Our fave exhibits (cooking demos, designer advice and laneway homes!) at this year’s BC Home and Garden Show.

Spring is almost upon us and that means it’s almost renovating season. The BC Home and Garden show begins Wednesday, February 22 and runs until Sunday, February 26—just in time for us to begin dreaming of DIY projects and home renovations. Before getting lost in the myriad of booths and home displays, check out these can’t miss exhibits.

1. Honomobo Laneway Home

We can’t wait to check out this laneway home, designed by Kendall Ansell of Kendall Ansell Interiors. Ansell will also be sharing her tips for small-space design and living—and speak about the top design trends of 2017. Can’t wait? Check out what the designer has to say about the re-emergence of velvet decor. (Photo: Spool of Thread)

2. Sewing Workshop

First it was knitting, then crocheting and now sewing is back! Spool of Thread is hosting two workshops on Friday, February 24: make a knit renfrew tee or couch cushion from start to finish. Sewing machines and all required material will be provided (the $16 workshop fee also cover the cost of entrance to the show).

3. Ultimate Upcycle Challenge

Every year the show asks local crafters (including Z95.3 host Emilie Clarke, bloggers Jamie Khau and Andria Milliard, and Western Living‘s own Julia Dilworth) to pick an item from ReStore and transform it into planter by adding paint and other decorations. The finished products are then placed on display at the Home and Garden show, where guests can participate in a silent auction to take the stunning DIY projects home. All proceeds go to the Habitat of Humanity Society of the Greater Vancouver.

4. Chefs’ Tips and Cooking Demonstrations

If you haven’t yet been to Chinatown’s vegan pizzeria, Virtuous Pie (check out the gorgeous interior here!), this could be your chance to get a taste. On Saturday, February 25, Chef Jim Vesal will be on stage to talk about his plant-based approach to cooking and will also be sharing his vegan cheese and dairy-making techniques. Other seminars and demos will take place on the cooking stage throughout the weekend, including discussions about the latest farm-to-table, locavore and cocktail trends. Kathy Yuen

5. Expert Advice

Whether you’re planning a DIY or looking for a planning to hire a designer, stop by the Main Stage for informative talks from HGTV stars and local designers alike. Vancouver local Kathy Yuen of Phase One Design will discuss how to successfully tear down and rebuild a new home in Greater Vancouver and Buy It, Fix It, Sell It host Tiffany Pratt will be sharing her tips and tricks for decorating with bright, bold colours (get a sneak peek here!). Mike Holmes Jr. will also be making an appearance, following in his father’s footsteps by sharing home renovation tips.

BC Home and Garden Show

When: Friday, February 22 to Sunday, February 26Where: BC Place, 777 Pacific Blvd, VancouverFor details, or to see the show’s full schedule, visit bchomeandgardenshow.com.

Gabrielle Lakusta

Gabrielle Lakusta