Restoring and revitalizing an old or historic home has its challenges. Fans of HGTV’s popular series Home Town know that – and so do the show’s hosts Ben and Erin Napier. But what about breathing new life into an entire town that’s struggling and in need of some TLC? Now there’s a challenge. But that’s precisely what HGTV has in mind for an all-new concept series Home Town Takeover, a six-episode special event slated to air on HGTV in 2021.
As luck would have it, in addition to home renovation, Erin and Ben have some relevant experience in the realm of whole-town transformation. They’ve not only helped rescue and enhance dozens of homes in their hometown of Laurel, Mississippi, they’ve also played a pivotal role in helping revitalize the city’s downtown while preserving and celebrating the town’s architectural treasures, endemic charm and historic features.
It’s all elemental to the same overarching mission – helping to create and foster a town persona that draws on its roots, history and traditions.
Now Erin and Ben are ready to expand their horizons beyond Laurel and take their trademark inspiration, dedication and expertise to other small towns as well.
“Renovating one house at a time is an awesome experience. But the chance to support an entire town, where we help bring a community back to life — that’s something we’ve always wanted to try,” says Ben Napier.
Citizens of the selected town can expect to witness the rehab of multiple individual family homes as well as the revitalization of public spaces —parks, local diners or restaurants and outdoor recreation areas.
“This is a big one,” says Erin. “HGTV has never, ever taken on a whole-town renovation and restoration project, and we’re so proud and excited to be leading the team that will get it done. Show us those photos and videos. Tell us what makes your town special and how you’d like us to help make it better. You may see us in your town soon.”
The deadline for submissions was February 2, so don’t go sending your videos in at this point. Instead, look for the Napiers to do their best to save a town through home renovation and design, coming soon to HGTV in 2021.For more about both the original Home Town series — and for updates on the upcoming spinoff Home Town Takeover — visit HGTV.com/HomeTown. There you’ll find exclusive content including behind-the-scenes videos, web-exclusive bonus series, before-and-after photo galleries, show news and feature articles. Fans can also interact on social media using #HGTVHomeTown.
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Photo Credit: Leigh Trail / Shutterstock.com