As many empty nesters do, Chris and Lisa started to see their beloved Florida home through fresh eyes when their kids left for college. With plans of turning their unsheltered backyard into a family hangout area—one that even their kids would use when home from school—they chose a StruXure Pergola X to make their dream a reality. Local StruXure dealer Absolute Outdoor Living helped the couple design the perfect solution for their outdoor setting, including a special angled zone for added protection over a prominent walkway. They knew they’d made the right decision when their kids started coming home more often and inviting friends to join them in their cool outdoor retreat. An unexpected bonus is that dining al fresco has become an every meal event. Lisa shared her secret to backyard living with her mother, who is now the proud owner of her own Pergola X.

“[The kids] love being underneath when it’s raining, or when it’s not raining; they cook their breakfast, lunch, and dinner outside when they’re in town from college. I’m just happy to have them hanging out at home and inviting their friends over.” – Chris and Lisa Edwards