From February 17th through 19th, Azenco Outdoor travelled to Orlando for our sixth year at the International Builders’ Show. Each year, IBS gives us the opportunity to connect with builders, architects, designers, and dealers who are shaping the future of residential and commercial construction across North America.
IBS 2026 was no exception.
This year, our focus was clear: demonstrate how smart pergola systems and architectural shade structures can elevate outdoor living into a fully integrated extension of the built environment.
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A Booth Designed Around Experience
Our booth was designed to feel less like an exhibit and more like a functional outdoor destination. Visitors stepped into a fully realized environment showcasing multiple product lines working together.
From the lighting integration to the structural details, every component reflected our commitment to precision engineering and architectural design.
The stunning furniture featured throughout the space was provided by our partner, Azzurro Living, helping create a refined, hospitality-inspired setting that resonated strongly with builders and designers working on luxury residential and commercial projects.
Products on Display
We showcased four key systems:
- R-BLADE™ – Motorized louvered pergola
- R-SHADE™ – Premium insulated patio cover
R-BREEZE™ – Fixed louvered pergola
R-WEAVE™ – Our brand-new retractable fabric pergola
Each product was installed in a way that allowed visitors to experience the structure from below, from the side, and in motion.
Introducing R-WEAVE™: A New Category in Flexible Shade
One of the most discussed highlights of IBS 2026 was the launch of R-WEAVE™, our retractable fabric pergola.
R-WEAVE™ expands the Azenco Outdoor collection by offering:
- A retractable fabric canopy system
- Over 500+ fabric color options
- Clean aluminum framing
- Seamless integration with privacy and lighting features
For dealers and designers, the flexibility of R-WEAVE™ immediately stood out. The ability to offer clients hundreds of fabric color options opens new possibilities for hospitality branding, HOA communities, restaurant patios, and high-end residential projects.
Expanded Privacy and Comfort Options
Beyond new product launches, IBS 2026 was an opportunity to highlight expanded features across our pergola lines.
New Options Introduced:
- Operable Privacy Wall
- Vertical Privacy Wall with Integrated LED Lighting
- Integrated Screens with MagnaTrack
- Integrated Heaters with Infratech
These additions reflect a larger trend we continue to see nationwide: outdoor spaces are no longer seasonal. They are year-round living environments.
By integrating heaters, screens, and lighting directly into the structure, Azenco Outdoor systems move beyond basic shade and into controlled outdoor environments.
Engineering That Resonates with Professionals
What stood out most in conversations with builders and architects was the focus on structural integrity and detailing.
Our systems continue to emphasize:
- Extruded aluminum construction
- Concealed hardware
- Integrated gutter systems
- Powder-coating finishes
- High wind and snow load capacities
Because Azenco Outdoor assembles in Miami, FL and Dallas, TX , many dealers were interested in lead times and logistics. Having domestic assembly supports reliable timelines and consistent quality control, something that matters greatly in today’s construction environment.
For professionals managing multi-phase projects, predictability is as important as aesthetics.
Meaningful Industry Conversations
IBS has always been about more than product display. It is about relationships.
One of the highlights of the show was hosting several podcast sessions, including a conversation with Kerrie Kelly, NKBA Chair for 2026. Discussions centered around the evolution of outdoor kitchens, transitional spaces, and how shade systems are becoming foundational, not optional, in residential design.
There is growing alignment between interior design thinking and exterior architectural planning. The line between indoors and outdoors continues to blur.
What We Observed at IBS 2026
From our perspective, several key trends were clear:
1. Outdoor Living Is Now Core, Not Extra
Builders are designing homes with outdoor structures planned from day one, not as afterthoughts.
2. Technology Integration Is Expected
Smart pergolas with automated controls, sensors, and app integration are no longer niche requests. They are becoming standard in luxury construction.
3. Climate Adaptability Is Critical
From Florida humidity to mountain snow loads, professionals are looking for systems engineered to perform nationwide.
4. Dealers Want Differentiation
With increasing competition in the shade category, dealers are prioritizing premium, architecturally refined systems that stand apart from commodity products.
Azenco Outdoor continues to focus on engineering, customization, and long-term durability — pillars that resonate strongly in the B2B community.
Looking Ahead to IBS 2027
As IBS 2026 wrapped up in Orlando, the conversations were already turning toward next year.
We look forward to reconnecting with the industry in Las Vegas for IBS 2027.
For dealers, builders, architects, and designers exploring premium outdoor living systems, we appreciate the time spent with us this year. Events like IBS reinforce the importance of partnership, from manufacturing to installation to final project execution.
At Azenco Outdoor, our goal remains the same: design and manufacture smart, durable, and architecturally refined pergola systems that elevate outdoor environments across the nation.
Thank you to everyone who visited our booth in Orlando. We look forward to continuing the conversation in 2027!
Leslie Chapus
Vice President & Co-Founder
Leslie oversees sales and marketing at Azenco Outdoor, with a focus on modern outdoor living solutions.
