- Garden arbors are gaining popularity again for their cozy, vintage feel.
- Landscape designers weigh in on why they're trending, plus share installation tips.
Homeowners are becoming more and more interested in expanding their indoor living space into their yards—think dreamy outdoor kitchens, she sheds, and tiny homes with all the bells and whistles. One of the more simple ways to embrace outdoor living? A well-thought-out garden.
While plant parents and gardeners alike are experimenting with garden trends like chaos gardening and square foot gardening when deciding what exactly to grow in their outdoor sanctuaries, there are plenty of design-related decisions to be made as well.
Considering the resurgence of vintage features in interior design, it only makes sense that homeowners are carrying some of those elements into their garden—specifically the cozy, lived-in feel so many people are after these days. The result? The revival of the garden arbor.
To learn more about the trend, we asked landscape designers for their input. Read on for more about their rise in popularity and tips for installation.
What Is a Garden Arbor?
If you've never heard of a garden arbor before, think of it as a structural entryway made with two or four posts and a slatted roof.
"We often use them as entrances to gardens, designing small arbors or trellises to serve as symbolic gateways. They also provide a beautiful framework for climbing roses, vines, and other plants—and they’re perfect for hanging lights to add a touch of charm and ambience," says Joe Richardson of Richardson & Associates.
The Trend, Explained
Arbors have always been a common garden feature, but there are a couple major reasons they're gaining popularity again. For one, the integration of indoor and outdoor living is more apparent than ever post-pandemic.
"There is great demand and value associated with open space. We see an increasing demand for outdoor living and entertaining space in the form of al fresco dining, covered cabanas, and outdoor kitchens. People want to be outdoors. With thoughtful design, these spaces can be functional, protected, and well-connected with the home," says Ryan McDaniel, partner and director of design of Brandon Architects.
Not only do homeowners crave a connected outdoor space, they want it to match the vibe of their interior design style. Nowadays, with the rising popularity of "cozy" design trends—think café core and the Nancy Meyers aesthetic—garden arbors fit the bill.
Successful looks are covered in beautiful vines and roses, adding to the natural ambience of the garden while simultaneously offering a comfortable, sheltered area. You can even string a few lights for added charm. "Cozy and naturalistic cottage gardens are currently trending and the charm of garden arbors ties into that trend," says Patricia Benner of Benner Landscape Design.
Tips for Installing a Garden Arbor
If you want to get in on this vintage garden trend, consider these pro tips before choosing your design.
✔️ Consider what to grow: "Different plants have different climbing habits—some use tendrils to grip, others twine around supports, and some may need to be tied or trained. Understanding how your chosen plant anchors itself will directly influence the arbor’s structure," says Richardson.
✔️ Select the proper structure: Once you decide what you want to plant, evaluate what structure will work best. "Heavy or woody vines like wisteria require a much sturdier frame than lighter climbers like clematis. The spacing of slats, the height of the arbor, and the materials used should all be tailored to support the growth pattern, weight, and long-term needs of the plant. Ultimately, the plant and the arbor work together—each one shaping the success and visual impact of the other," says Richardson.
✔️ Embrace your home's architectural style: "The design should be reflective of the garden ecology and complement the architecture of the home," says McDaniel. Choose colors and materials for your arbor that match your home's exterior for a cohesive look.
Laura Millar (she/her) is the assistant lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers home design. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2024, she wrote for NBC's TODAY.com, where she covered everything from entertainment news to pop culture updates.
