If you’re looking to add an extra feature to your backyard but aren’t sure if a Bali hut or a pergola is the better choice, you’re in the right place. Many people feel stuck at this stage because the two can appear similar at first glance. But trust us, they bring very different vibes to your space.
Bali huts have that tropical, getaway feel with their thatched roofs. Pergolas are more open and modern, usually built from timber or metal. One feels like a retreat, the other works more like an outdoor room you can use every day.
In this guide, we’ll share our insights to help you pick the one that suits your backyard best. You’ll learn how Bali huts and pergolas compare in terms of design, cost and upkeep. We’ll also pass along styling tips to help you match your choice with your space and lifestyle.
Ready to get started? Let’s find the right outdoor structure for you.
Outdoor Structure Comparison: Bali Hut vs Pergola
When comparing a Bali hut vs. a pergola, it helps to break it down into parts that matter in everyday use. Both structures offer unique aesthetics and functions, serving different needs and outdoor styles.
These two outdoor structures do different jobs, and choosing the right one can save you stress, money, and future regrets. Here’s how Bali hut and pergola stand out in real life:
Design and Style
Bali huts feel like a tropical escape. Their thick thatched roofs and timber frames create a relaxed, resort-style vibe. You’ll feel like you’re on holiday the moment you walk outside. They stand out in gardens that lean towards natural, organic, or coastal styles.
Pergolas have a more modern, clean look. Their open slats and straight lines suit newer homes or minimalist spaces. You can dress them up with plants or lights, or keep things simple. Think of them as the little black dress of outdoor structures (classic and easy to style).
Shade and Comfort
Outdoor Bali huts give solid shade. Since the thick roof blocks out the sun and rain, the space stays usable in all seasons. The natural thatch keeps it cooler on hot days and creates a true shelter.
Unlike Bali huts, a backyard pergola offers partial shade. It’s great for airflow and light, but won’t block rain unless you add a canopy or climbing plants. It’s a good choice if you like the feel of filtered light and an open-air layout.
Materials
Builders usually use hardwood and natural thatch (like Alang Alang grass) to make Bali huts. These materials look amazing, but they need regular care to stay in top shape.
But pergolas are built from treated timber or powder-coated steel. These materials are durable, low-maintenance, and easy to clean. These are great if you want to build it and forget about the maintenance for a while.
Durability
Another advantage of pergolas is that they’re more durable. They last a little longer than Bali huts. Pergolas hold up in harsh weather because the materials are strong and treated to resist damage. A quick wash and a coat of paint every few years usually keeps them looking fresh.
On the flip side, Bali huts need more regular maintenance. The thatch wears out faster, especially in windy or wet areas. You’ll likely need to replace it every 5 to 7 years to keep things looking good.
Council Rules and Setup
In our experience, it’s usually easier to get a pergola approved. Many local councils allow small pergolas without a permit, especially if they’re under 10 square metres. Always check your local rules first, though.
Bali huts can be trickier. The tall roof and natural materials might need special approval, especially in suburban areas. It’s worth talking to your council before you start building.
Versatility and Fit
A backyard pergola fits into almost any style, like modern, classic, or somewhere in between. You can use it for dining, lounging, or growing vines. However, Bali huts are more niche. They’re perfect near a pool or in a garden with a tropical or resort-style theme. They don’t suit every yard.
We’ve seen many clients choose pergolas for their flexibility and clean look. Bali huts, though, tend to win hearts when someone wants their space to stand out. And hey, not everyone wants their garden to look like everyone else’s.
If you’re imagining how this would look in your space, let’s talk styling next.
Easy Landscape Ideas for Backyard Integration
Not sure how to style your new outdoor structure? We’ve got you covered. Below are simple backyard landscape ideas to help you bring a Bali hut or pergola to life, without needing a design degree or a massive budget.
Landscape Ideas for Bali Huts
If you’re going for a resort feel, start with a timber deck or stone base. Add bamboo fencing, tropical plants, or even a small water feature to complete the look. Hang soft lighting or lanterns to make it cosy at night. Outdoor Bali huts are perfect near pools or in tucked-away corners where you want a private escape. Check more ideas for your Bali hut in this article.
Landscape Ideas for Pergolas
Keep it modern and functional. Use pavers, gravel, or raised garden beds to create structure. Train climbing plants like bougainvillea or jasmine to soften the lines. Add seating and shade cloth if needed, and you’ve got an instant outdoor lounge. It works beautifully in backyard design, small settings, because you can build upward, not outward.
A good trick? Use outdoor rugs or low shrubs to frame the space. This makes the area feel intentional, not just tacked on. Add planters in corners and soft seating to anchor the layout.
If you’re not sure where to start, try using an app for landscaping design. Two popular options are:
- iScape: This app allows you to visualise your landscaping project directly from your mobile device, offering both 2D and 3D design capabilities. iScape is available for Android and iOS, with a free version to get started.
- Ecogarden Design: Ecogarden Design is a free, web-based 2D landscape design tool that empowers you to design your garden without needing to sign up. It’s accessible on various devices and is particularly useful for creating ecological landscape designs.
With styling sorted, now let’s see what these structures will cost you.
How Much Do Bali Huts and Pergolas Cost?
Before you start building, it helps to know what you’re in for financially. Both bali huts and pergolas can look amazing, but the price tag (and what’s included) can vary a lot. Let’s break down what you’re paying for and what kind of upgrades can stretch your budget.
Bali Huts
Bali huts usually start around $3,300 for small DIY kits. Larger, custom-built ones with premium timber and thatch can easily hit $6,000–$10,000 or more. The thatch and hardwood materials look great, but are pricier. And you may need to replace the thatch every few years.
- Thatch Roofing: Alang Alang thatch costs around $16.95 per 2.5-metre length. African Cape Reed tiles are about $33.95 each. These give the hut its island vibe, but keep in mind you may need to replace the roof every 5 to 7 years, depending on your climate.
- Timber Frames: Timber frames for Bali huts are made from treated pine or Australian hardwood. Treated pine is the more cost-effective choice and offers basic durability. Australian hardwood, on the other hand, is more expensive.
Pergolas
Low-cost pergola options start around $2,000 for basic timber or steel kits. These are DIY-friendly and popular for simple shade or plant support. But if you’re after a custom build with roofing, lighting, or privacy panels, expect to spend between $10,000–$18,000.
- Timber Pergolas: Treated pine is the go-to material for most entry-level pergolas and typically costs between $5 and $25 per square metre. They’re budget-friendly and easy to maintain. For a high-end look, hardwood options are available but pricier and need more upkeep.
- Metal Pergolas: Pergolas built with aluminium or powder-coated steel are priced around $20 to $30 per square metre. These materials are low-maintenance, weather-resistant, and work well for modern or minimalist designs. Metal pergolas are often chosen for their clean lines and structural stability.
- Roofing Materials: Colourbond steel is a common choice for pergola roofing, starting at approximately $18 per square metre. Polycarbonate sheets are another option, with prices varying depending on UV protection and thickness. These roofing choices help you control how much light or rain gets in.
- Additional Costs: Professional installation can cost $50–$80 per hour. Add-ons like retractable canopies, integrated lighting, or decorative screening will increase your total but can make the space much more usable year-round.
One of our clients in Brisbane started with a basic pergola kit. A few months later, they added a canopy, some string lights, and a few plants. Now it’s their favourite place to eat dinner and relax. Starting simple gave them room to improve the space over time without blowing the budget.
Next, let’s look at how your lifestyle can help you make the final choice.
Choosing Based on Your Lifestyle
Choosing between a Bali hut and a backyard pergola depends on how you live. Are you looking for a private escape or a flexible, open space? Do you want your backyard to feel like a retreat or part of your everyday routine? Think about how you already use the space. This is often the easiest way to decide what will work best.
Still unsure? Try answering these out loud:
- Do you prefer tropical and bold, or neat and modern?
- Do you want low maintenance, or don’t mind putting in the work?
- Is your yard mainly for quiet time or the whole family?
If you leaned toward the first option each time, a Bali hut might be your match. If the second answer felt more like you, a pergola will probably fit better.
Pro tip: Spend a weekend in your yard before deciding. Watch where the sun falls. Notice where you sit or relax. Let the space tell you what fits.
Over time, we’ve found that the best outdoor structures are the ones that match how people live, not how they think they’ll use the space. The more a structure fits into your daily life, the more value it brings. So, it should feel like something you enjoy.
Take a moment. Be honest. Then go with the one that feels like home.
Your Backyard, Your Signature Space
You’ve explored the look, feel, and function of both Bali huts and pergolas. One brings a slice of the tropics to your home. The other offers flexible, stylish coverage that works with almost any backyard layout.
We’ve looked at costs, weather suitability, and how these structures fit into real life. Now it’s your turn. Take what you’ve learned and match it to how you live. Don’t worry about how the pictures look, but think about how you want to spend time outside.
Ready to take the next step? Our team at Georgia Wiseman can help you plan and build the perfect outdoor structure that fits your style, budget, and your everyday life.
Start planning your backyard upgrade today. You deserve a space that feels right.