Design and Build a Pergola
Get expert tips on designing and building a pergola from experienced pros.
Sponsored by Simpson Strong-Tie

In this sponsored Fine Homebuilding webinar at 6pm (EDT) on Wednesday, July 30, an architect and builder team up to help you find the right design, materials, and building techniques for your next outdoor structure. From footings and connectors to shape, style, and more, we’ll cover everything you need to know to get started.
In this webinar, you’ll learn about
- Pergola sizes, shapes, and styles
- Different shading options for pergolas
- Pergola footings and foundation types
- Options for pergola connectors
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Meet the Panelists
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Ian Schwandt — Production Manager at TDS Custom Construction and FHB Contributing Editor
Contributing editor Ian Schwandt is the production manager for TDS Custom Construction in Madison, Wis. After a varied field career spanning commercial construction for the healthcare industry and owning an architectural woodworking shop, Ian returned to residential construction and developed an interest in high-performance building and construction-business finance. |
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Jeremy Kassel — Featured in FHB’s video series, How to Build a Pergola Step-by-Step
Jeremy Kassel has been a self-employed contractor since 2005. His primary work is exterior residential remodeling, where he aims to strike a balance between design, functionality, and durability. Recently, Jeremy built a budget-conscious, energy-efficient custom home on the Helderberg Escarpment in upstate New York. Jeremy also enjoys writing for various media outlets, and has presented at JLC Live. |
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Lydia Poulsen — Senior Product Manager Lydia Poulsen is a Senior Product Manager at Simpson Strong-Tie. With 18 years at the company, she’s built a dynamic career across multiple roles, with over a decade dedicated to Product Management. She currently leads the Outdoor Accents Decorative Hardware line, where she’s proud to drive innovation and growth in a product category that continues to evolve and inspire. |
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Mike Wright — Director of Sales and Product Management Mike Wright joined Simpson Strong-Tie in 2004. In his current role as Director of Market Development, Mike works extensively throughout his organization, the industry, and with customers to deliver innovative solutions that help people design and build safer, stronger structures for the residential market. In his 20 years at Simpson, Mike has served in product representative, sales management, training, and market development roles for structural connectors, fasteners, and concrete anchors throughout the US and Canada. He has extensive experience supporting and educating suppliers, installers, and specifiers regarding proper installation and best practices using Simpson Strong-Tie products. |
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Fine Homebuilding receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
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