Gazebos remind us of that magical scene from Sound of Music where Leisl and Rolf sing “Sixteen Going on Seventeen,” but you don’t have to go to Austria to create a refuge from storms and sun. Better yet, you can save money and build your own gazebo, DIY style. Whether you’re considering a classic octagonal design or a more modern Bali-style retreat, we’ve got the inspiration to find the perfect gazebo for your backyard, big or small. Once it’s built, you can outfit your gazebo with a table and chairs for alfresco dining or patio furniture to host meetings or lounge with a good book. A light fixture or ceiling fan, plants and curtains can make the gazebo even more enjoyable to enjoy and complement the surrounding landscape. Your gazebo can also accommodate a grill, outdoor kitchen or hot tub.
Not sure if you want to build a gazebo or a pergola? Keep in mind that pergolas have cross beams at the top that let in light and other weather elements, while gazebos have a roof that keeps those elements out.
And now, 11 designs to get you dreaming, planning and working. Storm or shine, the backyard party will continue in style with your new gazebo!
1. Rustic Glam Gazebo
The focal point of this rustic glam gazebo is a stunning bleached wood bead chandelier, but the genuine beauty is in the details. Check out this makeover for tips on how to make your gazebo more inviting with plants and neutral touches.
Buy: Rustic Glam Gazebo
2. Whimsical outdoor cafe gazebo
Stained glass lanterns and brightly colored patterns bring a preppy style to this traditional white wood gazebo. This space is as perfect for romantic dinners for two as it is for entertaining friends.
Buy: Whimsical outdoor cafe gazebo
3. Colorful garden gazebo
It’s summer and life is easy with the refreshment of this colorful and sunny gazebo. But they can enjoy this charming retreat year-round, thanks to a fabric awning.
4. Black and White 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 a great way to bring a modern twist to a traditional wooden gazebo.
5. Romantic Iron Gazebo
They brought a beautiful rusty arbor back to life with the addition of a new iron gazebo and a recycled brick patio. Simple white curtains are the perfect (and affordable!) romantic finishing touch.
Buy: Romantic Iron Gazebo
6. Outdoor Oasis Gazebo
Create an outdoor oasis in your backyard with electric garlands and palm leaf pillows. A cozy rattan sofa makes this gazebo the perfect place to lounge or entertain friends and family.
Buy: Outdoor Oasis Gazebo
7. Upcycled Satellite Gazebo
Believe it or not, they built this lovely gazebo from an old screened satellite dish and cheap bamboo strips, using only a drill and a hand tool. A salvaged tin finally crowns the gazebo.
Buy: Upcycled Satellite Gazebo
8. Reclaimed Wood Gazebo
They lovingly constructed this beautiful wooden gazebo from the remains of an old, rotting deck. Check out this tutorial to see how a workhorse was transformed into a fun and functional space.
9. Free Plan: Bali-style Gazebo
This gold-colored gazebo combines Canadian cottage materials, like cedar shingles, with traditional Balinese features, including a raised floor and wide flared eaves. This open floor plan even includes built-in storage for a cooler.
Buy: Free Plan: Bali-style Gazebo
10. Free Plan: Grillzebo
If you love to grill, this gazebo is for you! They designed this sheltered space for cooling and grilling, so you can pop burgers for your friends rain or shine.
Buy: Free Plan: Grillzebo
11. Free Plan: Made in the Shade Gazebo
Enjoy the sun without getting sunburned with this free plan for a gazebo that is specially designed to provide plenty of shade. This gazebo features a slatted roof that allows air to circulate while protecting you from the elements.
Buy: Free Plan: Made in the Shade Gazebo
