Cottage & Lakefront Living Show Opens Feb. 26 in Novi

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NOVI — With winter approaching, it’s time to start thinking summer and making plans to attend the eighth annual Cottage & Lakefront Living Show which returns to the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi in February.

“Our preseason event is designed for property and vacation homeowners or those looking to buy, build, or rent to make their dreams happen this summer,” said Dawn Baker, show manager of ShowSpan Inc. “Builders, remodelers, and Realtors will be ready with ideas.”

Among the attractions, will be the Log and Timber Frame Showcase that will include how a cabin is put together, floor plans, profiles, roof options, log species, cedar siding, full logs, post and beam and do-it-yourself or contractor built home packages. Scheduled private consultations with builders and contractors can be arranged in advance through the show’s website.

Cottage Living Stage experts will explain how to set up cottage ownership within a family for sharing and handing down; describe science-based practical application smart gardening designed to be sensitive to the environment, lower the environmental impact and reduce time and money spent on lawns, soil and plants; and explore other ways to enjoy a cottage more including mushroom hunting and fishing.

Michigan Lake & Stream Association will provide informal advice and educational literature on shoreline construction projects and natural shoreline landscaping that benefit lake ecosystems and protect Michigan’s inland lakes and streams from Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Michigan Department of Environmental Quality and other agencies, organizations, contractors and landscape professionals.

Michigan artists at the Cottage Fine Art Show will present nature photography, lake depth maps, Great Lakes and Michigan inland lakes steel silhouettes, Petoskey stone art, rustic and driftwood furniture, garden metal art, jewelry, glass artwork, hand-carved cottage décor and signage, chainsaw carvings and wildlife oil paintings for sale. Home décor, furnishings, decorative accessories, hummingbird feeders, wood nautical charts and handcrafted ceramic art tiles will be available for purchase at the Lakefront Marketplace.

The Cottage Living Center will provide the opportunity to relax and play board games, put a pin in an oversized Michigan map to show where cottages are located, listen to the 2015 Cottage Favorite Play List music and meet authors and purchase their books from the 2015 Summer Cottage Reading List. Patrons owning cottages are able to post them on the Cottage for Sale or Rent Board.

Landscaping ideas to increase outdoor living space are incorporated in landscape displays that include wooden cabins, fireplaces, cooking options, patios, decks and garden products. Entry level to luxury pontoons, fishing boats, bowrider boats, family sport boats, jet boats and runabouts will be on display.

Other exhibits with information and educational materials for those looking to buy, build, rent or maintain cottage and lakefront property include log, timber frame and cedar homes, cottage rental, cottage furnishings, lakefront homebuilders and Realtors, lakeshore maintenance, boats and docks, outdoor recreational equipment, non-profit environmental organizations, government agencies, financing and other products and services. Experts throughout the show will provide tips, advice and knowledge on purchasing, renting, planning and maintaining spring, summer and year-round cottage and lakefront homes.

Suburban Collection Showplace is located at 46100 Grand River Ave. between Novi and Beck Road in Novi. The event will open Feb. 26 and runs through March 1. Admission is $10; $4 for children 6-14 and children 5 and under admitted free. Discount coupons for $2 off Thursday or Friday box office adult admission are available at show’s website. Free crossover admission from the Cottage & Lakefront Living Show to Outdoorama. On-site parking is available for a fee. For more information, visit NoviCottageShow.com or call 800-328-6550.