Martha Stewart’s Pergola Is the Star of Her Courtyard

If you’re looking for a little outdoor space inspiration, Martha Stewart has got you covered. In a new Instagram post, the queen of domesticity gave her followers a glimpse into her lush courtyard, which looks like it could be a botanic garden. It’s filled with perfectly potted topiaries, a fabulous bird bath, and — the star of the space — a stunningly unique pergola. 

In the caption of a series of photos, Stewart explained the backstory of the dome-like structure. “Years ago I purchased this faux bois cement pergola. It stayed in storage until this spring when I placed it in the center of the courtyard where my dogs spend a lot of time,” she wrote. 

“I centered it on a doorway and placed a large antique birdbath in the center,” she continued. “The plants are some of my growing collection of potted cycads, eugenias, and other semi shade loving plants this is a romantic and beautiful space surrounded by a home grown hedge of horn beams.”

“Faux bois” in French translates to “false wood.” The style of furniture, dating back to the Renaissance, often imitates wood or wood grains. Like Stewart’s piece, it is often cast in concrete or cement using common iron materials. 

While Stewart’s exact structure might be hard to find, adding a pergola is an easy way to transform your outdoor space. No matter what your design aesthetic is, you can find one that fits the bill. Plus, there are multiple ways to style them — from hanging string lights to installing swinging chairs. While Stewart’s is more for looks, many pergolas add functionality, as they can bring some much needed shade to a sunny space. 

And, in addition to a ton of retail options, you can also build a pergola pretty easily on your own. Here is one DIY pergola to inspire you.