Scouting the Showrooms

Though home centers are valuable, you may short-change yourself if you start and end your shopping there. Visiting a home center can be a bit like photographing wild animals in a zoo. You'll see variety, but probably nothing in its natural setting.

Wouldn't it be helpful to see some of the products in the right context? And to chat with someone who knows all about them? For that, visit a home-products showroom.

The wonderful thing about showrooms is that there is a lot of information to be had for free. "We will normally give 45 minutes to one hour to a customer to show the displays, talk about our services, and answer questions," Krengel says. "Most showrooms won't do planning without a fee, however."

To make your shopping productive, do a little checking before you decide which showrooms to visit. Denver architect Tomas Hart suggests you focus on those recommended by a trusted architect, designer, or contractor. "I refer clients to showrooms that have a good selection and quality materials, as well as a range of prices," Hart says. "I like educated salespeople -- you don't want the ones who are just trying to sell you something."

Don't be afraid to be inquisitive during your visit. "It's OK to ask lots of questions," Krengel says. "That's why showrooms are there. That's our opportunity to shine. Yes, it (a showroom) may be more expensive than a home center, but look at the knowledge we've accumulated for you."

Of course, it costs nothing to borrow ideas from the display vignettes, which provide ready-made design schemes you can copy or adapt. Jot down combinations of materials you like. Take note of details, such as countertop edging or unusual tile patterns, that you like. A few showrooms even offer modular displays, so you can mix and match products to see how they look.

Some showrooms also dish up hands-on activities to quench your thirst for facts. Larger kitchen and bath showrooms are sometimes outfitted with working tubs, whirlpools, showerheads, and faucets. For example, at Splash and Spritzo, sister showrooms in New England, you can turn on a showerhead, stick in your hand, and judge for yourself whether you like the strength of the spray.