Westmere Pergola
Extending the Character of a Heritage Home Outdoors
This Westmere pergola project was designed to bring the character of an established heritage home into a newly landscaped backyard.
With a new swimming pool forming part of the wider outdoor upgrade, the homeowners wanted the surrounding structures to feel considered rather than added as an afterthought. Cain Built created a custom pergola, entrance fencing, and gate that referenced the colonial detailing of the existing house while providing practical improvements to the outdoor space.
A Pergola Designed for the Property
Rather than using a standard off-the-shelf structure, the pergola was designed specifically for the home and its surroundings.
Its proportions, detailing, and decorative timberwork were developed to complement the architectural style of the existing property. This allowed the new structure to sit naturally alongside both the house and the more contemporary pool and landscaping.
The finished pergola creates a defined outdoor area while also introducing welcome shade and a strong visual focal point within the backyard.
Handcrafted Colonial Detailing
Much of the character of the project comes from the smaller details.
Decorative elements were carefully formed by hand to reflect the traditional features already present around the home. Attention was given to the shapes, finishes, and overall balance of the timberwork so the new construction felt appropriate to the age and style of the property.
This approach gave the pergola its own identity without allowing it to compete with the original house.
Creating a Stronger Entrance
The work also included new entrance fencing and a bespoke gate.
These elements carried the same design language through to the front of the outdoor area, helping connect the different parts of the project visually.
Alongside improving privacy and defining the property boundary, the new entrance provides a more considered transition into the landscaped space beyond.
Completing the Outdoor Area
The pergola, fencing, pool, and landscaping now work together as one cohesive outdoor environment.
While the new structures provide practical benefits such as shade, privacy, and definition, their design was equally important. Referencing the existing home allowed the backyard to be modernised without losing the character that makes the property distinctive.
Cain Built designs and constructs decks and outdoor structures across Auckland, including bespoke work for both contemporary and heritage homes.
Explore more completed residential building work in our project portfolio.