Blog & Social

The countdown is on! The San Antonio Fall Home & Garden Show will take place at the Alamodome, October 8 - 10, 2021. We chatted with Darren Keefe about everything home renovation! Known as the Carpenter, Designer, and one of three Co-Hosts on HGTV's Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, Irish born Carpenter, Darren Keefe, is a skilled tradesman and furniture maker. Darren is known on Instagram as 'The Dancing Carpenter', Keefe's weekly Monday posts have garnered over 20 million views; his focus is spreading kindness and humor through design and every day DIY.

Learn more about Darren below, and be sure to say hello and learn his tips and tricks at the show on Friday, October 8 at 5pm and Saturday, October 9 at 1pm.

What tool should every homeowner own?

Hardware stores usually offer combo kits from tool manufacturers.  Combos usually include a Drill, a Circular Saw, Sawzall and/or Multi-Tool.  This is the perfect all-in-one kit to tackle the weekend punch list.

Wallpaper: love or hate?

Wallpaper is making a big comeback.  I love it.  But just know - when the pattern trends out, be prepared to put forth a little elbow grease for removal.

Are you a plant guy, or is your green thumb lacking?

I have a couple plants in my house.  I was encouraged to talk to them.  Hopefully no one films me talking to a plant over my morning coffee - I might get sent to asylum.

Favorite HGTV Series?

Cheap Old Houses.  I love old homes and the romantic notion of fixing them up.

What’s the biggest DIY fail you’ve seen?

I witnessed someone cut a gas line with a sawzall once during a remodel.  That someone was me.

What’s your favorite paint color?

I love blue. I love a blue front door.

Any simple tips for upgrading a small bathroom?

Bathrooms are definitely a DIY doable endeavor.  As long as the plumbing connections have no issue.  You can stick with your current layout and upgrade the sink, fixtures, toilet, etc.  Tile is another doable DIY.  There are thousands of how-to videos out there to help!

What are you currently reading?

Who Not How by Dan Sullivan

Favorite room in your home?

Living Room!

Any furniture thrifting tips?

Buy a used dresser or hutch you love, paint it, and add new hardware.  It will last far longer than the particle board furniture being sold at box stores.

What are your travel essentials?

Headphones, iPad, Jump Rope, Junior Mints

Favorite kitchen gadget?

Juicer or Blender!

What home trends are you loving?

Glazed Ceramic Spanish Tile.  Exposed reclaimed Oak.

Are you a fan of the Marie Kondo method? What’s your best organization hack?

I need to hire Marie Kondo. I'm a mess. Lol.  I have no hacks.  Hack - Hide the clutter in the closet before guests arrive.

Which HGTV / DIY Network star would you most like to work with and why?

I've never met him but Ben Napier of Home Town seems like a good guy.  Plus I'm envious of his       woodshop.

What’s your favorite part about speaking at a home show?

Meeting people. Life is about connection.

Whether you’re joining us this year at The Alamodome with a specific project in mind or just looking for some inspiration, the local home professionals, including Darren Keefe, the show has you covered. With 200+booths to explore and several unique feature displays to enjoy, this is a valuable event for all San Antonio homeowners.

The San Antonio Fall Home & Garden Show will be open Friday, October 8 from 12 to 8 p.m., Saturday October 9 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday, October 10 from 11 a.m to 6 p.m. Ticket prices are $8 online and $10 at the box office. All children ages 16 and under are free. Additionally, on Friday, October 8, all active military personnel, veterans, fire, police, and first responders get free admission with valid ID.

For more information, and to purchase tickets please visit sanantoniofallhomeshow.com.