With thousands expected to stop in at the Chattanooga Convention Center this weekend for the Tri-State Home Show, exhibitors setting up Thursday said remodeling will be a large focus this year.
"People haven't done some things to their home in a few years," said Teresa Groves, executive officer of the Home Builders Association of Southern Tennessee. "So now you have people who are ready, whether it's a small remodel or building a home."
With many people opting to remain in their current residences, organizers said the show offers homeowners the opportunity to view top-notch amenities for their properties.
Despite recent economic downturn, this year's exhibitors said they hope for continued improvement and expressed upbeat previews.
Exhibitor comments:
"We've seen an increase in terms of landscaping with homes in Chattanooga. I'm not sure why, but I hope it continues."
-- Brandon Speights, landscape supervisor with Glass & More Outdoor Services
"This is as good of an exposure as you can get. You can't get everyone to come to your store. Our industry is in a holewith 80 percent of our business coming from new homes, but custom homes and remodels have picked up -- thank goodness."
-- Bob Jones, general manager of The Lighting Gallery
"We've been coming between 15 and 20 years. We love it. We love showing what we are proud of. People really have to see the product to believe it."
-- John Nichols, landscaper with the Craig Design Group
MORE COVERAGESee Sunday's paper for further reports on the Home Show
"This is the second home show we've done in Chattanooga and have doubled our booth. Last year we geared toward remodeling. This year we are focusing on furniture, lighting and countertops. We can provide anything inside the drywall."
-- Terry Benetto, installation manager of Haskell Interiors
"It's been a great turnout with the builders and everyone else. Hopefully that'll resonate with the shoppers."
-- David Johnston, operations manager with East Chattanooga Lumber & Supply