Getting the size right matters more than most business owners expect. Too small, and your guests feel cramped. Too large, and the structure can overwhelm your space or exceed your local permitting requirements. Whether you're outfitting a restaurant patio, hotel courtyard, or resort pool deck, choosing the right footprint from the start saves time, money, and hassle.
Available Sizes
Big Timber Structures specializes in custom structures and all pergolas and pavilions are made to order, so there's no fixed catalog size you're locked into. That said, here are common size ranges to use as a starting point:
Pergolas:
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Small: 10x12 ft to 12x16 ft, ideal for defined seating zones or entrance areas.
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Medium: 14x18 ft to 16x20 ft, suits most mid-sized restaurant or café patios.
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Large: 18x24 ft and above, great for resort terraces, event venues, or pool decks.
Pavilions:
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Mid-size: 16x20 ft to 18x24 ft, a strong option for covered dining or outdoor bars.
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Large: 20x30 ft and above, suited for wedding venues, hotel courtyards, and high-traffic commercial spaces.
Because Big Timber structures are custom-built in Waxahachie, Texas, sizes can be tailored well beyond these ranges. If you need something unusual (e.g., an L-shaped layout, an extra-wide span, or multiple connected structures), the Big Timber design team can accommodate it. View commercial structure examples for inspiration.
Key Considerations
Choosing the right size for your commercial patio comes down to a few practical factors:
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Seating capacity: A general rule is to allow roughly 15–20 square feet per guest for comfortable outdoor dining. A 16x20 ft structure (320 sq ft) comfortably seats around 16–20 guests.
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Traffic flow: Commercial spaces need clear walkways for staff and guests. Build in buffer space around the perimeter (typically 3–5 feet on each side) to avoid a crowded feel.
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Structure type: Pergolas provide partial shade and an open-air feel, making them well-suited for restaurants, cafés, and breweries. Pavilions have a solid roof, offering full weather protection year-round, which is a better fit for venues that need reliability regardless of conditions.
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Zoning and permits: Commercial installations are subject to local building codes. Big Timber structures are designed to meet International Building Code minimums, but your municipality may have additional requirements. Always check with your local authority before finalizing dimensions.
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Post footprint vs. canopy size: Big Timber structures typically have a 12-inch overhang on all four sides. A 16x20 ft canopy, for example, has a post footprint of roughly 14x18 ft. This is important when planning around existing hardscaping or property lines.
For more design ideas specific to food and beverage businesses, check out 8 restaurant patio ideas from the Big Timber blog.
Why Choose Big Timber
Big Timber Structures is built for projects that demand more than a standard off-the-shelf solution. Every structure is handcrafted in the USA using North America's finest timber (primarily Western Red Cedar) and fitted with commercial-grade hardware for long-term durability in high-use environments.
Here's what sets Big Timber apart for commercial clients:
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Full customization: Size, style, finish, and features are all tailored to your site and brand.
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Professional certified installation: Every structure is delivered and installed by Big Timber's expert team. No subcontracting, no surprises.
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Made in America: Proudly built in Waxahachie, Texas, not overseas.
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Sustainability: Big Timber plants one tree for every structure purchased through its Green Miracles program
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Proven commercial experience: Past projects include hotel retreats, resort pergola sets, memorial pavilions, and lodge ensembles
Big Timber serves restaurants, hotels, resorts, golf courses, wedding venues, universities, wineries, and more. If your commercial space needs an outdoor structure that holds up, looks exceptional, and reflects your brand's standards, Big Timber is the right partner.
Let’s Talk About Your Project
Every commercial patio is different. The best way to determine the right size and style for your space is to talk it through with someone who knows the product inside and out.
Schedule a free consultation with the Big Timber team to learn how a custom pergola or pavilion can enhance your outdoor space with functionality, curb appeal, and revenue potential.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good size for a pergola?
A good size for a commercial pergola is typically between 14x18 ft and 16x20 ft for mid-sized patios, allowing comfortable seating for 16–24 guests with adequate walkway clearance. Larger venues, such as resorts or event spaces, may require 20x24 ft or bigger.
What is a good-sized pavilion?
For commercial use, pavilions between 16x20 ft and 20x30 ft are common. Smaller footprints work for covered bar areas or intimate dining zones, while larger pavilions suit wedding venues, hotel patios, and high-capacity outdoor events.
