Build an Arbor!

This image is from a great blog, called Charles and Hudson. Here are their directions:

1. Wood: Four 6×6 posts, Two 6×6 beams, Rafters (usually 4×4 or 2×6), Lath, 2×2 or 1×2, to run over rafters, Wood (2×4) and stakes for bracing of posts

2. Hardware: One post base (including anchor bolt) per post if building on concrete, One concrete pier per post and concrete mix if building on soil, Galvanized nails, 10″ lag bolts with washers to fasten beams to posts, 7″ lag bolts with washers to attach rafters to beams (if using 4×4)

3. Doing the Work: Start by attaching posts, cut to desired length and using post bases, to concrete slab. Or, if building on soil, dig posts holes and fill with concrete. Then set concrete piers on concrete about 3 to 4 inches above grade. Cut posts to length and nail to piers. Use wood, stakes, and a level to brace up posts so that they are plumb in all directions. Leave these braces attached until the arbor framing is complete and everything is nailed down. With help, place the two beams on top of braced posts. Drill a pilot hole through the beam and down into each post. Install 10″ lag bolts and washer to secure the beams at each post location. Install rafters across the beams. If using 4×4 rafters, drill and install 7″ lags through the rafter and into the beam below. If using 2×6 rafters, it is a good idea to use extra 2×6 and install “roll blocking” between each rafter to prevent side-to-side motion. Nail rafters and blocks to beams. Install 1×2, 2×2 lath over rafters to provide shade. You can also use vines if you prefer a more natural look.
When everything is nailed off, remove braces and stakes. Congratulations. You now have an arbor!