Great gazebos: Classic & vintage backyard designs you will love

Great vintage gazebos - Backyard decor - at ClickAmericana com

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Gazebos through the ages

Gazebos have graced landscapes across the world for centuries. These charming outdoor structures have been a vital part of human culture, and have found a special place in America’s gardens and parks — and in our hearts.

1970s backyard gazebo at ClickAmericana com

The story of gazebos begins with ancient civilizations, including Greece and Rome, where gazebos were once temple structures, offering quiet places for reflection. Asian influence from China and Japan introduced gazebos into serene landscapes, allowing people to appreciate nature’s artistry.

Pretty vintage gazebo porch house from the 1930s at ClickAmericana com

During the Renaissance, gazebos spread to Europe, becoming essential in formal gardens. Aristocratic English gardens embraced them for social gatherings and tea parties. In the 18th century, gazebos landed on American shores, reflecting European trends — initially found in the gardens of the wealthy.

Vintage gazebo with two levels from the late 1950s at ClickAmericana com

In the 19th century, with the rise of Victorian architecture, gazebos became more ornate, and public parks started to feature them as community gathering spots.

Vintage trellis porch interior at ClickAmericana com

In the 1900s, backyard gazebos became a trend that has never faltered

The 20th century brought significant changes to the concept. After World War II, suburban living and the emphasis on outdoor spaces made backyard gazebos a popular feature in American homes.

Pretty wire gazebo from 1959 at ClickAmericana com

DIY gazebo kits

The growing DIY movement made gazebos into an accessible project anyone could take on. Gazebo kits, complete with plans, instructions and pre-cut materials, allowed families to build their own backyard retreats. This DIY trend led to various designs, materials, and sizes, allowing homeowners to create customized gazebos that fit their preferences.

Cute white backyard pavilion by the pool from 1967

Gazebo living spaces

The 20th century also fostered a connection to nature through gazebos. They became bridges to the outdoors, with some incorporating eco-friendly materials. The rise of outdoor living made gazebos functional outdoor rooms, often paired with grills, furniture, and even hot tubs. These simple designs transformed from ornamental structures to essential elements of outdoor living spaces.

SEE MORE: 47 vintage backyard ideas you’ll want to re-create for a relaxing sixties-style outdoor vibe

1990s redwood gazebo design at ClickAmericana com

Screened-in gazebos

Screened-in gazebos added a new twist to a classic idea. While gazebos have been around for centuries, adding screens was a 20th-century touch that tackled the bug problem. Want to enjoy the fresh air without the mosquitoes? Screened-in gazebos were the answer.

They popped up alongside other modern takes on the gazebo, reflecting an era when people were looking for more practical and personalized ways to enjoy the great outdoors. They’re a good example of how an old design got a practical update to keep up with the times, and make use of new materials available.

1963 backyard pool and screened gazebo at ClickAmericana com

Grill gazebos

Grill gazebos are like the best friend a backyard BBQ ever had. As grilling turned into a favorite American hobby, someone got the bright idea to design a gazebo with the grill master in mind. These gazebos, with their vented tops and handy shelves, appeared in the 20th century, right when folks were getting serious about personalizing their outdoor spaces in general.

Want to grill rain or shine without ruining the steaks or the vibe? A grill gazebo is there for you. It’s another example of how the traditional gazebo got a modern makeover to keep up with how we live today.

Let’s take a look at popular gazebos from days past and see how they became of America’s favorite outdoor retreats!

Gazebos have been popular go-to chill spots for generations: See more classic designs!

Pretty backyard gazebos from the 1960s


1950s backyard gazebo with metal frame

1950s backyard gazebo with metal frame at ClickAmericana com


1960s backyard wooden gazebo

1960s backyard wooden gazebo at ClickAmericana com


Mini backyard lattice pavilion from the 1960s

Mini backyard lattice pavilion from the 1960s at ClickAmericana com


Retro 60s gazebo made of wood

Retro 60s gazebo made of wood at ClickAmericana com

ALSO SEE
These gorgeous screened-in porch, patio and lanai spaces from years gone by are total backyard goals

Unique metal vintage gazebo design (1969)

Unique metal vintage gazebo design (1969) at ClickAmericana com


Party gazebo in a backyard at night (1969)

Party gazebo in a backyard at night (1969) at ClickAmericana com


Vintage 1970s backyard structure

Vintage 1970s backyard structure gazebo at ClickAmericana com


1970s backyard gazebo porch (1979)

1970s backyard gazebo porch (1979) at ClickAmericana com

DON’T MISS! Hot tub time machines: See some retro backyard Jacuzzi hot tubs & whirlpool baths from the ’80s


Cute vintage white trellis gazebo

Cute vintage white trellis gazebo at ClickAmericana com


Burl Ives’s gardens & gazebo (1980s)

Burl Ives' pool and gazebo (1980s) at ClickAmericana com


DIY backyard gazebo (1981)

DIY backyard gazebo (1981) at ClickAmericana com


Redwood trellis backyard patio

Redwood trellis backyard patio at ClickAmericana com


Simple retro 1980s gazebo on a deck

Simple retro 1980s gazebo on a deck at ClickAmericana com


1980s backyard gazebo by the pool

1980s backyard gazebo by the pool at ClickAmericana com


Gazebos of the 1980s

1980s gazebos (1) at ClickAmericana com

1980s gazebos (2) at ClickAmericana com

1980s gazebos (3) at ClickAmericana com


Small trellis gazebo (1986)

Small trellis gazebo (1986) at ClickAmericana com


80s-style backyard deck with built-in gazebo

80s-style backyard deck with built-in gazebo

ALSO SEE
See 60 vintage patio furniture sets that offered outdoor relaxation the old-fashioned way

Wedding in 1990s white classic gazebo

Wedding in 1990s white classic gazebo at ClickAmericana com

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