Winnipeg Renters Guide - May 3, 2024

RENTERS GUIDE IS ORGANIZED GEOGRAPHICALLY: NORTHWEST, CENTRAL, NORTHEAST, SOUTHEAST, SOUTHWEST AND SURROUNDING AREA. THE TABS AT THE TOP OF EACH PAGE IDENTIFY THE AREA IN WHICH YOU ARE SEARCHING AND THE TYPE OF ACCOMMODATIONS.

EDITOR/SENIOR MEDIA CONSULTANT

Merlyn Minty

204.782.8692

merlyn.minty@nexthome.ca

MEDIA CONSULTANT

Terry Buhay

terry.buhay@mediaclassified.ca 204.333.7183

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Amanda Pereira

CONTRIBUTORS

Mary Burgers, Sara Duck, Bilha Kangethe, Dawn Peter

MANAGER CUSTOMER SALES & SERVICE

Marilyn Watling

SALES & MARKETING COORDINATOR

Gary Chilvers

DISTRIBUTION distributionteam@nexthome.ca

ACCOUNTING INQUIRIES accountingteam@nexthome.ca

DIRECTOR OF PRINT MEDIA

Lauren Reid-Sachs

GRAPHIC DESIGNER & ASSISTANT MANAGER

Alicesa Pullan

GRAPHIC DESIGNER & PRE-PRESS COORDINATOR

Hannah Yarkony

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Yvonne Poon, Mike Terentiev

Published by

nexthome.ca | mediaclassified.ca

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TOP 10 TIPS TO PREVENT

CAR THEFT

Car theft is on the rise and costs Canadians more than $1 billion annually.

Car thieves are prioritizing easy marks – convenient, low-risk opportunities to steal. By making it inconvenient, you can protect yourself against vehicle theft. Here are 10 simple precautions recommended by Co-operators to help ensure your vehicle is waiting for you when you step outside.

1. Make sure your vehicle isn’t left running unattended, even for just a few minutes.

2. Make sure to lock your vehicle and close the windows.

3. Keep your keys or keyless fob away from doors and windows. If your car has a keyless ignition, use a Faraday bag that blocks the signal from your key fob and prevents it from being hacked

by thieves to gain entry to your vehicle.

4. Use after-market deterrents such as steering-wheel or brake-pedal locks, or alarm systems.

5. Add a vehicle tracking device.

6. Talk to your mechanic about installing an immobilizing device to prevent hotwiring.

7. Park in well-lit, populated areas or in secured garages.

8. Don’t keep personal identification or valuables in your vehicle. Ensure your possessions are stowed out of sight and in your trunk if you are away from home.

9. Before purchasing a vehicle, do some research and request all required documentation from the seller. If a deal feels too good to be true, be sure to listen

to your instincts. Wait to get the verification you need before proceeding.

10. To avoid theft while selling your vehicle, ensure you meet in a safe, well-lit, third-party location such as a busy parking lot or outside your local police precinct. When it’s time to receive payment, do so at a physical bank so you can verify the payment method used.

Find more information about car theft prevention through your insurance advisor or at cooperators.ca. Depending on what vehicle you drive, and what theft prevention steps you take, you might even be able to secure a discount on your premiums.

News Canada

7 WAYS TO PRIORITIZE

Getting older is inevitable, but with age comes enough wisdom to know that your senior years can be the best of your life. Staying mentally sharp, physically fit and emotionally healthy are all important – and self-care is at the centre of it all.

Here are seven simple ways to prioritize health and well-being in your golden years:

GO FOR A WALK

It doesn’t matter how fast or how far you go at first; aim for half an hour at least five days a week.

KEEP YOUR BODY HYDRATED

Dry mouth is a common condition in seniors, and one that may be caused by medications or certain medical disorders. Drink plenty of water, sip broths and soups,

consider a humidifier for your home and remember that both caffeine and alcohol can be dehydrating.

PAY CLOSE ATTENTION TO YOUR NUTRITION

Eat whole foods, make sure you’re getting enough protein, reduce the amount of sugar you consume and try to avoid saturated fats. Enjoy a treat every now and then.

STAY ON TOP OF YOUR HEALTHCARE APPOINTMENTS

See your doctors, dentists and other specialists regularly to help all of you stay on top of your baseline health.

BRUSH YOUR TEETH

Did you know your gums naturally recede over time, exposing areas of the tooth that are not protected by enamel? Consider protecting your gums with a daily toothpaste that fights the bacteria that can cause early gum disease, such as Colgate PerioGardSF, which also helps prevent gum bleeding and inflammation, plaque build-up and even cavities.

BE SOCIAL

Whether it’s visiting friends, playing with grandchildren or travelling, connecting with others may help reduce stress and keep your mental health in check.

TRY SOMETHING NEW

Learning new sports or picking up a new hobby could help you slow down cognitive decline. Learn more about the causes, consequences and risk factors associated with poor gum health at colgate.ca.

News Canada

BUILDING AMENITIES:

• 100% Handicap accessible building

• Pet friendly with a wash station available on the main floor

• Storage lockers available on each floor

• Bike storage and repair area on main floor

• CCTV (Closed Circuit Security System) Video Surveillance of parking areas, exits, entrances and elevator

• Card Access “FOB” entrance to the building

• Elevator Service from underground parkade to fourth floor

• Extensive Sound proofing throughout

• Heated underground and exterior with visitor parking available

5 HIGH DEMAND JOBS IN CANADA

Over the last few years, Canada’s job market witnessed significant changes, presenting numerous opportunities across various sectors. Since the pandemic, more people are working remotely, organizations have adapted and lots of people are seeking new jobs. Fields like health care, transportation and technology offer promising job possibilities for those seeking employment. It’s a great time to start your career.

Here are five in-demand jobs to consider:

TRUCK DRIVER

Transportation is a critical sector in the Canadian economy. Truck drivers are needed in almost every Canadian province and territory to transport goods from coast to coast. There is high demand

for all types of goods transport in Canada, creating various opportunities for those looking to join the industry.

WEB DEVELOPER

The last few years have highlighted the importance of an online presence for every business and company – making a web developer one of the top jobs in Canada today. Web developers create custom websites, applications, and software that allow companies to engage customers with their brand and products.

CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE

With the growth of online stores and e-commerce, more employers are looking for

candidates to work with their online customers. Customer service representatives have a broad scope of opportunity, including finance, technology, retail and more. Customer service representatives are great at connecting with clients, answering questions, resolving issues and maintaining records.

HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER

It’s no surprise that there’s been a significant amount of turnover for various jobs in the country over the last few years. Because of this, the role of human resources managers are now more important than ever. People in this role must sort through many candidates to find the best hires, while also catering to the evolving needs of their employer and current employees. Human resources managers play a vital role in maintaining supportive and respectful workplaces, both online and in-person.

REGISTERED NURSE

The health-care field has been widely known to have faced several challenges over the last few years, making nursing one of the top in-demand jobs in the country. After the pandemic, lots of health facilities have established new and effective processes, extra support for nurses and new incentives – making nursing a great career choice.

News Canada

Welcome to Windsor Luxury Estates – the perfect place to call home in Windsor Park! You’ll love our modern and roomy Bachelor 1, 2, and 3-bedroom apartments, complete with convenient in-suite laundry, private balconies, walk-in closets, premium finishes, and all the comforts to turn your new space into your dream home. At Windsor Luxury Estates, we’re delighted to be a pet-friendly community, because we know your furry friends are family too!

Handicap

• Gym On-site

• Storage Lockers available on each floor

•

• Card Access “FOB” entrance to the building

• Elevator Service from the underground parkade to the top floor

• Indoor and Outdoor parking options

• Extensive Soundproofing throughout

• High-end Finishes

• 16 Different Suite Options

JANE HERMAN

THE BEST REASONS TO RENT

HASSLE-FREE LIVING

When you rent, you’ll never have to call a plumber, electrician or handyman again! Renting frees you from the cost and hassle of all home maintenance and repairs. Empty-nesters can happily shed house-related chores and move closer to entertainment, restaurants and shopping, while young professionals can enjoy a simpler lifestyle and shorter commute.

AFFORDABILITY

By renting, you’ll be able to afford to live in an area that might otherwise be out of your price range. And, unless you’re planning on staying in a house for more than five years, you risk losing money if you buy a home. Mortgages are amortized so you’re paying mostly interest in the first few years. Add in property tax, insurance, maintenance costs and the fees associated with selling the house and five years of renting can be significantly less than owning.

THE REWARDS OF RENTING

Renting gives you the freedom to invest your savings in stocks, mutual funds, a small business,

your education, or a vacation, instead of a home.

LOCK IN UTILITY COSTS

In most cases, you will not have to incur bills when you rent. In many apartments the cost of utilities are included in your rent. Because of fluctuating market prices, utility rates can rise dramatically. As a renter, you will not have to bear these cost increases directly.

CHELSEA PLACE

YOUR AMENITIES INCLUDE

all utilities included

security entrance

24 hr. emergency number

WILL YOUNG CANADIANS EVER BE

ABLE TO RETIRE?

Today’s environment looks tough for younger Canadians. Persistent inflation, higher interest rates and reports of unemployment and underemployment continue to be common. Retirement may feel particularly unachievable for this cohort as workplace pensions become increasingly rare, even for those who are able to find work that is rewarding and fulfilling.

So, how will an entire generation save enough money to retire comfortably?

WORKPLACE PLANS

If you have access to a company plan, how much income will it generate in retirement? A defined benefit plan offers a guaranteed income for the rest of the retiree’s life, depending on length of time you worked at the company. A definedcontribution pension puts more risk on the individual, with the employer matching individual contributions; funds are then invested in the market and the individual controls the level of risk.

TAX-SHELTERED SAVINGS

An important part of retirement income planning is individual savings. Common options include registered retirement savings plans, which defer taxes until after the funds are withdrawn, or tax-free savings accounts, in which after-tax dollars can be invested and grown tax-free.

SAVVY INVESTMENTS

Another possible pillar of your retirement income may involve investing in non-registered methods, like on the stock market without a registered account or in real estate. These can sometimes come with big rewards, but also have risks. It’s up to the individual to decide whether they want to make investment decisions on their own or work with an advisor.

GOVERNMENT PENSION

At the core of your retirement plan is the Canada Pension Plan, which is managed by CPP Investments, a professional investment management

organization that invests contributions not needed to pay current benefits. Contributions to the plan are deducted from your paycheque when you start working full-time.

Currently, the plan is expected to cover about one-quarter of retirement income for the average Canadian. Changes decided on in 2016 will provide younger Canadians with supplemental benefits when they retire.

A recent report by the federal government reveals that it will continue to be sustainable for 75 years, and beyond.

News Canada

Up the ante

by MARY BURGERS

Six dynamic trends to enhance your interior landscape

UNIQUE AND ORGANIC-SHAPED OBJECTS

Unconventional shapes will take centre stage in 2024. Gone are the days of a perfect white porcelain dinner set or a perfectly symmetrical vase. Shapes are fluid, imperfect and natural for 2024. For example, this great organic-shaped mirror.

A NOD TO THE PAST, AUTHENTIC FAMILY HEIRLOOMS

This year, there’s a growing rejection of cookie-cutter interior design. Personalization is key, with vintage, artisanal, and heirloom pieces favoured over mass-produced items. This trend encourages homeowners to infuse their spaces with character and individuality. Sourcing from your history makes it even better, whether it’s an heirloom from a family member, or started by you with a piece curated from a memorable trip that your children will fight over one day. Authentic pieces are not only on trend, they are meant to last.

A COLLECTOR’S MENTALITY TO ART

It has become evident that the recent hype around NFTs (non-fungible token) and digital art has not significantly affected the market for contemporary art. Whether it is a large or small piece, owning meaningful artwork can add a splash of colour and texture to any wall and allow you to engage with it as a collector. Taking the time to visit local art galleries and art crawls is an excellent way to explore the arts, bring perspective, and connect with the creative community. Collecting art is not just for the rich and famous; anyone can start with a willingness and some initiative, whether in the form of canvas or print. Even the smallest of pieces, when specially curated, can have a significant impact on any space.

Photo: Martin Tessler

Photo: Martin Tessler

Photo: Mary Burgers

Burgers’ residence. MIRROR Os & Oos

Fulton residence.

Fulton residence. VINTAGE ARMOIRE, France.

FOR BOOKLOVERS A HOME LIBRARY

Bookshelves are making a natural comeback in 2024, and when they are built-in, it provides a simple, beautiful and authentic design element to any room in your home. Bookshelves maximize the functionality of your home’s square footage and are often a solution to unused spaces such as under the stairs, wide hallways, or closets.

ICONS OF THE DESIGN WORLD

The best way to predict the future is by interpreting what’s happened before and worked. Classics like the Eames lounger, the Carl Hansen wishbone chair, the silhouette of a Noguchi lamp, the playful lights by Ingo Maurer or streamlined ones by Achille Castiglioni, have elevated spaces for decades, and the idea of buying once and buying well is always ahead of the curve. In Canada, there are great resources for sourcing classic icons through vintage shops as well as online sites.

STRIPES

Patterns tend to come and go quickly in interiors and fashion, but stripes have always been a reliable and classic choice. The iconic look has a timeless and luxurious quality that will never go out of style — think of French sailor’s stripes or the umbrellas on a beach in Positano. They can add a subtle touch to a table setting or make a bold statement as wallpaper. Stripes evoke a sense of nostalgia while remaining future-proof, making them a versatile pattern that will always look good, whether it’s today, five years from now, or 15 years into the future.

Mary Burgers is the communications & creative director for West-Vancouver-based Burgers Architecture, an award-winning multi-generational architecture firm specializing in passive house design. She has been a contributing editor and panel participant on talks on sustainable design. burgersarchitecture.com IG: @burgersarchitecture

Photo: Martin Tessler

Photo: Martin Tessler

Photo: Martin Tessler

EAMES LOUNGER, Fulton residence.

Burgers residence. Millwork by LAUTEN WOODWORKING

MOVE ON

by SARA DUCK

Did you know June through August is the most popular time to move? If you’re planning a house move soon, take note of these top tips from Aaron Parker of Parker’s Moving.

TIP 1: PLAN EARLY

It’s essential to begin planning your move as soon as possible, especially if you have a lot of stuff to move or are relocating long-distance. Take some time to prepare a list of all the things that need to be done before your moving day, and make sure you stick to a schedule. This will help prevent last-minute stress and ensure everything is done on time.

TIP 2: DECLUTTER BEFORE PACKING

Before packing, declutter your home and get rid of anything you no longer need or use. Not only will this make packing and unpacking easier, but it will also save you time and money when it comes to moving. Sell or donate items you no longer need or dispose of them if necessary.

TIP 3: LABEL BOXES AND KEEP AN INVENTORY

To make the process as organized as possible, label all your boxes clearly and create an inventory list. This way, you can quickly locate specific items when unpacking, and you’ll have a clear idea of what has already been packed. Keep this list with you and check off items as they are loaded onto the truck and also when everything is unloaded, to ensure nothing gets left behind.

TIP 4: HIRE PROFESSIONAL MOVERS

It’s okay to save money packing and moving your items yourself, but hiring professional movers can be more efficient and less stressful, especially if you have a lot of heavy furniture. Not only do professional movers have the necessary experience and equipment, but they also offer additional services such as insurance, packing, unpacking and storage.

TIP 5: STAY ORGANIZED AND KEEP CALM

Moving can be a busy and chaotic experience, but remaining organized and calm can make all the difference. Try to stay on top of your schedule and tasks, delegate responsibilities to family members or friends if necessary, and take breaks when needed. Remember, a successful move is all about careful planning and proper execution.

INSPIRATION | home decor

Welcome to the gentler side of the colour

spectrum

The power of pastels

by BREN PETRUNICK photos MATT YOUNG

If you have a soft spot for pastels, then you’re among a growing number of people who have recently jumped on this colour trend. A pastel palette can create a sense of serenity and softness, instantly transforming any room into a sanctuary. Let’s explore this gentler side of the colour spectrum and discover how pastels can breathe fresh air into a stale space.

What are pastels?

Pastels, also known as tints, are made by mixing a primary colour with white. You can create a pastel using any colour in the rainbow, with the result being

a softer, less-saturated version of its former self, which is often described as ‘light’ or ‘muted’ — easy on the eyes and soothing to the soul.

From pale pink to barely there blue, gentle green and soft, buttery yellow, pastels bring a serene and airy ambience into any room in the house. By choosing a pastel palette, you invite tranquility into your space, promote relaxation and create a peaceful environment. These tints are also a great option for someone who wants to dip their toes into the colour pool without completely diving in head-first. This subtle nod to colour is a great place to start.

Perfect pairings

While pastel colours have a soothing effect all on their own, these unique hues truly shine when they’re paired with complementary shades. Consider combining pastel blue with soft gray, or blush pink with mint

Be mindful of striking the right balance between pastel and neutral elements to maintain a harmonious esthetic.

green. These harmonious pairings create a cohesive and balanced look that will enhance the visual appeal of your space, as well as your mood while you’re in it!

Add visual interest

When incorporating softer colours into your interiors, it is essential to create focal points that draw attention and add visual interest. It

Play with different textures and materials to add depth and interest to the room.

can be easy to get washed out in a sea of neutrals, so bring the space back into focus by introducing a statement piece, such as an armchair in pale blue or a pastelhued painting on a feature wall. These accents will create a vibrant contrast against basic beige backgrounds, while showcasing the beauty of the softer tones.

Lighting and accessories

Lighting plays a crucial role in accentuating the attraction of pastel colours. Natural light streaming in through sheer curtains enhances the softness and subtlety of these hues, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Additionally, incorporating accessories such as similarly hued throw pillows, rugs, or vases, infuse the space with a pop of colour and tie the room together.

Embracing different styles

Pastels are a versatile bunch, and aside from going well with

avoid:

Don’t cross the line between pastels and more vibrant tones. The saturation of your colour palette should be the same to ensure an overall consistent look.

neutrals, in some cases, they can even be used in place of neutrals. Furthermore, they can be incorporated into a variety of interior design styles, from contemporary to classic, and everything in between. In modern designs, use pastels as accents against a backdrop of crisp white walls and sleek furniture. In Scandinavian interiors, combine pastel hues with light wood and minimalistic decor for a cosy yet airy feel. Vintage-inspired spaces can benefit from pastel antique furniture and delicate accessories.

Discover the potential

Pastels offer many possibilities when decorating. Yes, they can be soft and delicate, but they can also be fun, playful, exciting or dramatic in their varying combinations, and depending on what surrounds them. Colour is one of the easiest and most effective decorating tools at your disposal, and these tips will help you harness the power of pastels, so you can make the most of your living space, and the time you spend there.

Bren Petrunick is the creative founder of award-winning Simply White Interiors. For two decades, the Niagarabased design firm has become sought after for providing stylish and uniquely personal interiors. Servicing Niagara, the GTA, and Ontario. swi.design IG: @simplywhiteinterior

A GREAT PLACE TO GET OUT AND ENJOY LIFE CORYDON AVENUE

Corydon Avenue flows like a lazy river. Braced by black metal archways, it connects Osborne Village and Confusion Corner at its eastern end to just past Stafford Street at its western edge. Wildly popular in the summer, this district pumps in the heart of Crescentwood. It’s a great area to get out and enjoy.

Life on Corydon Avenue is always hopping. Traffic is slow as much because of the people-watchers

cruising past, as for the pedestrians themselves. People like to live on Corydon for the love of Little Italy, for the availability of artsy services and trendy restaurants and for the proximity to downtown.

Corydon Avenue is lit with long strings of lights like a marina or market in Italy. Proudly connected to community and known for pasta or pizza, it is also home to stacks of sushi places, cute boutiques and trendy nail and hair services. Business people make it a standard stop for coffee during the day and skateboarders or motorcyclists ride by after hours.

The crowd on Corydon loves its lattes and gelati, which can be found

on almost every corner. Residents and business people might pay a little more for a high-end treat, but there’s also lots of competition and a great selection of treats and eats for every craving and flavour.

Although Corydon Avenue is adjacent to some main thoroughfares going downtown and to the airport, it is not congested. Driving is popular, but there is a preference for commuters to walk, bus or cycle to work. Visitors and restaurant enthusiasts often stroll down the Avenue on foot faster than motorized vehicles.

Dawn Peter is an author and freelance writer in Manitoba.

The ARC is perfect for anyone looking for convenient, fully furnished private suites / coliving arrangements with state-of-art amenities such as a resort-style gym, large community kitchen, and an assortment of retailers on the main floor.

Whether you are a post-secondary student, a recent graduate, or a young professional, The ARC offers apartments for rent that are perfect for your lifestyle!

•Free

•Great

•Ample

PEMBINA HWY.

Coffee time

by SARA DUCK

Whether your budget is large or lean, craft gourmet coffee creations right in the comfort of your own kitchen with these coffee-shop inspired finds

2 1 . $1,500. mobilia.ca 5 6 4 8 7 3 1 2 3 4 8 7 5 6

1. Elkom wood SIDEBOARD

2. Supreme grind automatic burr mill GRINDER by Cuisinart. $90. williams-sonoma.ca

3. Monogram MUG in white. $17. indigo.ca

4. Starburst cloth NAPKIN by Saro Lifestyle. $44 for set of four. bedbathandbeyond.ca

5. Bambino plus automatic ESPRESSO MACHINE in red velvet cake. $650. breville.com

6. Gooseneck electric KETTLE. $88. bodum.com

7. Stainless-steel condiment SPOON by Natural Living. $5. kitchenstuffplus.com

8. Cup of espresso POSTER. $35. desenio.ca

1. Dedica coffee GRINDER. $250. delonghi.com

2. Suspend marble and brown walnut wood MEDIA CONSOLE $1,999. cb2.ca

3. Gold monogram MUG. $22. williams-sonoma.ca

4. Good morning dive POSTER by Sabina Fenn. From $27. desenio.ca

5. Electric pour-over KETTLE with walnut handle by Fellow. $355. crateandbarrel.ca

6. Mini stainless-steel SPOON in gold. $9. cb2.ca

7. Two-pack cotton NAPKINS with white and stars. $15. hm.com

8. Barista pro ESPRESSO MACHINE with milk frother and grinder in red velvet cake by Breville. $1,199. bestbuy.ca SAVE

of The

Create your own interior masterpiece decor trends | ‘art’ design

by BILHA KANGETHE

Designing interiors is akin to creating art; you’re painting with textures, materials and layers, ensuring that each element seamlessly combines to become a cohesive and inviting masterpiece. Cosy spaces are especially artful, as they embody warmth, comfort and security. In a world that buzzes with motion, it’s heartwarming to know that at the end of the day, your intimate space awaits to provide solace, wrapping around you in a warm hug.

Let’s embark together on this journey to explore how you can design your own cosy interior, the significance of materials, layers and textures, and some notable 2024 trends to inspire you along the way.

Materials ● ● ●

The materials you select will influence the aesthetic, mood and functional properties within a space. Ideally, it’s best to strike a balance between soft fabrics for drapes, cushions, rugs and linens, with

natural materials such as wood and stone. This balance enhances comfort, adds warmth and contributes to the tactile experience of a room. To achieve this balance:

• Incorporate elements such as wood for floors or furniture, stone for fireplaces, and wool in the form of soft rugs for an organic, earthy feel.

• For that plush, cosy sensation, think velvet sofas, cashmere blankets and chenille cushions.

• To create harmony, place a rug underneath furniture or on the floor, add drapery to your windows or on a wall.

Layering ● ● ●

Layering isn’t just for fashion; it adds depth and richness to interiors. It involves strategically placing various elements on top of each other to create interest and balance. When done correctly, the result is a rich, harmonious and cosy space. However, not everything needs to be layered. Some items or areas can stand alone as a focal point, so the room doesn’t feel overly busy. Layering techniques:

• Begin with a neutral base, often the largest items such as a sofa or main rug, and then add layers.

• If you’re layering cushions, combine different sizes, shapes,and fabrics to create visual interest without overwhelming the space.

• Ensure that each layer has a purpose. Whether it’s a throw blanket or a decorative piece, avoid clutter by making sure each item serves a function or enhances the decor.

• Allow breathing room into your design. Every area doesn’t need to be filled or layered. Negative space can provide visual relief and balance.

• Layering is often about trial and error. Don’t be afraid to edit, remove, or rearrange layers until you achieve the desired look and feel.

Textures ● ● ●

Tactile variety stimulates your sense of touch and sight. The following are some ways to add texture to your space:

• Cosy spaces benefit from soft textures, while formal spaces might lean on harder, sleeker materials.

• Pair a plush rug with a sleek leather sofa or a raw wood table with smooth, satin chairs to strike a delightful balance.

• If introducing various textures, they should complement each other. A room with rustic wood beams can still feature a sleek marble table, tied together by a colour palette or stylistic elements.

• A room shouldn’t be overwhelmed by one texture. If you have a large leather sectional sofa, consider varying the look with curtains, cushions and rugs in softer fabrics.

• Textures aren’t just tactile; they’re also visual. A patterned wallpaper can work wonders to break the monotony of a room. However, if using multiple patterns, they shouldn’t clash.

2024 trends ● ● ●

In the grand tapestry of design, materials act as the paint, with layering as the brush strokes and textures

as the final varnish. When infused with love, intent and personal touches, our spaces become more than just rooms; they become stories, each corner narrating tales of warmth, comfort and soulful embraces. The trends of 2024 further emphasize this, encouraging you to merge nature, history, and functionality to craft spaces that aren’t just aesthetically pleasing, but soul-soothing, too.

• Connect with nature indoors using green walls, indoor plants, and maximizing natural light.

• Flexibility is key, with spaces transforming from functional workspaces by day, to cosy reading corners in the evening.

• Mix eras by blending vintage pieces with modern designs for a timeless ambience.

• Sustainable choices such as reclaimed wood or upcycled furniture infuse interiors with character and consciousness.

The end game ● ● ●

You don’t need to overhaul your entire interior to align with trends. Often, subtle incorporations and additions can effectively capture the zeitgeist. Regardless of how you decide to create your interior masterpiece, don’t forget to inject your unique story, memories and personal style into your space.

CREDITS: Living room, coffee table, bedroom and accent chair from The Lifestyle Loft.

Bilha Kangethe is the founder and creative director of The Lifestyle Loft. As a certified designer and interior decorator, she has created a company that focses on the needs of each client and customer and helps them curate a lifestyle that is comfortable and economical. thelifestyleloft.com

TENDERIZE MEAT WITH YOGURT MARINADES

For a low-maintenance meal, this chicken and potato salad recipe uses yogurt as a marinade to tenderize and season the chicken. Dairybased marinades are less acidic than citrus versions, breaking down proteins more slowly for meats that are tender and juicy.

Let your chicken legs marinate while you prepare the fresh herb potato salad using a light, non-fat yogurt made with Canadian dairy. Enjoy this Mediterraneaninspired meal as you soak up the last of the warm weather.

Greek-Style Chicken Legs and Potato Salad

Prep time: 10 minutes

Total time: 1 hr 5 minutes (including marinating)

Serves: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (250 ml)

Great Value Plain 0%

Yogurt

• 1 tsp (5 ml) lemon zest

Directions:

• 2 cloves garlic, grated

• 1/2 (2 ml) tsp salt

• 1/4 (1 ml) tsp pepper

• 1 tsp (5 ml) minced oregano leaves

• 4 chicken legs

• 1 lb (500 g) red baby potatoes

• 2 tbsp (30 ml) minced fresh dill

• 3 green onions, sliced

1. In a large bowl, mix yogurt, lemon, garlic, salt and pepper. Reserve half a cup (125 ml) of the mixture and set aside. Stir oregano into remaining yogurt mixture and add chicken; toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes or up to one day.

2. Add potatoes to a medium saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil. Uncover and cook until potatoes can be easily pierced with a paring knife or fork, about 10 to 12 minutes. Drain and run under cold water until cool. Cut potatoes in half and toss with reserved yogurt sauce, dill and green onions in a medium bowl.

3. Heat barbecue to medium-low. Add chicken and cook 22 to 24 minutes or until cooked through (165F or 70C), turning halfway. Serve with potato salad.

Tip: Don’t have fresh oregano? Substitute for half the dried amount for a similar taste.

Find more great recipes online at walmart.ca/recipes.

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