CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa -- Entries in Woodworking Network's 2016 Top Shelf Closets Design Awards reached over 70 submissions by the extended February 1 deadline, topping the 61 entries for the 2015 competition.

The surge in entries is another sign of an improved economy and the growth of the home remodeling and renovation market as home organization designers and manufacturers picked up new projects over the past year.

Judging for the contest will take place next week followed by an announcement of all 2016 Top Shelf Closets Design finalists. Winners will be announced and celebrated during the 2016 Cabinets & Closets Conference & Expo to be held March 22-24 at the Pasadena Convention Center in Pasadena, California.

2015 Woodworking Network Design Award winners celebrated at the Renaissance Convention Center in Schaumburg, IL.

Come out and join CCI Media and industry professionals on March 23 as we toast Top Shelf honorees as well as 2016 Best in Wood Awards winners during a gala reception. CCI Media will also celebrate the relaunch Closets magazine with a special presentation.

Look for a complete list of winners online after the reception and in the May digital issue of Closets.

For more information on 2016 Cabinets & Closets Conference & Expo, visit www.woodworkingnetwork.com/events-contests/cabinets-closets-conference-….