Pergolas are mainly used to create separate outdoor spaces, offering some shade and an area to sit. The posts and ceiling can be used to hang lights, decorations or even plants as they can be open or closed to your liking. Pergolas are large structures, usually made out of wood, that use columns (or posts) as the frame and feature either a closed or openwork roof. Pergolas are more common as focal points for smaller gardens or backyards and many people even attach them to their homes.