Some outdoor projects start with a big idea. Others begin with a small but nagging frustration. These projects are just as important, though, because we all know what’s it like to spend an afternoon in a stuffy room with south-facing windows and no shade. And for these Akron homeowners, that’s what their living room was like every summer.
The root of the issue was that their back deck got just too much sunlight. Come late afternoon, the sunlight streaming through the windows made the space uncomfortable, so they decided it was time for a change.
As experienced Lake Mohawk pergola builders, we stepped in to design a custom shade structure that looked like it belonged there all along.
There was a lot to consider before building the pergola.
Rather than rework the whole outdoor space, the homeowners wanted to preserve the existing deck, and understandably so. They liked the footprint, and it functioned well for them—except for the lack of shade. That’s why we proposed something simple: a cedar pergola inspired by a photo they’d seen online.
The trouble was that simply copying the photo wouldn’t cut it. We needed to tailor the design to their home’s unique dimensions and architecture. The pergola had to work with the height of the second-story windows, not block them. And it also needed to feel like an extension of the house.
That’s the benefit of working with a skilled Lake Mohawk outdoor living contractor. Every detail of this structure, from beam placement to post height, was dialed in to complement the home’s design and meet the homeowners' goals, and it even won our office a first place Design Excellence Award.
This cedar pergola made the whole deck more comfortable and stylish.
Cedar was the perfect material choice. It’s timeless, durable, and rich in natural color. Combined with clean lines and a sturdy build, the result was a pergola that framed the space and defined the deck without overwhelming it.
The transformation was immediate, not to mention dramatic. Now, the back of the home feels cooler and more livable, with the pergola filtering sunlight before it ever reaches the windows. And underneath? A comfortable spot to unwind or fire up the grill—protected from the direct rays of the sun.
Whether you're trying to fix a hot summer glare or just want to create a more usable outdoor area, our team can help you build a structure that meets your needs. You can explore more ideas for pergolas and shade structures right here.
Every outdoor upgrade starts with thoughtful design.
At Archadeck of Akron, we build decks and pergolas, and we create spaces you’ll use and love for years to come. That means looking closely at your needs, your property, and your goals. Whether you’re solving a specific challenge or just want to enjoy more time outside, we’re here to design a space that works beautifully for your life.
As your trusted Lake Mohawk outdoor living contractor, we bring experience, craftsmanship, and clear communication to every project. We also back our work with extensive warranties, so you can build with confidence.
From pergolas and patios to full backyard transformations, we’re here to bring your vision to life. If you’re wondering how to get started—or just want to explore what’s possible—we’d love to hear from you.
Call Patrick Sluss, our local Archadeck franchisee and master design consultant, for a no-obligation, complimentary design consultation. You can connect with Patrick and his team of deck experts by calling (330) 537-6412 or by clicking here to schedule your consultation.
