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Interior design isn't only about couches and chairs, as the director of this weekend's Interior Design Show West will attest.
"It's not just about the stuff," Jason Heard said. "It's about the experience. It's entertainment value."
Indeed, with more than 200 exhibitors from around the world displaying everything from kitchen appliances to wall coverings in the vastness of the Vancouver Convention Centre, the event is about art as much as it is about functionality.
"It's an eye candy show," Heard said. "It's about coming down and getting inspiration. It's about getting you to think about space ... and your environment in a different way."
It was the lack of such originality when decorating a new home with his fiance that first led Heard to start IDS West five years ago.
"I went to another show ... and I found nothing for my market segment," Heard said. "We didn't want our place to look like every other place."
Heard therefore went about creating an interior design extravaganza that could offer exceptional and creative design concepts from a wealth of sources - IDS West currently hosts major retailers, custom designers, trade artists and local designers among its exhibitors.
Considering the show features items such as dressers literally designed in the shape of a dress, and shipping containers stylistically furbished by six different design groups, Heard's goal to promote a unique perception of home decor has succeeded.
"When you're able to let designers loose with concepts, you'll never get the same thing," Heard said.
And those looking to jazz up their homes will be happy to know the show offers more than merely an aesthetic value.
"This is very much a sales show," Heard said, adding the price point for pieces is diverse.
IDS West is open Saturday and Sunday. Admission is $15.
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