Historic Ellicott City, Inc. has announced the location of their Decorator Show House, an long-standing annual event, that highlights the architecture and interior design of an exception historic home. This year, Wilderness Farm will be the location of the event and proceeds will support flood relief efforts in historic downtown Ellicott City.
MORE FROM THE PRESS RELEASE
Historic Ellicott City, Inc. announced the selection of its 32nd Annual Decorator Show House to be Wilderness Farm. The annual event aims to preserve historic homes in the area for future generations, while also raising funds to support missions dedicated to the preservation and restoration of historic Howard County. This year’s Decorator Show House will benefit Ellicott City flood relief efforts.
Wilderness Farm, 1980. Photo from the Maryland Historical Trust.
This year, thirteen local interior designers and artisans will have complete creative control over the renovation of 20 rooms within the farmhouse. Designers will take inspiration from Wilderness Farm’s history, its surrounding grounds, and their own imaginations to restore each room from top to bottom. Most furnishings and accessories will be available for purchase.
“After two tragic floods in Ellicott City in only two years, the importance of preserving Howard County history is more apparent than ever before. With designers, artists, and partners from across the region, the annual Show House is an example of how the community can come together to preserve the past and shape the future. Wilderness Farm is just one example of Howard County’s many historic hidden gems.” —Joan Becker, chair of the Show House Committee.
In addition to fundraising for flood relief, the Show House will also provide some displaced businesses with the opportunity to open pop-ups during the house’s run. Shoemaker Country, a family-owned furniture and antique store, will have a few custom pieces and antiques that survived the flood available for sale both in the redesigned rooms and in the house’s antique boutique. Additionally, Georgia Grace Cafe, an upscale quick-service eatery slated to reopen on Ellicott City’s Main Street later this year, will host a cafe at the house.
Proceeds
This year’s proceeds will serve to support Ellicott City Flood Relief efforts to repair damage caused by the May 2018 floods. HEC has already partnered with Clarks Ace Hardware of Ellicott City to provide $5,000 in vital supplies for recovery and restoration efforts. Funds raised by the Decorator’s Show House will continue to support these efforts and other ongoing needs for flood relief.
VISIT THE SHOW HOUSE
The Show House will be available for public view from September 21, 2018 to October 21, 2018 on Wednesday through Saturday from 10am to 4pm and on Sundays from Noon to 5pm. The Show House is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. The last admission of each day will be one hour before closing. Onsite parking is available. Tickets are $25 in advance through Historic Ellicott City, Inc. online or $30 at the door. Advance tickets can also be purchased at participating partner retailers.
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