7 Creative Gazebo Ideas for Your Backyard

Looking for creative ways to enjoy the great outdoors this spring and summer? Consider building or buying a gazebo for your yard. This backyard addition not only gives you a place to sit and enjoy fresh air and nature, but also provides shelter and shade during rainy or hot days. Gazebos can also increase the value of your home. In fact, many homebuyers see a tasteful gazebo in the backyard as a major selling point for a home. So, if you’re looking for unique ways to appeal to buyers in a competitive real estate market, it’s not a bad idea to consider adding a gazebo to the premises. Looking for creative gazebo ideas and decorating tips to enhance your home? Below, we’ve listed 7 great gazebo ideas to incorporate into your space – as well as answers to your questions regarding the costs and logistics.

What exactly is a gazebo?

Chances are you’ve seen gazebos in parks and public gardens. They are used for both recreational purposes (think: a bandstand) and for beautifying and decorative purposes. By definition a gazebo is a freestanding structure with a roof to provide shelter. It usually features open sides and is typically hexagonal or octagonal in shape.

7 great gazebo ideas to enhance your yard this spring and summer

Install a built-in grill

Add a wet bar and wine cooler

Make your gazebo extra comfy with seating and a tv

Hang string lights around the gazebo

Add curtains for privacy

Add a fireplace or firepit

Add a hot tub in the middle

Frequently asked questions about building a gazebo

How much does it cost to build a gazebo?

HomeAdvisor states that the typical cost range for building a gazebo is between $3,401 and $9,554. On average, a gazebo costs just above $6,423 to construct. The website states that pre-built structures and kits cost between $1,500 and $7,000. Custom-built structures cost on average anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000 and residential pavilions typically cost between $8,000 and $20,000.

Much of the cost depends on what materials were used. HomeAdvisor provides cost ranges for different materials, including wood ($4,000-$7,000), metal ($3,000-$8,500), brick ($2,000-$3,500), and vinyl ($4,000-$7,500). Plan to build the gazebo yourself? According to HomeAdvisor, it will likely cost you somewhere between $2,000 and $8,500.

Can you purchase a pre-made gazebo?

Yes, you can. If paying a pro to construct a custom build is out of the question, then consider buying a pre-made gazebo. You can find ready-to-build gazebos at the Home Depot, Amazon, Costco, and Lowe’s.

What are the benefits of having a gazebo in your yard?

Gazebos are both beautifying and useful in a number of ways. Not only do these ornamental landscaping features enhance the aesthetics of your home and yard, but they also provide shelter and shade during hot summer months, making them excellent gathering places for holidays and social events. Having a gazebo in your yard is also a big selling point for many homebuyers. After all, who wouldn’t want a covered place to sit, socialize and enjoy being outdoors?

How much does it cost to add extra features to a gazebo?

Chances are good that you’ll want to fancy up your gazebo with plenty of extra features (think: electricity, wiring, flooring, TV install, etc.). Per HomeAdvisor, here are the average costs for these popular gazebo features:

Outdoor bar or kitchen– $3,500-$18,000
Patio or pathway – $1,800-$4,800
Outdoor TV install– $900-$2,000
Electrical wiring and outlet installation – $180–$500
Outdoor misting system – $1,900-$3,000
Stamped concrete flooring cost – $2,800-$6,300
Surrounding deck – $4,000-$10,000

Can I enclose a gazebo?

Yes, you can enclose a gazebo – although, we should note that this may defeat the point of having a gazebo (which, oftentimes, is to enjoy the outdoors). If you do decide to enclose your gazebo, we recommend using a screen or windows that retract and open, so that you can enjoy the outdoors once the weather warms up. HomeAdvisor notes that for those who wish to enclose their gazebo with a screen, home improvement stores typically sell screen kits for anywhere from $500 to $800. Prefer to enclose your gazebo with something more substantial than a screen? Keep in mind that installing some sort of glass enclosure costs more than using screens. Expect costs to start around $9,000.

What should I consider before building a gazebo in my yard?

Still on the fence about whether or not to add a gazebo to your yard? Here are several questions to consider when making your decision.

Can you DIY or will you need to hire a pro?
What is your budget?
Will it help to sell your home and/or increase its value in the future?
Will you use it and enjoy it often?
What kind of structure and materials do you wish to use?

After carefully considering estimated costs, your return on investment, your budget and your own needs, you should have a clear-cut answer to this question.

Ready to move to a new home?

Before you get carried away with gazebo ideas for your new yard, make sure to have your moving day logistics figured out. To help make your upcoming move easier, we recommend hiring professionals to handle the heavy lifting. Fortunately, Moving.com’s extensive network of reputable and reliable movers makes it easy to book the best moving company for the job. All relocation companies in our network are licensed and insured, so you can rest assured that your move will be in good hands. Best of luck and happy moving!