Doncaster East 7m × 4m Alfresco Pergola with Composite Decking

Doncaster East / Aluminium Pergola

A bare concrete backyard became an outdoor dining area at this Doncaster East home. The project combines a 7m × 4m black aluminium pergola, clear polycarbonate roofing and composite decking, giving the family a defined alfresco space beside their white weatherboard house.

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Project at a glance

Project background

The original courtyard had a broad concrete surface and direct access through the home’s sliding doors. Without a roof over the main outdoor area, its use depended on the weather. The client wanted a more inviting setting for family meals and time outside, while keeping the open feel of the backyard.

Client requirements

The brief centred on an open alfresco pergola rather than a fully enclosed sunroom. A black frame would coordinate with the existing window and door frames, while transparent roofing would retain daylight beside the house.

• A 7m-wide, 4m-deep pergola with a 300mm roof overhang.
• Black powder-coated aluminium framing and clear polycarbonate roof sheets.
• Composite decking to define the outdoor dining and lounge area.
• Space for an outdoor table and bench set.
• Open sides and convenient access from the existing doors.

Solution: a roof and deck planned as one outdoor area

The pergola follows the rear of the home, with its outer posts defining the edge of the covered space. The black finish echoes the existing dark window frames and creates a clear outline against the white cladding. Transparent roof sheets allow daylight through, helping the courtyard retain its bright appearance.

Composite decking changes the character of the original concrete area, creating a warmer-looking surface for seating and dining. The table and benches sit beside the house, leaving the wider deck available for movement between the doors and garden.

The 300mm roof overhang extends the roof edge beyond the supporting frame. Roof coverage helps shelter the area from overhead rain, but the open sides can still admit wind-driven rain. Clear roofing preserves light; comfort in direct summer sun also depends on roof specification, orientation and any additional shading.

Completed result

The finished project brings the roof, decking and furniture together into a 28m² alfresco setting. It gives the family a dedicated outdoor dining space while retaining the connection to the garden and the existing sliding doors.

The contrast between the black frame, transparent roof and white home keeps the structure visually simple. Composite boards distinguish the usable outdoor living area from the previous concrete courtyard.

Plan a pergola for your Melbourne backyard

Explore our custom aluminium pergolas in Melbourne for roof and layout options. For another deck setting, see the Kew pergola over a timber deck. Our Wheelers Hill alfresco pergola shows a darker roof above a raised deck.

For a Doncaster East pergola enquiry, contact Furite with your backyard photographs, approximate dimensions and preferred use. Browse more completed project case studies.