OKC Home + Outdoor Living Show 2022
By: J. David Chapman/March 31, 2022
Last weekend the OKC Fairgrounds was bustling with eager homeowners entering the Bennett Event Center exploring new ideas in home improvement for their new and used homes. Attendance at home and garden shows around the country is setting records coming out of the pandemic as more people than ever are buying and remodeling homes to fit their ever-changing needs.
The pandemic changed the way people related to their homes. Many were taken away from their gyms, forcing a workout program at home. Many were taken away from their offices, forcing them to work from home. Many congregations were forced out of their place of worship and held small group worship at home. Many started cooking and eating from home more than ever and many created outdoor oasis spaces in their backyards.
My attention, as I walked the show while visiting with exhibitors (which numbered over 200) and visitors, was drawn to booths and exhibits helping customers organize their home and lives, those helping create outdoor spaces mimicking those found at resorts, and a pet plaza with collars, accessories, and specialized care items for dogs and cats. I found the Homegrown Marketplace fascinating, creating a place where shoppers could buy local artisans’ handcrafted items, including specialty home décor, food, and art pieces. After just returning from a wine-touring vacation in Fredericksburg, Texas, I found the Wine Village exhibit interesting, showcasing award-winning wines from five local wineries available for sampling and purchase.
The environment and resilience seem to have a growing theme in today’s home shows. This show was no different. Many municipalities now allow, and even encourage, citizens to install solar systems in their homes and commercial properties. At this year’s show potential solar customers could visit with consultants, view product options, and see how the systems would work on their home or business.
Pools and hot tubs continue to be popular considerations for those with spring fever with plenty of time to have a new pool before summer. Last, but not least, in this region of the U.S. you can bet there were several companies selling every type of storm shelter you can imagine. It was obvious from the excitement of this show that I am not the only one ready for summer.
J. David Chapman is professor of finance and real estate at the University of Central Oklahoma (jchapman7@uco.edu).