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

Decorating for the holidays doesn’t end with a tree. Your mantel is the perfect place to let your seasonal style shine. From snowy winter whites that last through the new year to traditional accents that set the tone for December gatherings, your fireplace can become the heart of your holiday home décor.

Mantel Must-Haves

Paula DeOre, Interior Decorator at In House Living, notes that this season’s top trend is the organic look. “Natural greens, neutral colours, magnolia, birch sticks, and pinecones are timeless elements,” she says. “You can leave them up even after the holiday season ends.” This year, she’s seeing more ribbons and bows that add texture and a polished touch. DeOre also emphasizes pairing your mantel style with your tree for a cohesive, consistent look throughout the room.

Wondering just how to build a showstopping mantel at home? “Start with your garland,” DeOre advises. “Weave in twinkle lights, then complement with a wreath or greenery around artwork above the mantel,” she says. 

Jennifer Klassen at Centro Garden offers a garden pro’s tip on hanging garlands. While artificial ones can go up at any time, “always remember if you’re using live greenery, don’t bring it inside until a week before Christmas because it will dry out.”Flameless taper candles will add height and visual interest, especially when grouped with three on one side of the mantel and two on the other. Metal stocking holders and stockings complete the layered, seasonal display.

For minimalists, “instead of hanging garland, simply lay a few picks along the mantel for a festive accent,” DeOre says.

Go Green

Part of the magic of the season is visiting a garden centre to take in the scent of fresh-cut greens and discover wintery options like magnolia, eucalyptus, and berries to use in your holiday décor. Catherine Bulow, part of the family business at Bulow Garden Centre, says there are many choices for garland: “There are Ontario-grown cedars and then B.C. cedar, which has longer boughs and is more expensive,” she explains. “You can also use boxwood or a cedar and pine mix as a base.”

Fresh greens need care. Mist them often and keep them cool until you’re ready to decorate or entertain. “Follow the same rules as a cut tree and remember to spritz them,” notes Bulow. While they won’t last long, with a little extra attention, your mantel will stay fragrant and naturally beautiful.

Festive Fun

If a formal mantel isn’t your style, try creating one that reflects your personality. Select a theme inspired by your favourite holiday movie or show. Tyler Schwartz, RetroFestive’s “Chief Cheermeister,” says he’s seeing shoppers mix classic décor with pop culture pieces. “The Grinch is incredibly popular,” he says. “People are adding Grinch ornaments to trees, wreaths, and garlands on their mantels.”

Marnie Warman of Interior Design House points out that not every mantel is deep enough to accommodate a bulky garland. As fun alternatives, she recommends groups of battery operated candles with garland “picks” placed in and around the bases. “You can add decorative balls, floral products and other items for colour and texture,” Warman says, adding that the candles (or mini lights) also look wonderful inside hurricane type glass containers, of either matching or varying widths and heights. “You can then put some stems, or mini ornaments inside the glass with the candles for a great and simple look.” 

Figurines are another playful accent. Schwartz’s favourite? Buddy from Elf, holding a string of snowflakes just like in the movie. “Stocking holders and stockings are essential, but figurines are more fun. They’re real conversation starters,” he says. Including whimsical elements can revive childhood nostalgia while helping families create new holiday memories together.

Finally, it’s more than okay to venture beyond traditional colours. Customers of Centro Garden are getting downright playful with their trimmings. “Bright colours are definitely trending this year,” Klassen says, “so think about adding some pink, peach or coral hues to your Christmas decor.”

Local Links:

In House Living
3485 Fairview Street, Burlington
inhouseliving.ca

Interior Design House
4047 Fairview Street, Burlington
interiordesignhouse.com

Bulow Garden Centre Oakville
370 South Service Road West, Oakville

Centro Garden
437 Brant Street, Burlington
centrogarden.com

RetroFestive
1100 Invicta Drive, Unit 1, Oakville
retrofestive.ca

By: Nicole Hilton

There’s just something about a crisp fall morning, with a cool breeze and colourful leaves that make you want to cozy up indoors. Fall is the season of layered textures, lush colours, and scents that wrap you in a warm hug. With a few smart swaps, you can turn your home’s interior into a snug retreat that embraces the season. Hot cider is optional but highly encouraged.

“Your accents are what’s going to make you transition (a space),” says Rose Luxton, owner of Lakeside Livin’. But you don’t need to overhaul your home with reds and oranges. Luxton notes that while burnt orange will always be in season, moody purples and earthy mushroom shades have grown in popularity, evoking a feeling of being grounded.

Fabulous FALL FADS
Contributed by FOR Living, Oakville

While autumn can be a homey and nostalgic season, decor can go far beyond the traditional. Traditional elements still have value, especially for their familiarity and comfort (think pumpkins, leaves, rich autumn tones), but designers are definitely experimenting — updating, refreshing, and reinterpreting the ‘look’ of fall each season. These may include…

Earthy, nature-inspired hues: Warm clay, terracotta, olive, honeyed ochre, moss — even smoky plums — are being used more intentionally, often in muted or mid-tone versions rather than oversaturated brights.

Mixed textures and layered materials: Combining velvet, boucle, raw wood, rattan, and stone, to bring visual interest and tactile warmth.

Patina, vintage accents, and finds with history: Instead of brand-new decorations that feel seasonal-only, mixing in thrifted or aged pieces gives character. Think antique rug pillows, found objects or historic art paintings.

Marnie Warman, Owner, and lead designer at InteriorDesign House, recommends decorating in “tones that reflect your current home colours.” Interior Designer Sarah Gunn of Gunn & Co. is also a fan of “layering in patterns that introduce richer shades of your home’s existing colours.”

Layering textiles for cozy comfort

From chunky knit throws to heavy quilts, throw pillows and textured area rugs, textiles can bring depth and coziness to a room, transforming your home into a warm autumn oasis. Don’t stop at the living room. Textiles can play a role in the bedroom, too. “Swap bed linens for flannel sheets (and) layer a quilt or blanket across the foot of the bed,” Gunn says.

Nature is your centrepiece

Welcome fall at the front door and beyond. Create a welcoming autumn entry by swapping summer container pots for colourful mums or hanging a seasonal wreath.

And don’t forget to give your house plants a seasonal update. Luxton likes to add a fall vibe by re-potting her existing house plants in fall containers.

Lighting is an important detail in creating your autumn ambiance. Softer light instantly activates snuggle mode. Luxton’s simple tip for making a room feel cozier is to swap lamp shades for darker, textured fabric shades.

Finally, aromas such as apple pie and cinnamon are so happy-making, scientific studies have confirmed their link to feelings of warmth, comfort, and nostalgia in the brain’s emotion and memory centres. Choose scented candles, fragrant mists, diffusers, or a simmer pot of cloves, orange peel and cinnamon on the stove, for a true experience of home-sweet-home.

Go big. Luxton reminds us that fall is not the season to be minimalist with decor. “People just love to add extra layers in their home (in fall),” she says. So, bring in the soft throws, pile on the plump pillows and let every corner of your home wrap you in fall’s embrace.

Inside the home, Warman uses her dining room table as a year-round stage for seasonal change. Using a container that suits the size and scale of the table, she begins with good quality artificial greens as the base and adds something new each season to reflect the time of year. Acorns, pinecones, gourds and branches are great natural elements for fall.

Faux florals are also a great way to add seasonality to your decor. “I have an oversized vintage basket filled with faux leaves that I set out each season,” Gunn says.

Local Links:

Anderson’s Interiors
686 Guelph Line, Burlington
andersonsinteriors.ca

FOR Living
75 Navy Street, Oakville
for-living.ca

Gunn & Co.
gunnandco.ca

House Warmings
550 Speers Road
Unit #3, Oakville
housewarmings.ca

Interior Design House
4047 Fairview Street, Burlington
interiordesignhouse.com

Lakeside Livin’
100 Bronte Road, Oakville
lakesidelivin.com

BY: Lisa Evans