The Cashiers Historical Society is gearing up for its 28th annual Designers Showhouse fundraising event supporting the society’s preservation efforts and programming. This year’s week-long celebration will start on Aug. 22.
The show will feature a modern rustic home in the new Saratay Falls development, designed by 12 design firms. Coordinator Lauren Carmichael said the house showcases a blend of contemporary aesthetics and traditional charm.
“We have three events going on every day at the Village Green from different speakers,” said Rowanne McKnight, chair of the 2025 event. “From the Bascom, to candle making, a free painting workshop and botanical lectures.”
The show will introduce several new activities aimed to engage a younger audience, such as Bluegrass Bourbon and Beyond, designed to attract young preservationists and encourage their involvement with the Historical Society.
One notable addition includes the Shop the House area, where visitors can purchase items inspired by the designs showcased within the showhouse.
Additionally, the inaugural 12x12 Art Auction will feature works by over 35 artists from Western North Carolina and the Southeast. McKnight said the auction provides a platform for local artists and for the Cashiers Historical Society.
“We have over 35 artists that have given a 12x12 painting as a donation. Visitors will have the opportunity to either buy outright or bid on it throughout the week,” McKnight said.
Notable guests at the event this year include Anne Byrn, a bestselling cookbook author, who will share stories and conduct a southern cuisine cooking demonstration. Another addition to the event is Garden Space, a floral luncheon and workshop led by floral designer Megan Locke.
Architects Tim Adams and Brandy Long, alongside interior designers Barrie Benson and James Farmer will be featured at the Designer Panel Luncheon. The luncheon will be held on Friday, Aug. 22 at 11a.m.
Elizabeth Ralls, Publisher of Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles Magazine will be moderating the panel, Creating Spaces, Honoring Nature. The panelists will be discussing how to balance creating unique spaces while also preserving the natural environment from the surrounding landscape.
The Designers Showhouse serves as a vital fundraising initiative for the society, generating essential funds for preserving its historic structures and programs, which are offered free of charge for both children and adults, Carmichael said.
“It raises vital funds for us, the Cashiers Historical Society, for our preservation efforts and educational programming throughout the year,” she said. “We’ve opened two exhibits this year.”
The event also attracts visitors from across the Southeast.
“It impacts the local businesses because, on top of them coming to tour the showhouse, they’re spending a long week here,” Carmichael said. “They build their vacations around here, so they stay at our local establishments and they shop our local businesses.”
“The Designer’s Showhouse has grown tremendously,” she added. “Over the 28 years, family and friends have made the trip to Cashiers together to visit the showhouse, and that’s just something that I think is truly special. It’s really become a tradition to so many.”
“I’m excited about the designers and vendors bringing their incredible creative talents, and I’m looking forward to all of the visitors and appreciators of the art, design and talent that are going to come in,” McKnight said.
Tickets for the event are available for purchase online at the Cashiers Historical Society website, as well as at local retailers and at the door during the event. There are discounts available for advance ticket purchases.
- By Kevin McCall
Reporter@Highlandsnews.com