Home show haven for do-it-yourselfers

The do-it-yourself trend has swept the nation with big-box home-improvement retailers popping up on almost every corner and countless books and TV shows on every channel.

Along with this, there is a growing number of home shows — places where people can walk the aisles and not only see what's new and exciting in the home-improvement world, but also get the opportunity to talk with the experts.

The 27th Annual Deseret Morning News Fall Home Improvement, Remodeling and Decorating Show is just such an opportunity.

The show will run Friday through Sunday at the South Towne Expo Center, 9500 S. State.

"This year's home show features more than 500 companies, all specializing in home improvement," said Jon Greenband, show manager. "Along with the chance to browse, we will also have available seminars and do-it-yourself workshops, where people can learn from the very best."

Some of the experts and celebrities attending will be Michael Moloney, lead interior designer and Ed Sanders, carpenter, from the ABC hit show, "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition," along with Kevin O' Connor, host of the longest-running home-improvement show, "This Old House," on PBS, and Brian Santos, "The Wall Wizard," the country's leading authority on paint and wall coverings.

Moloney was recently in Utah. His show surprised a family in Bountiful with a complete overhaul of their house from the foundation up. This episode was broadcast Oct. 9 on ABC.

In addition, the home show will feature national author and expert Jill Williams Grover, an interior designer and author of five books and a brand new teen series. Also attending will be Marla Dee, owner of "Clear & Simple," an organization company, and Stephanie Ashcraft, cook and author of "101 Ways to Make a Casserole" and numerous other cooking books.

According to recent surveys, kitchen and bathroom remodeling are the first rooms people remodel. Ironically, kitchens and the bathrooms are also one of the biggest, and perhaps most difficult, project a homeowner can take on. Hundreds of reputable kitchen and bath companies will be available to give show attendees ideas on trends, materials, appliances, colors and affordable options.

For others looking for an easier task, changing the paint and furniture is a quick way to give a home an instant update and a fresh look. Also, for those who may be intimidated by tearing rooms apart to the wood studs, try giving the room a simple change by adding new flooring or window treatments.