Now that you have a new structure, it is time to place your personal fingerprint on it. This is your chance to express your personal style through design. The question is…how does one design an outside space?

Pergolas and gazebos have been regular fixtures in backyards and outdoor landscapes for centuries. Their simple yet versatile designs, paired with the range of available building material, make them a staple in so many yards. Outdoor structures such as gazebos and pergolas provide a level of decorative and functional use that make them appealing for an assortment of locations, including parks and homes of all sizes. While the two structures feature different designs and shapes, they’re both quite at home in the backyard. However, contemporary designers have expanded the use, location, and function of pergolas and gazebos to make them a welcome addition to other parts of a property.

Purchasing a gazebo should be an investment in your property, so whether it’s for personal or public use, you want to be certain that the structure you’re designing is the one you want. If you’re new to the idea of owning an outdoor structure like a gazebo, then you likely have many questions. Or maybe you’re not even sure which questions you should ask. To get the most out of your gazebo you should consider everything from the reason you want to add a gazebo to your outdoor space, down to the type of shingles and flooring you’d like. Unless you’re buying a premade gazebo, you’ll have the option to create a custom design that will be unique to your tastes. Before you can do that, though, you have to understand what your options might look like—and which questions to ask the company you’re purchasing the structure from.

Are you looking for some great ideas to enhance your backyard space? Find inspiration in the backyards of the stars! While celebrity backyards are often more elaborate and spacious than most budgets allow, it never hurts to spark your imagination by taking a peek at the choices of the rich and famous. Check out these five celebrity backyards, along with some tips on how to adapt their best ideas to transform your outdoor space.