoor Oasis Gazebo
Create an outdoor oasis in your backyard with some string lights and palm leaf print pillows. A comfortable rattan sectional makes this gazebo the perfect place for lounging or hosting friends and family.
Get the look at Fancy Things.
Farmhouse Dining Room Gazebo
Talk about bringing the outdoors inside. This bright and sunny gazebo provides a window to the outside world while also featuring the comforts of home, including a ceiling fan, track lighting, and even a television.
Get the look at Beyond the Wood.
Shabby Chic Gazebo
The sign says it all. The owners of this shabby chic gazebo literally pulled it out of the trash and transformed it into a cozy, charming retreat.
Get the look at Gypsy Farm Girl.
Upcycled Satellite Gazebo
Believe it or not, this pretty gazebo was constructed from an old mesh satellite dish and low-cost bamboo strips using nothing but a drill and one hand tool. A salvaged tin finial serves as the gazebo’s crowning glory.
Get the look at Spotting Rainbows.
Salvaged Wood Gazebo
This beautiful wood gazebo was built with love from the remains of an old, rotting deck. Check out this tutorial to see how a backyard eyesore was transformed into a sweet, functional space.
Get the look at An Oregon Cottage.
Free Plan: Bali Style Gazebo
This golden-hued gazebo combines Canadian cottage materials, like cedar shakes with traditional Balinese hallmarks, including a raised floor and wide, flared eaves. This free plan even includes a built-in storage space for a cooler.
Get the tutorial at The Classic Archives.
Free Plan: Grillzebo
If grilling is your game, then this is the gazebo for you! This sheltered space is designed for chilling and grilling, so you can flip burgers for your buddies, rain or shine.
Get the tutorial at The Family Handyman.
Free Plan: “Made in the Shade” Gazebo
Enjoy the sun—without the sunburn—with the help of this free plan for a gazebo specially designed to provide plenty of shade. This gazebo features a louvred roof that allows air to circulate while protecting you from the elements.
Get the tutorial at Home & Shop Journal.
Free Plan: Octagonal Gazebo
This classic octagonal gazebo offers a roomy retreat. The free plan includes a complete list of materials and step-by-step instructions and diagrams.
Get the tutorial at Mother Earth News.
Free Plan: Rough Sawn Wood Gazebo
It may be small, but it has a big impact. This quaint octagonal gazebo is perfect for those on a budget, because it calls for rough sawn lumber, which is usually more plentiful and cheaper than dressed or surfaced lumber.
Get the tutorial at BuildEazy.
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