- Gazebos and other garden structures are featured in many classical civilizations including China, Persia, Rome and Egypt. Warmer climates and areas were more likely to feature these outbuilding structures for use on warm evenings. In colonial America, gazebos were featured in the gardens and lands of the wealthy and upper glass. An eight-sided gazebo can be found at Mt. Vernon, the home of President Washington, and Thomas Jefferson maintained one summer house (gazebo) on his plantation Monticello.
- In colonial times, the summer house or gazebo could be enjoyed even in the warmest of months. No central air conditioning existed in the main houses and even with all the windows open, a good cross breeze would do little to cool the interiors. Gazebos, or summer houses as they were called in the southern states, provided a place where gentlemen and their ladies could enjoy a pleasant evening or afternoon out of the sun. The openings on all sides provided plenty of cross breeze and the idyllic surroundings (typically trees and gardens) could add to the cool atmosphere.
- The modern word "gazebo" is currently traced back to a pair of British architects from 1750. William and John Halfpenny wrote a book on Chinese architecture and described outdoor garden structures, such as a pagoda, as a gazebo. In Asia, the pagoda is a multi-level outdoor structure with many eaves, most often used for worship. In Western countries, the gazebo provided a quiet area for reflection and romantic interludes as well as discussion. For modern homeowners, a gazebo is a decorative feature in parks and gardens most often used for outdoor dining.
- In North America, a variety of gazebos are available for personal and public landscaping. A wedding gazebo, for example, is generally large, six-sided and wide open with only posts coming from the roof to the ground. A garden gazebo, by contrast, usually features a half wall and even window screens to keep bugs out. Gazebo types are limited only to the imagination, available space and building materials.
- If planning to add a gazebo to a backyard, Home Depot and Lowes offer many do it yourself kits to build or design a gazebo. Measure the space and identify any issues with drainage. Out buildings and garden structures should be built on higher ground where the water drains away and does not stand underneath or cause rot to the grounding posts. Most townships require a permit for building outdoor structures, including gazebos whether they are functional or decorative. Check zoning and homeowner's rules as a part of any preparations.
