Skip to main content

Outdoor Structures Design and Build

Pergolas, Gazebos & Pavilions for Your Backyard

Spacious outdoor kitchen and lounge under a dark wood pergola, featuring a built-in stainless steel grill and cabinetry set in stone, a fire table surrounded by wicker seating with red cushions, and a view of a modern lap pool lined with lounge chairs and lush landscaping.

Built for Minnesota Weather and Long-Term Use

Minnesota weather is demanding on outdoor structures. Snow load, freeze-thaw cycles, wind, and summer heat all need to be accounted for in the design and construction process.

Every pergola, gazebo, and pavilion we build is engineered for local conditions. Proper footings, durable materials, and sound construction practices all play a role in how well a structure performs over time. We plan for drainage, seasonal movement, and long-term maintenance so your investment holds up year after year.

This attention to detail is what separates a structure that looks good at install from one that still performs years down the road.

Choosing the Right Structure for Your Yard

Not every backyard needs the same solution. The right structure depends on how you plan to use it, how much coverage you want, and how it connects to the rest of your landscape. 

We help you evaluate which option (or options) fits your space, lifestyle, and long-term plans so the decision feels clear.

We'll also evaluate integrated technology options that allow you to electronically control the sun ratio to have the exact sun or shade you desire.

Pergolas

Pergolas offer partial shade and an open, architectural feel. They work well over patios, walkways, or outdoor dining areas where airflow and natural light still matter. Many homeowners use pergolas to define space without fully enclosing it, often pairing them with lighting, privacy screens, or climbing plants. 

 

Gazebos

Gazebos provide full roof coverage and a more enclosed structure. They’re ideal when protection from sun and rain is a priority or when the space will be used frequently for seating or entertaining. Gazebos often become a true focal point and destination within the yard.

 

Pavilions

Pavilions are fully roofed with open sides. They strike the perfect balance between the openness of a pergola and the wind protection of a gazebo. They're a popular shading choice for outdoor gathering spaces for that reason.

 

Poolside Structures

If you’re looking for a structure specifically built for use next to a pool, such as a cabana or pool house, those projects fall into a different category and involve different planning and construction.

You can explore those options in more detail on our Poolside Structures page.

What You Build Today Becomes Tomorrow’s Favorite Story

An outdoor structure is not just an upgrade. It’s a way to use your backyard more often and more comfortably. When designed and built well, it becomes a space you naturally return to.

Let’s talk about what makes sense for your yard and how to build it the right way.

Why Homeowners Choose Outdoor Innovations Landscaping

catherine-jons
Asher Judd with Outdoor Innovations created an exceptional landscape design of the pool placement and subsequent hardscape that organically flowed with our home, deck, and yard. Whether it was pavers, coping, or boulders, Asher’s teams thoughtfully, artistically, and precisely placed each piece with great care. We are thrilled with the result, a perfectly sized pool deck that is beautiful and meets all our entertaining needs.
Catherine Jons
outdoor kitchen with grill
We just finished a backyard pool project with Outdoor Innovations and it turned out absolutely beautiful! We highly recommend Craig Palmer and his crew. The process was smooth and moved efficiently. We appreciate Craig’s attention to detail and responsiveness. Thank you!!
Catherine Robinson
a pergola in a backyard
Craig and his team did an outstanding job creating a backyard oasis for us. From the initial design to completion, the professionalism and expertise were evident every step of the way. The attention to detail and commitment to our vision truly set them apart. We highly recommend Craig and Outdoor Innovations for your landscape and backyard remodel needs.
Karen Montour
a cabana covering an outdoor living room

We worked with Outdoor Innovations adding a pool to our sloped yard last spring.  I can't say enough about what a great experience this was,  Asher helped us translate our vague idea into a vision and a plan.    

The project moved along smoothly and on schedule.  Asher worked with us where we wanted changes and  did a great job communicating.  All of the people we dealt with on their crews were very professional and friendly.  

Barry Wallen

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to build an outdoor structure?

Timelines depend on design complexity, materials, and site conditions. Most projects take a few weeks from final design approval to completion. We walk through timing early so expectations are clear.

 

In some cases, yes. We evaluate the existing structure, footings, and layout to make sure everything is properly supported and integrated.

Absolutely. Outdoor structures are often designed alongside patios, outdoor kitchens, fire features, and full backyard renovations. Planning everything together creates a more cohesive result.

A pergola provides partial shade and an open structure, often used over patios or dining areas.

A gazebo offers full roof coverage and a more enclosed feel for seating and gathering spaces.

pergola has a fully enclosed roof and open sides.

A cabana is typically built next to a pool and may include enclosed rooms for changing, storage, or shade.

Cabanas and pool houses are covered in more detail on our Poolside Structures page.

Outdoor Innovations service area graphic

Our Service Areas

Dellwood
North Oaks
Grant
Eagan
Hudson, WI
Orono
Lake Elmo
Saint Paul
Stillwater
Mendota Heights
Minnetonka
Woodbury