The housing market may have slowed, but that’s even more reason to keep your abode looking its best. Whether you’re thinking of buying, building or selling -- or just into daydreaming -- ideas on how to improve your living space will be packed into the Cobb Galleria Centre April 1-3 for the Spring Atlanta Home Show.
Now in its 33rd year, the show brings together representatives from across the housing industry who are ready to offer tips, solutions and ideas on just about any home-related topic.
“This show is not only about the variety of ideas, but also the quantity,” said show producer Michael Schoppenhorst. “There are 375 companies represented under one roof, along with guest speakers, interior designers and demonstrations to help you enjoy the place where you live every day.”
The show features the latest in housing and home trends, and this year one of the hottest topics is aging in place. Visitors will find a wealth of ideas for adapting their current homes or creating new ones where they can live out their lives.
“Today, people -- particularly the Baby Boomers -- want to live longer in their own homes,” said Schoppenhorst. “So we have brought in lots of products for kitchens, bath and living areas to help people accomplish that by making their homes accessible and safe.”
Products that can increase a home’s energy efficiency will be well-represented since they have direct connections to both the economy and the green movement.
“We’ll have information on everything from home energy audits, new insulation materials and the different resources you can use to make your home more efficient,” said Schoppenhorst.
For those trying to sell a home in a sluggish economy, HGTV’s Tonya M. Williams will discuss ways to make your house the most marketable on the block. The host of “Designed to Sell” and an Atlanta real estate agent, Williams knows the local market as well as how to make homes stand out.
Other show highlights include:See-Thru House: Crews created this 1,600-square-foot home on site to show off its inner workings. Check out the plumbing, electrical and waterproofing systems.Walter Reeves. An appearance at noon Friday by the local gardening expert, AJC columnist and radio show host on WSB AM750 and NOW 95.5 FM.
Art show: Original art works, sculptures, furniture and more created by local and regional artists will be available for purchase.
The Total Wine & Design Experience. For a $5 donation visitors can taste a variety of wines and take a tour of recreated TV homes updated for the 21st Century by Atlanta designers. Stroll through the Clampett mansion from "The Beverly Hillbillies" and Mary Richards's apartment from "The Mary Tyler Moore Show."
If you goThe 2011 Spring Atlanta Home ShowApril 1-3; Cobb Galleria Centre, Two Galleria Parkway10 a.m.-6 p.m. April 1-2; noon-6 p.m. April 3$10 adults; free for children younger than 12 and adults older than 65 with ID; military and first responder tickets buy-one, get-one free with ID; $15 two-day passes. Discount coupons available online.Free parking770-798-1997; www.atlantahomeshow.com.
