By Robby Osborne

A house is a house, but that doesn’t make it a home. Houses aren’t timeless, and a pastel bathroom from the ’70’s, popcorn ceilings or a closed floor plan can alienate those who dwell within. Renovating, remodeling, and redecorating can seem like such a hassle that it’s to even know where to begin. This is what the Loudoun & Fairfax County Home Show is all about.
This free Home Show arrives at the Michael & Son Sportsplex in Sterling this weekend. As part of the American Consumers Show series, its resources seem without limit.
The show itself is designed for homeowners in any stage of a home-improvement project, featuring three local specialists and HGTV’s Ahmed Hassan. Hassan has made a name for himself on shows like “Yard Crashers” & “Blog Cabin,” where he shows his expertise in landscaping, and more specifically, yard-based DIY projects.
The three guest speakers for the show are local to the Washington D.C. area. First, J Allen, an interior designer who’s designs have appeared HGTV’s Design Star, will regale the audience on what really happens on design shows.
The second guest, antique and art appraiser Todd Peenstra, will be on hand for free private appraisals all weekend. During Peenstra’s presentation, he will host his own styling of an Antiques Roadshow. Janet Schiesl will present “Getting Organized-It’s Not About the Stuff,” which, tackles the best ways to declutter a living space. All presenters will present on the lifestyle stage.
The show isn’t all speeches and advice. Exhibitors come from all across the area and include all areas of home improvement, from insulation to hot tubs. All of the booths are hosted by local businesses, who plan to offer discounts only available to those who attend the show.
Spend the weekend perusing the show, or duck in for one presentation, it all costs the same. This show is a must see for those who intend on improving their homes.