What is a bioclimatic pergola? Definition and regulations

Great meals, gatherings, discussions and reflections have been made in our culture on the shade of a fig tree or a vine. The current version of a vine, in our “modern” times, and more specifically in the usual environment of our cities, would come to be the pergola.

Thus, we could define the bioclimatic pergola as the most intelligent solution to create a shaded space on the terrace or garden of any home. A type of element that, unlike the most common pergolas, is built using a system of adjustable slats. This structure is capable of being modified to regulate the ambient heat, the light that enters the terrace, as well as the degree of humidity and the movement of the air. As it is a type of adjustable structure, depending on how the slats are placed, more light and air or nothing is allowed to pass through, making it a perfect bioclimatic space or awning to protect itself from rain and even snow.

First of all, and before solving all your doubts about the pergolas, it is important to know that these shade accessories must be architectural elements of a light and removable character. In fact, these bioclimatic roofs are subject to a series of functional restrictions, under the context of urban planning legislation of a specific municipality. For this reason, there are currently a series of regulations that are established by the technical construction code. A law that, repeatedly, is more or less restrictive. It all depends on the district or municipality that generates it.

At Molins Design, as a design studio where we deal with complex outdoor projects, we take these regulations into account. A type of laws that directly influence us when designing any pergola or other type of exterior enclosure.