February 15, 2016

Get interior design inspiration at the Philly Home Show

Channel your inner HGTV star and meet one too

By Sinead Cummings
PhillyVoice Staff

Starting on Friday, Feb. 19, homeowners can head to the Pennsylvania Convention Center for the second week of the 35th annual Philly Home Show. The weekend-long event provides inspiration for home-improvement projects, shares renovation knowledge with attendees and offers DIY demonstrations, chances to meet TV personalities and interactive contests on the show floor.

Here is everything to look forward to over the weekend showcase:

• HGTV star John Gidding of "Curb Appeal" and "Curb Appeal: The Block" will appear during the weekend show dates. He will present on the main stage on Friday, Feb. 19 at 7 p.m. and then on Saturday, Feb. 20 at 1:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. Immediately following each presentation, Gidding will host a brief Q&A session.

• Chic sheds, a feminine take on the "Man Cave," will be available to tour through, showcasing various design styles to inspire homeowners to create a space that is not only relaxing, but also functional as an outdoor living space.

• A "White Sofa Challenge" will put attendees' interior design skills to the test in this challenge. A plain white couch will be on display, surrounded by an abundance of fun accessories. Participants have two minutes to create their best display, snap a pic and post it to Instagram. A panel of show designers will then choose a winner who will receive a gift card to IKEA.

• In total, the event will feature 300 exhibits around gardening, landscaping, outdoor living, home design, home décor and remodeling.

• Working with the Habitat for Humanity ReStore in Philadelphia, local DIY-ers will pick a used piece of furniture to transform into a unique space for a pet. The goal of this challenge is to help promote sustainable decorating techniques in a new, innovative and fun way. The winner will be announced at the show based on public voting and receive a $500 Visa Card.

• IKEA will showcase dueling kitchen designs with the same dimensions and functions, presented in two opposing styles. You can finally decide if you're more rustic chic or modern minimalist.

• With some guidance from an expert, homeowners can create DIY projects that they can take home to display.

Tickets can be purchased online or at the door. The exhibits will be open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.