One of the simplest ways to create a backyard escape is to add a garden gazebo. These pretty outdoor structures were originally used in Victorian times to shade fashionably pale ladies from the sun. Now they're being turned into everything from cozy eating areas and kid's playhouses, to places to meditate.

Today's gazebos often come prebuilt, or as do-it-yourself kits, although some homeowners still prefer to custom build so that their gazebo ties into the architecture of their home. They can be made of wood, metal or vinyl and come in all kinds of shapes from round, square and rectangular, to octangular.

No matter what kind you decide on, gazebos create a strong focal point and need to be positioned carefully. Placed right, your gazebo will add dimension to your landscape. Placed incorrectly, your gazebo will make your backyard look disjointed and junky.

So what's the trick to placing your gazebo? Make sure it doesn't look like an afterthought. Don't just plop it in somewhere. Think about what makes sense. After all, gazebo means to gaze, so make sure you have something to gaze out on.

Here are Some Examples of Great Gazebo Placement.

1. At the End of a Path

Gazebos look wonderful and mysterious as a termination point at the end of a garden path. Visitors get the wonderful feeling that they are being drawn into the backyard.

2. Close to Water

If your home is on a lake or pond, position it at the very end of the yard on a point that overlooks the water. Enjoy the view and the sound of the waves washing up on shore from your secret hideaway.

You could also try placing your gazebo near a backyard waterfall or a trickling fountain and enjoy watching the birds splash about. Or how about by your pool?

One family I know built an open air gazebo at the deep end of their rock waterfall swimming pool. It was designed so that you could easily remove the railing on the pool side and dive right off the gazebo into the water.

3. In the Middle of a Big Backyard

A gazebo can also be the dramatic centrepiece of a grand estate. If you have a sprawling property placing the gazebo in the middle of the yard helps to anchor the area and create a focal point that unites the space. This type of placement works especially well in large, formal European themed gardens.

4. At the Side of the House

How you and your family plan to use the gazebo will also determine placement. If you want to use the gazebo as a playhouse for the kids, then off to the side and close to the house might be best.

Off to the side also works well if the gazebo is placed nearby a tennis or bocce ball court. This way it can be used as a cooling off spot, or place to sit and watch the game in action.

5. On a Hill

To enjoy picture postcard vistas like a beautiful sunset or bird's eye garden view, take advantage of any raised area in your yard.

One couple I know built a gazebo high on a hill overlooking their jungle-like backyard and used it, not only for dining, but for dancing in the moonlight.

6. On a Deck

If you are looking for a little shelter, then a gazebo nestled in one corner of your deck can complement it beautifully. It can also help to break up what can be a long, boring space.

One backyard I toured had a gazebo on the deck that was used for dining. The ceiling of the gazebo was decorated with dozens of miniature white Christmas tree lights for a starry sky effect at night.

7. In the Midst of Your Garden

Another great place for your gazebo is smack dab in the middle of your garden where you can turn it into a quaint tea room or cozy reading spot. Not only will you able to enjoy looking out at all your magnificent flowers, but you'll be able to enjoy their beautiful aroma too.

So remember: For perfect gazebo placement, plan ahead. Know the reason for placing your gazebo where you want to put it. When things make sense your garden design will flow beautifully.

Deborah Boland © 2006 All Rights Reserved