TV casting call

HGTV's "Renovation Raiders," which was featured last Sunday in Homes, has been renewed for a second season. Magnetic Productions is looking for more Twin Cities homeowners who want to surprise a spouse or family member with a room makeover completed during a dinner date. The show is seeking "any ugly room that needs an update." Should be no problem for most homeowners. For details, go to www.magneticproductions.com/casting. And make sure to keep it a secret that you're applying for the show.

LYNN UNDERWOOD

Free wall and paver workshops

Want to turn your back yard into an outdoor retreat? Gertens is offering two free workshops, with advice and ideas for installing walls and pavers to create a pathway or patio, outdoor kitchen or living room. Participants will learn what products are available and what can be done with them.

Wall and paver workshops will be offered twice, at 7 p.m. Tuesday (focused on natural stone), and at 10 a.m. Saturday. Gertens is located at 5500 Blaine Av., Inver Grove Heights.

Last call for Luxury

This weekend offers your final opportunity to peek into some of the most extravagant new houses in the Twin Cities. The Midwest Home Luxury Home Tour, featuring 17 fully staged homes valued at $1 million-plus, showcases the latest in designer kitchens, high-end decorating and upper-bracket amenities like sport courts, wine cellars and lakefront patios.

All homes are open to the public noon-6 p.m. June 22-23. Passports, good for all 17 homes, are $25 at the homes. Single tickets, $5, also are available at each home. For more information, visit www.luxuryhometour.net.

Speed design at Gabberts

Looking for the designer of your dreams? On Saturday, Gabberts is offering "Speed Design: Fast Impressions. Multiple Solutions," a take on speed dating. You can sign up for free, consecutive 20-minute mini consultations with three designers, and get their opinions on improving your living space.

The speed-design sessions will begin at 10 a.m. Saturday. Reservations are required, and space is limited. Call 952-928-3123. And don't forget to bring room dimensions and photographs.

KIM PALMER