Outdoor spaces are just begging to be designed and it's a shame if you let yours go to waste. There's so much that can be done to transform an empty area into an oasis for plant lift and small organisms. Trellises and arbors are two examples that help turn yards into beautiful and, sometimes, designer spaces.

Trellises are nothing but open frames usually built out of metal, wood and bamboo. They're a regular sight in public and private gardens alike with the main intention being to have them support the growth of plants like creepers and vines. They can also be used to form walls in a garden or used with other structures like pergolas.

Types of trellises

While the trellises we know are usually vertical structures with simple frames, there are others designed to be focal points in a garden. Here're a few examples.

Teepee trellis: Built like the shape of a traditional teepee, these variations can result in stunning displays of color and plant life. If more poles are used, you get a completely filled structure with overflowing flowers and plants. You can also choose to go simpler with a three-pole teepee on which can be grown vines and creepers.

Branch trellis: You can skip standard poles and opt for a more natural look with long tree branches. It's cheap to make and only requires that you use branches of adequate length. You can create a simple structure joined at the top or go for a more intricate woven pattern.

Most branch trellises are utilitarian, mainly used to grow peas and other climbing vegetables. But there's no rule that says you can't grow flowers and decorative plants. Just make sure that structure can support the weight.

Cage trellis: Mostly used for growing tomatoes, cage trellises can nevertheless support flowers and decorative plants. They're built in a square or round shape with the center hollow. A stake may be driven inside to support heavier vines and plants.

Types of pergolas

For a larger focal point, pergolas offer the best solution. Also known as arbors, their main purpose is to provide shade and sometimes act as a support for plant life. Many are constructed in public places to offer respite from the sun. Most are large but can be scaled down. As with trellises, pergolas can take on several styles.

Gabled: Gabled pergolas have a peaked roof and are triangular from the sides. The roof provides more room indoors and makes smaller structures larger without utilizing extra land. An advantage of this design is that it facilitates good rainwater runoff and so can be used in rainy regions.

Cladded and open top: Cladded pergolas are more complete since they contain shade cloth, steel, plastic and PVC. You get more protection against direct sunlight and rain and can enjoy some warmth during winter. Open top designs are more traditional. They have no cladding and not much protection against the elements. They're best used to create a blend between structure and natural environment and used during spring and summer.

Promenade: If you own a large garden with sufficient space for a decent length walkway, a promenade can be constructed over the path to give shade. It's the most popular pergola design used in public spaces and commercial areas. Add vinery and creepers for a natural look and a cooling effect.