There’s nothing quite like the glow of a beautifully decorated Christmas tree to bring the holiday spirit to life. Whether you prefer the fresh scent of a real tree or the ease of an artificial one, choosing the right option for your home is just the first step. This year’s decorating styles range from natural colours and cozy textures to one of 2024’s boldest trends – bright, vibrant tones! Here’s how you can capture the magic of the season in your own living room.

Knotty and Nice

Springridge Farm has been selling freshly cut Christmas trees for over 25 years and let’s be honest, this favourite destination looks like the set of a Hallmark movie. “We go all out to romance the season,” says Tom Hughes of Springridge Farm. “We’re all about the tradition of providing quality trees and building lasting memories.”

The variety of Christmas tree you choose can set the scene for your holiday decorating. “Our most popular tree is the classic Fraser Fir, which has amazing needle retention,” explains Hughes. “Balsam Fir smells divine; Scotch pine is very nostalgic since it’s the OG (original) of Christmas trees; and new for us is Snow Tip, a variety of Fraser Fir that’s tall and thin, making it ideal for smaller, modern spaces.”  

Jennifer Klassen, Manager of Centro Garden and Centro NOCA, says people often base their choice between real or artificial on personal history, but it can also depend on their living space. “If you’ve always had a live tree, it’s a [sentimental] feeling to get one every year,” she says. “With the rise of condo living, there isn’t a lot of space for a real tree. I find those customers are switching to an artificial tree since you can purchase one in the height and width that suits your space best.”

Dashing Through The Glow

There are probably as many ways to decorate a Christmas tree as there are snowflakes. How in vogue is yours? Below are the top-trending looks this year:

1. Natural woodland elements –
Think pinecones, wooden ornaments, and burlap ribbons with a warm, earthy feel.

2. Bold colours – Adding a modern twist to the classic Christmas palette will bring everyone joy.

3. Maximalist décor – Layer different textures and materials to create a lush, extravagant look using the mindset “more is more.”

4. Monochromatic palettes – Sleek elegance never goes out of style with timeless choices in dreamy single-colour aesthetics.

5. Retro-inspired vintage vibes – Dig out the tinsel and multi-coloured lights for a fun celebration of the season.  

“Indoor tree decorating trends are featuring bold, creative touches,” explains Kyra Cabrera, Creative Director at VintageBash. “Mushroom patterns, nutcrackers, and whimsical ornaments are popular along with bold colours like hot pink, teal, and sunshine-inspired hues. On the sophisticated side, metallics like gold, copper, and silver paired with soft greens and blues create a serene look.”

“We have beaded ornaments in bright colours, felt ornaments, and vintage-style ornaments that are all new for this year,” says Klassen about what’s in stock at her retail stores. “We’re also seeing a push to incorporate heirloom ornaments that most of us have collected from our parents and grandparents over time.” 

Cabrera agrees that adding heirloom ornaments or handmade pieces reflects personal heritage. “Receiving requests to incorporate cultural elements into holiday décor is always a favourite of mine,” she says. “I like to include a parol, which is a star-shaped lantern from Filipino tradition, by hanging smaller versions on the tree or placing a larger one nearby with soft lights. Another idea is incorporating bright, festive colours and family-focused decorations such as nativity scenes, common in Latin American cultures.” VintageBash offers Christmas tree decorating and holiday décor services designed to fit any space and style, from homes to commercial spaces.

And if you’re looking to add a new memory to your ornament collection, Hughes shares, “We’re excited about our custom Springridge Farm red truck ornament because it’s a fun way to commemorate your Christmas tree experience at Springridge.”  

 

Local Links

Springridge Farm
7256 Bell School Line, Milton
springridgefarm.com

Centro Garden
437 Brant Street, Burlington
Centro NOCA
590 Brant Street, Burlington
centrogarden.com

RetroFestive: Pop Culture
& Christmas Store
1100 Invicta Drive #1, Oakville
retrofestive.ca

VintageBASH
vintagebash.ca

Christmas Décor
of Oakville
christmasdecor.ca

Autumn leaves are beautiful. And messy. And slippery.  Understandably, the urge to clean them up is strong. Landscape maintenance crews and their leaf blowers do a fine job of tidying up our driveways, porches and walkways, making them neat and safe to walk on. A new school of thought on “fall cleanup,” suggests not taking this too far, however. The esthetic benefits of removing every leaf — particularly from lawns and gardens — don’t nearly outweigh the environmental impact of this practice.

Who benefits from a leaf-free yard? It’s certainly not the critters that thrive under the blanket of leaves. And it’s definitely not our lawns, which would shout, “Drop that rake!” if they could. What lawn wouldn’t want to get tucked into a cozy bed of leaves for the winter?

Personally, I now realize that all this raking might have been for my neighbours’ benefit. I faced the same dilemma in the spring, pulling dandelions to avoid looking like a lazy gardener.

“A more eco-friendly fall cleanup involves working with the environment, not against it.”

DEREK LIPPERT,
FOUNDER OF QUIET NATURE NATURAL LANDSCAPES

“We’ve been conditioned to believe that a pristine yard, free of leaves and dandelions, is the goal,” says Derek Lippert, founder of Quiet Nature Natural Landscapes. “However, this neatness comes at a cost. Removing every leaf deprives nature of its free mulch and shelter for insects like butterflies and ladybugs, which play a vital role in the ecosystem.”

Lippert adds that it’s okay to want a tidy yard. Go ahead and rake or blow leaves off your driveway, porch and walkways but in the lawn or garden, “Instead of hauling away every last leaf, why not let nature lend a hand?” he says. “A more eco-friendly fall cleanup involves working with the environment, not against it.”

Five great uses for leaves

1. MOW OVER THEM

Instead of raking, mow over the leaves to chop them into smaller pieces. These shredded bits will break down, enriching the soil with organic matter. It’s like a free feast for your lawn! Plus, a lawn sprinkled with shredded leaves doesn’t look messy – it looks eco-friendly.  

2. COMPOST THEM

Lippert suggests adding fallen leaves to your compost pile. “Rich in carbon, they balance nitrogen from kitchen scraps and grass clippings. Layer them together, and in a few months, you’ll have nutrient-rich compost ready for your garden.”

3. USE THEM AS GARDEN MULCH

Instead of buying mulch, shred your leaves and spread them over garden beds. They help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. As the leaves break down, they’ll add nutrients to the soil. Your plants will thrive, and your wallet will thank you.

4. MAKE LEAF MOULD

If you’ve got space, make leaf mould by piling up leaves and letting them sit for about a year. As they decompose, they turn into a crumbly, rich substance that’s fantastic for your garden. Leaf mould helps with water retention, so your plants won’t dry out as quickly.

5. PROTECT PLANTS & INSECTS IN WINTER

“Sensitive plants can benefit from a blanket of leaves in the winter,” says Darla from The Garden Girls. “Pile them around the base of perennials, shrubs, and trees to insulate their roots from freezing. Then when spring arrives, either leave the mulch in place or compost it. Not only will your plants benefit, but butterflies, pollinators and other beneficial insects that overwinter in the dead leaves will thank you as well.”

This fall, don’t look at those fallen leaves as a chore. Think of them as Mother Nature’s gift to your garden. Embracing sustainable cleanup practices is an easy, eco-friendly way to keep your yard thriving for seasons to come. And no, you’re not a lazy gardener —you’re a clever, eco-friendly one. I think I’ll make a sign for my yard that says, “Beleaf me, these leaves are helping my garden.”

LOCAL LINKS

The Garden Girls
thegardengirls.ca

The Gardener Landscaping
thegardenerlandscaping.ca

Quiet Nature
quietnature.ca

By Lisa Thornbury

The kitchen is the heart of the home, but it’s also a major contributor to plastic waste that harms both our environment and our health. Plastics like wraps and ziploc bags often contain harmful chemicals such as BPA and phthalates, which can leach into our food.

These single-use items often end up in landfills, where they persist for centuries, polluting our water, soil and air.

By making simple, sustainable swaps, you can transform your kitchen into a haven of eco-friendly living, protecting your family’s health and reducing your home’s carbon footprint. To get started, look no further than your local shops for eco- friendly alternatives.

Wrap It Up

“Beeswax wraps completely replace [plastic] wrap,” says Laura Newton, founder of The Kind Matter Company in Oakville and Milton. Unlike plastic wrap, which traps moisture inside and produces a slimy texture on food, beeswax wraps mimic the skin of a fruit. “They allow air in, but also allow moisture out,” says Newton.

Beeswax wraps are reusable, compostable and durable. Christine Kempf, co-founder of Mrs. Greenway in Dundas, says that with proper maintenance, beeswax wraps can be reused around 500 times. Beeswax melts when it’s warmed, so it’s advisable to wash in cold water. “You don’t want to wash it in hot water, and never use it on a container of hot chicken,” Kempf says. “It needs to cool down first before covering up.

Litterless Lunch

Ziploc baggies may make packing school snacks easy, but these single- use plastics contribute to environmental waste and possible health risks associated with plastic use. Colibri bags are reusable fabric pouches that make packing litterless lunches easy, as they can be washed and reused. Plus, they have dozens of adorable prints kids love. “As long as you take care of it, it will replace hundreds of boxes of ziploc bags,” says Kempf.

Food Storage

Plastic food storage containers can absorb the flavours, odours and colours of food over time, and may leach harmful chemicals into your food as they break down. Stainless steel containers are a durable, eco-friendly alternative. Although they require a higher initial investment, Newton says they ultimately cost less than having to constantly replace plastic containers. “They’re going to last you a lifetime,” she says.

Stasher bags are another great eco-friendly food storage alternative. Made with 100% food-grade silicone, they come in a variety of sizes, including bowls that open wide enough to eat directly from. These reusable, leakproof and air tight containers keep food fresh longer, can be put in the freezer and even washed in the dishwasher. Plus, they’re incredibly long lasting! “Some of my Stasher bags I’ve had for probably seven years,” says Kempf.

Refills

Refilling dish soap and cleaning solution is a simple and effective way to eliminate plastic containers from your kitchen. You don’t need to invest in fancy glass jars right away, although they do look nice. Both Mrs. Greenway and The Kind Matter Company will refill any container, even your old Palmolive bottle. “The most sustainable thing is the one you already have,” says Newton. “If you have a container that is working properly that happens to be plastic, use it until the last moment, then you can upgrade to a glass or aluminum bottle,” she advises.

Refilling also offers cost savings, as you’re not paying for new bottles, pumps or labels. While the eco-friendly dish soaps offered at The Kind Matter Company and Mrs. Greenway may be more expensive than conventional grocery stores brands, these premium products are more concentrated, meaning you use less each time, and you can rest assured knowing you’re using a quality product. “You’re keeping plastic out of the waste system, but you’re also keeping other chemicals out of the water and it’s better for your own health,” says Kempf.

By making these four simple swaps, you can significantly reduce plastic in your kitchen and contribute to a healthier planet, and a healthier you!

Local Links

The Kind Matter Company
282b Kerr St, Oakville
15 Martin St #6, Milton
thekindmattercompany.com

Liquid Earth
603 Michigan Dr Unit 1, Oakville
theliquidearth.com

Mrs. Greenway
2 King Street West Unit # 3, Dundas
mrsgreenway.ca

Nature’s Emporium
2180 Itabashi Way, Burlington
210 North Service Rd W, Oakville
naturesemporium.com

By Lisa Evans

In today’s eco-conscious culture, the thought of turning a fallen or removed tree from your yard into furniture might cross your mind. Not only does it reduce waste, but it also offers the chance to take on a rewarding DIY project. The result is a unique, sentimental piece that preserves the memories tied to your property for years to come.

While the romantic idea of taking something that has naturally come to an end and giving it new life holds true, the reality of a project like this is rooted in the condition of the tree.

“What looks fine on the outside might not be fine on the inside due to rot, fall fractures, or pests,” says Chris Marshall, Customer Service Manager at Exotic Woods.

“If a tree is removed before it’s completely dead, there is usually something salvageable,” adds Rick Veenstra, Inside Sales at Exotic Woods.

Here’s what woodworking enthusiasts should keep in mind to balance the emotional value and practicality of repurposing a tree into home décor.

Endless possibilities

Tap into your creativity with these out-of-the-box ideas for reusing different parts of a tree: create natural wood wall art using the bark and branches, design a tree trunk vanity with the stump as the base, craft a wood slab headboard, or use branches to make original lighting that adds an earthy vibe to your home. Many traditional options will give your tree a functional purpose.

“A tree can be made into cabinet doorknobs, charcuterie boards, jewellery boxes, or larger items like chairs, dressers, and dining tables,” explains Steve Culumovic, Owner-Operator of Blue Skies Custom Woodwork. “What you can make is only limited by the size and quality of the tree.”

Trust the process

When someone contacts a professional to discuss a piece of wood they’d like transformed, aside from determining the condition, there are several other factors to consider. “The main thing to look for is how dry it appears,” says Umar Ahmed, Owner of Tabulo Furniture. “We always discuss the concept and determine how the piece will look and feel in the customer’s space. Everything else like stains, finishes, and details flows from there.”

“At Exotic Woods, we ask questions regarding plans, budget, and timeline,” explains Marshall. “Our concerns are finding any embedded foreign material like stones or metal that could potentially harm our staff or equipment, and we give an honest answer about what will and won’t work for our clients’ projects. We understand that many of these trees hold deep meaning for people for various reasons.”

When deciding if this is the route for you, “Remember there are always cost and time factors involved,” adds Veenstra. “When done properly, air drying is the most economical, but for every inch of thickness you’re looking at one to one and a half years of drying.”

“A tree can be made into cabinet doorknobs, charcuterie boards, jewellery boxes, or larger items like chairs, dressers, and dining tables.”

STEVE CULUMOVIC,
Blue Skies Custom Woodwork

What’s trending now

The aesthetic of rustic wood in home décor has remained popular throughout 2024, emphasizing the trend of bringing outdoor elements indoors and investing in sustainable craftsmanship.

“We’re increasingly seeing clients tired of live edge tables and wanting pieces that have more character, workmanship, and are like works of art,” says Ahmed. In addition to the well-known trends of using live edge and white oak for custom furniture, Culumovic explains, “I can say I’ve had a lot of furniture repair or repurposing inquiries, which I’m also happy to do!”

Local Links

Blue Skies Custom Woodwork
Burlington
blueskiescustomwoodwork.com

Exotic Woods
Burlington
exotic-woods.com

Tabulo Furniture
Oakville
tabulofurniture.com

Finished Grain Woodworks
Dundas
finishedgrainwoodworks.com

By Nicole Hilton

There’s a saying in retail: When you buy from a small business, an actual person does a little happy dance. When customers make a conscious choice to support the local economy instead of spending internationally, the whole community benefits.

With increasing competition from big box retailers offering mass-produced products, it’s more important than ever to source Canadian-made furniture and home décor options. In recent years, retailers have cited a skills gap, competitive pressure from the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, and the cost of doing business as main challenges surrounding Canadian made goods.

Retailers have a lot of overhead costs, and the common markup for handmade is not as sustainable as it once was. All the more reason to celebrate and support local businesses that remain committed to offering homegrown products.

One-of-a-kind

Joshua Creek Furniture in Oakville has a 10,000 sq ft showroom with Canadian-made furniture for every room in the home, from sofas and sectionals to solid wood bedrooms, dining rooms, custom home offices and much more.

“Shopping Canadian supports local industry and minimizes your ecological impact,” says Joshua Creek’s Samantha Hobbs. “The bonus? Your Canadian made furniture is built to order, with custom choices that perfectly reflect the home you want to live in.”

The company works with local craftsmen known for superior construction and quality materials. Joshua Creek’s wood products feature details such as solid wood drawer boxes, English dovetailed mitre joints and full extension ball bearing glides. All of their leather furniture is made locally, with 100% top grain leather around the whole piece.

The company works with local craftsmen known for superior construction and quality materials. Joshua Creek’s wood products feature details such as solid wood drawer boxes, English dovetailed mitre joints and full extension ball bearing glides. All of their leather furniture is made locally, with 100% top grain leather around the whole piece.

The local advantage ensures superior customer service. “By using local builders, we are able to service any issues that may arise,” says Joe Levine. “Our builders take care of us, ensuring that we can take care of you.”

Cat McCrimmon, owner of Rustic Daisy’s in Waterdown, finds that customers enjoy discovering unique items they can’t find anywhere else. Her store sells exclusively Canadian-made gifts, home décor, and original art.

“The best example in our shop is pottery mugs made by Studio C Ceramics,” McCrimmon says. “Not only does this maker hand throw each mug on a wheel, but she also individually paints them. Every mug is a little different, allowing the customer to select the one that stands out to them the most.”

Quality first

Anderson Interiors in Burlington specializes in interior decorating, custom furniture and reupholstery, and has a showroom where designers showcase their work. Owner Jim Anderson stresses the Canadian-made financial benefit: “With no hidden costs like duty, shipping, or the dollar exchange from other countries added to the price,” he says, “every dollar spent is going into the quality of each piece.”

Canadian suppliers offer quicker lead times, customizable orders, lower shipping costs, less shipping damages, and more stock readily available. “We don’t have to make a pre-made piece work for your space,” Anderson says. “We can customize any piece to your specific room.”

Elizabeth Law, owner of Burlington-based Elizabeth Interiors, Liz at Home, and Liz at the Lake, can vouch for her merchandise because she visits suppliers and sees their work in progress. “We are very fortunate to have strong relationships with leading furniture manufacturers in Canada,” she says. “The advantage is visiting the [workshop] and seeing the quality [firsthand].”

Something to talk about

The key to sourcing Canadian-made products is communication. One way to get educated is simply by asking. Sales associates and store owners can point consumers in the right direction.

“Some items are designed in Canada but made offshore, so chatting with someone knowledgeable about the product will help,” says McCrimmon.

“Asking questions and comparing quality, price, and service to international brands will educate shoppers,” says Anderson.

“People like purchasing Canadian furniture because they like supporting the local economy,” adds Law. “Our clients feel proud to showcase Canadian artisans in their homes.”

According to Hobbs, customers of Joshua Creek Furniture are proud to say that their homes are full of locally made products. “We appreciate their commitment to our small local business,” she says. “When you buy our Canadian made products, you are purchasing quality pieces that your family will love for years to come.”

Local Links:

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

Elizabeth Interiors
3225 Fairview Street, Burlington
elizabethinteriors.com

Joshua Creek Furniture
1029 Speers Road, Oakville
joshuacreekfurniture.com

Liz at Home
3443 Fairview Street, Burlington
elizabethinteriors.com

Penwood Furniture
270 North Service Road West, Oakville
penwoodfurniture.com

Rustic Daisy’s
25 Main Street South, Waterdown
rusticdaisys.ca

The Handmade House
374 Brant Street, Burlington
71 King Street West, Dundas
thehandmadehouseburlington.ca

By Nicole Hilton

Bringing new life to an older piece of furniture gives DIY (do it yourself) thrill-seekers a fulfilling and creative hobby. Whether you’re an avid antique hunter, love to bargain hunt online, or have inherited a family heirloom, restoration is a cost-effective way to personalize and modernize the pieces you’ve collected over the years.

Sometimes it’s hard to see the potential of a piece of furniture under layers of dust, paint, or veneer, but that can be half the fun. No task offers quite as much satisfaction as returning a weathered wooden gem to its former splendour.

“Most solid wood furniture is worth refinishing,” says Umar Ahmed, Owner of Howard’s Second Generation. “Look for things like dovetail drawers, finger joints, solid wood frames, maker’s marks, or unique designs and shapes to know if a piece is worthwhile.”

“Dressers, end tables, and sideboards are always popular pieces to refinish,” explains Rose Khara, Owner of Griffin Vintage Furniture & Gifts. “We find sixty percent of our customers are working on a DIY project and 40 percent are looking for help with professional
furniture painting.”

Take time to prep

Preparation is key to restoring wood furniture yourself. The better you plan your setup, the smoother your project will go. The first step is to ensure you have the right personal protective equipment for the job so you’re working in a safe environment. Next, start your prep by removing the existing hardware, cleaning the piece, and using 220 grit sandpaper to prepare the wood.

“Properly tape off areas that you don’t want to touch and sand thoroughly and evenly,” says Ahmed. “Keep your work area tidy because that can be the difference between a good looking piece of furniture and a stunning piece of furniture!” When you’ve finished sanding, wipe your piece with a cloth before priming and painting or staining.

Enjoy the transformation

As for selecting a paint colour, Ahmed and Khara agree the grey tones that dominated home décor over the past few years are no longer trending. “This year, the most popular dark colours selling in the Fusion Mineral Paint line are Coal Black and Cast Iron,” says Khara. “In the lighter range, Victorian Lace and the warmer tone of Raw Silk are popular. We’ve moved to painting in a satin or pearl finish and away from a high gloss finish.”

If you’re opting for a natural stain, you’re in luck. “The feeling of the wood grain is very popular,” explains Ahmed. “For natural wood finishes, people are choosing zero VOC and natural oils.”

VOC stands for volatile organic compounds – chemicals that are released into the air during application. Zero VOC wood stains help maintain healthy indoor air quality while giving your project the desired finish.

Complete your project with some revamped hardware. You can entirely change the look by spraying handles and knobs a new colour or purchasing new hardware in a different style.

Consider hiring a pro

If you’re not in your element with sandpaper, stains and paints, a professional furniture refinisher in your neighbourhood would be pleased to handle the job. They’ll know what kind of wood you’re dealing with and can offer suggestions or make your own
vision come to life.

Many benefits factor into the wood furniture restoration industry, including the joy it brings to DIY enthusiasts. “I love the interpersonal interaction with clients and working on unique pieces,” says Ahmed. “Every time we show the finished piece, the oohs and aahs, and sometimes hugs and tears, are priceless.”

“I love to discover the history of a vintage piece because every piece of furniture can tell a story,” says Khara. “Focusing on the idea of reduce, reuse, recycle and showing people you can have beautiful furniture and save money at the same time is an important message.”

By Nicole Hilton

LOCAL LINKS

Griffin Vintage Furniture & Gifts,
Ltd 7 Griffin Street, Waterdown
griffinvintage.com

Howard’s Second Generation,
2-1244 Speers Road, Oakville
Howardssecondgeneration

A Perfect Touch
perfecttouchfurniture.com

Kaza Refinishing,
247 Barton Street, Hamilton
kazarefinishing.ca

Mankind has been obsessed with outdoor grilling ever since our ancestors first discovered fire a million years ago. Cooking over wood and charcoal imparts a smoky flavour that is the secret ingredient to so many favourite ethnic dishes. If you’re an adventurous epicurean who loves playing host, you can turn your backyard into a gourmet oasis with specialty ovens and grills that bring to life age-old traditions from around the globe.

A Gateway to Heat

The tandoor oven, a cylindrical vessel made of clay, is an integral part of India’s culinary heritage and the secret behind the smoky tang of your beloved Indian dishes. Cooking food over wood/ charcoal in the belly of a tandoor oven at scorching high temperatures results in fast cooking times.

If you love the interactive experience of fondue parties, you’ll love these ovens that are designed for vertical barbecuing. Picture marinating meats, vegetables and cheeses in yogurt and spices, skewering them on metal rods and inserting them into the vessel vertically.

As the food cooks with the lid closed, the juices spill down onto the charcoal, creating a flavourful, smoky convection-style cooking chamber. And brace yourself – slapping dough on the inner walls of the oven makes fluffy naans with a crispy exterior!

Typically standing waist-high, tandoor ovens are portable and easy to integrate into any patio. There are stainless steel or beautifully handcrafted clay versions carved and painted in intricate geometric patterns and Eastern motifs.

Italians have perfected the fine art of pizza with their iconic brick wood-fired ovens. The tradition dates back centuries, notably in Naples, the birthplace of Napolitano pizza.

The brick construction allows for intense heat as high as 500 degrees Celsius, and the dome shape allows heat to circulate effectively for consistent, even distribution. It makes mouth-watering pizza with an airy, crispy crust in a record-breaking 90 seconds, while adding a hint of smoky delight.

But the magic doesn’t stop at pizzas! Many regions in Italy, like Tuscany and Campania, roast meats in the same ovens, including whole lambs or goats for special celebrations. Even distribution of high heat locks in the juices. Upscale brands like Forno Bravo offer pizza ovens that can be customized with stucco exteriors or decorative tile and mosaics, for a traditional look with a personal touch.

The Social Art of Grilling

In Argentina, asado is not just a grilling method; it’s a social event. The tradition dates back to the early 19th century and has its roots in the gaucho (Argentine cowboy) lifestyle. Gauchos would gather around an open fire, grilling large cuts of meat while sharing stories and songs.

Asado barbecuing is a slow, measured process using a parrilla – a special grill, typically a two-part design featuring an iron grate and a firebox (brasero) by the side to ensure food doesn’t absorb acrid flavours that are produced when wood/charcoal is fired up.

Parrillas often come with a crank that makes the grill easy to raise and lower for quick temperature adjustments, allowing popular dishes like costillas (beef ribs), chorizo sausages and morcilla (blood sausage) to be cooked to perfection.

Since the meat is cooked over an open fire, these grills don’t imbue as much smoke flavour as an enclosed smoker. But guess what? With asado, the meat is never marinated – all you need is a good quality salt. If you’re not ready to go big with free-standing units, a built-in unit can be easily dropped into an outside kitchen island.

For a more interactive social experience, consider a Korean barbecue grill. These tabletop grills, whether built into the table or portable, encourage communal cooking and dining and allow you to cook marinated meats and vegetables right at the table.

Side dishes, known as banchan, like kimchi, pickled radishes, and various sauces, will elevate your grilling experience, making every meal both a feast and a festive event!

By Fiorella Grossi

The season for outdoor leisure has finally arrived, so dust off your cushions. It’s prime patio time! Since the start of the pandemic, homeowners have invested more in their outdoor living spaces to design inviting retreats that cater to their needs.

A patio can become the ideal oasis for relaxing with a good book, socializing with friends and family, or simply connecting with nature while breathing in the fresh summer air. “People are creating tranquility in their own yard,” says Jay Real, Owner of Oakville Home Leisure. “They’re trying to recreate a vacation they’ve been on and experiences they’ve seen and felt elsewhere as an extension of their home.”

“Cabanas, kitchens, dining al fresco, technology with stereo systems and TVs are all things people are investing in,” explains Rose Luxton, Owner of Lakeside Livin’. “Outdoor spaces have evolved a lot.” Regardless of the size of your space, you can easily integrate elements of breezy resort living into a condo balcony or a complete backyard makeover with the following trends.

Colour

Design experts agree this season is all about cool blue hues. Common interpretations of this colour provide all the feelings you want to integrate into a dreamy staycation including calmness, serenity, and refreshment.

“You can incorporate a colour theme throughout your entire space,” says Luxton. “You can infuse it into striped fabrics, outdoor rugs, and pillows. Not only are we seeing a lot of blue this summer but orange, lime green, and other pops of colour too.”

Furniture

Opt for pieces that evoke the comfort and luxury experienced on a beach vacation while creating a personalized look. There’s no need for the various elements to match.

“We’re seeing a movement away from sectionals back to sofas, loveseats, club chairs, and club swivels,” explains Real. “The trend in the industry still includes resin wicker, but it’s swaying more to aluminum and other materials as additional creative design elements are available. Mixing elements by pairing rustic teak tables with wicker dining is very popular.”

Decor

Accessories make memories! Take the opportunity to select pieces representative of your lifestyle from kid-friendly corners to sophisticated spaces for empty nesters.

“Pillows with sayings are always embraced,” says Luxton. “Outdoor metal artwork is a great way to decorate brick walls and fences. People are also veering toward natural tones and woods because you can always mix and match any trend with sustainable outdoor wood foundations.”

Shade

Sun protection is as important on your deck as it is on a tropical vacation. Retractable shades and umbrellas featuring breathable fabrics and UVstable finishes will help keep you cool and safe from harmful rays.

“Shade is at the top end of everyone’s scale of what they’re looking for,” says Real. “In this climate, people are also opting for cantilevers with rolling bases so they can move the umbrella around their backyard and adjust to the changing seasons.”

Must Haves

Ambiance is the hottest trend you can add to your patio space this summer. Luxton’s pick is, “Hanging solar lanterns that have the look of real flames to create that lustre and [cozy] feeling when you are sitting outside.”

Real chooses fire features. “Everybody loves to gather around a fire as it can be used for heat or ambiance,” he says. “Dekko ultra-modern fire pits are absolutely spectacular.”

By Nicole Hilton

If the warmer spring weather has you itching to get your trowel into the garden, you aren’t alone. Beautifying our outdoor spaces is a rite of spring passage. While it may seem like there’s nothing more natural than digging around in the dirt in the springtime, creating a sustainable garden goes further by considering factors such as resource conservation (using water, soil and energy efficiently), biodiversity, natural pest control and minimizing the use of disposable products. 

Sustainable gardening focuses on creating and maintaining a garden that minimizes negative environmental impacts and promotes long-term ecological balance.  

“In nature, a landscape would sustain its existence by adapting to the available resources and the climatic conditions it is exposed to,” says Thomas Classen, Propagation Manager of Hortico Nurseries in Waterdown. For a garden to be considered sustainable, it would not rely on constant human intervention to flourish. 

HOW TO GROW A SUSTAINABLE GARDEN

Plant Native Species

Native plant species have evolved with local pollinators and have genetically adapted to local growing conditions. They’re often easy to care for. Compared to non-native species they require less watering and are more resilient, relying less on humans to protect them and help them thrive. Native plants are better able to endure the stress factors of climate. 

Since sourcing native plants can be difficult, especially for inexperienced gardeners, Oakvillegreen holds a Native Plant Sale every year. They offer a selection of native trees and shrubs and ready-to-plant pollinator kits for sunny and shady gardens.

“Since 2015, our sale has added thousands of native trees, shrubs and plants to Oakville gardens,” says Anelia Tichkova, Programs Manager, Oakvillegreen Conservation Association. This year, the sale includes a Monarch Kit featuring plants supporting the endangered Monarch Butterfly species. 

Some of the species that are native to Halton region include:  

White Oak, an adaptable tree with deep roots and a purple-red leaf.

Northern Spicebush, a bright, cheerful and fast-growing shrub for shady areas that features dense clusters of tiny, pale yellow flowers loved by swallowtail butterflies.

Black Elderberry, a shrub with large, creamy-white flowers that produce dark purple berries loved by birds. 

Grow Pollinator-Friendly Plants 

A sustainable garden attracts and provides food and habitats for various pollinators like bees, butterflies, and birds. “Planting a pollinator garden not only beautifies yards and urban parks, it also fights climate change and increases biodiversity,” says Tichkova. 

Pollinator-friendly plants often require fewer pesticides and fertilizers, promoting a more environmentally friendly gardening approach. Consider planting Black Eyed Susan, bee balm, butterfly milkweed, foxglove beardtongue, spotted bee balm, and pale purple coneflower.

Delay Spring Cleanup 

Fallen leaves and other so-called garden “waste” serve an important function, lowering the soil’s temperature, retaining moisture and providing shelter for native pollinators and insects. “Many conventional gardens are kept ‘tidy’,” says Classen, referring to the practice of removing debris as soon as temperatures hover in the double digits. “Ironically we then often replace this protective layer of leaf litter and other debris with store bought manufactured mulches.”

Participate in “No-Mow May” 

The No Mow May movement encourages people to refrain from mowing lawns at this critical time for hungry bees emerging from hibernation. Nature doesn’t offer them much food in May, so instead of cutting your grass, allow it to grow longer and let the flowers bloom to provide nectar and pollen. 

Besides hindering biodiversity, mowing contributes to air and noise pollution and greenhouse gas emissions from lawn mowers and gas powered machinery such as leaf blowers. Delaying mowing until June can help decrease these environmental impacts and really make a difference. 

 

 

There are few things more welcoming in spring than waking up to sunny skies after a long, dark Canadian winter. But as the sun peeks through your window ever earlier, you’d be forgiven for wishing you had darker shades to catch a few extra ZZZZZs. It’s one of many reasons you may consider updating the window coverings in your home. Snooze strategies aside, the right window covering can refresh a room’s decor, offer privacy and help manage a home’s temperature. 

“Window coverings are instantly noticeable in a room,” says Sarah Love of PM Wyre in Burlington. “Older curtains and blinds can make homes look dated and old-fashioned. New window coverings can modernize a more traditional home or soften the look of a modern home.” 

If you’re in the market to replace those circa 1980s vertical blinds, there are plenty of styles and automation options to match your personal taste. When selecting the right window covering, Love suggests that several factors

should be taken into account, including light control, privacy, room function, desired aesthetic and energy efficiency.

“In rooms with beautiful views and expansive windows, select window coverings that maximize the view while controlling the natural light,” says Love. If it’s for a bathroom, privacy takes precedence and blinds should be made of materials that can handle the room’s extra moisture and heat, advises Love.  

Today’s trends lean toward automated roller shades in lieu of those dated vertical blinds – once the go-to solution for condominiums and patio doors. While there are hundreds of fabrics to choose from, materials made with natural fibres and organic textures, as well as neutral colours are most popular, according to Love. 

Remember those strings and chains to adjust your blinds? Today’s automation does away with them, making today’s window covering easier to use, safer for kids and in tune with your home’s lighting and climate needs. Just about any window covering can be automated, says Love. “We can set them on a schedule based on the sun’s position, and then forget about them. They’re just always in the right position!”

Window coverings are an important investment in your home that can last many years, so relying on a professional for guidance is key. Love finds it best to visit the client’s space in order to determine their needs and the technical aspects of the installation. 

With the return of warm sunny days, now may be an ideal time to revisit your blinds and curtains. The right window coverings are an easy way to refresh your space and help optimize the comfort in your home.