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An unused area in your backyard or the front of your house can be a great spot to shelter your vehicles. People often call it a carport, an open structure with just a roof and support beams and a great alternative to a garage. If this fits your needs, look at these carport design ideas for inspiration!
1. Metal structure and glass roofing
This material combination is a great choice if you want a sturdy and stylish carport. The metal frame gives it a strong foundation, while the glass roof lets in natural light and adds a modern touch. You can set it up beside your house, in the front, or even in the backyard — wherever you’ve got room.
Just keep in mind that the bright and open space from the roof might leave your car more exposed to view from above. Tip: A quick fix is to add a frosted or tinted glass finish to the roof, which still lets in light but provides more coverage.
2. Carport and storage shed
This car shelter idea gives you the best of both worlds. The carport part is for your vehicle, while the attached storage is for keeping your tools and other outdoor equipment. The design usually has a roof covering, with the storage positioned at the back or side. It’s a space-saving solution if you need extra storage but don’t want a separate building cluttering your yard.
3. Made from a shipping container
For this concept, you’ll repurpose a shipping container and use it as a base. You can customise it with paint or add windows to prevent it from feeling too stuffy and include an extra door for quick access if it’s attached to your house. If you can find a freight container from local retailers, it might be worth considering.
4. Detached carport
As the name suggests, this carport idea is separate from your house, usually standing on its own with a roof and support beams. It offers a lot of flexibility in terms of placement, so you can put it where it makes the most sense for your layout. Plus, it doesn’t take up space and is less expensive to build than a fully enclosed garage. Go for this one if you’re looking for a practical, no-fuss way to keep your car protected!
5. DIY pallets
Long pallets can be stacked and arranged to build the frame and roof, creating a rustic carport structure. You might need to add some extra support to ensure it’s strong enough for your vehicle, such as bracing, crossbars, or anchors.
Pallets are readily available at many local hardware stores and are pretty cheap, too!
6. Pergola concept
We like the ease of constructing a pergola-style driveway shelter and the possibility of training climbing plants to grow over it. This can make your carport look lush while providing additional shade and making it feel more sheltered. It will also look amazing as part of your outdoor space, with the greenery covering this makeshift garage.
7. With solar panels on the roof
The carport itself will look like a standard structure with a roof and support beams but with the added feature of solar panels on top. These panels capture sunlight and convert it into electricity. It’s a smart way to make use of space that’s already there, especially if you’re interested in going green.
8. Made from a shade sail
You might already own a garden sail, but you can also create a carport using a large piece of fabric stretched across a frame or supports to cover your vehicle. This approach doesn’t require many materials, but you will need some posts to attach the shade sail. You can put it together quickly without spending a lot of money or time on construction.
9. Carport and garage in one
This pairing might seem unnecessary and take up too much space, but it can work well if you want a carport with open sides for parking during the day (which guests can use). Plus, a garage next to it for added security for your vehicles. Or if you have an existing garage, you can extend it at the front with a carport.
10. Drive-through style
Drive-through carports let you pull your car in and drive all the way through without having to reverse. Instead of just parking and backing out, you can drive straight through to your garden or another part of your home, depending on where it’s situated.
The design features two entry points: one in the front and one in the back. It’s a great option if you have a busy driveway or limited space.
11. As a home extension
You get the idea: it makes the carport look like it was always meant to be part of your house. Thus, this is great if installed in the front. Make sure to use the same materials as the facade and exterior to match the style of your home. For instance, if your house exterior is made of stone, you should use stone for parts of the carport as well.
12. Carport patio
This setup gives you a carport that extends into a separate patio area, all under one roof. The carport is for parking, while the patio area is perfect for setting up garden furniture or a BBQ grill for a summer cookout! You can place this setup in your driveway, backyard, or side yard, wherever you have space.
13. Portable carports
This driveway shelter might be the solution if you want something temporary for your car. It’s essentially a lightweight, easy-to-setup tent that you can move around as needed. Make sure the tent is large enough to cover your vehicle with no gaps fully, so it provides complete protection.
14. Gated carport
The purpose of the gate is to provide extra security not only to the carport but also to your home. It can be opened and closed as needed, just like those garages with automatic gate that opens and close. Draw inspiration from this steel and wood mixed style. It features a grand carport with a gate for added security.
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15. With barn-style doors
Instead of a traditional open carport, add sliding barn-style doors to fit your countryside-themed home or outdoor space. When you want to park, slide the doors open; when you’re done, slide them closed to protect your vehicle from the elements. The doors are space-saving, too, which is perfect if you have a tight driveway or yard.
16. The grand porte-cochere
This design is a modern twist on the classic porte-cochère, featuring a grand stone facade. Add wall shrubs or plants around it to give your driveway a French-inspired feel. Don’t forget to include outdoor lighting along the stone facade for convenience at night.
17. Domed carport
This carport design idea gives off the impression of a gazebo or a pergola due to its dome-shaped roof. It’s not just about looks, though—this shape can also make the carport feel more spacious and airy. It also has water runoff, so you don’t have to worry about puddles or leaks.
Note: Installing a domed carport might require professional help due to its specialised design and construction needs.
18. The slanted approach
A slanted carport features a roof that tilts at an angle and can be installed along existing walls, similar to a lean-to greenhouse. It’s a practical way to make use of wall space, with a roof that helps with water runoff, including snow. The carport below, for one, is best described by its sleek lines, minimal details, and modern materials.
19. Planters addition
Regardless of the design of your carport, you can mix in a few planters along the sides or built-in ones at the base of the support columns. You can fill them with flowers, shrubs, or small trees to add a fresh, green touch to the space. Nothing’s better than this idea if you love gardening and need a shaded parking space!
20. With a green roof
Achieving this concept may require time, effort, and some gardening skills, but it’s definitely worth it. Basically, you cover the roof with a variety of plants, such as grasses and sedums. Once grown, the green roof not only adds visual appeal but also provides benefits like absorbing rainwater, offering natural insulation, and supporting local wildlife. This is a fantastic option if you want a practical carport with a green twist!
21. Made of steel
Steel carports are a solid choice if you’re looking for something strong and low maintenance. The material can handle tough weather, protecting your car from sun, snow, and rain. It’s one of the most durable materials, so it’s likely to last longer than other options. Plus, it’s easy to maintain, making it a great value for your money.
22. Bricks, bricks, bricks
Add curb appeal to your carport with a subtle pop of colour with red bricks. Using exposed brick for the pillars adds a welcoming touch and looks warmer and more inviting than plain concrete. Multicoloured bricks can also create a more dynamic pattern if this fits more to your liking.
23. Cedar framing
Cedarwood has a natural, warm look, and it has rich colour and grain patterns that can give the carport a classic look. The design will have cedar beams and posts that support the roof. It fits well in various settings and matches different home styles, whether in a driveway, front yard, or as a standalone feature.
24. Aluminium curved patio
Aluminium is lightweight but strong, and the curved roof allows for good water runoff. It’s also resistant to rust, so it will look great and last a long time with minimal upkeep.
Note: It’s best to have it built and installed by experts. The curved shape and aluminium framing can be challenging to handle on your own unless you have the necessary skills.
25. Wide lean-to patio cover
The wide-lean patio cover features a slanted roof against an existing wall or structure. It’s usually easier and less expensive to install than a freestanding structure. Depending on the design, it can provide ample shade and protection. Consider using heat-treated tempered glass or a frosted or tinted variant for added privacy and reduced glare.
Round-up
Have you ever had that frustrating moment when it rains after you’ve just washed your car? Or when your car’s windshield is frosted over, and you’re running late for work?
That’s where a carport comes in handy! It shields your vehicle from rain, snow, frost, and hail, and it’s perfect if you can’t park your car in the garage. We hope our carport design ideas will help you find the perfect solution for protecting your vehicle. They might even increase your property value!
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