Pavilion in Hummelstown, PA
ALMOND PERGOLA WITH SHADE CANOPY
An aging pergola was replaced with a larger, more substantial outdoor shade structure for this custom project in Hummelstown, Pennsylvania. The new 12’6″ x 16’6″ Almond Vinyl Cozy Retreat Pergola combines upgraded 8×8 posts, decorative beamwork, and a manually operated shade canopy, transforming the existing patio into a refreshed and more functional outdoor living space.
Before installation could begin, the property’s existing 12′ x 16′ pergola was torn down and disposed of. Rather than starting with an entirely new foundation layout, the replacement pergola was designed for installation using the property’s existing exposed footers, allowing the new structure to take advantage of the previously prepared support locations.
The replacement was slightly enlarged to approximately 12’6″ x 16’6″, creating a generous rectangular footprint over the outdoor living area. Its proportions provide plenty of room for dining furniture, lounge seating, or a combination of both while maintaining open access around the perimeter.
Instead of bright white, the customer selected Almond vinyl for the exterior. The warmer neutral color gives the pergola a softer appearance and can coordinate especially well with beige siding, stonework, warm-toned pavers, and traditional residential exteriors. Beneath the vinyl is a structural wood core, combining conventional wood framing with a finished, low-maintenance exterior.
The support posts received a significant upgrade for this project. Rather than the smaller posts commonly used on a Cozy Retreat Pergola, the structure incorporates 8×8 posts approximately 8 feet tall. Their larger dimensions give the pergola a heavier architectural presence and better visually balance the substantial overhead framework.
Across the long sides, double 2×8 headers with corner braces create the primary framework. Double 2×6 return beams with additional corner braces complete the adjoining sides, surrounding the patio with a layered arrangement of structural and decorative members.
Above the beams, 2×6 runners with decorative ends establish the main open-roof pattern. A second layer of 2×2 top runners adds depth and texture overhead, allowing sunlight to filter through when the pergola is being enjoyed in its fully open configuration.
What makes this Cozy Retreat especially functional is the optional 12′ x 16′ manually operated shade canopyinstalled within the pergola. Rather than relying solely on the overhead runners for filtered shade, the canopy can be opened when additional coverage is desired and retracted when the homeowner wants a more traditional open pergola experience.
This flexibility allows the same outdoor area to adapt throughout the day. The canopy can provide additional shade during intense afternoon sun, while opening it restores views through the overhead framework and allows more natural light into the patio.
Mounting brackets designed for attachment to concrete were incorporated into the project, allowing the upgraded posts to be properly secured at the prepared foundation points. Atlantic Outdoors handled the process from removal of the previous structure through delivery and professional installation of the new pergola and canopy system.
The finished project gives the Hummelstown patio an entirely new appearance without abandoning the location of the original outdoor structure. With its warm Almond exterior, oversized 8×8 posts, decorative Cozy Retreat framework, and adjustable shade canopy, the replacement offers a significant upgrade in both architectural presence and everyday usability.
- Year Completed: 2026
- City: Hummelstown
- County: Dauphin
- Price Range: $14,000–$18,000