What configuration for my bioclimatic pergola?
Would you like to install a bioclimatic pergola, but don't know what configuration to choose? The configuration of your pergola should be chosen according to your needs, your possibilities and the use you wish to make of your outdoor shelter. Find out everything you need to know about configuring your pergola.
Pergolas can be freestanding (island installation) or lean-to (façade installation). Find out the specifics of each configuration to make the best possible choice.
The lean-to pergola: the configuration for creating an extension
A lean-to pergola is a real extension of your home. In this type of project, the pergola is fixed to a wall of your house, protecting not only your terrace, but also the adjoining facade and room. A lean-to pergola is a very popular solution, because it's both attractive and practical. If you opt for this design, you'll be able to move between indoors and outdoors without fear of the sun or bad weather. It's the best way to enjoy your terrace in summer and winter alike. Back-to-back pergolas reduce the heat in your home in summer, without affecting the light in your room.
Self-supporting and lean-to pergolas
Reducing the boundaries between indoors and outdoors, the bioclimatic pergola can be installed as an extension of the house in one of two ways: as a façade or as an island.
In the first case, the lean-to pergola rests on the front of the house itself. Its structure is made up of two aluminium posts on which the motorised aluminium slatted roof rests. By definition, it becomes an extension of the house.
The island installation offers greater mobility in space. The structure is made up of four aluminium posts topped by an aluminium slatted roof. The bioclimatic pergola can be installed on the terrace in front of the house, around the swimming pool, in the garden or on a roof terrace. There are, however, a few prerequisites for its installation. It depends, of course, on the location of the house, but the terrace generally faces due south, making this outdoor space a pleasant place to live, bathed in light. If the terrace is installed on the front of the house, a certain slope must be respected to allow water to drain away.
The freestanding pergola: create a cocoon in your garden
A lean-to pergola is completely independent of your house. Some walls are not strong enough to support the load of a lean-to pergola. Sometimes, a freestanding pergola is also the right choice. This type of design adds cachet to the garden. It allows you to create a relaxing spot in the location of your choice. This type of project is perfect for creating a dining area in the middle of the garden, or protecting a spa or swimming pool. This type of structure does not protect against the wind, which can blow in from all sides. However, awnings can be installed to regulate gusts of wind.
Choose the right orientation and location
Bioclimatic pergolas protect you from the sun and the rain, whether they are freestanding or lean-to... if you have them installed properly. The position of your pergola should be chosen to suit your needs and the orientation of your terrace. Don't know how to orientate your pergola and have several options? Take a look at our guide to choosing the right orientation for your pergola to avoid making any mistakes. North, south, east, west, we explain the constraints and advantages of each orientation.
Configure the layout of your pergola with care
Your pergola is more than just a shelter. When properly configured and fitted out, it can almost be used as an additional living space. Create a functional summer lounge by equipping your structure with options such as LED lighting, power sockets or blinds. The roof can be made of glass, canvas or adjustable slats. Note that our pergolas are available in hundreds of colours and materials, so are perfectly suited to all styles of decoration. Finish off your configuration by installing your garden furniture under your pergola.
What are the advantages of each type of pergola?
The freestanding pergola
Multi-purpose: create a relaxing spot in the garden, a shady area by the pool or an outdoor dining area.
Made-to-measure design: choose the shape and size of the pergola to suit your surface area and dimensions, with no need to lean against a wall.
Shelter from the elements: fitted with a rain sensor, the adjustable slats of your pergola close automatically when it rains.
Customised design: independent of your house, you have the freedom to create a specific design for your pergola.
The lean-to pergola
An extra living space: seamless integration between the inside and outside of the house.
A cooler home: the wall-mounted pergola reduces the temperature inside the adjoining room in bright sunshine.
A more economical option: fixing the pergola to an existing terrace often limits the amount of masonry work required.
Excellent protection against heat and climatic hazards such as rain and wind.
Our Biossun self-supporting and lean-to bioclimatic pergolas
Bio 120
The Bio 120 pergola is ideal for creating a comfortable space in the heart of your garden or in front of your house. This made-to-measure pergola has a maximum width of 5.50 m and a height of 2.70 m. Fully customisable, this quality pergola also comes in around 350 colours for its structure and slats.
Bio 230
With a maximum span of 31.5 m², the Bio 230 pergola is the largest model in our range. Thanks to its surface area, it creates a warm and inviting outdoor dining area. LED lighting can also be attached to the structure if you want to keep watch on a summer's evening.
Bio One
Enjoy precise control of shade and sun with our Bio One bioclimatic pergola, wherever you are on your terrace. Thanks to our unique, patented device, each slat of the roof can be adjusted individually to the nearest degree or in groups. Our aluminium pergola can also be fitted with closure solutions to protect you from prying eyes.
E-Motion
Equipped with retractable slats, the E-Motion pergola opens up 87% to the sky. Controlled remotely with a remote control, you can enjoy the stars or a sunny moment in complete tranquillity. For an even more immersive experience, the addition of sliding glass offers a 360° panoramic view of your exterior.
Are Biossun pergolas freestanding or lean-to?
Reducing the boundaries between indoors and outdoors, the bioclimatic pergola can be installed as an extension of the house in one of two ways: as a façade or as an island. In the first case, the pergola rests on the façade of the house itself. Its structure is made up of two aluminium posts on which the motorised aluminium slatted roof rests. By definition, it becomes an extension of the house. The island installation offers greater mobility in space. The structure is made up of four aluminium posts topped by an aluminium slatted roof. The bioclimatic pergola can be installed on the terrace in front of the house, around the swimming pool, in the garden or on a roof terrace. There are, however, a few prerequisites for its installation. It depends, of course, on the location of the house, but the terrace generally faces due south, making this outdoor space a pleasant place to live, bathed in light. If the decking is installed on the front of the house, you'll need to ensure that it slopes down to allow water to drain away.
Now you know which configuration to choose for your bioclimatic pergola. Browse our selection of pergolas with parallel adjustable aluminium slats or fabric roofs and enjoy greater comfort in your garden. The slats are practical because they tilt in both directions and at different angles, to let the light in or out. You can change their orientation to create more or less shade under your structure. Our pergolas are equipped with opening systems that you can control using your smartphone or a remote control. Do you have any questions? Our advisers will help you choose your pergola and give you valuable advice. You can request a quote directly online and get a personalised price tailored to your exact needs.
