Lita Dirks, an award-winning, nationally recognized leader in model home merchandising and interior design, is the owner of Lita Dirks & Co. Lita consistently judges national and regional design competitions, conducts lectures and seminars, and authors nationally published articles. She was named “Legend” by the Home Builders Association of Metropolitan Denver and, most recently, she was inducted into the Best of American Living Awards (BALA) Hall of Fame.
At the NAHB International Builders’ Show® (IBS) in January, Lita will present two sessions, “Design for Every Lifestyle at Every Life Stage” and “55+ Communities & Their Amenities: The (Not So) Secret to Success.” We caught up with her to get a sneak peek into her sessions.
NAHB: Without giving too much away, what will people learn at your sessions?
LITA: Attendees will get practical information they can apply to their businesses immediately. Also, they’ll get a smile while we share creative ideas.
NAHB: What’s the one thing you look forward to the most when attending IBS?
LITA: My favorite part about IBS is the people. Every year, I look forward to being reunited with colleagues, as well as making new friends.
NAHB: What’s the best hangout spot at IBS?
LITA: I love the Centrals and am there often. I hope those reading this will stop by and say hello.
NAHB: What’s the most interesting industry trend for 2020?
LITA: Mentoring. We, as an industry, are finally setting up programs to help pass our knowledge onto our young leaders.
NAHB: What do you predict will happen in the next five years?
LITA: Technology rules, but the human touch will continue to help fulfill the new home buyers’ demand for personalization.
NAHB: What do you see as the biggest challenge in the industry now?
LITA: Housing affordability. From a designer’s perspective, I see our biggest challenge is in designing the dream home with a budget. No matter what the price range of the home, buyers will continue to feel their situation is unique and continue with their demands, so we need to prove to them they are.
NAHB: What was the best concert you ever attended?
LITA: Tina Turner. Remember her?
NAHB: Where’s your favorite place in the world?
LITA: Following the Lavada Trail in Madeira, Portugal.
NAHB: What’s the last book you read?
LITA: “The Pillars of the Earth” by Ken Follett. It was an amazing read and now I’m asking myself, “Why did I wait so long to read this book?”
NAHB: What’s your favorite movie?
LITA: Any movie starring The Rock. 😊
NAHB: What are you currently watching On Demand?
LITA: Whiskey Cavalier on ABC. It’s fun!
NAHB: What’s the best meal you’ve ever had?
LITA: Sunday spaghetti dinners at my grandparent’s house—with spumoni and biscotti for dessert.
NAHB: If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would you go?
LITA: Bali. Our son is moving there, and I cannot wait to visit.
“Design for Every Lifestyle at Every Life Stage” will take place on Wednesday, January 22 from 12:00 – 1:00 PM and “55+ Communities & Their Amenities: The (Not So) Secret to Success” will run occur Thursday, January 23 from 12:00 – 1:00 PM at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Learn more about the 150+ education sessions and register at BuildersShow.com.