How a 3×3 Pergola Turned This Concrete Patio into a Usable Outdoor Space

A concrete pad in the corner of a garden is a great starting point, but without cover, it often sits unused when the sun is too hot or the weather turns.

Stephanie had a tidy, open patio area in her backyard that was fully exposed to the elements. She wanted a simple, effective way to turn that slab into a functional seating area. The solution was a 3 x 3 m Atlantic Manual Freestanding Pergola fitted with a side blind for extra protection.

Project at a glance

• Client: Stephanie

• Structure: Atlantic manual freestanding louvre roof

• Size: 3 x 3 m

• Finish: Dark powder-coated aluminium

• Key features: Manual louvre control, integrated side blind

A perfect fit for the space

The 3 x 3 m footprint was chosen to match the existing concrete pad exactly. By placing the four posts at the corners of the slab, the pergola defines the area as a separate "outdoor room" without encroaching on the surrounding lawn or garden beds.

Manual control and wind protection

Stephanie opted for a manual model, which uses a simple hand crank to adjust the louvres. This removed the need for any electrical wiring or hiring an electrician for the install.

To handle the breeze that often comes across an open fence line, she added a manual side blind. The blind can be pulled down to block the wind or low-afternoon sun, and because the mesh is semi-transparent, it provides privacy from the neighbours while still letting light through.

Built for low maintenance

The dark aluminium frame is powder-coated to prevent rust and requires very little upkeep beyond an occasional wipe-down. The integrated gutter system inside the frame ensures that when the louvres are closed during rain, water is directed down through the posts and away from the seating area.

Have a concrete pad that needs some shade? If you have an exposed patio area that is too hot or windy to enjoy, a 3 x 3 m pergola is often the most straightforward way to make it usable.

Share a photo of your backyard and your rough measurements. We can help you figure out if a manual or motorised setup is the right fit for your layout.