I wanted to share with you a few things we have learned by participating in a showhouse, I wish someone would have shared with us.
Showhouse are an incredible opportunity to showcase your work without a clients tastes to consider. 100% creative freedom.
Go all in. This is a chance to showcase your style and is amongst other designer. Other designers will be closely scrutinizing your work.
If you do it right, it will be expensive. For a bedroom, expect to spend between 20-30K. You can get many pieces donated or on loan from vendors, but you still have to consider costs for custom pieces, labor for paint and wallpaper install, etc. Consider a small space your first showhouse, rather than requesting a large living room you will have to furnish. The designer pay all the expenses of everything that goes into designing the space. Often there are sales from the pieces in the showhouse that help offset the cost upfront, but to do count on it. Part of the proceeds go to the charity.
Do not expect to get press or new clients from this experience. Think of this as a great portfolio piece.
It’s an honor to be asked to participate, great chance to network and give back to the selected charity.
We will be participating in our second showhouse. The Adler on the Park Chicago Showhouse 2022, opening on April 30th and open all the weekends in May. Check out a little preview of our Bedroom 2 in the second residence. Custom bed we did with layered side detail and Dedar Tiger fabric. For tickets link to here.
