For landscape designs inspired by the southwestern U.S., you may wish to opt for a different sort of wooden structure for your yard, in lieu of the more common arbor. I'm refering to traditional structures erected as retreats from the blazing sun, called, "ramadas." "Native Americans have been constructing similar sun shelters in the Sonoran desert for centuries using natural materials," writes Sharon Cohoon. Read the full article on building ramadas, replete with pictures, to find out more. But feel free to substitute with materials available locally.