Some outdoor projects come together quickly. Others take time.
For Morgan and Jamie Molitor of construction2style in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area, this one took a few years. From the start, their backyard wasn’t a one-phase project. It was something they built step by step, making thoughtful decisions along the way. It started back in October of 2021 with an in-ground pool. Once that was in place, the next phase of the project was obvious. What about the space next to the pool?
The patio near the deck looked great, but there was a problem: it sat open with very little shade throughout the day. Most of the coverage came from trees lining the opposite side of the pool, which didn’t help much during the afternoon hours. As a result, the patio could heat up quickly, and once it did, it wasn’t somewhere they wanted to spend much time.
So, Morgan and Jamie reached out to Innov8 Outdoors. From there, we started working through a solution that would make the space not only look good, but actually work for them.
Project Details
- Location: Elk River, Minnesota
- Project Type: R-BLADE Motorized Louvered Pergola in Black
- Client Goals: Add something next to the patio that blended design, durability, and all-season use. The layout was already there, it just needed some structure and shade to make the space more comfortable and actually usable.
The Solution
To bring form and function to the backyard, we installed an Azenco Outdoor R-BLADE motorized pergola. This freestanding structure sits right on the patio. As soon as we got the louvers place, we could see and feel how the pergola would change the way this space is used.
The adjustable louvers open and close with the press of a button. This way, the space can adapt throughout the day. Open them for sunlight and airflow. Close them for shade or rain. Or set them somewhere in between depending on the moment. That flexibility is what makes a motorized pergola such a strong fit in Minnesota. The weather changes quickly, and now the space can adjust right along with it.
More about the motorized pergola Minnesota
The design of the pergola played a big role in how everything came together. The black powder-coated aluminum contrasts beautifully with the pool, the patio, and the surrounding landscaping in a way that feels clean and modern. It also holds up over time. The aluminum stands up to:
- direct sun
- rain and humidity
- chlorine splash from the pool
So instead of worrying about maintenance, the homeowners get something that’s beautiful and durable year after year. To take it a step further, we added integrated LED lighting. This allows the space to function even after the sun goes down!
How A Custom Pergola Project Works
From the start, every detail was planned around the Molitors’ vision for the space. Before we ordered the pergola, Will met them on site to walk through layout, sizing, color, lighting, and how the pergola would connect to the pool and patio. Every detail was considered so the final result would feel intentional and custom. That’s our goal with every project!
Once the design was finalized, we handled engineering and ordering. The structure was built to meet local wind and snow load requirements, which is critical for Minnesota conditions. After that, installation moved quickly. The full build was completed in just two days!
Built for Minnesota Weather
In Minnesota, a backyard structure has to do more than look good. It needs to perform in extreme temperatures. That means holding up through heat, storms, and long winters. This is where a motorized pergola can really stand out. For example, when the louvers are closed, rain is directed away from the space to keep everything dry underneath. The aluminum frame also holds up against moisture, sun exposure, and temperature swings without warping or rusting. So instead of dealing with constant upkeep, the homeowners get something they can rely on.
The Result
Once the pergola was in place, the shift was instant. Now the patio can be enjoyed even during the hottest part of the day. And it’s beautiful in the evening with the lights on. When friends and neighbors come over, the pergola becomes a natural gathering space.
Instead of working around the weather, the space works with it. That’s the difference. As Morgan put it:
“Now it’s become our favorite spot to relax and entertain. If you’re looking to elevate your outdoor living space with something beautiful and built to last, Innov8 Outdoors is the team to work with.”
Thinking About a Motorized Pergola in Minnesota?
If you have a patio, pool, or deck area that gets too much sun, or just isn’t getting used the way you want, it may be time to rethink the space. A well-designed pergola can completely change how your backyard functions. At Innov8 Outdoors, we design and install motorized pergolas in Elk River, the Twin Cities, and across Minnesota. Every project is built around how you want to use your space.
If you’re ready to explore what’s possible, book a design consultation with our team. Let’s build something you’ll actually use.
TAKE LIFE OUTDOORS.