Is your home showing its age? Or has your family or lifestyle changed to the extent that you're thinking about building a new home?

Before you begin, you need a sound plan.

Mark your calendar for "Smart Investing in Your Home," an evening of architecture and design, presented by AIA Minnesota and the Star Tribune on April 21.

A panel of architects will share remodeling and design strategies for creating a home that fits the way you live and that makes the most of every dollar spent, to help you build smarter, not bigger. You'll learn today's best tips, and how architects can add value to projects of any size and scope.

You'll see other home makeovers and new homes, and have the opportunity to chat with architects and ask them questions about your next project.

You'll also have a seat — and first peek — at the Annual Home of the Month awards program, where this year's winning residential projects will be revealed.

Admission includes a bountiful buffet of hors d'oeuvres catered by D'Amico, plus a cash bar, so bring a friend and make an evening of it.

This is a great opportunity to see some of the Twin Cities' best recent home projects and to ask leading local architects about your home — and how to make the most of your budget.