Arnie and Lily Richards have helped plenty of friends move or complete minor remodeling projects over the years. So when the couple needed to demolish the concrete patio of their Downey home to make room for a larger kitchen and dining-room addition, they didn't mind asking for help by throwing a demolition party.
"We had to remove the concrete anyway," said Lily Richards, 51, a project administrator for Mattel. "So we thought we might as well have a demolition party while waiting for the plans to be approved by the city."
With party invitations sent, Arnie Richards, 58, purchased beer, sodas, snacks, food and several sledgehammers and rented one jackhammer. And on the day of the party, the couple, along with six friends, had a light lunch and got to work.
The Richardses, who hosted their party in 2001, were ahead of their time, according to Eric Schotz, president and chief executive of LMNO Productions, which produces HGTV'S "Over Your Head," a show that focuses on homeowners looking for help with botched renovation projects. "The summer party of this year is going to be a demolition party," said Schotz, adding that producers are currently working on a possible new show tentatively titled "House Party," based on alcohol-free demolition parties, for HGTV. "This is clearly a trend."
The idea of a community barn-raising is not a new one. Historically and culturally, people have come together to help build homes for years -- not that the results are always stellar. But experts say that for homeowners looking for ways to save money on renovations, this hybrid barn-raising complete with invitations, food, party favors, decorations and power tools is gaining popularity.
Retailers are acknowledging the interest. Home Depot has offered a clinic on do-it-yourself parties that target women, according to Western division regional communications manager Sherry Caraway. And Lariayn Payne, vice president of marketing for online party-planning service Evite, said the number of remodeling-event customers who sent formal invitations rose nearly 40% in the second quarter last year over the same period two years ago, the latest periods for which statistics are available.
In addition to harnessing the power of like-minded people during these events, Schotz said, people who have fears about remodeling work can find comfort, support and experience when they're part of a group project.
A money-saving idea
