This weekend, I seriously can’t wait to head to the first-ever Ideal Home Show Chicago, where I can shop and get advice from about 200 home remodeling experts and exhibitors, all under one roof. The show is being held Jan. 23, 24, and 25 at McCormick Place, 2301 S. Lake Shore Drive.
Need design help? Have bare walls? Thinking about installing solar panels? There’s something for everyone, and I don’t know about you, but after staring at these walls all winter, I’m totally bored with my house and ready for a major spruce up!
“I’m excited,” said Don Butler, an Oak Park native who owns Kapital Electric, which will be exhibiting its solar panels, electric vehicle chargers and the prototype for a brand new transfer switch for generators that GE just came out with, as well as a couple of generator shells. “When I do any show, it’s always good to get our product out there and show people they don’t need coal-burning or nuclear power.”
Solar energy is just the tip of the iceberg as far as this event goes. There’ll be designers on site answering your toughest design questions, from completing a basement remodeling project to choosing the best paint color to matching kitchen walnut cabinets (My kitchen needs a new paint job desperately, so I’m for sure asking that question).
And to avoid any nasty disagreements with your spouse regarding any sort of work, designers Sandy Berendes and Laura Longville will have a booth called “Ask a Designer and a Shrink” where they’re launching their new book, “Break Ground Without Breaking Up.” Lowes’ installation experts will give advice on DIY projects, a Barefoot Wine ambassador will be on hand, there’s a kid’s zone, and, local artist Derin Baratka will hold a Friday night painting party/lesson to paint the Chicago skyline.
I’m really looking forward to this. I’m so tired of looking at my house as it is. And besides getting ideas from top home and remodeling experts, I can also shop accessories, artisans, gadgets and unique gifts from local businesses in the marketplace.
And I especially love this: Giving tips and ideas on landscaping and green living will be Ahmed Hassan from the original HGTV and DIY show, “Yard Crashers.” I used to wish that guy would show up when I was in Home Depot or Menard’s and offer to redo my yard for free!
The event is the first of its kind at McCormick Place, open to consumers and all under one roof, said Grayland Productions owner, Jessica Boweak, the show’s manager. Boweak said 95 percent of the event is local companies, “so we help grow their business.”
“It’s a great opportunity during the winter months to get contacts and leads and keep them going,” said Boweak. “These guys know their stuff — they give great tips.
“And, there’s nothing like the feel, touch, of a human being and you get to talk to these people so that’s what’s wonderful about it,” said Boweak. “And that’s what we’re excited about.”
Tickets are $10 at the door for adults and $8 online in advance at www.idealhomeshowchicago.com. Kids under 12 are free and there are also discounts for seniors and military and first responders. The first 250 people each day receive a swag bag from Barefoot Wine and Naked Grape. See you there!