This project started with a question every outdoor living client eventually faces: how do you want to actually use the space? These homeowners knew they wanted to spend more time outside. They came in thinking they wanted part covered roof, part pergola. As we worked through the design together, they realized they rarely spend time outdoors when it's raining or snowing, so we shifted the design to a simple but large full pergola, covering a generous portion of their backyard. The result gave them maximum shade and more comfortable outside time. For the structure, they selected two exotic hardwoods, Ipe and Tigerwood, chosen for their exceptional dimensional stability, longevity, and warm appearance. The pergola is custom engineered with joists spanning 20 feet, ledgered back to the house and supported by substantial masonry columns that carry the load straight through to the ground. Rafter ends were patterned and routed with a scalloped concave ogee profile, giving each one a custom flourish that sets this pergola apart from anything off the shelf. Finishing details include strip lighting under all stone caps, marine grade ceiling fans, and a shade panel on the west side of the patio to block the evening sun right when this family wants to be outside most. Because exotic hardwood is a living material, it requires routine care to stay at its best. We applied two coats of sealant at completion, and returned the following spring after the first winter and plenty of UV exposure. We recommend annual treatments for the first couple of years, then every other year after that. The wood will tell you when it's thirsty. Look for graying, drying, or early surface cracking and that's your cue to come back with a fresh coat.