Gazebos – Foothills Custom Outdoors

Custom Gazebos Built for Knoxville Backyards

A gazebo isn’t just a “backyard upgrade.” It’s a place where mornings feel calmer, weekends feel more social, and your outdoor space finally has a purpose. Whether you want full shade for summer, a covered spot to host friends, or a structure that looks great year-round, our gazebo collection is built to help you choose with confidence.

Why Homeowners Choose Gazebos

What a Gazebo Really Adds to Your Backyard

A well-planned gazebo turns outdoor space from something you look at into something you actually use. Instead of moving chairs around, chasing shade, or heading back inside when the sun gets intense, you get a dedicated space that feels comfortable and intentional.

Here’s what a gazebo truly adds to a backyard — beyond just looks.

Reliable Shade You Can Count On

Unlike umbrellas or partial shade structures, a gazebo provides full overhead coverage, giving you consistent shade throughout the day. This means less glare during meals, more comfort during hot summer afternoons, and a space you can actually use even when the sun is directly overhead. Instead of constantly adjusting or repositioning shade, a gazebo creates a comfortable environment you don’t have to think about once it’s in place.

A Backyard “Destination,” Not Empty Space

One of the biggest changes homeowners notice after installing a gazebo is that their yard finally feels finished. Instead of open space that doesn’t get much use, a gazebo creates a clear focal point — a place people naturally walk toward, sit down, and stay awhile. It gives your backyard structure and purpose.

A Natural Gathering Spot for Everyday Life

Gazebos aren’t just for special occasions — they quickly become part of everyday life. Morning coffee in the shade, family dinners outdoors, weekend conversations with friends, and quiet evenings without rushing back inside all start to feel effortless. Because the space is clearly defined and comfortable, people naturally use it more often instead of letting the backyard go unused.

Comfort Beyond Just Summer

With simple additions like lighting, a ceiling fan, or screens, a gazebo becomes useful far beyond a few sunny months. Many homeowners are surprised by how often they use their gazebo once it’s set up properly — not just in summer, but during spring and fall as well.

A Backyard That Feels More Complete

While a gazebo isn’t about chasing resale numbers, it does change how your home feels to live in. A backyard with a well-placed structure becomes more usable, more inviting, and more thoughtfully designed. In short, a gazebo doesn’t just add shade — it adds purpose to your outdoor space.

Gazebo vs Pergola vs Pavilion — Which One Makes Sense for You?

This is one of the most common questions we hear, and there’s no single “right” answer. The best choice isn’t about what looks best in photos — it’s about how you actually plan to use the space. Here’s a simple, real-world way to compare the three.

Gazebo

A gazebo is ideal if you want your backyard structure to feel like a true outdoor room. Because it has a solid roof and a defined shape, a gazebo provides dependable shade and protection, making it well-suited for:

Outdoor dining
Lounging and relaxing
Hosting friends and family
Regular, everyday use

If your priority is comfort, usability, and a space you’ll return to often, a gazebo is usually the most balanced option.

BEST FOR

Dining areas, relaxation spots, all-weather shade

Pergola

Pergolas are popular for their open, architectural look. They provide partial shade and can look great in the right setting, especially with modern or minimalist homes. Pergolas work best if you:

Want light, filtered shade rather than full coverage
Plan to use the space mostly in mild weather
Care more about visual design than sun or rain protection

They’re beautiful structures, but they don’t offer the same level of comfort as a fully covered option.

BEST FOR

Patios, walkways, decorative garden features

Pavilion

Pavilions are typically larger and more open than gazebos. They’re often used to cover wide areas and accommodate bigger groups.
A pavilion can make sense if you’re building primarily for:
Large gatherings
Open entertaining areas
Outdoor kitchens or event-style spaces
For everyday backyard living, many homeowners find gazebos feel more cozy and more usable.

BEST FOR

Outdoor kitchens, entertaining spaces, pool areas

A Simple Way to Decide

If you’re still unsure, this quick guideline helps:

Full shade + everyday use → Gazebo
Light shade + design
focus → Pergola
Large, open coverage → Pavilion

For most homeowners who want comfort, shade, and a space they’ll actually use regularly, a gazebo ends up being the best all-around choice.

Choosing the Right Gazebo Size & Placement

That’s a fair concern. A gazebo can look perfect online but feel cramped, oversized, or awkward if the size or placement isn’t thought through. The good news is that choosing the right fit becomes much easier when you focus on how you plan to use the space, not just the measurements.

Start With How You’ll Use the Space

Before thinking about numbers, think about what life under the gazebo will look like. Ask yourself:

Will this be a quiet place to relax, or a spot for hosting?
Will you use it mostly for seating, dining, or both?
Do you want room to move around comfortably, or just enough space to sit?

Your answers will guide the size naturally.

Common Gazebo Sizes — What They’re Best For

Small to Medium Spaces (10x10 to 12x12)

These sizes work well for:

Seating areas with chairs or a small table
Relaxing, reading, or enjoying morning coffee
Patios or yards where space is limited

They create an intimate feel without overwhelming the yard.

Dining & Entertaining Spaces (12x14 to 14x14)

If you plan to:

Add a dining table
Host family or friends regularly
Use the space for meals and gatherings

Larger sizes feel far more comfortable. They allow space for chairs, movement, and airflow without feeling tight once furniture is in place.

Larger Yards & Multi-Use Areas

Bigger backyards can support larger gazebos easily. These are ideal if you want:

Seating and dining in one space
Room for movement
A structure that anchors the yard visually

One of the most common mistakes homeowners make is choosing a gazebo that’s slightly too small. On paper it works — but once furniture is added, it can feel cramped. When in doubt, a little extra space almost always pays off.

Where a Gazebo Fits Best in the Yard

Placement matters just as much as size. A well-placed gazebo feels natural and inviting instead of awkward or disconnected

Popular Placement Options

Over an existing patio or deck:- This is one of the most common choices because the space is already level and functional.

Near the home (but not attached):- This gives easy access while still allowing the gazebo to feel like its own outdoor room.

In the yard as a destination space:- Placing a gazebo slightly away from the house can draw people into the yard and create a sense of flow and purpose.

Things to Consider Before Final Placement

A few simple considerations make a big difference:

How the sun moves across your yard during the day
How you’ll walk to and from the gazebo
Whether you want privacy or open views
How the gazebo fits visually with your home and landscape

These factors help ensure the gazebo feels like it belongs, not like it was dropped into the space.

Why Planning Matters More Than Perfection

You don’t need to get every detail perfect upfront — but thoughtful planning makes a big difference in how the gazebo feels long-term.

When size and placement are chosen with real use in mind:

The space feels more comfortable
The gazebo gets used more often
The backyard feels intentional instead of cluttered

That’s the goal — not just adding a structure, but creating a space you actually enjoy spending time in.

Gazebo Materials & Roof Types — What Actually Holds Up Over Time

One of the most common questions homeowners ask is, “What gazebo material will last the longest and still look good years from now?”

It’s a smart question — because a gazebo isn’t something you want to replace every few years. The materials you choose affect how the structure ages, how much maintenance it needs, and how comfortable it feels to use day after day. The key is understanding how different materials and roof styles perform in real-world backyard conditions, not just how they look in photos.

Wood Gazebos: Warm, Natural, and Built to Blend In

Wood gazebos are popular for a reason — they feel natural, solid, and inviting, especially in residential backyards. High-quality cedar is one of the best choices for outdoor structures because it naturally resists moisture and decay better than many other woods, and over time it develops character rather than looking worn out. This makes wood gazebos a great fit for both traditional and modern homes, blending naturally with landscaping and feeling like a permanent part of the property. When properly installed, a wood gazebo doesn’t feel temporary — it feels like it truly belongs.

Metal Components: Strength Where It Matters Most

Many modern gazebos combine wood framing with metal components, and this isn’t just for appearance. Metal brackets, connectors, and roof systems add strength in the areas that matter most, especially when it comes to long-term stability and exposure to changing weather. This combination helps the structure hold its shape over time, handle shifting conditions, and support larger spans without feeling flimsy. Designs that blend wood and metal are especially popular in modern rustic and mountain modern styles, offering warmth and character without sacrificing durability.

Why the Roof Type Makes a Bigger Difference Than You Think

The roof is one of the most important parts of a gazebo, not just visually but functionally as well. A solid roof provides consistent shade and protection, keeping the space underneath usable even when conditions change, while also reducing heat buildup and glare for greater comfort. Hardtop roofs are often preferred because they last longer in outdoor environments, reduce noise compared to lightweight materials, and deliver better long-term performance. Roof shape plays an important role too — pitched or peak-style designs improve airflow and water runoff, which helps maintain comfort and durability over time.

Choosing Materials That Match How You’ll Use the Space

The “best” gazebo material isn’t about trends — it’s about how you plan to use the space. If you want a setting that feels cozy, natural, and seamlessly integrated into your yard, wood is hard to beat. When durability and long-term performance matter most, reinforced designs that incorporate metal components add extra peace of mind. And if comfort is a top priority, the roof style you choose will make a noticeable difference every time you use the gazebo.

Thinking Long-Term Pays Off

A gazebo isn’t a short-term upgrade — most homeowners want something they can enjoy for many years without constant upkeep or second thoughts. That’s why it’s important to focus on materials and roof styles that age well, handle everyday weather exposure, and remain comfortable to use over time. When the right materials, thoughtful roof design, and proper installation come together, the result is a structure that doesn’t just look good but performs well in real backyard conditions.

Why Choose Foothills Custom Outdoors for Your Gazebo

Many homeowners can find gazebo photos online in seconds. What’s harder to find is a company that makes the entire process feel simple and stress-free once you decide you actually want one in your yard.

That’s where Foothills Custom Outdoors stands apart.

We Focus on the Experience, Not Just the Product

Most gazebo sellers focus on showing designs and specifications. After that, the responsibility shifts to the homeowner to figure out placement, preparation, and installation details. We take the opposite approach. Our goal is to help you feel confident about your decision before anything is ordered, so there are no surprises once the gazebo arrives.

Hassle-Free Installation (Not Just Visual Guidance)

Many companies rely on photos, diagrams, or videos and expect homeowners to handle the rest. While that works for some people, it often leads to frustration, delays, or uneven results. We offer a hassle-free installation option for a small additional fee. That means your gazebo isn’t just delivered — it’s properly placed, aligned, and set up so it looks right and feels solid from the start.

Designed With East Tennessee Yards in Mind

Backyards in Knoxville and surrounding areas aren’t always flat, dry, or predictable. Humidity, summer heat, and changing weather conditions all play a role in how outdoor structures hold up over time. We recommend and work with gazebo designs that make sense for East Tennessee conditions, helping ensure your structure stays comfortable, stable, and visually appealing long after installation.

Guidance Without Pressure

We’re not here to push a specific model or rush you into a decision. Our role is to help you understand what works best for your space, how different options compare, and what will feel right once it’s actually part of your backyard. That way, when you do move forward, you’re choosing with clarity — not guesswork.

A Finished Space You Can Enjoy Immediately

At the end of the process, the goal isn’t just a gazebo standing in your yard. It’s a space that feels intentional, usable, and ready to enjoy without extra steps or ongoing adjustments. That’s what we aim to deliver every time.

Why Choose Foothills Custom Outdoors for Your Gazebo

That’s where Foothills Custom Outdoors stands apart.

5-Star

(50)

From $ 4,499

Lodge 14×12 Cedar Gazebo

A classic lodge-style gazebo built for strength, shade, and year-round outdoor living. Crafted from solid cedar and a steel peak roof, this structure creates a spacious, weather-ready gathering space that feels both rustic and refined.

Features & Performance

All-Weather Structure: Designed to withstand heavy snow loads and strong winds when properly anchored, making it well-suited for East Tennessee weather conditions.
Solid Cedar Construction: Built from 100% cedar wood for natural resistance to decay, insects, and moisture.
Heavy-Duty Steel Roof: Powder-coated galvanized steel roof helps resist corrosion, dents, and long-term weather exposure.
Oversized Beams & Posts: Substantial 6×6 posts and beams provide both visual presence and structural stability.
Tall Lodge-Style Peak Roof: Extra interior height improves airflow, comfort, and overall openness.

Design & Comfort Details

Classic Lodge Aesthetic: Exposed trusses, decorative corbels, and clean lines blend rustic charm with modern outdoor design.
Ceiling Fan / Lighting Ready: Built-in steel mounting bracket allows for optional ceiling fan or lighting installation.
Clean, Finished Hardware: Powder-coated steel brackets conceal seams and fasteners for a premium, finished look.
Natural Cedar Finish: Warm wood tones complement traditional, farmhouse, and mountain-modern homes.

Installation & Site Requirements

Professional Installation Recommended: Proper anchoring is required for safety, stability, and long-term performance.
Site Preparation Options: Can be installed on level ground, gravel pad, or concrete footings depending on your property.
Anchoring for Wind Protection: Anchoring systems are selected based on soil conditions and exposure.
One-Team Service: We handle delivery coordination, assembly, anchoring, and final inspection.

Size & Specifications

Footprint: 14′ × 12′
Coverage Area: ~168 sq ft
Roof Style: Peak (lodge height)
Materials: Cedar wood + galvanized steel roof
Use Case: Dining, entertaining, relaxing, outdoor living

5-Star

(50)

From $ 4,499

Lodge 14×12 Cedar Gazebo

Features & Performance

All-Weather Structure: Designed to withstand heavy snow loads and strong winds when properly anchored, making it well-suited for East Tennessee weather conditions.
Solid Cedar Construction: Built from 100% cedar wood for natural resistance to decay, insects, and moisture.
Heavy-Duty Steel Roof: Powder-coated galvanized steel roof helps resist corrosion, dents, and long-term weather exposure.
Oversized Beams & Posts: Substantial 6×6 posts and beams provide both visual presence and structural stability.
Tall Lodge-Style Peak Roof: Extra interior height improves airflow, comfort, and overall openness.

Design & Comfort Details

Classic Lodge Aesthetic: Exposed trusses, decorative corbels, and clean lines blend rustic charm with modern outdoor design.
Ceiling Fan / Lighting Ready: Built-in steel mounting bracket allows for optional ceiling fan or lighting installation.
Clean, Finished Hardware: Powder-coated steel brackets conceal seams and fasteners for a premium, finished look.
Natural Cedar Finish: Warm wood tones complement traditional, farmhouse, and mountain-modern homes.

Installation & Site Requirements

Professional Installation Recommended: Proper anchoring is required for safety, stability, and long-term performance.
Site Preparation Options: Can be installed on level ground, gravel pad, or concrete footings depending on your property.
Anchoring for Wind Protection: Anchoring systems are selected based on soil conditions and exposure.
One-Team Service: We handle delivery coordination, assembly, anchoring, and final inspection.

Size & Specifications

Footprint: 14′ × 12′
Coverage Area: ~168 sq ft
Roof Style: Peak (lodge height)
Materials: Cedar wood + galvanized steel roof
Use Case: Dining, entertaining, relaxing, outdoor living

5-Star

(50)

From $ 4,499

Lodge 14×12 Cedar Gazebo

Features & Performance

All-Weather Structure: Designed to withstand heavy snow loads and strong winds when properly anchored, making it well-suited for East Tennessee weather conditions.
Solid Cedar Construction: Built from 100% cedar wood for natural resistance to decay, insects, and moisture.
Heavy-Duty Steel Roof: Powder-coated galvanized steel roof helps resist corrosion, dents, and long-term weather exposure.
Oversized Beams & Posts: Substantial 6×6 posts and beams provide both visual presence and structural stability.
Tall Lodge-Style Peak Roof: Extra interior height improves airflow, comfort, and overall openness.

Design & Comfort Details

Classic Lodge Aesthetic: Exposed trusses, decorative corbels, and clean lines blend rustic charm with modern outdoor design.
Ceiling Fan / Lighting Ready: Built-in steel mounting bracket allows for optional ceiling fan or lighting installation.
Clean, Finished Hardware: Powder-coated steel brackets conceal seams and fasteners for a premium, finished look.
Natural Cedar Finish: Warm wood tones complement traditional, farmhouse, and mountain-modern homes.

Installation & Site Requirements

Professional Installation Recommended: Proper anchoring is required for safety, stability, and long-term performance.
Site Preparation Options: Can be installed on level ground, gravel pad, or concrete footings depending on your property.
Anchoring for Wind Protection: Anchoring systems are selected based on soil conditions and exposure.
One-Team Service: We handle delivery coordination, assembly, anchoring, and final inspection.

Size & Specifications

Footprint: 14′ × 12′
Coverage Area: ~168 sq ft
Roof Style: Peak (lodge height)
Materials: Cedar wood + galvanized steel roof
Use Case: Dining, entertaining, relaxing, outdoor living

The Foothills Installation Process: Why We Handle the Hard Work

One of the biggest concerns homeowners have isn’t just choosing a gazebo — it’s knowing everything will come together properly once a decision is made. Questions about level placement, storm stability, and site preparation are common, especially in East Tennessee where yards are rarely perfectly flat.

That’s where our process makes the difference. We plan each installation around your yard’s layout, soil conditions, and how the gazebo will actually be used — not just where it looks good on paper. Every gazebo we install includes proper site preparation and storm-rated anchoring to help keep the structure secure during heavy rain, strong winds, and sudden Tennessee storms. This isn’t an add-on or upgrade — it’s part of doing the job correctly.

Instead of handing you instructions and leaving the hard parts to you, we take responsibility for the full setup so your gazebo feels solid, comfortable, and ready to use from day one.

If you’d like more details, you can learn more about our professional gazebo installation services here

Thinking About a Gazebo? Let’s Clear a Few Things Up

From sizing and materials to placement and installation, these are the questions we hear most often from homeowners exploring gazebo options. The answers below are meant to help you understand what actually matters — without overcomplicating the process.

Can a gazebo be installed on grass?

While a gazebo can sometimes sit on grass, a level and properly prepared base always performs better long-term. A stable foundation helps keep the structure level, secure, and comfortable to use.

This is where professional planning and preparation make a big difference, especially for permanent outdoor structures.

Are gazebos good for hot summers?

Yes — a gazebo is one of the best ways to make your backyard more comfortable during summer. Full roof coverage blocks direct sunlight, helping the space feel cooler and more usable during the hottest parts of the day.

Many homeowners also add lighting or fans, which makes the space comfortable even during warm evenings.

What gazebo material lasts the longest?

High-quality wood, especially cedar, is one of the most popular choices because it holds up well outdoors and ages naturally. Many modern gazebos also combine wood with metal components for added strength and durability.

The best material depends on how much maintenance you’re comfortable with and the look you want for your backyard.

Do gazebos work in smaller backyards?

Absolutely. A gazebo doesn’t need a huge yard to make an impact. In smaller spaces, it often helps define the area and makes the yard feel more intentional rather than crowded.

Choosing the right size and placement is key, which is why planning matters more than square footage alone.

Where is the best place to install a gazebo?

Gazebos are commonly placed over patios, on prepared gravel areas, or in open sections of the yard where they can act as a focal point. Some homeowners prefer placing them close to the house, while others like creating a separate destination space.

The best placement depends on sunlight, access, privacy, and how you plan to use the gazebo day to day.

Is a gazebo something I’ll actually use often?

This is one of the most common concerns — and the answer is usually yes. Once homeowners have a shaded, comfortable space, they tend to use it far more than expected.

Morning coffee, meals, relaxing after work, or hosting friends all become easier when there’s a dedicated outdoor space designed for everyday use.

What size gazebo do most homeowners choose?

Most homeowners choose a size based on how they plan to use the space, not just yard size. Smaller gazebos work well for seating and quiet relaxation, while larger sizes feel more comfortable for dining and entertaining.

A common mistake is choosing a gazebo that’s slightly too small. Once furniture is added, extra space almost always makes the gazebo feel more comfortable and easier to use.

Does adding a gazebo improve how a home feels?

While a gazebo isn’t about chasing resale numbers, it absolutely improves how your home feels to live in. A backyard with a functional structure feels more complete, more inviting, and more usable.

For many homeowners, that improvement in daily enjoyment is the real value.

Can you help me choose the right gazebo if I’m unsure?

Yes. Many homeowners come to us without a specific model in mind — they just know they want to enjoy their backyard more.

We’re happy to help compare sizes, styles, and layouts so you can choose a gazebo that fits your space, your lifestyle, and how you actually plan to use it.

What’s the difference between a gazebo and a pergola?

The biggest difference is roof coverage. A gazebo has a solid roof that provides full shade and rain protection, while a pergola offers filtered shade through open or slatted beams.

If comfort and protection matter most, a gazebo is the better option. Pergolas work well when style and light shade are the priority, but they don’t offer the same all-weather usability.

How do I know if a gazebo is the right choice for my backyard?

A gazebo is a great choice if you want consistent shade and a defined outdoor space you’ll actually use. Unlike umbrellas or temporary shade options, a gazebo creates a comfortable “destination” in your yard for dining, relaxing, or hosting.

If you’re looking for something that feels permanent, looks good year-round, and makes your backyard more usable in different seasons, a gazebo is usually the best starting point.

Do I need a permit for a gazebo in Knoxville or Knox County?

Permit requirements can vary depending on the city, county, and the size of the structure. In many cases, gazebos over a certain size or with permanent features may require approval.

As part of our planning process, we help homeowners understand local guidelines for Knoxville, Maryville, and surrounding areas so there are no surprises. If a permit is required, we’ll make sure you know early — before installation begins.

Not Sure Which Gazebo Is Right?

If you’re still deciding, you don’t have to figure it out alone. Choosing the right gazebo comes down to how you want to use your backyard, how much space you have, and what feels right for your home. If you’d like help comparing options, sizes, or layouts, our team is happy to guide you and answer questions before you move forward. Get Help Choosing the Right Gazebo