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Pergola with roof ideas


Pergola roof ideas: 10 looks for every style of garden |

(Image credit: Future / Davide Lovatti/Oka/Getty Images)

Pergola roof ideas have the power to transform the way in which you use your backyard. Offering protection from the sun during heatwaves and the rain during downpours, they enable you to enjoy your backyard in all weathers, making it a workable extension of your home. 

There are many benefits to incorporating pergola ideas into your garden. Not only do they provide garden privacy ideas, but they also offer the perfect spot for hosting garden parties or relaxing in beside the pool.

'To keep your outdoor space in use, even on drizzly days, you should consider creating a sheltered seating area. Pergolas effortlessly extend your living space and offer protection from the elements, so you can cozy up and enjoy the fresh air without succumbing to weather,' says Patrick Bridge, chief operations officer at Harbour Lifestyle . 'For a romantic, bohemian vibe, add lanterns, twinkly lights, and blankets – elevating your evening plans without actually leaving your home!' 

Pergola roof ideas

When considering pergola roof ideas there are two key factors to consider. The first is that it must be durable. A pergola roof will be exposed to the extremes of the weather and as such needs to be able to withstand the temperature fluctuations. Furthermore, once installed, it will be a challenge to replace, therefore you’ll need a long lasting product. Secondly, your pergola roof ideas need to be attractive. They need to suit both the pergola beneath and your garden as a whole, so choose materials that complement the rest of your scheme. 

1. Add a solid roof for a classic and reliable pergola roof

(Image credit: Oka)

The main reason to add a solid roof to a pergola is the garden shade that it brings. Add a table and chairs and your previously exposed pergola can become the perfect spot for al fresco dining, protected from the heat of the sun. Equally, if you add patio furniture ideas, you can create a private space where in which you can relax with a good book and a cocktail. 

As well as these lifestyle benefits, pergola roof ideas also offer a practical element. ‘Depending on what materials your pergola is made of, you will periodically have to do some upkeep. This may include re-staining a wood pergola or maintaining paint. With a roof, these tasks do not need to be done quite as often, which means you save both time and money,’ explains New-York garden designer Thomas Brown. 

‘Outdoor furniture is also very prone to wear and tear from the elements and typically needs to be replaced far more often than indoor furniture. Outdoor flooring types can also be impacted by the weather. Wood decking ideas, for example, needs to be regularly stained to maintain its aesthetic. With a pergola roof, your outdoor furniture and flooring are mostly protected from those elements and will last much longer as a result. This will save you money in the long run, making your pergola roof a good investment.’

2. Channel cottage aesthetics with a thatched pergola roof

(Image credit: Malvern Garden Buildings)

When researching pergola ideas for shade, take inspiration from traditional craftsmanship by opting for a classic thatched pergola roof. This timeless cabana design would blend seamlessly into cottage garden ideas but would equally make an elegant addition to tropical garden ideas. 

Featuring a Cape Reed thatched roof, this beautiful pergola from Malvern Garden Buildings has the benefit of offering protection from the weather while its open sides allow for panoramic views. 

3. Add natural shade with a living pergola roof 

(Image credit: Lights4Fun)

Relaxing with a glass of wine under a cascade of beautiful blooms is one of the most idyllic ways to spend a summer afternoon and a pergola is the easiest way to achieve this dream.

Typically, most pergola roofs are characterized by an open frame and thick beams installed at regular intervals. 'If you're after a rustic feel, you can incorporate crawling vines and other plants to fill in the spaces and act as a sunlight shield. However, wood requires maintenance or it will rot or break easily,' advises Giovanni Scippo, director at 3D Lines Architectural Visualisation .

By growing climbing plants or fast-growing flowering vines up the supports and training them over the pergola roof will not only provide shelter but will also create a pretty finishing touch. If you're after a year-round living pergola roof be sure to pick one of the best evergreen climbers.

Adding a living roof to your pergola is a particularly great fit for country garden ideas as its naturalistic appearance will help your pergola to fit into the scheme. Pair a living pergola roof with other vertical garden ideas to maximize the planting space in your plot.

4. Add a louvered roof for total control

(Image credit: Future / Davide Lovatti)

One of the more elegant pergola roof ideas, a louvred roofing system brings sophistication and practicality in equal measure. 'A highly durable option for pergola roofs, louvred blinds work on a motorized system that allows you to easily control when and how it opens and closes,' explains Giovanni Scippo.

While louvred pergola roof ideas may look out of place on a more rustic pergola design, when paired with a modern, monochromatic pergola, they offer a sleek finish that gives you total control over the light and shade.  

5. Rattan for a beach feel

(Image credit: Getty Images)

If you're looking for pergola roof ideas to add to your pool landscaping ideas, then be inspired by resort living and fit a reeded roof to your pergola. A characterful choice of roofing material, reed roofs are typically sold in rolls which can then be unfurled and attached to the pergola. When used as pergola roof ideas, reeds offer dapple shade and create a laid-back look that is perfect for lounging poolside.

While not as hardwearing as solid wood, they can be expected to last for a few years before needing replacing, but since it is a cost-effective option that is easy to install, this is not as prohibitive as it might be with other pergola roof ideas.

6. Extend pergola roof sides to turn a pergola into a mini-room

(Image credit: Bridgman)

Adding a roof to your pergola creates a private, peaceful sanctuary in your garden that is ideal for outdoor living. Take the look to the next level by continuing your solid roof to cover two perpendicular walls. This will create a room-like feel which, when paired with patio furniture and outdoor lighting ideas, is useable at all times of the day. Add a few blankets and cushions and its the perfect space for an after-dinner drink with friends. 

'To truly embrace an al fresco lifestyle, treat your outdoor space in the same way you would your interior. Think about your concept, furniture and accessories to create a space that feels like a room,' says Scarlett Blakey, creative partner of Ophelia Blake Interior Design . 'Add some height to your landscape and create a feature by building a pergola, which can be used as a spacious outdoor dining area. Use this as an opportunity to change your floor finishes to tile, and dress it up with festoon lighting.'

7. Consider an aluminum pergola roof in zones with changeable weather

(Image credit: Future / Tim Imrie)

When you live in a part of the world that is subject to changeable weathers, this needs to be factor into your garden design. If you always need to consider contingency plans for garden parties or family barbecues, then you would benefit from adding a corrugated roof to your pergola.

Adding these types of pergola roof ideas can make the space feel industrial, so be sure to balance the design with paint and decor. Here, dark struts and roof help it to be disguised into the planting and garden scheme, while bright pink walls draw the eye and brighten the space. Paired with characterful, antique furniture it strikes the perfect balance between indoor and outdoor living. 

8. Choose bamboo for poolside pergola roof ideas

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Pergolas are the perfect partner to pool ideas, so when choosing pergola roof ideas, let the space inspire you to create a slice of paradise in your own backyard. 

When set against the gently rippling water, natural materials, such as bamboo, really come into their own and as such they are a great choice. Here, bamboo adds a warmth to the space, bringing a hint of rustic charm, and, because it's so water-resistant, it makes for a durable choice, too.

9. Create a temporary pergola with roof for impromptu garden parties

(Image credit: House of Fraser)

Of course, it's worth remembering that pergola roof ideas are not just limited to permanent structures. If you’re feeling creative, why not construct your own rustic wooden pergola draped with voile to create a whimsical setting for coastal garden party ideas? Complete the look by drawing on outdoor dining ideas, adding tableware in a nautical colorway, with deep navy and crisp white tableware and linens.

10. Opt for a black roof to absorb light and heat

(Image credit: Evens Architects/Windsor Smith/Karyn Millet)

Pergola roof ideas don't have to be solid constructions. If you live in an area that has reliably good weather through the summer months, then you can embrace the sunshine and opt for an open pergola. 

White stone flooring keeps this patio area cool underfoot, while the black roof absorbs the heat, making it slightly cooler when relaxing on the sofas below. Opting for a black roof also creates a modern contrast to the white pillars, curating a sophisticated outdoor living space.

What is the best roof to put on a pergola?

A wooden roof is the best roof to put on a pergola in most cases. Durable once treated, it offers a plethora of different affordable and aesthetically pleasing pergola roof ideas. Whether you opt for solid wood, shingles or reeds, you can opt for the roof sets the right tone for your space. 

There are also other materials that are suitable: from the modern wooden louvred roof through to versatile metal designs, each material bringing with it a unique set of benefits and drawbacks. 

'A combination of materials often works best because one quality can compensate for what is lacking in another material. For example, wood provides shade but doesn't protect you from insects or the sun,' says Ann Doughan, CEO of Patioland . 'On the other hand, aluminum is more aesthetically pleasing but doesn't offer much shade. By combining these elements, a pergola can be shaded from sun and insects and provide some insulation quality for events during cooler seasons of the year.'

Can you put a roof over a pergola?

Yes, you can put a roof on a pergola. Adding a roof to your pergola transforms it into a highly usable space no matter the weather. It also provides valuable protection against the heat of the day. 

'The benefits of having a pergola with a roof include being protected by the
weather and the provision of consistent shade throughout the space below it. This
would also allow you to include other features like an outdoor TV to a
space. However, in some cases you will require permits for a structure with
a permanent roof where other cases you may not need to with a roofless
pergola,' explains Mike Pletz, owner of Ever After Landscaping .

Having graduated with a first class degree in English Literature four years ago, Holly started her career as a features writer and sub-editor at Period Living magazine, Homes & Gardens' sister title. Working on Period Living brought with it insight into the complexities of owning and caring for period homes, from interior decorating through to choosing the right windows and the challenges of extending. This has led to a passion for traditional interiors, particularly the country-look. Writing for the Homes & Gardens website as a content editor, alongside regular features for Period Living and Country Homes & Interiors magazines, has enabled her to broaden her writing to incorporate her interests in gardening, wildlife and nature. 

8 Amazing pergola roof ideas | Blog

Pergolas are one of the hottest additions to a property, providing an inviting space to enjoy outdoor living at its fullest. However, no pergola is complete without an attractive and durable roof. There are plenty of elegant pergola roof ideas that look great on the structure of your choosing.

Installing a roof is a wise investment because it creates an extra layer of shade and protection from inclement weather and adds to a pergola’s charm. Read on to learn about different roof ideas.

What are the Benefits of a (waterproof) Pergola Roof?

If you want a comfortable pergola that accommodates year-round use, install a waterproof pergola roof. With a waterproof roof, you can relax and enjoy the sound of falling rain or snow while engaged in an exercise session, work in your outdoor office, or dine alfresco.

Choose a waterproof roof that is static, retractable, or lightweight for a chic outdoor structure that keeps you warmer and drier. If needed, integrate a gutter system with a pergola roof, in addition to using a pitched roof design to control the runoff of any precipitation.

8 Types of Pergola Roofs

Create the pergola of your dreams with a range of versatile pergola roof ideas. Choose a retractable roof pergola or a louvered roof pergola to promote air circulation while still offering protection from the elements. A desirable roof should increase privacy and comfort, cooling shade, and style points.

Static roof

If you don’t feel it will be necessary to occasionally adjust your roof, opt for a fixed or static cover for your outdoor structure. Choose a sustainable material like bamboo for an attractive bamboo pergola roof. Or, consider installing a sturdy waterproof canvas roof or even a static roof that is metal, plastic, or glass. Another visually exciting option that is airy and stylish is a pergola lattice roof.

Louvered roof

 Keep your outdoor living low-maintenance and carefree with a louvered pergola roof. A louvered roof is a popular option because this style of roof uses a waterproof design, allowing precipitation to run off. This innovative cover is best when you need to adjust your roof to open or close to the sunlight, heat, or rain.

One of the most versatile options is a pergola with a louvered roof with rotating blades for full control of sun and shade. Whenever the mood strikes, you can easily adjust the roof to increase light, enjoy a view of the sky above, or reduce exposure to the elements.

Retractable roof

 If you are looking for pergola ideas beyond adding an awning, screen, or pergola roof panels, consider a retractable roof pergola. Choose from a retractable roof that adds a layer of protection against the sun, UV rays, heavy winds, and rain. Delight guests with a remote controlled retractable roof to change the lighting, increase cooling shade, or create a more open space.

Invite in the sun, cooling breezes, gentle rain, and reduce shade with a retractable roof for your pergola. Choose from stylish retractable pergola roofs made from fabric, metal, or other materials.

Climbing Plants & Vines

If you are a stickler for natural accessories and elements for your pergola, consider using climbing plants and vines to create a living roof. Keep in mind, there may be some open areas of your roof where rain and snow might seep through.

However, during the warmer spring and summer seasons, a beautiful roof created from flowering climbing plants and vines is picturesque and calming. Choose from plants like wisteria, clematis, climbing roses, honeysuckle, trumpet vines, or even grapevines. 

Canvas/Fabric

Move over traditional awnings and embrace a pergola with a canvas or fabric roof instead. If you live in a temperate zone where heavy snow or rain is unlikely, a light to middleweight fabric roof is perfect for a pergola. Create an airy, free-spirited ambiance with a sturdy but flexible canvas or fabric rooftop.

Green Plant Roof

Surround yourself with the beauty of nature from all sides, including the top of your pergola. A living roof made from a collection of striking green plants provides visual interest, shade, and improves air quality. Check out different plants that would work best to cover the top of your pergola and fit your aesthetic sensibilities.

Solar Panels

Show your support for eco-friendly design and even manage to produce your own electricity at home. Modern solar panels are easy to install as a roof for a pergola, capturing the sun above while keeping you cool and shaded below. Choose solar panels that are lightweight, durable, easy to install, and do not reduce the attractiveness of your pergola.

Hut Style

Make a tropical getaway in your backyard or build a solemn place for reflection using a hut-style roof for your pergola. Pay homage to primitive dwellings and discover the simple beauty and functionality that only a hut-style pergola offers. If you observe holidays like Sukkot, a pergola topped with natural or artificial thatch or palms sets the right tone for the occasion.

Materials for Pergola Roofs

The material used for a roof is critical because it impacts lighting and shade levels, air circulation and may vary in how well it staves the wind, rain, and snow. Check out the following common materials for covering a pergola.

Polycarbonate

If you love the look of a clear pergola roof but aren’t comfortable with installing glass panels, a pergola with polycarbonate roof may suit your fancy. Polycarbonate is a lightweight, affordable material that can handle low and high temperatures and lasts an average of 10 to 20 years. Roofs made from polycarbonate are designed to resist impact, protect structures against storms, hail, and are much stronger than glass.

Metal and aluminum

Aluminum and steel are suitable roof options. If you want a lightweight roof that is resistant to rusting, an aluminum pergola is a better option. However, if you don’t mind a heavier cover, a steel roof is ideal for resisting strong winds, heavy rain, and locations that have harsher weather.

Be prepared; compared to aluminum, a steel roof will require frequent maintenance to prevent rust. If you opt for a pergola with metal roof, be mindful of the thickness, if it is corrugated, and how much weight it adds to your structure.

Glass

Transform your outdoor space and install glass pergola roof panels. Glass is a desirable material for roofs because it allows sunlight to pass but retains heat and provides insulation. However, be prepared to pay a bit more for a glass roof than one made from polycarbonate, plastic, or metal. Indulge your senses with a pergola glass roof that is static or retractable to protect against the rain, sunlight, and wind.

Plastic

Plastic is a versatile material used for pergola roof options beyond corrugated or flat polycarbonate. Fiberglass, a combination of glass fibers reinforced with plastic, and PVC are ideal for roof panels.

If you want a clear pergola roof without dealing with the weight and cost of glass, plastic roofs are an affordable, lightweight option. An expertly installed plastic roof is often durable enough to last 30 years before replacing it.

Conclusion

A modern pergola provides the opportunity to spend more time outdoors and enjoy the health benefits of being in nature. Depending on your lifestyle, you can enjoy outdoor living no matter the season, with a roof that is waterproof, louvered, or retractable.

When you are in the market for a beautiful pergola and complementing outdoor elements, put your trust in a company with over a century of experience. Visit Renson Outdoor to shop their selection of outdoor elements and accessories for the discerning consumer.

Interested in more pergola inspiration? Discover our article about brilliant pergola lighting ideas and our article about pergola privacy wall ideas. 

Rooftop Pergolas - 135 Best Photos, Country House Patio & Yard Design

4-Season Roof Garden

Chicago Specialty Gardens, Inc.

Mechanical pergola louvers, heaters, fire table and custom bar make this a 4-season destination. Photography: Van Inwegen Digital Arts.
Home Inspiration: Rooftop Terrace Pergola, Contemporary Style Rooftop

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User

Photography by Charles Davis Smith
Original Design Example: Modernist Rooftop Terrace Pergola

Rooftop Garden with Pergola and Fencing for Outdoor Seating Area

Amber Freda Garden Design

This rooftop garden on Manhattan's Upper East Side features an ipe pergola and fencing that provides both shade and privacy to a seating area. Plantings include spiral junipers and boxwoods in terra cotta and Corten steel planters. Wisteria vines grow up custom-built lattices. See more of our projects at www.amberfreda.com. nine0007

Chicago Wicker Park Garage Rooftop Deck

Reveal Design LLC

This view of this Chicago rooftop deck from the guest bedroom. The cedar pergola is lit up at night underneath. On top of the pergola is live roof material which provide shade and beauty from above. The walls are sleek and contemporary using two three materials. Cedar, steel, and frosted acrylic panels. The modern rooftop is on a garage in wicker park. The decking on the rooftop is composite and built over a frame. Roof has system irrigation to water all plants. Bradley Photo, Chris Bradley

Kips Bay 2016

Rikki Snyder

Photo: Rikki Snyder © 2016 Houzz
Pictured: large pergola on the roof terrace, modern style rooftop with containerized plants from

9000- La vieur du

La vieur du

Kevin Clare - Paysagiste

Les vivaces et les graminées sortent du plancher et dessinent une perspective dans l'espace
Fresh design idea: a large pergola on a rooftop terrace with plants in containers - great interior photo

DC Roof Deck & Hot Tub

ARCHI-TEXTUAL, PLLC

http://www. architextual.com/built-work#/2013-11/ A view of the hot tub with stairs and exterior lighting. photography: michael k. Wilkinson

Rooftop Residence

Lightscape, Inc.

Rooftop deck for private residence. Great entertaining space with a grill, fireplace and the lights of Chicago all around.
Stylish design: medium-sized modernist roof terrace pergola with fire pit - the latest trend

Urban Retreats

Adams + Beasley Associates

This Beacon Hill brownstone started with a new rubber roof, bare and sprawling, the ideal spot for a great family gathering place. After thoughtful consideration, a master plan was developed to provide all the amenities an urban outdoor space could offer; comfortable seating, customized storage, mature plantings, a fully functioning outdoor kitchen, comprehensive irrigation, discrete lighting, natural materials and open space for larger groups. As this project was completed in the context of a comprehensive renovation of the building, we were easily afforded access below the deck to augment the structure and accommodate the added weight of the roof deck elements. A new staircase and generous hatch were added from the top floor inside to home to provide easy and convenient use of the deck. Likewise, bringing gas to the large grill, and hot and cold water to the sink, ice-maker and irrigation system were relatively straightforward. Through the careful use of natural materials and the well designed layout, the space feels like an extension of the inside living space and welcomes its visitors to sounds of music coming from the Hatch Shell steps away and views unique to the character and history of Boston. Photographer: Eric Roth

Elegant and Classy Outdoor

Innovative Modern Design

Tucked in between pillars and in an L-shape to optimize the available space. Anthracite gray cabinets and Basalt Beige Neolith tops. This outdoor kitchen is fully equipped with a large barbecue, side burner and sink. It definitely has all the bells and whistles.

Dachterrasse mit wetterfesten Premium WPC Terrassenbelag von MYDECK aus Holz und Polyethylen. Der Premium Terrassenbelag von MYDECK ist bildschön, plegeleicht, wetterfest, splitterfrei und nachhaltig, da ohne Tropenholz und Made in Germany. Die Dachterrasse ist in verschiedenen Bereiche gegliedert. Die Hochbeete mit Küchenkräutern und Blumen haben verschiedene Tiefen für mehr Varianz auf der Fläche. Als Sichtschutz zu den Nachbargebäuden dienen Sichtschutzelemente im Wechsel mit Buchenhecken. nine0007

Pergolas in landscape design: photos of ideas for the site

First, let's talk about what a pergola is in landscape design. This is a canopy attached to the terrace or standing separately from the house. It consists of sections connected by beams, decorated with climbing plants. They are supported by the roof or wall of the building. In addition to supporting colors, the design can perform three more functions: as a decorative object, a place of rest, or a zoning element.

All about pergolas on the plot:

Canopy types

Materials

What to consider when choosing

List of climbing flowers

Ideas for beautiful canopies

Let's conditionally divide all buildings into two groups: traditional and modern. The first are distinguished by concise lines, they have a straight roof. The latter have a concave or convex upper part, a complex configuration, and decorative details. Within these groups there are several forms. nine0003

Awning

This is a wide canopy under which they leave the car or make out a place of rest - with chairs, benches, a table, a swing, a hammock. The awning has a closed, almost closed or sliding (like blinds) roof.

Instagram @olmoslandscape

Instagram @medocompanytent

Visor

The name speaks for itself. This type of product has a small ledge instead of a roof. Usually the visor is attached to the house to shade it a little. nine0003

Instagram @the_house_on_sea_view

Instagram @tiny_oak_park_bungalow

Gazebo

Can be big or small. A pergola with a swing in the form of a bench stands out separately. Unlike the awning, the roof is open here. You can hide in such a gazebo only from the sun if the upper part is covered with flowers.

nine0002 Instagram @r.a.s.e.y

Instagram @shiplapshanty

Arch

Small arches usually form the entrance to a garden or house. Long flower tunnels can be placed above the path.

Pixabay

Screen

This landscape object is often confused with a trellis - a small lattice on which bindweed flowers or shrubs, such as raspberries, grow upwards. The screen performs the same function, but the plants can hang from it instead of clinging from below. In addition, it has a more complex shape. Both buildings are used to divide the garden into zones. nine0003

Instagram @canan_the_persian_cat

Instagram @mmiklos

There are five materials for making canopies:

Wood

The photo shows wooden pergolas - you can often see just such objects in summer cottages. They are made from poles, solid or glued beams. In production, simple and exotic species are used: pine, larch, oak, red cedar and more. If we are talking about self-construction, all parts must first be treated with an antiseptic and coated with paint or stain. nine0003

Instagram @boyle.group

Instagram @artgarden_studio

Metal

Metal structures are sold disassembled. They may be cheaper than wooden buildings (the price depends on the complexity of the design, size). At the same time, the aesthetics of the product does not suffer - openwork lattices and curls look beautiful. Often they are lighter and more elegant than wooden ones. nine0003

Instagram @dacha_tula

Instagram @lucybravington_design

Brick (stone)

Brick and stone structures are very massive, they look good only in large areas where there is a house with a plinth made of the same brick or stone.

nine0002 Instagram @libbyholdenflorist

Instagram @martinarocks

Plastic

Plastic canopies are cheaper and easier than others. Their strength depends on the type of plastic. The most resistant to mechanical stress is polycarbonate. Such structures also have advantages: resistance to moisture and fading.

Instagram @parkbaza74

Instagram @nikolai1538_misterwood

Surely you are wondering which option is better. There is a general rule - the material of the landscape object must be combined with the main building on the site. This does not mean that it should be the same - it is enough that everything looks harmonious.

For example, if the building is concrete, in a modern or classic style, a simple plastic structure will be lost against its background. A metal or wooden pergola with a seating area is more suitable. On the contrary, a frilly, wrought-iron grille may be superfluous in a rustic-style dacha. Let's talk a little more about the factors that you can focus on when choosing a design. nine0003

Size

Things to consider:

The optimal building height is 2-2.5 meters and the width is 1-1.5 meters. The length can be any, as long as it fits into the overall style. nine0003

Place of installation

Short pergolas for climbing plants can be placed at the transition to another part of the garden, in the recreation area, above the gate, the door to the house, windows, on the shaded side of the site. Tunnels are usually built over walkways. The only place where the structure may look inharmonious is the middle of the flower lawn. It will overshadow it and look redundant.

Color

If you want your design to always stand out, choose white. It is better to paint an extension to the house to match the walls or roof. The beauty of climbing vines will be emphasized by marsh, discreet green, natural wood or any pastel shade. nine0003

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Instagram @allabouthomedesigns

Instagram @grannemedselma

In order for the building to look finished, it is necessary to surround it with plants. For landscaping a gazebo or a screen, one or two vines are enough. For example, climbing rose and clematis are ideal companions. But these are not the simplest cultures. If you're new to gardening or don't want to spend a lot of time gardening, pick one from these lists.

Perennials:

Annuals: