Home Renovation Pergola Extension Project Description The south facing existing patio tends to get extremely warm due to the direct exposure of the sun. We wanted to extend the use of the patio by installing a sun blocker that filtered the heat. At the same time, we chose to not completely close in the extended area. By using a 1” spacer slat design, we were able to achieve, both the look and the feel of a light sun filter. The pergola members were designed to match the wood trim of the house. therefore, naturally blending in with the overall architectural theme. The Process After deciding on the concept of adding a pergola to our existing covered patio, the first task was to review the Scottsdale Ranch architectural rules for pergolas in backyards. Once we understood the constraints and restrictions, we took to the drawing board and sketched a conceptual design of what we had in mind. We then met with a patio cover vendor and reviewed our design with them. We specifically did not want to use posts to support the pergola, since posts would have negatively impacted the surrounding space. Therefore our pergola would be an attached cantilevered design. Using a light weatherproof material was also imperative, hence the pergola was to be made of alumawood. Once the vendor gave structural and visual validation, we began detail drawings. The drawings not only served as information for the vendor, but they were to be used for our Scottsdale Ranch Architectural Committee backyard pergola application. There was more detail for the SRC than typically required, however we felt that more information is better than open questions, which would have invariably delayed the approval process. Our next step was to present our concept to the SRCA and for us to answer any questions they may have had. The design was fine with the committee. Their questions were primarily confirmations centered around the impact on neighbors’ views. In our case, fortunately, there is little to no view of the pergola from any of our 4 neighbors’ homes. (2 side and 2 back). The application was approved!!! We informed the vendor who said to hang tight for 6 weeks while the pergola was manufactured. The anticipated day finally arrived, and two contractors assembled the pergola effortlessly within a few hours. BEFORE
The pergola has more than served its initial intention of a sun blocker, but it has added a welcomed layer to the backyard house elevation. It’s hard to imagine the house without it now! Tips for ANY submissions to the Scottsdale Ranch Architectural Committee 1. Do your Rules homework. 2. Spend more time than necessary creating visual representation of your concept. It is not necessary to have high-end drafting – just be visually clear. 3. When presenting to the committee, be open minded – sometimes there are great suggestions that you may not have thought of that would comply with the rules. 4. Try to ENJOY the process. SR Resident, Richard Graff AFTER
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