Reno + Decor – Winnipeg – June/July 2025

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Ph. (204) 779-6900 www.allcanadianrenovations.ca

Ph. (204) 338-3151 www.harwoodbuilders.com

Ph. (204) 793-0500 www.hammerdown.ca

Ph. (204) 227-4662 www.rempelbuilders.com

Ph. (204) 339-2035 info@marichomes.com www.marichomes.com

Ph. (204) 894-1446 www.grindstonerenovations.com

Ph. (204) 895-0265 Fax. (204) 832-6335 www.oswaldconstruction.ca

Ph. (204) 233-8687 www.starbuildingmaterials.ca

Ph. (204) 799-5029 www.ican-construction.com

Ph. (204) 237-4294 info@characterhomesltd.ca

Ph. (204) 615-6500

Trevor.Kidd@alairhomes.com alairhomes.ca/winnipeg

Ph. (204) 940-4040 www.mcmunnandyates.com

Ph. (204) 474-2334 www.floform.com

2025 COLOUR OF THE YEAR

MIDNIGHT FLORA

TR25-3-3

The 2025 Colour of the Year is finally here! A deep, dramatic red-purple that captivates you with its enchanting allure. This rich hue evokes the mysterious beauty of twilight gardens, where shadows and moonlight blend to create an atmosphere of magic and wonder.

Birdsong

TR25-1-4

Stillness

TR25-2-3

TR25-3-3

Bloom

TR25-4-4

Afterglow

TR25-5-1

Radiance

TR25-6-1

Drift

TR25-7-1

INSPIRATION

Afterglow is a light-hearted pink with a blue cast enhances the palette with a touch of optimism and delight. Its gentle hue is like a breath of fresh air, infusing any space with joy and a subtle sense of playfulness. Whether used on its own or paired with any of our 2025 Trend Colours, this charming shade adds an uplifting and modern twist to any room.

RESTFUL RETREAT

Midnight Flora wraps the space in a cocoon of elegance and intrigue, creating a restful retreat that feels both luxurious and dreamlike.

Experience life’s fleeting beauty with BeautiTone’s 2025 Trend Colours. A palette designed to transform those transient, magical moments into a collection of dramatic and enchanting hues that bring depth, emotion, and a sense of wonder to every room in your home.

Midnight Flora

FEATURE

53 CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE

The winners of the 2025 MHBA RenoMark Renovation Awards

DECOR

19 HOME FINDS

Shop Canadian for the latest seasonal decor and design ideas

30 HOME INSPIRATION

Penthouse paradise: A blank canvas is turned into an outdoor urban oasis

49 TOP 10

Sunny accents: Light up your space with cheerful yellow decor picks

66 Top 10

Get outside!

OUTDOOR LIVING

22 EATING OUT

Turn your porch into an outdoor dining destination

26 SUMMER SWIM

An empty backyard becomes a laid-back pool-side retreat

64 IN THE GARDEN

Fine-tune your tools for a better lawn and garden

DESIGN

14 GOOD DESIGN

Built-in for best friends

38 DESIGNER’S EYE

Centre stage: The kitchen island is more than just a place to eat and prep food

41 INTERIOR DESIGN

When less is more: The positive side of negative space

44 INTERIOR DESIGN

Wet or dry bar: Which best serves your lifestyle?

46 INTERIOR DESIGN

Kitchen caper: A reimagined kitchen

60 HOME DECOR

Dining table + chairs

62 DESIGN IN DETAIL

Powder rooms: Go big with your small bathroom

RENOVATIONS

EXPERT ADVICE

Advice from renovators

33 BEFORE AND AFTER

Colour me crazy: Select the best from the full spectrum for your home

61 DO IT RIGHT

Deciding whom to hire

DEPARTMENTS

10 A NOTE FROM THE EDITOR

Season of possibility

24 COVER STORY

Pleasing palettes: curated quality colours for your home

of possibilitySeason S

ummer in Manitoba doesn’t ask for permission—it bursts through the door with warmth, energy, and a sense of renewal. Whether it’s the hum of lawnmowers, the scent of lilacs, or the sight of neighbours re-emerging after a long winter, there’s something undeniably hopeful about this season. For many of us, it’s the time of year when renovation plans finally move from dream to reality.

This issue is full of projects, ideas, and inspiration to help guide that process— whether you’re updating a single room or tackling an entire property. The latest RenoMark Renovation Awards shine a light on the creativity and craftsmanship of Manitoba’s renovation professionals. These aren’t just about polished interiors; they celebrate outdoor structures, home additions, and inventive problem-solving—all rooted in real-life needs and local expertise.

We also take a look at how small design choices can have a big impact. From clever space-saving tricks to layouts that support day-to-day living, the pages ahead show that beauty and function are not mutually exclusive. And because our homes are shared with every kind of family member—furry ones included—this issue includes smart, stylish ways to design with pets in mind. Built-in feeding stations, cozy nooks, and even custom dog-wash stations show how thoughtful cabinetry can work hard while looking great.

Summer is also when inspiration strikes in unexpected places. A walk through the neighbourhood, a weekend visit to the cottage, or even a scroll through local listings can spark new ideas. Sometimes, the smallest spark is all it takes to see your space in a new light—and take that first step toward change.

Of course, summer isn’t just for big renovations. It’s also a season for tending to the details. Whether it’s sharpening your garden tools, staining a deck, or finally organizing the garage, small acts of maintenance and care can reconnect us with our homes in meaningful ways.

Whatever projects are on your mind this season, we hope this issue fuels your creativity and reminds you that good design starts with living well. Here’s to a summer of possibilities, both inside and out.

Perfect your colour palette with BeautiTone Paint & Home Products from HOME HARDWARE

OFFICIAL MEDIA PARTNERS:

MANITOBA HOME BUILDERS’ ASSOCIATION MHBA is the voice of the residential construction industry in Manitoba, providing a forum for the ongoing education of membership with respect to technology, business practices; and to promote affordability/choice in housing.

DDA The Decorators & Designers Association of Canada (DDA Canada) is a professional association that elevates the decorating and design industry for design professionals, students, and suppliers through education, events, training, advocacy, and community building.

IDC Interior Designers of Canada (IDC) is the national advocacy association for the interior design profession. As the national advocacy body, IDC represents more than 5,000 members, including fully qualified interior designers and related professionals.

NKBA The National Kitchen & Bath Association is one of the top association for the industry. Its members are able to meet with other industry members to learn what’s out there and what other members offer.

CANADIAN HOME BUILDERS’ ASSOCIATION Since 1943, the Canadian Home Builders’ Association (CHBA) has been “the voice of Canada’s residential construction industry.” One of the largest industry sectors in Canada, CHBA’s membership is made up of about 9,000 companies.

RENOMARK RenoMark identifies professional contractors, custom homebuilders and trades who agree to abide by a professional Code of Conduct. RenoMark members are reliable, ethical and responsive. At RenoMark we’re changing the way people think about contractors.

EDITOR/SENIOR MEDIA CONSULTANT

Merlyn Minty 204.782.8692 merlyn.minty@nexthome.ca

EDITOR – NATIONAL

Marlene Eisner

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Amanda Pereira

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

Sara Duck

GARDEN EDITORS

Mark Cullen & Ben Cullen

CONTRIBUTORS

Brennen Bilyk, Brendan Charters, Jessica Cinnamon, Sara Duck, Paige Johnston, Manitoba Home Builders’ Association, Lanny McInnes, Christine Roberts, Candace Rudd, Anika Schachtler, Dorthy Tsui

EXECUTIVE MEDIA CONSULTANT

Michael Rosset

VICE-PRESIDENT MARKETING – GTA

Leanne Speers

MANAGER CUSTOMER SALES/SERVICE

Marilyn Watling

SALES & MARKETING CO-ORDINATOR

Gary Chilvers

VICE-PRESIDENT, PRODUCTION – GTA Lisa Kelly

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

Josh Rosset

DISTRIBUTION distributionteam@nexthome.ca

ACCOUNTING INQUIRIES accountingteam@nexthome.ca

DIRECTOR OF PRINT MEDIA

Lauren Reid–Sachs

PRODUCTION MANAGER – GTA

Yvonne Poon

GRAPHIC DESIGNER & PRE-PRESS COORDINATOR

Hannah Yarkony

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BUILT-IN FOR Cabinetry that loves pets back

best friends

Does your family include a fourlegged companion or two? If so, you’re among the 60% of Canadian households with at least one cat or dog, according to The Canadian Animal Health Institute. This widespread pet ownership highlights the growing importance of considering pets when designing a home. How can you ensure your space works for both you and your pets? Integrating custom cabinetry solutions tailored to your pets can

enhance both the functionality and aesthetic of your home. Here are a few of our favorite pet-friendly cabinetry ideas:

A private retreat

Cats love having their own quiet space, and custom cabinetry can provide just that. Whether it’s a peaceful nook for napping, a secluded spot for meals away from other pets, or a discreet location for a litter box, designing a private retreat for your feline friend can make a big difference.

Custom

pet feeding stations are a practical

addition to any

home. A

feeding area tucked into the end of an island or along a run of cabinetry keeps food and water bowls neatly stored and easy to access.

For the pampered pup

A custom dog shower is a lifesaver, especially during our Winnipeg Spring thaw! Positioned in a mudroom or entryway, a built-in dog wash station makes quick work of cleaning up after walks or trips to the dog park. For dogs who spend time at home alone, a built-in kennel can offer a cozy, safe place for them to relax while you’re away.

Mealtime, simplified

Custom pet feeding stations are a practical addition to any home. A feeding area tucked into the end of an island or along a run of cabinetry

keeps food and water bowls neatly stored and easy to access. Whether you choose a simple recessed alcove or a more elegant setup with marble finishes and a built-in water supply, these stations can blend seamlessly into your space while making mealtime more convenient for both you and your pet.

Our pets bring so much joy, comfort, and companionship into our lives. Designing spaces with their needs in mind is a thoughtful way to give back some of the love they offer. By incorporating pet-friendly solutions into your home, you can create a space that’s not only beautiful and functional but also welcoming for every member of the family.

LIVING etc.

The latest seasonal decor and design inspiration

CANADIAN-OWNED BEAUTITONE UNVEILS ITS 2025 EXTERIOR PAINT COLOUR OF THE YEAR

Briarwood

Rich, earthy and effortlessly elegant, Briarwood is a muted, refined brown that brings natural warmth to Canadian outdoor living. Designed to enhance the character of wood, this versatile stain offers a timeless backdrop for decks, fences and patios, setting the stage for laid-back lounging and stylish summer entertaining. “As outdoor spaces continue to evolve into true extensions of the home, Canadians are gravitating back to natural, elevated browns,” says Kristen Gear, lead design and colour specialist at BeautiTone Paint and Home Products. beautitone.ca

1 3 2 6 7 8 9 5 4 10

Sleepbetter

A soothing and comfortable bedroom is essential for quality sleep. It’s the space where our minds and bodies unwind, reset and recharge. Thoughtful design elements such as calming colours, soft textures, minimal clutter and gentle lighting all contribute to creating a restful environment. When our bedrooms feel safe and serene, they signal to our nervous system that it’s time to relax, making it easier to fall – and stay –asleep. Ultimately, a well-designed sleep space is an investment in nightly rest and overall well-being.

1. 411i Max smart AIR PURIFIER by Blueair. $299. canadiantire.ca

2. The five-minute JOURNAL in sage by Intelligent Change. $32. indigo.ca

3. Markham small table LAMP in brass. $179. article.com

4. Down alternative DUVET. From $100. silkandsnow.com

5. Cloud PILLOW. From $99. hush.ca

6. Curve BED in cream bouclé. $1,495. endy.com

7. Douglas original MATTRESS. From $599. douglas.ca

8. Eclipse SIDE TABLE in walnut. $195. cozey.ca

9. Bed SHEET SET in rose. From $100. benjisleep.com

10. Cloud HUMIDIFIER. $287. vitruvi.ca

Springdesign

Canadian author and lifestyle influencer Tori Wesszer, of Fraîche Living, has launched her second collection with Walmart. The new 41-piece collection brings the season to life with soft pastels, light textures and fresh essentials, from watering cans and lanterns to kitchen towels and porcelain bakeware. “Growing up, my mom, an artist, always found little ways to make everyday moments feel special,” says Wesszer. “Fresh-cut lilacs on the kitchen table, a gingham tablecloth at Sunday brunch, and little details made our home feel warm and inviting. I wanted to bottle up that feeling and bring it into this collection.” With prices starting at $5.97, it’s an easy and affordable way to refresh your space and celebrate the beauty of the season. walmart.ca

Install a Kitchen Anywhere You

Pleasing PALETTES

Curated quality colours for your home

BeautiTone Paint & Home Products, the paint brand of Home Hardware, is based in Southwestern Ontario. Its state-of-theart manufacturing facility and research laboratory are among the most advanced in North America. With a high level of automation, the

company achieves the precision and efficiency needed to deliver premium-quality products. This allows Home Hardware dealers to offer homeowners Canada’s best-rated paint at an exceptional price.

Celebrating 45 years of Canadian innovation, BeautiTone is proudly made in Canada and supported

by a dedicated team of experts specializing in producing quality products and curated colours. Its in-house specialists track global trends and translate them into palettes and products that reflect Canadian lifestyles and landscapes, bringing beauty and inspiration into every space.

Colour of the year Midnight Flora (TR25-3-3)

They manufacture a full range of water-based and solvent-based paints, along with a wide selection of aerosol and cleaning products. All products are developed exclusively for Home Hardware and formulated in its modern research and development lab. Staying at the forefront of technology is key to achieving the company’s goal: To create the highest-performing products on the market.

A team of dedicated research and development chemists and quality-control technicians use advanced computerized systems, rigourous testing protocols and comprehensive statistical analysis to

ensure excellence. Every product is benchmarked against leading national brands and verified through regular third-party testing.

To uphold a commitment to quality, each batch is checked twice – once during production and again after packaging. Any product that doesn’t meet its high standards, is rejected.

Since 1980, BeautiTone has earned a reputation for exceptional quality, dynamic colour selection, affordability and customer satisfaction. Its product family includes Designer, Signature, Pure, Wood Shield and Pro Paint. All available exclusively at more than 1,000 Home Hardware stores across Canada.

Digging in

The excavation began with a backhoe scooping out the space for the pool. A fiberglass model was chosen, and the entire installation was completed in one long day. To do the job, a tractor with a telescopic arm was used to help unload and install the pool. The concrete work was done afterwards by a company specializing in pool cement. Forms with reinforcements were laid down before the concrete was poured. When it was fully cured, it was scored and the forms removed, resulting in a smooth, even finish.

Challenges

The land’s natural slope presented some difficulties and required a significant amount of levelling with crushed stone to ensure a stable foundation for the pool installation. Another issue was working within the property line. To maximize space, the pool’s concrete area was extended. Locally sourced natural stone from the farm, smooth concrete and pebble stone were combined to create a natural flow from the screened timber-framed dining area to the fenced-in pool.

Easy maintenance

While the homeowners envisioned a beautiful pool experience, they didn’t want to spend a lot of time looking after it. To reduce the amount of maintenance needed to keep the site pristine, durable materials were chosen to minimize upkeep. The cement pavers and rocks are all long-lasting, requiring only occasional sweeping and a yearly pressure wash. The choice of the fiberglass pool eliminated the need for any future liner replacements. Additionally, pebble stone along the drip line of the screened-in porch roof was used to help with drainage and protect the cement from water damage.

Finishing touches

A custom black aluminum fence with vertical bars was installed to meet municipal regulations and has a selflocking system for safety. To complete the vibe, boulders were placed on the outside of the fence to add a rugged, natural look while also serving as a retaining wall.

The result is a relaxing outdoor retreat designed for effortless summer living, with nothing overly polished — just an inviting, timeless space to enjoy.

Transforming exterior design

ELEVATE outdoorLIVING

As the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living continue to blur, homeowners are seeking seamless transitions that extend the comfort and design of the home into the outdoors. One of the most exciting developments in this space is the use of high-performance porcelain surfaces, such as Laminam, a brand that has redefined the possibilities of outdoor design.

Originating in Italy and globally acclaimed for its large-format porcelain slabs, Laminam is becoming the preferred material

for creating refined, durable and cohesive exterior spaces. From enduring outdoor kitchens and expansive patios designed for entertaining to sleek, modern exterior cladding that withstands diverse climates, Laminam surfaces are leading a design movement prioritizing continuity, exceptional performance and effortless beauty in outdoor living.

BRINGING THE INDOORS OUT

The way homeowners envision their backyards, patios and terraces has been transformed by the rise of

“interior design thinking” in outdoor spaces. No longer simply a place for a barbecue and a few chairs, these areas are now seen as true extensions of the home – functional, comfortable and designed with impeccable style, ready to embrace all seasons.

This is where Laminam shines, offering a variety of finishes and textures that mimic natural stone, wood and even industrial materials. It is truly a design-forward solution that bridges the gap between indoors and outdoors. Homeowners can now extend the same surface from their interior flooring all the way out to the deck or patio, achieving a seamless visual flow.

ALL ABOUT ALFRESCO

The outdoor kitchen has transitioned from a desirable luxury to a musthave feature for homeowners seeking to maximize the enjoyment of their outdoor spaces. As cooking, dining and entertaining increasingly take place outdoors, the need for exceptionally durable materials becomes paramount.

Laminam provides the perfect solution for outdoor kitchen countertops, cabinet fronts and patio tabletops. Its inherent antiscratch and stain-resistant qualities, especially notable in matte and textured finishes, ensure it can withstand everything from red wine mishaps to hot cookware and the full spectrum of Canadian weather conditions. Furthermore, its UV

resistance guarantees long-lasting original appearance, even in direct sunlight.

Designed to handle the significant temperature fluctuations from the Canadian seasons, your outdoor kitchen surfaces will look as stunning after a decade as they did on day one, requiring no sealing or specialized upkeep.

EXTERIOR CLADDING WITH CHARACTER

While functionality is key, aesthetics is what makes great outdoor design stand out. Laminam’s large-format slabs provide an elegant option for exterior cladding, bringing texture, colour and architectural detail to façades.

Unlike natural stone or wood, which can degrade over time, Laminam maintains its colour and finish, providing a low-maintenance, long-lasting solution that enhances curb appeal. Whether aiming for a minimalist modern façade or a more rustic, natural aesthetic, Laminam offers the flexibility and variety to support any design vision.

FLOORING THAT LASTS

One of the most compelling applications of Laminam in outdoor design is flooring. Traditional outdoor materials such as wood or natural stone often require intensive upkeep, are prone to weather damage and fade quickly. Laminam solves these challenges with a surface that’s not only anti-slip (applicable with its textured finishes) and scratchresistant, but also visually consistent with indoor flooring materials.

Homeowners can use the same finish inside and out, creating an uninterrupted surface that visually expands the space and supports the open-concept-living trend. Imagine a living room that flows effortlessly onto a patio, all unified by the same surface.

COOL SIDE OF POOLSIDE

Laminam porcelain is also an ideal material for pool inlays and outdoor showers. Thanks to its non-porous surface, it resists water absorption, mould, mildew and stains. It’s incredibly easy to clean and highly durable, making it well-suited for areas exposed to constant moisture and sunlight.

A SUSTAINABLE EDGE

Laminam distinguishes itself not only through its superior technical performance and design versatility, but also through its deep commitment to sustainability, a key consideration for environmentally aware homeowners and design professionals. By utilizing natural raw materials and recycled content in its manufacturing, Laminam minimizes its environmental footprint without compromising its exceptional quality. This makes it a smart and responsible choice for creating eco-conscious outdoor projects that resonate with the growing emphasis on greener living.

As outdoor living continues to evolve, the materials we use will play a critical role in how these spaces function and feel. Laminam’s versatility, resilience and many design options make it ideally suited to meet the demands of today’s outdoor lifestyles.

Whether it’s a show-stopping outdoor kitchen, an elegant patio, or a beautifully clad exterior, Laminam proves that performance and beauty don’t have to be mutually exclusive. With its seamless indoor-outdoor continuity, weatherproof qualities and timeless appeal, Laminam is setting a new standard for outdoor design that is functional and inspiring.

laminam.com/can/en/

paradise Penthouse

Panoramic views and curated zones for lounging, dining and entertaining turn a blank terrace into an urban oasis

Imagine stepping outside your penthouse and being greeted by your own private slice of the Toronto skyline. That’s exactly what Level Studio delivered with a stunning 1,000-sq.-ft. terrace redesign for a threebedroom penthouse at Dundas Square in Toronto.

“The space was completely bare when we started,” says lead interior designer and partner at Level Studio, Luca Campacci. “Our goal was to break it down into meaningful zones –cooking, dining, lounging – each with a purpose, but all tied together by the view.”

Entertaining wasn’t just a consideration – it was the mission. Known for hosting gatherings that can hit triple digits, the homeowners

needed a terrace that could match their energy. Campacci and his team delivered just that, crafting a layout that pulses with social vitality while still offering quiet nooks to unwind. The main lounge area, anchored by a deep, oversized sectional, greets guests with jaw-dropping city views the moment they step outside.

Bursts of bold colour and personality-packed furnishings bring in a sense of play, reflecting the vibrant spirit of the homeowners. “We wanted the space to channel who they are – bold, expressive, full of life,” says Campacci.

The heart of the space is a custom outdoor kitchen island crafted in slatted cedar and topped with

weather-resistant sintered stone. “This piece acts as a visual divider between lounging and dining,” he explains. “It’s not just functional, it’s sculptural.”

The dining zone was carefully tucked into a corner of the terrace to maximize sightlines. “Every seat at that table has a postcard view of the city,” Campacci notes. It’s these thoughtful touches, how each guest experiences the space, that give the project its edge.

Hidden around the bend is a quieter retreat, a second seating area with a 20-ft.-long L-shaped cedar bench that mirrors the kitchen’s wood detailing. There’s also a compact work zone with a round table, perfect for Zoom calls with the CN Tower as a backdrop.

At night, integrated lighting brings the terrace to life. Planters, furniture bases and custom pieces glow with coordinated hues, creating an ambiance without overwhelming the space. “Lighting was key,” says Campacci. “We wanted it to feel seamless, subtle, warm and atmospheric.”

From lavish parties to quiet morning coffees, this terrace design proves that urban outdoor living can be showstopping and soul-soothing. “It’s all about versatility,” Campacci says. “We designed this terrace to give our clients a new experience, every time they step outside.”

With more than 15 years’ experience as a magazine editor, writer and content creator, Sara brings her passion for design and decor to our pages each issue. Instagram: @bysaraduck

Colour ME CRAZY

White, black and everything in between –select the best from the full spectrum for your home

When it comes to home design, colour isn’t just decoration – it’s emotion, memory and mood all wrapped into one. From the moment you pull up to a house, the palette speaks volumes. A bold door, a calming exterior tone, or a splash of vibrant trim can change how we feel before we even step inside. And once we’re in? Colour continues to shape how we experience space – lifting us up, calming us down, or grounding us in comfort. It’s one of the most powerful, yet often overlooked, tools in residential design, and it deserves a closer look.

As a full-service design and build firm, Eurodale focuses primarily on the physical built form, leaving the colour selections up to our interior designer Laura Thornton (@Thorntondesign) –or to the client themselves... if they’re feeling brave!

To help guide you all, we sat down with Thornton to get a refresher on what’s hot (and what’s not) in colour,

and what to consider when updating your home to confidently align with today’s trends.

BRENDAN CHARTERS (BC): ANYTHING NEW IN CABINET COLOURS?

OR IS WHITE STILL DOMINATING?

Laura Thornton (LT): White continues to be a staple in kitchen design, but we’re seeing a subtle yet impactful shift toward warmer, creamier tones, moving away from the bright, stark whites that have been prevalent in recent years. This evolution brings a softer, more inviting look that feels timeless and lived in.

We’re also seeing a resurgence of wood tones in kitchen environments. While white oak remains popular, there’s a growing movement toward richer, more classic brown finishes. This return to depth and warmth in cabinetry is another nod to the European influence that’s quickly gaining traction in both kitchen and bathroom design. The overall aesthetic leans into relaxed sophistication, favouring natural textures, weathered finishes and even the omission of upper cabinetry to create an open, effortless feel.

BC: METALS – LIGHTS, FAUCET AND HANDLES. CHROME AND SATIN NICKEL GAVE WAY TO BRASS AND BLACK. WHAT’S NEXT?

LT: Brass – especially with a living finish – and matte black continue to dominate kitchens today. Both bring a relaxed yet refined elegance that complements a variety of design styles. While these finishes remain strong, we’re beginning to see the emergence of coloured plumbing fixtures making their way into kitchen

design. Matte white is leading this charge, but bolder hues, such as greens, navy, rich reds and even orange, are starting to appear in more adventurous, design-forward spaces.

As for cabinetry hardware, metal finishes still reign supreme, but there’s a clear shift toward added texture and detail. Hammered finishes, industrialinspired elements such as exposed screws, and more intricate designs are gaining popularity. We’re also seeing the return of traditional European detailing, with ornate backplates and hinges.

BC: “BUILDER BEIGE” WAS ALWAYS SAID TO BE BORING ON THE INSIDE, YET WE’RE SEEING THE RETURN OF LIGHTER BROWNS IN HARDWOOD AND TAJ MAHAL COUNTERS WITH HUES OF BEIGE.

LT: After more than a decade of living in a sea of cool greys, the return of warmth is a refreshing and welcomed shift in Canadian interiors. Beige, tan and deeper browns are making a strong comeback, bringing a sense of comfort and richness to spaces that once felt stark and cold.

While “builder beige” may have earned a reputation for being uninspired, today’s version is anything but. We’re seeing these tones reimagined in a more refined, elegant way – think creamy beiges with depth, warm wood floors and natural stone counters with soft, earthy undertones. Design details are also evolving to reflect this new-found warmth. Kitchens and bathrooms are embracing softer elements, such as reeded textures, curved silhouettes and tactile materials, which are becoming more prominent. These features are often paired with soft brass plumbing and hardware finishes, creating a cohesive and elevated look. The overall design direction is moving away from the stark, farmhouseinspired minimalism and heading toward a more lived-in, sophisticated warmth that feels timeless and inviting.

BC: EXTERIOR CLADDINGS FACE CHALLENGES. SHOULD THE INTERIOR OF A HOME MATCH THE EXTERIOR? AND DO YOU LIKE A HIGH MIX OF COLOURS OR A MORE MONOCHROMATIC EXTERIOR?

LT: While I don’t specialize in exterior building materials, colour and aesthetic continuity are very much within my realm, and both ultra-light and ultra-dark exterior finishes come with their own set of maintenance challenges. Lighter tones can show road grime and moss more easily, while darker finishes are prone to

Centre Island life STAGE

In today’s kitchens, the island is more than just additional counter space – it’s a central feature that defines the flow, function and personality of the entire space. Seamlessly blending utility with design, a kitchen island serves as a gathering place, a workspace and a visual

anchor all in one. It sets the tone for the kitchen and, by extension, the home.

Homeowners often request to make the island a signature element – one that enhances the day-to-day experience while elevating the overall aesthetic. Whether you’re planning a renovation or starting from scratch,

here are five essential considerations to guide you in designing an island that truly performs.

1| Buffer zone

An essential ingredient in a functional kitchen is ample breathing room. A minimum of 36 inches around the

Photo: Stephani Buchman

island, with 42 to 44 inches is the ideal standard. This ensures ease of movement and keeps the kitchen from feeling cramped. Don’t forget to consider clearance to open appliance doors, such as dishwashers and ovens, to maintain a smooth, uninterrupted workflow.

2| Counter depth

If your island includes a sink and counter stools, aim for a minimum depth of 36 inches. This typically means 24-inch-deep base cabinets with a 12-inch overhang for comfortable seating. For those who love entertaining, increasing the depth to 42 inches allows for expanded prep space and more generous seating, ideal for hosting informal dinners or morning coffee chats.

3| Concealed storage solutions

Maximize functionality by utilizing the often-overlooked space on the backside of the island, beneath the

seating area. This hidden zone offers an ideal spot for storing occasionally used items, seasonal serving ware, or pantry overflow, all while maintaining a streamlined, clutter-free aesthetic. For those designing with sustainability in mind, consider integrating a discreet compost or recycling station into the island base. This offers convenience and a commitment to eco-conscious living without compromising on style.

4| Integrated pulls

For a refined, modern aesthetic or in a compact kitchen, integrated cabinet pulls offer a sophisticated alternative to traditional hardware. By eliminating visual and physical bulk, these built-in details create a smooth, uninterrupted surface that enhances the functionality and elegance of your cabinetry. The result is a clean, contemporary look that allows materiality and craftsmanship to take centre stage, while minimizing visual clutter and maximizing flow within the kitchen.

pro-tip

Stone waterfalls cascading down the sides of the island are a gorgeous way to elevate the space. Opt for a full waterfall for maximum visual impact or a demi-waterfall for a more subtle, sophisticated touch. For added texture and interest, consider mixing materials, such as a wood base with a marble top, to create a layered, curated look.

Photo: Mike Chajecki
Photo: Mike Chajecki
Photo: Stephani Buchman

5| Smart storage

Regardless of the home, the owner, or the lifestyle, everyone has storage needs. Here are a few smart ways to maximize your island to minimize clutter:

• Choose drawers over traditional cabinets for better organization and easier access to everyday items.

• Add cutlery drawers with shallow pullout compartments for utensils, keeping everything within easy reach.

• Install tray dividers for baking sheets, cutting boards and serving trays to prevent messy stacking.

• Dedicate a zone for oil and essentials to streamline your cooking process and keep countertops clear.

• Consider a lift-up mixer shelf for bulky appliances, saving counter space and making carrying heavy items a thing of the past.

• Don’t forget hidden electrical outlets for appliances or personal tech for functionality without visual clutter. To go a step further, incorporate deep drawers for pots and pans, spice pull-outs near prep zones and vertical

slots for keeping wine or cookbooks. These thoughtful additions not only boost functionality, but also add a layer of personality to the design. With the right layout, your island can also double as a command centre, with a dedicated drawer for keys, mail, or charging stations, effortlessly bridging style with everyday convenience.

Elevate your experience

A kitchen island is more than a design feature – it’s a lifestyle enhancer.

It becomes the setting for Sunday morning pancakes, late-night conversations and shared holiday memories. It’s where functionality meets beauty and where thoughtful design transforms daily routines into joyful rituals. Whether you’re crafting the perfect meal or simply catching up over coffee, a well-designed island makes those moments feel a little more special. When done right, the island isn’t just an addition – it’s the anchor of the home.

Jessica Cinnamon is the principal designer and founder of Toronto-based Jessica Cinnamon Design Inc., a multi-disciplinary design company that creates stylish and well-curated interiors, and provides complete bespoke residential design services in Toronto, the GTA, cottage country, Chicago, and Los Angeles.
Photo: Mike Chajecki
Photo: Stephani Buchman
Photo: Stephani Buchman

This doesn’t mean you need to purge everything you own. Instead, minimalism encourages you to be selective, owning only those things that genuinely enhance your life. It’s about finding beauty in restraint and functionality, rather than in abundance.

A thoughtful approach

A minimalist home doesn’t require you to get rid of everything you love. It just asks that you approach your space thoughtfully. It’s less about quantity and more about quality. Choose pieces that serve multiple functions instead of filling your home with unnecessary furniture or decor. For example, a coffee table that doubles as storage cuts down on clutter and frees up space in the room. The more you can make each piece of furniture work harder, the less you need, and the more room you’ll have for that all-important concept in minimalist design: negative space.

Focus on the negative, positively

Negative space refers to the empty areas in a room, the spots that aren’t filled with furniture or decor. Negative space isn’t just ‘empty’—it’s purposeful. It allows your eyes to rest and gives the other elements room to breathe. When there’s less visual noise, you can truly appreciate the beauty of a carefully chosen piece of furniture, a work of art, or an architectural feature. Imagine how a fireplace would stand out when nothing is competing for your attention. That’s the magic of negative space: It makes the important things in your home even more impactful.

Illuminating possibilities

It’s also essential to think about how light interacts within your space. Natural light has an incredible

BarNONE

This iconic space is evolving into more than a place to serve drinks

Let’s talk about wet bars (and dry bars, too.)

Homes built since the 1970’s often have a wet bar included on one of the floors. They’ve come to be expected by homeowners today, but do people really use them?

If your home has a wet or dry bar that you no longer use, or you are considering adding one to your home and want to know what that will look like, read on to discover some typical, and not so typical, ways to make the most of your designated space.

What’s the difference?

A wet bar is equipped with a sink and running water, while a dry bar doesn’t include a sink or require any plumbing, and so is less expensive to build out. Traditionally, a wet bar is used for mixing and serving beverages, and the sink functions to rinse and wash glassware. Often, wet or dry bars have an undercounter fridge to store drinks.

Bar enthusiast

If you like to entertain, a wet bar might make sense for your lifestyle. This additional bar space allows for big gatherings to flow seamlessly from room to room or floor to floor, providing your guests with an area to grab food or drinks without having to access the kitchen.

A wet bar can complement a recreational room in your home, too. Perhaps it has a pool table, a big screen TV or you use it as a theatre room. A wet bar helps turn it into the ultimate movie night or game day spot by providing a place to store food, drinks and supplies.

For wine drinkers, a wet or dry bar is handy to store glasses and accessories, with a specialty wine fridge under the counter.

But what if you are not much of an entertainer and the number of non-drinkers among your family and friends has increased? You might be at a loss for what to do with a wet or dry bar, but there are plenty of ways to maximize it to suit you.

Bar conversion

A benefit to having an underused wet or dry bar in your home is the additional storage space it provides, so you might as well use it for the things you have an abundance of. If you love to read, convert your wet bar into a library packed with books. If you have a lot of board games and puzzles, this is the perfect place to store those boxes and use the space as a game and reading area. Add a table and chairs to the room for puzzle-making and playing games, and a few cosy armchairs and a reading lamp or two for the booklovers.

If you have kids, transform a bar into their play area, filling it with toys and craft supplies. If your bar has a sink, it’s even better, as it is a convenient location to clean and rinse art supplies. A mini-fridge is ideal to keep their favourite drinks and snacks easily accessible and close at hand.

Perhaps your basement is your workout space. Use the wet bar to store your equipment, post-workout snacks and utilize the counter space to make smoothies and fill your

water bottle. Or, the unused bar area can be an additional workspace and office storage, giving a home to your supplies and printer paper, so the surface of your desk can remain uninterrupted and uncluttered.

Use your wet or dry bar as a staging area in your house to showcase art, accessories, plants or anything that adds to your personal design aesthetic. If there is a closed cupboard with solid front doors, store things you’re not using every day or prefer to keep out of sight. If your bar has glass cabinet fronts or open shelves, it’s an opportunity to display ceramic art, nice glassware or high-end bottles.

Raise the bar high

If your home reno includes building or updating a new wet bar, opt for a water-resistant surface such as quartz and consider adding a backsplash for protection. If you’re designing a dry bar, you could go for a less expensive surface such as a laminate and omit a backsplash.

The finishes and hardware you choose can match your kitchen for visual continuity within your home, or you can treat that area as completely separate.

Choose coloured cabinetry, play it safe with white or opt for a more natural-looking wood front.

Whatever your lifestyle or taste, make your wet or dry bar work for your lifestyle and needs.

Paige Johnston is the founder and principal designer of The Good Design Group, a Calgary-based design studio specializing in hospitality & residential interiors. With more than 12 years of design experience, she boasts a distinctive portfolio of residential and commercial projects. Thegooddesigngroup.com IG: @thegooddesigngroup

Photo: Kourage Photography

Before KITCHENcaper

photos ASH ADAMS

Balancing act

Central to the design aesthetic was incorporating modern upgrades, while infusing a timeless appeal. A slim Shaker profile was chosen, keeping everything clean and contemporary, yet grounded in traditional sensibilities. The decision to incorporate a onelevel peninsula was stylistic and practical, creating a seamless look while maximizing counter space. Topped in quartz, the surfaces reflect an understated elegance that doesn’t detract from the level of durability needed for a high-traffic, high-use environment. To further elevate the design, the quartz was carried up as a full-height backsplash, wrapping around the window above the sink for a sleek, uninterrupted finish that enhanced the kitchen’s visual impact and simplified maintenance.

Under foot

Selecting the right flooring was another key consideration. With the existing warm maple floors extending throughout the home and onto the staircase, it was important for any new materials to complement the look, rather than compete with it. Mixing wood tones is an art, and finding the right mix required extensive sourcing and custom sampling. Ultimately, a rich walnut grain was picked and was run vertically to add depth and sophistication. To keep the space feeling light and open, the lower walnut cabinetry was paired with soft white uppers, creating a beautiful contrast. Warm brass hardware provided the finishing touch.

Overhead

Lighting played an equally vital role in shaping the atmosphere of the space. A layered approach was key. Recessed pot lighting offered overall illumination, while statement pendants

focused light onto the peninsula work zone, adding sculptural interest and functional brightness. The wall sconces added a soft, ambient glow, and under-cabinet lighting gave a nod to mood and usability. The result is a dynamic, adaptable lighting plan that addressed all the needs in the kitchen, from bright and task-focused illumination to intimate and atmospheric, depending on the occasion.

Details, details, details

Beyond changing the look and flow of the kitchen, making it more functional was a key element in the update. The cabinets were tailored with intention to meet the homeowners’ needs, with storage solutions that were plentiful and intuitive. This included custom dividers for trays, bowls and cutting boards, and carefully planned cabinetry configurations to make everything close at hand and easily accessible. Upgrading to a larger fridge and range meant sacrificing nearly a foot of cabinetry, however, additional storage introduced in the beverage bar more than compensated for this.

Beyond the vision

As the renovation evolved, the opportunity arose to extend the design outside the kitchen. A custombuilt, full-width window bench was introduced in the front sitting room, providing additional storage, a cosy reading nook and extra seating for guests.

Enhanced living

This kitchen renovation is an example of how good design enhances daily life. Every element now works in harmony to create a space where the homeowners can enjoy a beautiful new kitchen that serves as the true heart of their home.

Christine

is the founder of Christine Roberts Design, a full-service Toronto-based residential design firm servicing the GTA and international clients. Roberts creates beautiful and functional spaces that are built to last. She divides her time between Toronto and Puglia, Italy, where she has recently completed a redesign and renovation of an historic home. christinerobertsdesign.ca IG: @christinerobertsdesign

Roberts

Shop Canadian companies

Brighten up your space with cheerful yellow decor picks that bring warmth, energy and a touch of sunshine to every room

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Velma indoor/outdoor RUG in yellow. $839. article.com
Taaj END TABLE. $199. eq3.com
Morning sunshine MUG. $12. indigo.ca
Ibel decorative lumbar PILLOW in mustard and cream. $40. bouclair.com
Egea PAINTING on canvas. $589. mobilia.ca
Vela CHAIR in wheat and walnut. $340. cozey.ca
Murol mid-century-modern tufted upholstered wingback queen size BED in yellow. $649. structube.com
Priya POUF in yellow block print. $199. article.com
Nopel table LAMP in yellow. mobilia.ca
Abisko velvet right SECTIONAL in plush yarrow gold. $2,399. article.com

A family-owned Canadian business since 1979! With over 40 years of renovation experience we are known for our reliability, professionalism and top-tier craftsmanship. We do custom home additions, wholehouse redesign and transformations. Elegantly designed kitchen & bathrooms, legal basement/UDU suites, Condo renovations and commercial renovation projects.

Build your dream project with the right tools and materials from Home Hardware – Canada’s largest Dealerowned hardware, lumber, building materials, and furniture home improvement retailer with over 1,000 stores across Canada.

Make a strong first impression with the most faithful woodgrain in fiberglass doors — a remarkably refined and durable door by MASTERGRAIN™, a fully integrated Canadian manufacturer of premium fiberglass entry door systems. MASTERGRAIN provides the widest range of product designs and colour options to the market.

IG: @carickhomes

FB: CarickHomeImprovements

carickhomes.com

SFA Saniflo provides simple, costeffective plumbing solutions for upgrading or adding bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms and more without major renovations. From macerators to drain pumps, our systems offer flexible, reliable, and innovative solutions for small to largescale residential and commercial projects.

IG: @saniflocanada FB: @saniflocanada sfasaniflo.ca

IG: @homehardware

FB: @homehardwarestores homehardware.ca

Established in 2002, Vicostone has grown and is now one of the top 3 largest suppliers of engineered stone countertops to the global market. Using the most advanced techniques in the industry and the latest technology from Breton S.p.A. of Italy, Vicostone is in constant innovation to provide timeless design combined with unparalleled quality and ingenuity.

in 2001, Woodsmith Construction has spent more than two decades honing a reputation for excellence. Built on a designthrough-build model, we offers clients a seamless journey from concept to completion.

AWARD

winners

The Manitoba Home Builders’ Association celebrated outstanding renovation projects undertaken in Manitoba over the past year at the MHBA’s annual RenoMark Renovation of the Year Awards. This year’s event showcased entries across seven distinct award categories –Additions, Kitchens, Bathrooms, Exteriors, Whole House, Outdoor Structure, and Basement. Each nominated project exemplified the exceptional craftsmanship and innovation professional renovators bring to home updates and upgrades. The winners were announced during the MHBA’s Renovation Awards Night Reception on May 9, 2025, with the full awards video available on MHBA’s YouTube page.

This year, fifteen remarkable MHBA RenoMark renovators submitted a total of 72 diverse projects for consideration, each accompanied by comprehensive documentation including before and after photos, blueprints, detailed descriptions of the work undertaken, design nuances, and supplementary information enriching the submission. A panel of judges meticulously evaluated each entry in every category to determine the deserving recipients.

Manitoba renovators have seen record levels of activity over the past few years. Homeowners continue to see renovating their homes as a great investment. This is the best time to look at changes you could or should make around the house. Everybody has something that they have been longing to improve in their kitchen. Bathrooms are being updated and modernized for comfort and practicality on a regular basis.

Many of us love our neighbourhood and love our house, but we also need change. Colours and styles from 10 years ago need a refresh. Basements can be more functional and provide more living space. Cooking becomes more of a chore in a room that stifles creativity and innovation. An addition is like creating a whole new living space; a whole new lifestyle for your family without the hassles associated with moving. The award nominated renovation projects featured in this edition can provide a great example of what you can do to make your own home more functional and livable.

If you’re considering a renovation, look to the standards and practices of a professional RenoMark renovator. The Code of Ethics and tips on what to look for when hiring a renovator can be found at the web site www.renomark.ca.

The Manitoba Home Builders’ Association website is home to great tips, videos and full listing of our renovator members by visiting www.homebuilders.mb.ca and clicking the “Renovating your home?” button.

Insist on the quality, professionalism and knowledge that come with a RenoMark renovator; your assurance of quality.

To explore all the entries from this year’s RenoMark Renovation Awards, visit www.homebuilders.mb.ca/renovation-awards or scan the provided QR code. Your next renovation endeavor could be sparked by the innovative ideas showcased in this collection!

CATEGORY | KITCHEN E

REMPEL BUILDERS

Our goal was to expand and modernize this kitchen, while fostering an openconcept layout. By removing two walls, we achieved our objective. 2 tone cabinets, durable ceramic counters, and new stainless appliances resulted in a unique and inviting space!

CATEGORY | WHOLE HOUSE A

CUSTOM DESIGN BUILD GROUP

Our customers are beginning their new life together as newlyweds and are bringing new life to this dated house.

CATEGORY | KITCHEN E

TENTEN KITCHENS

From cramped and non-functional to glamorous and spacious! Gorgeous gold accents, white cabinets and amazing quartz countertops with a waterfall and matching quartz backsplash create the perfect background for this fabulous family to entertain their friends!

CATEGORY | WHOLE HOUSE B

TENTEN KITCHENS

This family with 4 kids needed a transformation. Now that the kids were older, they wanted an updated, gorgeous space to hang out with friends and family.  Flooring throughout, walls down, bathroom makeover and an amazing new kitchen!

CATEGORY | OUTDOOR STRUCTURE A

CATEGORY | WHOLE HOUSE B

REMPEL BUILDERS

Upon entering, the elegant staircase and winsome archways give a nod to the past. Every corner of this fire damaged home, is now brimming with charm! The story that opened with a truly tragic scene, had a wonderfully happy ending!

CATEGORY | WHOLE HOUSE C

ALAIR HOMES BRANDON

A stunning lakefront transformation! Originally intended for resale, this renovation modernized the 1970s home with a refreshed interior, a new attached garage, and a striking exterior makeoverso stunning that the homeowners decided to stay and enjoy it themselves.

HARWOOD DESIGN BUILDERS

The addition of a covered deck on the exterior of this home became an extension of this family’s kitchen and living room for added entertainment space!

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REMPEL BUILDERS

We were privileged to transform this family home into a welcoming gathering space! Our collaborative planning led to an optimized layout, enhancing flow and upgrading features like heated tile floor, 2 tone cabinets, durable quartz countertops, and charming wallpaper accents!

CATEGORY | WHOLE HOUSE C

ALAIR HOMES BRANDON

This renovation transformed a cherished family cottage by maximizing space with vaulted ceilings in the main living area. We were able to maintain the home’s nostalgic charm while creating an open, airy retreat for future generations to enjoy.

CATEGORY
WHOLE HOUSE B

MARIC HOMES

This full home renovation upgraded the main floor and basement, including windows, a modernized kitchen and bathrooms, and a screened room with Trex decking and railing. The result is a beautifully updated, functional, and stylish living space for the homeowners.

Congratulationsto all of the entrants & winners in the 2025 RenoMark Renovation of the Year Awards

home decor

Dining

TABLE + CHAIRS

Selecting the perfect dining chairs and table is not just about style; it’s also about creating a harmonious balance between form and function. Transform your dining area into a space where you’ll love to entertain.

Cline bistro dining CHAIR in antique white. potterybarn.ca
Denmark beechwood and paper cord dining CHAIR in black. structube.com
Reno solid acacia wood DINING TABLE structube.com
Ellington round DINING TABLE. westelm.ca
Jack metal-frame dining CHAIR in green spruce distressed velvet. westelm.ca
Ingatorp extendable TABLE in gray. ikea.ca

Deciding whom to

HIRE

Once you have interviewed renovators, checked their references and received written price quotes from those you are interested in hiring, it’s time to decide who will be doing your job

Renovators should be allowed adequate time to prepare a bid for your project, and you must ensure that each renovator is working with the same plans and specifications. For all but the simplest projects, you should expect the renovator to present their bid in person, so that they can discuss each aspect with you an answer any question you may have.

Decide the importance of each aspect of your evaluation. While overall price is important, it is only one factor. Many homeowners who have successfully completed major home renovations speak about the importance of “peace of mind” – working with a renovator they trusted and felt confident in.

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Once you have met with the renovators who are bidding on your job, you should review each set of bid documents carefully before deciding who to hire.

If you have a particularly strong sense of confidence in one of the renovators, they are probably your best choice, even if their price is not the lowest. In the end, you should choose the renovator based on your sense of the overall value they can provide to you.

Compare every aspect of their bids – the description of the work, specifications (materials and products), price and allowances, deposit and payment milestones, project schedule and any additional recommendations or ideas for your project.

Review the information you collected during and after your initial impressions of each renovator, and what their previous customers had to say about them.

living space

PROJECTS | Go big with your small bathroom. Powder rooms are a great opportunity to get creative & have some fun.

Use an eye-catching material or fixture as your focal point & build from there. Whether it be a gold tile, textured wood panelling, copper fixtures or stone sink.

Don’t be afraid of bold paints & wallpaper. Even if it’s not the focal point, this detail can really make the difference to go from boring to breathtaking. A bit of textured wallpaper or wall mouldings can add a level of sophistication.

Sometimes a coloured toilet is a good choice. Concealed trapways are a must when selecting a toilet. 1 3 2 4 5

Go ahead & put the colour on the ceiling. Often less is more when selecting colours for small rooms. Pick one colour & do the walls & ceilings or match the ceiling to another material in the room.

Get away from the builder grade wall to wall mirror. It doesn’t have to be complicated, a hanging mirror leaves more space to show off other materials & introduce interesting lighting.

Brennen Bilyk, B.Env.D., is the principal designer at Charisma, the Design Experience. 388 Academy Road, Winnipeg. 204-487-6994, charismadesign.ca

Fine-tune your tools

FOR A BETTER LAWN + GARDEN

We are at the start of the gardening season. At this time of year, we like to devote a Saturday morning to maintenance work on our garden tools.

We talk frequently about the joys of digging and hoeing; the rhythm of a spade digging into the soil, the smell of fresh earth, the feeling of a quality tool in our hands. All of this adds up to a satisfying digging experience. However, what can spoil it all too often, is dull tools.

This is such an easy problem to solve: All you need is a good gardener’s file. I sharpen my hoe and my spade every time I take them into the garden. I just draw the file across the top of the spade or the inside edge of the hoe three or four times and again across the opposite side once or twice – just to remove the burr of metal that occurs there.

A shot of WD40 or equivalent works wonders, too. It will keep the blade clean and discourage the buildup on it of soil.

Lawn mower

It’s also the time to sharpen the lawn mower blade. It is important to do this, otherwise you’re cutting your grass with dull blades, and that means bruised and torn blades of grass (recognizable by a brown hue over the surface of the grass). Bruised and torn grass blades are more susceptible to drought and diseases. A clean cut with a sharp blade causes less stress on the plants. Finally, with dull blades, you will use more gas as your mower works harder to do the job.

Also: Clean up the cutting deck by removing the build-up of grass clippings that line the inside of the cutting deck. Be sure to replace the oil. If it’s a two-stroke engine (which requires mixing oil with gas), consider exchanging it for a four-stroke – a cleaner burning engine that does not require you to add oil to it.

Cutting tools

Your grass/hedge/pruning shears also need sharpening and lubricating. Use a hone for sharpening and WD40

or equivalent for lubricating. Clean off any rust with the lubricant or, if it is stubborn, use a soapy abrasive pad to do the job.

Wheelbarrows

Grease or oil the wheel and axle, paint the metal box if it is beginning to rust and paint or stain the wooden parts to prevent them from rotting.

Now you’re ready for almost anything that this gardening season throws at you. And you will enjoy the experience of it all that much more.

While we’re on the topic of tools, let’s look at our top five picks, based on our many years in the garden. We can attest that these tips will save you time and money, and help you to produce a fabulous garden.

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Push reel mower. A push mower is easier on the ears and your lawn responds much better to the cutting action of a push mower, which is more like a knife, than a rotary blade power model. Choose a model that allows for a cutting height of two and a half inches (higher grass height = deeper, healthier roots).

Hoe. Make it a daily routine to grab a sharp hoe and take a walk through your garden. A quick strike with the hoe helps to control young weeds before they become a more established problem. Allowing them to mature and put down a root always leads to more work.

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Stainless steel spade. A quality digging spade is irreplaceable in the garden. The uses are endless: Planting, transplanting, edging… the stainless steel sheds soil, wet or dry, much better than other digging tools. Keep it sharp and the spade will do most of the work for you. Mark sharpens his with a bastard [cut] file every time he uses his spade.

Pruners. Slip a pair of hand pruners in your pocket for your daily walk through the garden. Deadhead spent flowers and cut back “leggy” growth on a regular basis for optimum plant performance.

Soaker hose. We believe that water conservation is a top priority. Soaker hoses deliver water at the soil level to reduce moisture loss through evaporation. You can save up to 80 per cent of the water you would otherwise use with an oscillating sprinkler.

Mark Cullen is a member of the Order of Canada. He reaches more than two million Canadians with his gardening/environment messages every week. Ben Cullen is a professional gardener with a keen interest in food gardening and the environment. You can follow both Mark and Ben on Twitter (@MarkCullen4), Facebook (facebook.com/MarkCullenGardening) and Instagram (instagram.com/markcullengardening). Receive their free monthly newsletter at markcullen.com.

Monique Lhuillier. potterybarn.ca

DELIVERING EFFICIENCY AND SUSTAINABILITY TO ALL CANADIANS

JELD-WEN IS PROUD TO BE A TWELVE-TIME ENERGY STAR ® CANADA AWARD WINNER, INCLUDING THE 2024 MANUFACTURER OF THE YEAR IN THE FENESTRATION PRODUCTS CATEGORY

Our goal is to always deliver JELD-WEN® products that exceed all expectations and standards, offering real, tangible benefits. This steadfast and unwavering commitment is reflected in our longstanding partnership with ENERGY STAR®

JELD-WEN is proud that our continued recognition as Manufacturer of the Year shares our commitment and belief that sustainability and energy efficiency benefits our communities.

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