Home improvement is the name of the game at Exhibition Place this weekend (Sept. 18-21) as the annual Fall Home Show takes over the Better Living Centre ($12, $10 if you buy online). Unlike the Interior Design Show (IDS, February 5 – 8, 2009), which is much more focused on innovative design and style directions, the Home Show is about meat and potatoes renovation and improvement ideas—flooring, heating, windows, appliances, etc.
To that end the Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD) has constructed an impressive pavilion at the heart of the showroom (below) called Destination Renovation, where homeowners can bring their plans and get advice or second opinions.
There’s decorating advice to be had, too. ARIDO, the Association of Registered Interior Designers of Ontario, in conjunction with RENO & Décor magazine, is offering free one-on-one decorating consultations with professional designers. MacFAB is sponsoring one of three workshop rooms with a focus on “the latest materials and fabrics.” For a complete workshop schedule click here.
Definitely don’t miss the Exclusive Access Sale, a fundraiser for the Toronto People With AIDS Foundation. There are great deals to be had (typically 30 per cent off regular retail) from Direct Interiors of Brampton, which has generously donated some really beautiful furnishings including a pair of sexy chrome and leather Easy Chairs (below) selling for $831 each, a big drop from the $1,220 price tag you’d find in the store.
About 250 exhibitors dot the showroom with product displays about everything and anything you’ll need to improve your home. ReMax is presenting the show and underlining the renovation theme: “Market conditions have transitioned over the past six months,” says company rep Christine Martysiewicz. “Many homeowners are opting to renovate in order to boost their resale value, while others are choosing to stay where they are and refurbish.”
A series of Dream Spaces have been constructed on site including the Aston Martin-inspired kitchen below, designed by Michael Ford (pictured) of Bamco Custom Woodworking. Notice the streamlined shape of the car in the lower cupboards? All this can be yours for just $65,000. We can always dream.
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