Long after the furniture has been arranged, a painting, photograph, or sculpture can breathe life into a room by sparking conversation and evoking memories. There’s something deeply personal about filling the walls of your house with original artwork that carries the unmistakable imprint of its creator. Every brushstroke, texture, and detail represents an artist’s vision, skill, and their own lived experience.

Choosing a piece of art isn’t just about decorating a room. As more people style their homes to reflect who they are rather than what is trending, original artwork offers authenticity. It’s an investment not only in an artist, but in creativity, culture, and the human connection.

Where to start with art

For someone who loves art but has never purchased an original piece, the first step when looking for yourself or for a gift is to take your time. Art is too special to rush.

“I always recommend starting with a large statement piece, which can transform a main living space, ‘the piece,’ the show stopper, then follow with smaller works,” says Joanna Tomal, Owner of Towne Square Gallery in Oakville. 

Julie Magner, Director of Sales at the Art Gallery of Burlington, says she’s the prime example of someone who doesn’t have an art background but knows what she likes. “I always suggest allowing your emotions to come through,” she explains. “Sometimes it’s simply about seeing something that makes you stop, makes you smile, or makes you feel one way or another. It’s the connection that makes art so special.”

Sungmi Kong, owner of Rainbow Studio Gallery and Café in Oakville, sees that initial connection happening in her gallery on a daily basis. “You can see an immediate, emotional spark when someone connects with a piece,” she says.

There are no rigid rules about art in the home. Tomal says it’s not about matching an exact shade, but about choosing art that connects everything in the room. In fact, she says, art can create healthy contrast. “If your furniture and walls are neutral, greys, beiges or whites, original art is the ideal way to introduce bold, contrasting energy or unexpected colour palettes and make some needed noise.”

Frame of mind

Purchasing original artwork can feel intimidating, but collecting art is more within people’s grasp than many might realize. “Original art is accessible to everyone at every price point and can often be more affordable than commercial prints,” says Susan Cameron, Director of Gallery at Oakville Art Society. “A collection can be started by visiting art fairs, student shows, and galleries alike.”

Kong’s business model pairs it with the approachable, everyday ritual of a coffee shop. “We break down traditional gallery intimidation and invite people to engage with original works in a relaxed and casual environment,” she says. Her gallery and cafe is also home to a studio space for classes and workshops. 

Tomal believes that unlike “functional” investments like furniture and window coverings, art is an investment in our joy and personal well-being. “Collecting original art is a deeply personal journey, one where each new addition marks a moment in your life, a place you visited or an emotion you resonated with,” she says. “Over time, your collection becomes a visual diary, making your living space uniquely and undeniably yours.”

The collective canvas

Every decision to bring original art home not only supports local artists but also encourages creativity and helps build a stronger cultural community. It truly brings uniqueness into your space that no one else can duplicate. 

“Many artists develop relationships with their buyers, and these connections can grow and be strengthened at local art events that create a vibrant community,” Cameron says.

Magner remarks, “When visitors come to the gallery, I hope they leave with a personal connection to art. There’s something special about knowing an artist created a piece by hand and put something of themselves in it.”

Local Links:

Art Gallery of Burlington
Agb.life

Oakville Art Society
oakvilleartsociety.com

Rainbow Studio Gallery & Cafe
rainbowstudio.com

Oakville Galleries
Gairloch Gardens
oakvillegalleries.com

Town Square Gallery
townesquaregallery.com

By Nicole Hilton

Interior design is much more than making a room look pretty. As with any art form, there’s a science to it. Interior designers are masters of optimizing indoor environments so they are safe, functional, and visually appealing while matching the client’s lifestyle.

As the seasons change here in Canada, so does the intent of interior design. Autumn decor aims to draw people indoors as the outside world gets darker and cooler — so it’s no coincidence that looking at a plush, burnt orange cushion feels almost as comforting as sipping hot cocoa.

Lisa Kooistra, Principal Designer and Founder of LK Designs, explains that spring and summer decor is about opening up, with lighter palettes and airier fabrics. Winter, especially post-holidays, tends to go the other way and gets starker and more minimal, as a sort of visual reset. “Autumn sits in between,” she says, “and its job is really to ease that transition.”

The joy of nesting

Making home an inviting refuge from the elements doesn’t require a major overhaul. Karin Bennett, Principal Designer, Karin Bennett Designs, says the current trend is more about creating a home that feels warm and collected year round, and then introducing subtle seasonal changes through textiles, throws, pillows, artwork and accessories. Bringing in warmer tones, or simply switching to warmer-hued lightbulbs and bringing in more lamplight and candles, can soften the ambiance and have a big impact on how a room feels.

“Our brains naturally make associations with visual and tactile cues based on our experiences and memories,” Bennett says. “While the response is personal and influenced by individual experiences, colour and texture can create very real psychological associations.” 

Creating an inviting, intimate space calls for homey accents and layered, lived-in aesthetics. This season, our local interior designers are seeing a theme of warmth in various forms:

• Warm-toned wood finishes
• Texture over pattern: bouclé, heavy wool, nubby linens
• A colour palette of deep terracottas, mossy greens, warm neutrals like taupe, caramel and clay 
• Metals shifting warmer: unlacquered brass and aged bronze replacing cool chrome and nickel 
• Natural and living finishes: raw wood, stone, a bit of greenery 
• Jewel tone accents (deep burgundy, forest green) paired with warm neutrals for a grounded look 

Mindful decor

Tastes of the day evolve with the times, but the principles of design hold true, working their magic in our collective subconscious. 

“Warm colours like gold, rust, and deep red are linked in our brains to fire, sunlight, and autumn’s natural tones,” Kooistra explains. “A room done in warm tones feels warmer than one in cool blues and greys, even at the same actual temperature.”

The powerful effect of decor, Kooistra adds, is also due to touch-memory. “Our brains process visual texture partly through the memory of how things feel, so a chunky knit throw or plush cushion reads as soft and warm before you’ve touched it,” she says. “Combining warm colour and texture layers two psychological cues at once: comfort and safety.” 

When planning lighting, Bennett often moves toward 2700K, which gives a warmer, softer and more enveloping quality to a space. Clients of her firm also seek comfort in natural materials like wood or stone, as well as woven and multi-textured fabrics. Adding a unique, non-mass produced piece can make a space feel more comfortable and lived in while adding character and a personal touch.

Bennett recently injected some heritage and soul to one of the bedrooms in her home, with the addition of her husband’s nana’s paintings from 1962. The sense of history and personal connection they bring can’t be created with something brand new. “The goal of good interior design,” Bennett says, “is not simply to make a room look beautiful, but to create a feeling.”

By Michelle Morra

Move over, spring cleaning. It’s time for some autumn arranging. Small spaces can be particularly challenging to maximize storage. Our first instinct is to tackle an overflowing closet, but clever storage solutions extend far beyond existing shelving.

Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield has spoken about how living aboard the International Space Station changed the way he thought about storage. In space, every direction counts, which reveals how much vertical space we overlook at home. Here’s a shift in perspective featuring expert advice on storage solutions that are truly out of this world.

Up your thinking

Often, builder-grade closets aren’t making the most of the available space. “Most builders put the closet rod at around 5 ½ feet, so there’s usually a lot of wasted space above and below,” says Shaun Oriold, owner and ACSP Certified Designer at Closet Envy in Waterdown. “We use that space more efficiently by going taller and giving people more options for storage. Drawers, shelving, and double hanging all contribute to better use of space and, just as importantly, allow you to see what you own.”

Robert Barich, president of Shelving & More in Hamilton, agrees. “Most closets just have a basic builder shelf with a rod, and there’s so much more that can be done.” He recommends incorporating features like shoe shelves, multipurpose towers, built-in drawers and accessories such as valet rods, slide-out mirrors, and laundry hampers.

For small spaces, Brad Neill, owner of Space Age Shelving in Burlington, recommends AdjustAshelf. “This upgraded wire shelving can be installed with vertical standards that hang below, but the design can change depending on the customer’s needs,” he explains. “It’s easy to install, high-quality, can be mixed with custom melamine and can be adapted to any closet, living, or workspace.”

Get hung up on design

Whether you’re organizing a closet, pantry, entryway or garage, the goal isn’t simply to add storage; it’s to create a system that works for your daily routine.

“Everyone is different, and everyone has different storage needs,” says Barich. “It’s important to see what each individual is looking to store and how they would like to store it.” His team recently worked on a project in Ancaster that showcased functionality with high-end finishes. 

“The closet was finished in black with gold hardware and featured a centre island with 16 drawers and an imported granite top from Italy. We included everything from a multipurpose tower for shoes, folded items, hats and purses, double hanging for shorter clothing items, and long hanging space for dresses and suits in garment bags.”

Oriold says closets aren’t the only space that can benefit from efficient design. One space that gets overlooked and can have a big impact is the garage.

“An organized garage can change your life,” he explains. “A durable floor coating, cabinets to hold and hide things, and slatwall to help get yard tools and bikes off the floor can go a long way with eliminating clutter and freeing up space.”

Neill confirms he has seen an uptick in customers looking to maximize their spaces at home. “When it comes to the trends we are seeing, people are doing more research online and scrolling through social media to get ideas, then coming to us to create the vision.”

Use space wisely

Vertical storage works best when paired with thoughtful editing of what’s being stored. Before adding shelves or organizers, take stock of items and eliminate ones you no longer need. 

“I always laugh when I see a suitcase or two or three taking up prime real estate in a closet,” says Oriold. “If you travel once a year, surely those can go somewhere else.”

When you’re evaluating your space, look for seasonal items that can move to higher shelving, leaving everyday essentials within reach, and remember that walls can work just as hard as floors by using hooks and knobs. Stacking pantry bins or adding shelving above a laundry machine can make every inch of space fully functional. 

Local Links

Closet Envy
closetenvy.ca
Waterdown

Shelving & More
shelvingandmore.net
Hamilton

Space Age Shelving
spaceageburlington.ca
Burlington

Organized Solutions
organizedsolutions.ca
Burlington

California Closets
californiaclosets.ca
Oakville

By Nicole Hilton

Fill the glasses and light the lanterns. Your beloved outdoor space is at its best when enjoyed with your favourite people. A few thoughtful touches can make outdoor entertaining feel effortless, upscale, and extra special. 

Forego the fragile. One of the easiest ways to add flair to your patio table this season is with outdoor tableware that looks beautiful without making you flinch every time someone passes a plate. Chip-resistant melamine dishware has come a long way, and the collections at Nicetys are proof of that. Their melamine plates and serving pieces are as fresh and stylish as they are functional. 

The same goes for drinkware. If you’ve ever hovered anxiously near a guest carrying a glass wine glass around the patio, you’ll appreciate Nicetys’ unbreakable drinkware. It looks remarkably like real glass but is designed to withstand your next party. 

Keep guests comfy. Nothing sends guests indoors faster than weather that’s too hot or too chilly. Umbrellas and sunshades make a huge difference during daytime gatherings. And, strategically placed outdoor fans not only help guests stay cool but also provide an unexpected bonus by keeping flying insects at bay.

When the sun goes down and temperatures dip, a patio heater can extend your evening by hours. Keep a basket of soft throw blankets nearby as well. Oakville Home Leisure carries patio heaters that help create a cozy atmosphere, as well as beautiful throws that add warmth and texture.

Cast a glow. As daylight fades, outdoor LED pillar candles from Lakeside Livin’ create a warm, flickering glow without the worry of open flames (Author’s note: An open flame candle set my friend’s hair alight at a garden party last summer, and let me tell you, the scent of burnt hair lingers, even outside). LED candles are safer and are perfect on dining or side tables, or clustered together as a centrepiece.

Patio lanterns and halo lights that clip onto umbrellas are another easy way to create ambiance. For safety and style, consider lining pathways with solar lights or lanterns. They help guests navigate after dark and create a whimsical, welcoming vibe.

Minimize swatting. Of course, we all know that mosquitoes and insects easily become uninvited guests. Fans help tremendously, but you can also incorporate citronellacandles and insect-repelling plants such as lavender, basil, rosemary, and marigolds into your décor. Pretty mesh food covers, like the ones at Nicetys, keep bugs away from your food while still looking attractive on the table.

Be considerate. Let’s not forget our neighbours. Outdoor entertaining is about creating happy memories, not noise complaints. Keep music at a comfortable level, position speakers toward your gathering area rather than neighbouring homes, and be mindful of late-night conversations that tend to get louder as the evening goes on.

Add flair. For outdoor décor, get cozy and creative. Lay out outdoor rugs, incorporate decorative planters of varying heights, and add texture with cushions, lanterns, and baskets. A simple beverage station stocked with infused water, sparkling drinks, and cocktail ingredients instantly creates a holiday feel.

Consider pre-mixed cocktails. One of the easiest ways to impress is with summery sips that require little effort. Specialty cocktail mixers and infusions do the heavy lifting. Cherry hibiscus syrup adds a sophisticated twist to sparkling water or cocktails. Jarred margarita infusions in flavours like blueberry coconut feel vacation-worthy without the complicated recipe. Lemon and lavender cocktail cubes are another fun addition that make even a simple drink feel special. With a few quality syrups and mixers from Centro Garden on hand, you’ll look like a professional bartender without spending the party tending bar.

The best outdoor gatherings aren’t about perfection. They’re about creating a space where people feel comfortable, relaxed, and welcome. A few practical upgrades, some thoughtful details, and a little creativity can transform even the simplest patio into a special summer hangout.

LOCAL LINKS

Nicetys 
shop.nicetys.com

Centro Garden 
centrogarden.com

Lakeside Livin’ 
lakesidelivin.com

Oakville Home Leisure 
oakvillehomeleisure.ca

By Lisa Thornbury

Warm weather has a way of drawing us outside to savour slow mornings with coffee on the deck, family dinners under string lights, and late-night conversations gathered around the glow of a fire feature. Today’s outdoor spaces have evolved far beyond a simple lawn chair and barbecue, becoming a real extension of the home itself. 

If you build it…

A well-designed deck creates the foundation for outdoor living, seamlessly connecting indoor comfort with open-air entertaining. “Homeowners should first consider their intention for the space and how much value it will add to the way they use their home,” says Stan Weiland, President of The Deck Store. “Next, establish a realistic budget.”

Practicality matters just as much as design features. “While multi-level layouts can create visual interest, they often break up the usable living space and reduce flexibility for entertaining and furniture placement,” Weiland explains. “Built-in seating has become less popular because high-quality patio furniture offers greater comfort and versatility as homeowners’ needs change.”

As for material, he says the right choice ultimately depends on the budget, design goals, and expectations for long-term performance. “For durability and low maintenance in the Canadian climate, composite and PVC decking are by far the most popular choices today.”

Weiland recently completed a standout project where his team incorporated a wide range of features like louvered pergolas for adjustable shade and protection from the elements, motorized screens, integrated lighting, heaters and fans. In addition, a custom-designed wall incorporated a television and fireplace for a highly personalized outdoor environment that blended comfort, technology and modern design.

Escape with hardscapes 

Hardscaping and landscaping help shape the overall atmosphere of an outdoor space. Stone patios, pathways, and gardens create structure while adding visual interest. Homeowners are increasingly looking to design individual zones dedicated to dining, lounging, and entertaining. 

“Homeowners want a true extension of their living space,” says Alex Lukas, Manager of Operations at Precision Landscaping. “Right now, backyard stone patios are absolutely leading the conversation.”

Creating a cohesive outdoor space starts with intentional planning. Lukas says features like hot tubs and fire elements work best when integrated into the design from the beginning rather than added later. 

For homeowners looking to make a statement, Lukas says craftsmanship and material selection should be top of mind. “We work extensively with large-format patio stones, and what makes them so striking is the contrast between their sleek, refined appearance and the sheer technical skill required to install them properly,” he says. Intricate geometric patterns, mixed textures, and inlaid borders continue to stylize the patio aesthetic. 

All decked out

Once the larger elements are in place, décor brings a space to life. According to Jennifer Klassen, Manager at Centro Garden and Centro NOCA, planters and accessories are key to ensuring a welcoming vibe.

“Planters and decorative accents can really add some personality to your space,” says Klassen. “You can add a splash of colour with flowerpots, throw pillows and blankets, which are easy to change every season.”

She notes that live plants instantly make outdoor spaces feel more inviting and says colourful planters in yellow, green, and pink hues are trending this season. Customers are gravitating toward low-maintenance plants like succulents, which are a great choice for a tabletop arrangement, and tropical plants like palm trees, hibiscus, and birds of paradise that add scale to your space. 

When it comes to creating ambiance, Klassen recommends keeping things cohesive with just one or two accent colours. “Choose items you like when you’re selecting lighting, rugs, and accessories to add personality to your space,” she says. 

By Nicole Hilton

LOCAL LINKS

The Deck Store
deckstore.ca

Precision Landscaping
precisionlandscaping.ca

Centro Garden and Centro NOCA
centrogarden.com

I grew up next to a park that had a tall wooden climber with monkey bars perched over a cement pad. Despite the monstrous slivers my mom had to pull out of my fingers daily, it was the best. 

After the day my thumb got stuck in the giant rubber tire see-saw and I nearly lost my thumbnail, my parents decided they’d had enough. They bought us a candy-striped swing set for our backyard, hoping to lure my brother and me away from what they lovingly called the “Sliver City.”

I can still hear the whine of the chains as my little brother and I swung. The harder we pumped our legs, the more the frame groaned and swayed until one day it tipped right over. That was the end of that. 

Today, play structures have reached new heights…the safe kind.

Build it and they will play

“Backyard play has evolved far beyond the standard swing set,” says Gilles Fortin, owner of Flamborough Patio Furniture. For over forty years, Fortin has been building distinctive outdoor furniture and custom play structures. “Families today see their outdoor space as an extension of their home. It’s not just about keeping kids busy, it’s about creating an experience.”

That experience can take many forms. Some families opt for prefab playsets with plastic slides, swings, and climbing features. Others prefer custom-built designs that blend into the natural aesthetic of their yard. Think timber frames, rope bridges, built-in sand areas, and treehouses tucked among mature trees.

Before diving into your dream design, there are a few key considerations.

Budget is often the starting point. Prefab kits can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, while custom builds can climb much higher depending on materials and complexity. Deciding where to invest helps narrow your options quickly.

Space matters just as much. Start by measuring your yard and planning for clearance zones. You need room for the structure and safe movement around it.

Then there’s the age of your kids. Are you building for toddlers, or creating something they can grow into? The best play spaces evolve. A small platform and slide can later become a hangout space or clubhouse for older kids.

Installation will depend on the type of structure you choose. Basic prefab kits typically come with detailed instructions and can often be assembled over a weekend (unless you’re my husband, who claims to be allergic to nails and sawdust). 

For more complicated kits or custom builds, especially when dealing with elevated platforms or more complex features, it’s critical to have a professional installation. 

“Once we’ve installed a play structure, our job is done,” says Fortin. “Then families need to install a safe surface. It’s not the most exciting part, but it’s what helps prevent injuries.”

Happy landings

There are several surface options to consider. Poured rubber offers excellent shock absorption and a polished finish, but the cost is high. Like, pump your legs and swing as high as you can, high. 

Milton Stone offers artificial turf that, when installed with proper under padding, is a low-maintenance choice. And of course, sand or wood chips are traditional and budget-friendly options that deliver great impact protection. You can also find rubber mulch at Vanbeeks. It’s durable, eco-friendly, and the rich brown colour mimics the look of natural mulch, without the need for constant top-ups.

Each option has trade-offs, but all aim to create a safer play environment.

From there, the possibilities are wide open.

“Don’t be afraid to get creative,” says Fortin. “We’ve built everything from pirate ships to whimsical treehouses. You’re only limited by your imagination.”

Whether you’re working with a compact yard or a larger property, your backyard can become something truly special. Because in the end, it’s not just about swings and slides. It’s about creating a space where kids can explore, build confidence, and make lasting memories.

Ideally, without the splinters.

Local Links:

Van Beek’s Garden Supply, Oakville
Stocks various rubber mulch options, including 25L bags and 1 cubic yard super sacks, suitable for playgrounds.  
vanbeeks.com

Flamborough Patio
Offers a variety of play centres
flamboroughpatio.com

Rubberscape Oakville
Loose/bagged rubber mulch and bonded rubber mulch for playgrounds, daycares and residential projects.
rubberscape.ca

Funscapes, Toronto
Swing sets and jungle gyms
funscapes.ca

Rainbow Play Systems, Mississauga
Wooden playsets
rainbowplay.com

Milton Stone
Carries artificial turf
miltonstone.ca

By Lisa Thornbury 

There’s a different to-do list for every month of the gardening season. In honour of Earth Day, which happens to be in April, consider these easy, nature-friendly dos and don’ts:

Procrastinate!

As tempting as it is to get outside with a rake when the weather warms, this isn’t the best time. Bees and other pollinators may still be hibernating under leaves and other yard debris, so please don’t remove it until temperatures are consistently above 10°C. 

There’s no sense in gardening if the soil is still wet and mucky. Wait until the soil crumbles and doesn’t stick to your shoes, to avoid destroying its structure. It’s better (and far more pleasant) to divide and transplant perennials when soil is workable.

If walking on your lawn leaves footprints, leave your lawn alone for awhile to reduce soil compaction. Wait for warm weather before overseeding.

‘Clean up’ responsibly

Go ahead and cut back dead stems of ornamental grasses and perennials, but let nature do the cleanup. Halton Master Gardeners recommend the “chop and drop” method to return organic material to the soil & provide nesting material for birds.

Remove invasive species as they start to appear. These include English Ivy, Periwinkle, Lily-of-the-Valley, and Garlic Mustard. Many invasives are pretty (and popular) but can kill whole forests.

Butterflies, bees and other valued members of our community need time to emerge and safe places to hide. For a stunning garden that buzzes with life and colour, work smarter, not harder. Your back — and the planet — will thank you.

By Michelle Morra

After spending the winter dreaming of warm summer days, it’s finally time to turn your ideas into reality. Whether you’re planning a redesign or simply sprucing up what you already have, you can plan a backyard makeover to suit your style and budget.

Small updates like layering in new outdoor décor can instantly refresh a space, but focusing on bigger elements, such as healthy lawns, vibrant gardens, and hardscape features like decks and pools, can completely transform how your backyard looks and functions.

Outdoor oasis

Thoughtfully designed hardscapes can turn a backyard into an extension of the home. Michael Haunton, owner of Let’s Landscape Together, says features like decks, patios, and pools create inviting spaces for relaxing and entertaining. 

“Proper planning is crucial for a successful project,” he explains. “Traffic flow, furniture space, elevation changes, drainage, and transitions like walls and stairs all need to work together for long-term enjoyment.” 

One memorable project featured a custom pool with a swim-up bar and a fully equipped outdoor kitchen. Built-in bar stools allow swimmers to sit and chat under a shaded roof. With lighting, heaters, a barbecue, fridges, an ice maker, and a sound system, the space was designed as a complete backyard oasis.

Design that defines

Hardscape design is about more than patios or walkways; it’s about shaping how people experience their yard. Will Joyce, owner and general manager of Cudmore’s Landscape & Design Ltd., says thoughtful layouts create destinations and reduce friction in a space.  

“Balancing materials like decking, pavers, natural stone, and garden beds creates cohesion while adding texture and definition,” he explains. Joyce also emphasizes what lies beneath the surface. “We always say our best work is buried. Detailed planning, understanding construction practices, and elements like access sleeves, conduit, and stormwater management, help ensure the space performs well for years to come.”

A standout project brought together a full backyard transformation. Features included all-new hardscape surfaces with a Techo-Bloc Borealis inlay beneath a custom pergola with an integrated privacy screen and space for outdoor ping pong, an oversized natural flagstone walkway leading to a gas fire bowl, LED and dimmable bistro lighting, new gardens, cedar fencing, expanded drainage, and a custom four-season studio.

Green your lawn

Brayden Hauraney of Turf N Dirt Lawn Care helps clients enjoy their backyards with professional and reliable lawn service. 

To create a noticeable visual impact, Hauraney recommends top dressing and seeding with a clover mix. “White clover helps with self-fertilization and soil erosion, and sustains pollinators in early to mid-spring,” he says.

“Cold-season grass requires adequate watering throughout the season, and summer can be harsh when there’s little to no rain,” he adds. “Automatic sprinklers and regular cutting maintenance go a long way in creating a lush yard.”

A project he tackled last September involved a lawn challenged by shade, mature tree growth, and thinning grass. Hauraney’s team worked an organic compost top dressing into existing turf, then overseeded with a premium shade-tolerant blend. “With proper watering and maintenance, the difference was visible within four to seven days,” he says, noting the lawn filled in within two to three weeks.

Flower power

The Garden Girls know that flowers and seasonal planters do wonders for the look of a property and its connection to the environment.

“You can create a vibrant space that benefits your home, supports local wildlife, and enriches your quality of life,” explains Darla Malcolm-Hauraney of The Garden Girls Garden Care. “We recommend rotating seasonal planters to create year-round visual interest.”

In one Oakville project, they transformed a small, tired garden into a formal English-style space inspired by the client’s childhood. Using a timeless green and white palette, the team layered perennials, flowering shrubs, and textured greenery for an elegant look.

For homeowners worried about upkeep, Malcolm-Hauraney emphasizes that success starts with strategy. “Every garden requires a maintenance plan. Choose low-maintenance plants, group them by watering and sunlight needs, and use tools like raised beds, apps and timers to keep garden care manageable.”

Local Links

Let’s Landscape Together
3235 Fairview Street Unit #5, Burlington
letslandscape.ca

Cudmore’s Landscape & Design Ltd.
450 Wyecroft Road, Oakville
cudmoreslandscape.ca

Turf N Dirt Lawn Care
289-644-TURF
turfndirt.ca

The Garden Girls
289-6GARDEN
thegardengirls.ca

By Nicole Hilton

Good things come in small spaces. With the right mix of design and greenery, balconies can become lush, inviting retreats. Maximizing space is simple with appropriately sized furniture, clever storage solutions, and vertical gardens that bring colour and style without taking up too much square footage. Dust off the cushions and start planning because patio season is just around the corner.

Less is More

When it comes to designing small balconies, scale is everything. “Alwayschoose furniture that suits the size of the space,” says Shawna Salvo, Patio Design Consultant at Bum Outdoor Furniture. Measurements are a key component, not just of the balcony itself, but of the doorway leading to it. “Condos don’t typically have wide entrances,” she notes. “It’s important to consider the width of the door and leave enough room to walk freely in and out without feeling like the space is overcrowded.”

SMALL SPACE, BIG BLOOMS by Darla Malcolm-Hauraney, The Garden Girls Garden Care

BEST BALCONY PICKS:
Petunias, marigolds, geraniums, basil, mint, chives, parsley, cherry tomatoes, salad greens, and peppers.

MAXIMIZE SPACE:
Rail planters, tiered plant stands, hanging planters, and self-watering containers create a lush feel.

GO VERTICAL:
Pocket planters, trellises, and modular panel systems let sweet peas and climbers thrive.

GET IT RIGHT WITH LIGHT:
Full sun? Choose tropicals, sedum, tomatoes, peppers, or rosemary.

WATER AND FEED SMART:
Containers dry fast – water consistently and in the morning. Use quality potting mix, add slow-release fertilizer at planting, and feed every 2 to 4 weeks.

WEATHER WATCH:
Protect plants from wind, cold snaps, and summer heat.

Small-scale modular furniture can be easily configured, while foldable or stackable pieces make winter storage easier. Durable, commercial-grade materials also ensure the furniture can withstand the elements, such as direct sunlight and high winds. The one thing worth investing in is prioritizing comfort. “A high-quality, comfortable seating group like a compact conversation set or a loveseat with a side table creates a relaxing place to spend time outdoors,” shares Jay Real,

Founder and Director of Operations at Oakville Home Leisure.

The Little Things

Accessories transform a balcony from functional to inviting. “There are many ways to turn an outdoor space into a tranquil area for relaxation and connection,” says Real. Soft lighting with rechargeable lanterns sets the mood in the evening, while introducing some wood elements, such as teak, can create a natural and calm feeling during the day.

Real recommends that small outdoor rugs can soften the space or add a punch of colour, and that lighter tone fabrics will help small spaces appear larger than they are overall. If the condo regulations allow for it and space permits, a small firepit adds warmth to extend patio season into early spring and late fall.

Privacy is equally important. Salvo adds, “My clients are not only looking for seating, but also privacy because they might have a balcony directly beside them.” She suggests tall lattice planters that provide seclusion from neighbours, block the wind, and offer sun protection. “You can even weave in twinkle lights to add ambiance at night.”

Open-Air Occasions

A balcony can become a great entertaining space. Salvo recommends flexible pieces that adapt to the moment. “We offer tables with bases that tilt and fold away for convenient storage, along with narrow and bar-height options that elevate seating so you can enjoy the view from higher up,” she says.

Real adds that a few club chairs and a small table highlight a space dedicated to sipping morning coffee or watching the sun set, maintaining a lounge feeling while connecting with family and friends.

Whatever the occasion – a card game, charcuterie and wine, dinner for two or unwinding with a book, a thoughtfully designed balcony transforms extra space
into a true outdoor living room.

Local Links:

Oakville Home Leisure
1318 Speers Road, Oakville
905-847-8551
oakvillehomeleisure.ca

Bum Outdoor Furniture
3270 South Service Road West, Oakville
1-855-337-2995
bumoutdoor.ca

The Garden Girls
289-6GARDEN
thegardengirls.ca

BY NICOLE HILTON

A well-designed kitchen looks beautiful and supports the way a household lives, gathers, and moves through the day. From hurried weekday breakfasts before school to late-night snacks, homework on the island, and kitchen party conversations, this space truly becomes the focal point of a home. 

Every renovation starts with a vision and careful planning. Working with a designer or contractor will help bring that vision to life within your budget and ensure you get the necessary permits in place before you begin. Whether you’re ready to renovate or simply collecting inspiration, these local kitchen companies offer ideas to spark your own dream space.

The Wright Kitchen Done Right

The Wright Kitchen understands that this room is the heart of a home, and no two designs are the same. They recently worked with a client who purchased an older house with the intention of renovating and personalizing the space. The original kitchen was disconnected from separate dining and family rooms, and their goal was to achieve a more functional flow for their young family.

“The client wanted a more classic and timeless kitchen, which happened to be on trend at the moment,” says Nicole Jenkins, Designer at The Wright Kitchen. “We achieved this by pairing creamy white and medium wood tone cabinetry, choosing to finish exposed cabinet ends with two-inch wide columns. Taj Mahal Quartzite counters were used to add texture, depth and warmth, and we mixed in polished nickel handles and knobs to infuse character into the space.”

There are a lot of little decisions that go into a kitchen renovation. An experienced designer can guide clients through the process. “One of my favourite details in this kitchen is the mitered stone apron front sink,” Jenkins notes. “I also love the soft texture and shape of the curved drywall hood.”

Chervin Kitchen & Bath Showstopper

This renovation is rooted in collaboration and thoughtful design. Working alongside West Oak Interiors and Ledgerock Custom Homes, Chervin Kitchen and Bath brought the homeowner’s vision to life: a timeless, elegant space inspired by traditional European charm rather than fleeting trends.

“We are especially proud of how we were able to reflect the homeowner’s goals,” explains Paula Lang, Cabinetry Designer at Chervin Kitchen and Bath. “I love working on projects where people choose what they love, not what others would want. Tell me what inspires you, and let’s turn that vision into something truly unique.”

Lang says the custom treatments took this project from “nice” to “luxurious”. The kitchen includes clever and discreet functionality. Every detail, from the backsplash to the limestone and plaster range hood, and from the marble counter tops to the walnut cabinetry, brings rich, earthy tones throughout the space. “Design for a balance between beauty and livability.  Choose materials and design elements that you love because those elements will be timeless to you forever.”

K Design for Your Designs

When a client asked for a family-friendly renovation, K Design Custom Cabinets delivered. The goal was a warm, inviting kitchen where the homeowner could cook and bake with her young children and make memories gathering for family meals.

Standout features include natural rift-cut oak, which creates a cozy environment with a hint of Scandinavian inspiration, white oak rollouts in the pantry for easy ventilation of root vegetables, and spill ledges under the ceramic farm sinks to protect the cabinets. 

“One unique solution was concealing the electrical outlets in the bottom of the upper cabinets,” explains Karolina Bartosz, Designer at K Design Custom Cabinets. “This kept the backsplash clean and seamless.” Another thoughtful detail is the built-in dog feeding station, complete with a water dispenser. 

Bartosz advises homeowners to “create a folder with your favourite photos and ideas, then trust your designer to turn them into an aesthetically pleasing and functional space.”

By Nicole Hilton

Local Links

The Wright Kitchen
4087 Harvester Road, Unit 4, Burlington
thewrightkitchen.com

Chervin Kitchen & Bath
276 Lakeshore Road East, Oakville
www.chervin.ca

K Design Custom Cabinets
1064 South Service Road East, Oakville
www.kdesigncabinets.com