Since 1981, the Junior League of Buffalo has partnered with the Buffalo News to present the Decorators’ Show House, its signature fundraising event. Held every other year, the Show House has raised more than $5 million since its debut at the historic Larkin House on Lincoln Parkway.

For decades, show houses have been a hallmark of Junior Leagues across the country. The concept was inspired in part by Omaha, Nebraska—where Stanford Lipsey, President Emeritus of The Buffalo News, previously lived before relocating to Buffalo. There, show houses brought the community together by showcasing the talents of local interior designers.

The idea is simple yet powerful: local designers are invited to transform a historic residence into a stunning, one-of-a-kind dream home—one room at a time. The home is then opened to the public, with ticket proceeds benefiting community initiatives.

Recognizing the potential of this concept, Lipsey introduced the idea to then–Junior League of Buffalo President Holly Donaldson. With the support of The Buffalo News, the League launched what would become one of Buffalo’s most anticipated signature events.

Now, 43 years and 23 homes later, the Decorators’ Show House remains a beloved biennial tradition—celebrating design, history, and community impact.