Organic Gardening News

Design lovers tend to choose gifts the way they create spaces: thoughtfully, and with some risk.

Postmedia asked five of Vancouver’s most design-attuned tastemakers to share the two pieces they would love to give — or receive — this Christmas. The results are personal, full of craft, and have the kind of detail that makes these items feel predestined for someone.

Here are their favourite finds:

Jody Phillips is art collection and experience manager at Naut’sa mawt Event Management

Phillips approaches design with a deep sense of place and community. Her picks aren’t the typical big-name pieces.

“I know my picks aren’t the classic design-world darlings, they’re better!”

Her first recommendation is prints by illustrator Jordanna George , an artist whose work blends identity, fantasy, queerness and Indigenous storytelling. What draws Phillips in is their perspective:

“Their work sits at the intersection of fantasy, identity, and belonging — with an unmistakably hopeful tone,” she says.

Her second pick is deeply tactile: a weaving and floral centrepiece by Aidan of Things From Gardens . Phillips says what moves her most is the designer’s attention to the overlooked.

“She’s the designer who pulls over to examine a plant, photographs a leaf, or forages a branch because of its shape.”

It’s the kind of gift that brings the quiet beauty of the West Coast indoors, says Phillips.

Mary Burgers, creative director at Burgers Architecture

Mary Burgers has a natural instinct for the good things in life — pieces made with intention, the ones you treasure not just because they’re beautiful, but because they celebrate a moment. Burgers’ first pick is the Berti Red Lucite Champagne Sabre from Atkinson’s.

Burgers loves the ritual behind this item, a single artisan in Tuscany forging each blade from start to finish, with their engraved initials.

“Don’t uncork. In one confident, continuous sweep, slide the blade up the seam and off the lip of the bottle as you go and impress guests with your noble flair,” she says.

Her second pick is Sophie Bille Brahe ‘Botticell’ Earrings at BOBOLI, because they’re timeless and unexpectedly fresh.

“Pearls are my hall pass. They’ve saved me from a few consequences by lending an air of elegance, even when I’ve been a little mischievous,” she says.

Kaito Forth, design influencer

No one reads the sculptural qualities of an object quite like Forth. His first gift pick is the Contour Table Lamp by A-N-D Studio , a piece he admires for its simplicity and presence.

“I love its beautifully restrained form,” he says, noting it brings calm to any space.

His second choice is the Andrea Copp Ceramics candle holder.

“The natural form of handmade ceramics adds so much soul to any space,” he says.

Forth says he imagines them lit with tall cream candles, on a dinner table or beside a bath — quiet luxury at its best.

Walker and Jeannie McKinley, McKinley Studios and Gallery McKinley

The McKinleys have a talent for finding pieces that feel both glamorous and grounded. Their first pick is a hand-hammered brass YSL cigarette case, which, these days, doubles as the chicest holiday clutch imaginable.

“One of our favourite things to give is something that is at once beautiful as well as functional,” says Walker.

Their second gift choice is a painting by Jonathan Syme , an artist whose work resonates with them because of its authenticity and craftsmanship.

“We love gifts that are locally produced, entirely unique, have meaningful stories attached, and where the hand of the maker can be seen through the piece,” says Jeannie.

Cristina Belmonte, SBB Collective co-founder

Belmonte has spent decades immersed in the global design community as a luxury-design communications professional. She spots micro-trends before they hit the mainstream and shares them with journalists.

Her first favourite is the European Maps Package from Åvontuura — hand-illustrated architectural guides that turn cities into curated pathways.

“Åvontuura’s guides are pure inspiration,” says Belmonte.

Her second choice is all about mood. The Stala Portable Table Lamp by Hollis + Morris has become her go-to for anyone who loves sculptural light. It’s portable, rechargeable, and instantly transforms a room.

“For lovers of colour and drama, the new Stala Portable Table Lamp by Hollis + Morris is a showstopper,” she says.

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Are you looking for that perfect gift for the gardener in your life?

After knowing so many different gardeners over a long period of time, I can honestly say that they are an amazing group of folks. Generally speaking, they are plant-wise, cost conscious, practical and know what they like. So, it can be a bit of a challenge to find a gift that they would truly appreciate.

Visiting gardens and discovering new gardening ideas, plants and plant combinations usually top the list of activities and interests that gardeners most enjoy. Gifting a gardener season passes to great gardens or a ticket for a garden tour that includes a number of gardens would be a wonderful way for them to experience a fun day. Tickets to flower and garden shows are wonderful options as well. For years, the Northwest Flower and Garden Show in Seattle has been one of the best in North America. In spite of the current American travel issues, this February show will be spectacular.

Many gardening magazines have disappeared over the years, but some good options are still available. Better Homes and Gardens is one. If you check the magazine section of a store that has a good selection, you will find a few gems. In specialty magazine stores and even in grocery and drugstores, you can usually find some excellent British gardening magazines.

Having a controlled environment — where plants can be started earlier in spring and last longer into the fall — is becoming a very important concept being integrated into home gardens. Smaller, attractive greenhouses are a welcome addition for folks wanting to extend their food gardening season. A number of local businesses, like B.C. Greenhouse Builders in Langley, cater to anyone wanting a greenhouse. From planning to construction, they provide professional help to customize the greenhouse that best fits a gardener’s space and growing requirements. Even cold frames, which are ideal for protecting young plants and growing later crops, can be a welcome gift.

Art in the garden has always been a wonderful value-add feature and, today, there are so many opportunities to incorporate some artful touches into a garden. From wrought iron gates, trellises and circular designed sculptured garden scenes, suitable for hanging on walls and fences, to carved wood decor and beautiful cement or resin figurines, unique art pieces will elevate a garden, large or small, and add a personal touch of class and elegance.

Rain chains are attractive alternatives to downspouts and something not found in many gardens. Water trickling over each cup of the chain makes them a uniquely interesting water feature and adds a little touch of whimsy to any garden.

A bird bath is, perhaps, one of the nicest garden features. It should be shallow to accommodate both birds and pollinators that need water on hot summer days. Most garden stores will be low in stock at this time of the year, but getting a gift card for a bird bath that can be selected next spring is a great gift idea.

Small, self-contained water fountains also make an excellent gift — one that is especially appreciated during warm summer weather. The sound of a water fountain is very relaxing and helps to create a sense of peace. Again, there will be a much better selection in spring, so a gift card for one would be best.

Whether a garden is small or large, sometimes a professional redesign can change the whole aspect and energy of a garden. The addition of weather-protected outdoor seating, the sound of flowing water and areas designed for greater privacy are just a few of the features that can turn an outdoor living space into something quite special, even magical. We have many great local landscape architects who create brilliant, inspiring garden designs. Engaging the help of a professional would give your favourite gardener a truly special gift.

Roses still rank high on the list of most-appreciated plants. The new disease-resistant, repeat-blooming, very fragrant varieties are always inspiring and much appreciated gifts. David Austin and Kordes roses are among the best. A gift card for one of the beautiful new roses arriving this spring is something most gardeners would appreciate.

Starting plants from seed is a trend growing exponentially in all demographics. Although it is best to let folks pick out their own favourite varieties, there are some great ancillary gift ideas related to seed propagation. One of the most important is a heating mat. Because of the consistent temperatures it provides, it can make a huge difference in the per cent of successful germination. Seed starting trays, proper seed covers and good seed starting soil mixes are all very helpful for anyone germinating their own seeds.

Pruning is an ongoing process in any garden. I often notice that many gardeners purchase the least expensive types of pruners, but for anyone who does a lot of pruning, quality shears will make all the difference in the ease of cutting and the quality of the cut. There are many great brands. Swiss-made Felco shears are some of the best, and they come in a variety of styles and capacities to handle a range of branch sizes. They also have replaceable parts, such as the blades.

Winter flowering plants, like hellebores, viburnum Pink Dawn, Chinese witch hazels and the rare Prunus mumé, make wonderful lasting gifts that can be enjoyed immediately and then planted out in spring.

I hope this list of suggestions sparks some gift ideas for the gardeners in your life, but when all is said and done, a gift card for their favourite garden store is always a treasured gift. They are often appreciated more than you might image.

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One in five Canadians will be aged 65 or older by the end of this year, according to the Canadian Association of Retired Persons (CARP). In another 20 years, the number of Canadians 85 and older will triple.

And although roughly 80 per cent will have some health or mobility issue (arthritis, diabetes or heart disease), 96 per cent prefer to remain in their own home rather than enter a retirement residence, says Anthony Quinn, president of CARP. Yet just half have made any additions or adjustments to make their homes elder-friendly.

“Too many put off the accessibility changes that would allow them to stay in their own homes, and then it’s too late when they have a fall or a change in their mobility, and their home is no longer a practical place for them to live,” he says. “[By then] the required changes would take too long and cost too much to do all at once. So, all homeowners should think about future-proofing their desire to age at home.”

Making those changes doesn’t mean your comfy, cosy home has to look clinical. Additions can be both helpful and beautiful.

Simple steps

“Everybody’s different, whether it’s a hearing issue, mobility or visual challenges,” says Christine Weber, principal, Kasian Architecture, Interior Design and Planning, which specializes in senior living and wellness design. “Just doing a few, simple things can make a big difference.”

Start by tucking away clutter, securing hanging cords, and removing loose rugs. If you absolutely love that special rug, however, Weber says why not hang it on the wall where you can still admire it without tripping over it. (With carpeting in general, low-pile is easier to traverse, especially with a mobility aid, than a thicker weave.)

Having a stylish, maybe antique, table at the doorway to drop keys or bags frees up hands for balance, and a decorative bench offers a seat while putting on and off shoes.

Hand rails and grab bars near doors, toilet, and shower will help keep you on your feet, but many seniors resist installing grab bars because they’re often unattractive. “Many companies are creating really nice grab bars, Moen and Kohler, for example,” says Weber, with finishes and styles in stainless steel, chrome, bronze and brushed nickel which meld nicely with any decor.

Stair railings, too, are rising to the occasion, with elegant options in wood, stainless steel, and glass (having two, one on each side, offers twice the security). Choose those with a comfortable grip diameter of 1.25 to 1.5 inches, and in contrasting colours from the wall to make them easily visible. Some rails have embedded LED lighting and are often motion-activated.

Even hand held showers come in a variety of attractive finishes to accent your bathroom, and are designed with longer hoses for ease of reach and mobility. Single-handle faucets also guard against scalding. Slip-resistant shower seats or benches designed in neutral but beautiful matte will match just about any tiling.

To minimize standing at a mirror or vanity, it’s handy to have a bench or stool to rest on, says Weber, and styles are limitless. “Companies are also making really nice tilt mirrors, [especially those] that go closer to the floor so you can see further down if you’re sitting.”

Reduced hand strength or arthritis can make even twisting a door knob a pain. “Lever handles are far easier to use and they can be installed in minutes and are often eligible for home accessibility tax credits,” says Quinn.

For those with hearing issues, Weber says, “There are acoustic wallpapers that are a bit thicker for deadening echo noises that make it difficult for people to hear.”

Light the way

Motion-activated nightlights might be the best $20 you’ll ever spend, says Quinn. Weber likes the kind that sit about 18 inches above the floor. “And a warm amber light helps with circadian rhythms so if you get up in the night you don’t wake up completely. There’s a product called SnapPower GuideLight which has a little LED at the bottom of the outlet plate that comes on when it’s dark.”

She also likes motion-activated bed lights that come on when you step out of bed that light your way across the room but aren’t so bright they disturb others.

“As we age, our eyes need more light to see clearly, especially in the evening,” says Quinn. “Bright, glare-free lighting in hallways, staircases, bathrooms, and entryways can drastically reduce the risk of falls. The key is to create soft, continuous light that guides you from one room to the next without casting harsh shadows.”

Weber says choosing lighting with a 60 per cent or more spread will create even floor lighting. “A 30 per cent spread creates a circle on the floor which looks like a hill when you’re trying walk through the space.” She says 2700 to 3000 on the Kelvin scale creates a nice warm glow.

Major changes

Installing a walk-in or curbless shower, adding a ramp inside or out, widening doorways and hallways to accommodate mobility aids are easier done ahead of time, but can still be retrofitted any time.

“There’s an aversion to stair lifts that I’ve heard from many seniors,” says Quinn. Still, Weber notes the cost has come down because so many people are installing them. “My parents have an Acorn stair lift that’s beige, which doesn’t stand out too much.”

She says Danish company Pressalit specializes in height-adjustable countertops, cabinets, stoves, and sinks for the kitchen, and electric toilet lifters, adjustable counters and sinks for the bathroom. “The sink mounts to the bathroom wall, has a push button at the front and a handle you can hold onto. The whole sink moves up and down based on your needs.”

Pullout pantries and pull-down shelving also offer ease of access, a job most cabinetmakers can do.

Some people with visual challenges find different hues and textures help them know when they’re crossing from one room to another, such as going from tiled kitchen to a carpeted hallway and into a wood-floored living room (eliminating or reducing thresholds can prevent tripping). Weber suggests choosing similar colours because, “Patterned flooring that has very dark spots and very light spots can look like holes and hills which can decrease confidence for someone trying to navigate that space.”

She says adding a baseboard that’s a darker hue from your carpet or floor helps delineate the floor and the wall. Glare can be an issue for older people and those with vision challenges, so she recommends avoiding shiny finishes for floors and countertops.

Even furniture for the older frame can be functional and chic. “There are a lot of new lift-assist recliners with beautiful Scandinavian design,” says Weber. “There are also custom sofa companies that can build to a senior’s living standard, so the seat is a little higher, and they can make the foam firmer.”

Smart homes

Seniors are getting more comfortable with tech in their lives, especially tech that makes their lives easier. Video doorbells that integrate into existing doorbells enable homeowners to see who’s at the door. Google Nest and Amazon Smart Thermostats adjust temperature by voice or cellphone. Virtual assistants like Amazon’s Echo or Google Home lock and unlock doors, turn lights on and off, close blinds, and view camera feeds. Fire prevention devices for the stove automatically shut off if it’s unattended for a certain period. Home monitoring systems help caregivers and family check on their elder relatives.

Fall detection devices have been around for a few years, but Patricia Debergue, director of the Aging in Place Challenge Program at the National Research Council of Canada (NRC), says innovators are taking that a step further.

Debergue says that new devices in development can “detect changes in your mobility, so [rather than] wait for a fall to happen they can see the evolution in changes in behaviour that could be a predictor of a fall and warn caregivers or the people themselves, and advise them to get assessed.”

She says the NRC is supporting research and development into these technologies, which are co-designed with the older adults and caregivers, and will soon be tested in a real-world setting.

Knowing about emerging technologies and even financial supports to be able to adopt them is key, says Quinn. “CARP has been pushing for stronger and more flexible supports to help Canadians make their homes safer as they age,” he says. “The federal Home Accessibility Tax Credit is a good foundation, but it hasn’t kept up with the real cost of renovations. We’re advocating for an expansion to include a wider range of safety and accessibility upgrades, and for provincial governments to create complementary programs or grants. The idea is to make it easy and affordable to plan for aging in place before there’s a crisis, not after. Think beyond just safety; think about comfort, convenience, and connection. Preparing your home early is part of planning for a good life in later years.”

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Weekly roundup of three properties that recently sold in Metro Vancouver.

1157 Skana Dr., Tsawwassen

Type: Three-bedroom, three-bathroom detached

Size: 2,448 square feet

B.C. Assessment: $1,625,000

Listed for: $1,649,000

Sold for: $1,610,000

Sold on: Sept. 26

Days on market in this listing: 39

Listing agent: Aileen Noguer PREC at ReMax Westcoast

Buyers agent: Shauna Ocean at Oakwyn Realty

The big sell: This roomy rancher affords an abundance of one-level living with almost 2,500 square feet of interior space that spans three bedrooms and three bathrooms, as well as receiving a modern facelift. Built in 1978 and renovated in 2020, the home offers an updated roof and insulation, vinyl windows, new front doors, hardwood flooring in the formal living/dining room and engineered wood floors throughout the remainder of the home, an expansive (24-foot long) family room with french doors leading out to the patio, a freshly-completed contemporary kitchen with quartz counters and a six-burner gas range among other stainless-steel appliances, an informal eating area with garden access, and a primary ensuited bedroom where a third set of french doors also open to the backyard. That garden enjoys both south and western exposure, a vegetable garden with raised beds, and a 9,608-square-foot lot.

202 — 1128 Kensal Pl., Coquitlam

Type: One-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment

Size: 711 square feet

B.C. Assessment: $592,000

Listed for: $598,000

Sold for: $585,000

Sold on: Sept. 14

Days on market in this listing: 42

Listing agent: Erin Aldrich-Rae at ReMax All Points Realty

Buyers agent: Rod Bahari PREC at Sutton Group — West Coast Realty

The big sell: This one-bedroom condo was constructed in 2013 as part of Celadon House, a four-level apartment building that forms part of Polygon’s master-planned community at Windsor Gate. Set in a park-like environment and located close to the urban conveniences at Coquitlam Town Centre, the development was inspired by the architectural style of Frank Lloyd Wright with geometric design accents and expansive windows to bring the outside in. Also on offer to residents is the Nakoma Club with resort-style amenities including a fitness centre and swimming pool. This particular home offers eight-foot-high ceilings, a kitchen with white gloss cabinets and sleek quartz countertops, matching counters in the ensuite bathroom alongside an oversized walk-in shower, and a balcony. It comes with a parking stall, storage locker, and a monthly maintenance fee of $297.35.

101 — 5325 West Blvd., Vancouver

Type: Zero-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment

Size: 514 square feet

B.C. Assessment: $567,000

Listed for: $589,888

Sold for: $565,000

Sold on: Oct. 17

Days on market in this listing: 15

Listing agent: Matthew Lee PREC at Macdonald Platinum Marketing

Buyers agent: Adam Chahl PREC at Oakwyn Realty

The big sell: Boulevard is a four-storey complex with retail on the ground level that was built in 2017 at the corner of West 37th Avenue and West Boulevard in Vancouver’s Kerrisdale neighbourhood. This studio is positioned at the rear of the building with lofty 10-foot-high ceilings and a generous-sized layout with 514 square feet of living space in a linear design coupled with a private 125-square-foot patio. The open-concept interior has an insuite laundry/storage room, a four-piece bathroom, and a large closet off the entrance foyer, full-sized Fisher & Paykel stainless-steel appliances, flat-panel cabinets and a mosaic tile backsplash in the kitchen, and a living/bedroom that could host a number of furniture configurations. Of interest is that the unit comes with two parking stalls and three storage units providing plenty of additional space to store items. The home’s monthly maintenance fee is $286.94, and the strata permits pets and rentals.

These transactions were compiled by Nicola Way of BestHomesBC.com.

Realtors — send your recent sales to nicola@besthomesbc.com

Learn more about the latest mortgage rates and explore our guide to Canada’s lowest national insured and uninsured mortgage rates, updated daily. Related

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Reviews and recommendations are unbiased and products are independently selected. Postmedia may earn an affiliate commission from purchases made through links on this page.

Setting your dining table for Christmas should feel joyous, not burdensome, but sometimes it’s hard to know where to start.

Enter Vancouver designers Tanja Breadner and Lauren Bugliarisi of Vancouver design firm Marrimor , with their top tips on making your dining table the centre of fun for holiday festivities, without fuss.

Start with what you already love

When it comes to planning, both designers begin by grounding the table in personal pieces with meaning.

“Our jumping off point is to look at what we have, and what we did last year and build upon it. For example, Tanja has a stunning collection of vintage glassware, so when she plans a dinner party she’ll start by looking at visuals that feature vintage glassware to build a concept,” says Bugliarisi.

These heirloom details are what make a table feel like Christmas rather than just another dinner party.

“What takes decor from ‘nice’ to ‘magic’ is adding in pieces that have personal meaning. Take Grandma’s ornament collection off of the tree for the evening and sprinkle them across your table setting,” says Breadner.

Once you’ve established the personal touches you want to use, you can then fill in the gaps with a few new finds.

“This makes everything feel fresh but still familiar for your guests,” says Bugliarisi.

Avoid the biggest mistake: not planning

Holiday decorating has a way of escalating quickly. The biggest misstep the designers see is starting without a plan.

“We are big believers in spending an hour looking at visuals on Pinterest, laying out the decor you already have on hand, and really committing to a theme before you start,” says Breadner.

From there, they get organized.

“After that, we make a list (checking it twice) before we shop, so we know exactly what we are looking for,” she says.

Think about your guests and your menu

A beautiful table is one thing; a functional table is another. Who’s sitting down and what you’re serving will influence everything from materials to spacing, says the pair.

“If you’re foregoing a dedicated kids’ table this year, you want the entire tablescape to be nonbreakable. If there are elderly guests, it might not be the time to crack out the beautiful but not at all ergonomic flatware,” says Breadner.

The menu matters too.

What you plan to serve is an important part of the planning journey. You have to consider how much space you have for each place setting, for dishes on the table and decor, says Bugliarisi.

Organic glamour: this year’s look

This season, Marrimor is gravitating toward luxurious textures paired with natural elements.

“This year we are really interested in exploring the glamorous side of the organic,” says Bugliarisi.

“We love mixing a linen tablecloth with magnolia branches, while integrating velvet ornaments, bejewelled fruits and pearl-studded napkin rings,” she says.

And colour has taken a moodier turn.

“We are preferring deeper tones of red and more natural greens to the more traditional and saturated tones we typically associate with Christmas,” says Breadner.

A glimpse inside their own homes

Despite very different gatherings ahead — Bugliarisi is hosting a big group, and Breadner is planning an intimate dinner party — their strategies mirror each other.

“We are both going to use a mix of vintage pieces along with some new items,” says Bugliarisi.

Breadner in the form of glassware, and Bugliarisi, as plates. They both have a little treat for their guests on their plates. Breadner is giving everyone a hot chocolate spoon, and Bugliarisi, a game in the form of Christmas crackers.

Their go-to picks this season

Breadner and Bugliarisi love mixing timeless pieces with a few standout details.

“We love these Aperitif Glasses from Crate and Barrel for those who don’t have a vintage glassware collection like Tanja,” says Bugliarisi.

Fresh florals are still their first love, but they’ve found long-lasting alternatives.

“For both sustainability and longevity, we love these blooming magnolia branches and red amaranthus stems for decor options that last for years to come,” says Breadner.

Ornaments shouldn’t be confined to the tree.

“ The Cross has Vancouver’s best selection of ornaments in our opinion, including this lemon that we are loving this year,” says Bugliarisi.

For flatware, they keep it classic.

“ Pottery Barn is one of our favourite stores. We are using the Emma set this year,” says Breadner.

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Emily and Jesse Konzelman will never forget the day they received the keys to their new Habitat for Humanity -built home in Castlegar. It was a day filled with happiness, laughter and a few tears of joy.

“I never thought home ownership was ever going to happen for us,” says Emily Konzelman, a mother of two young children. “It was a miracle and a blessing. We were living in subsidized housing, in a home that was way too small for our family.”

The family was encouraged to apply after a friend had been accepted into Habitat’s program.

“When I was pregnant with our second child, we applied,” says Emily. “We were thrilled when we were accepted in 2023.”

In October 2023, Jesse and Emily Konzelman, along with their then three-year-old daughter Renley, joined Habitat for Humanity Southeast BC board chair Neil Coburn for a “symbolic key ceremony.”

“It was an emotional day … We would not be where we are if it weren’t for Habitat,” says Emily Konzelman. “We love our three-bedroom townhome, which is in a nice neighbourhood, which is only a five-minute walk to the grocery store, close to the park and not far from an elementary school.”

There are still misconceptions that Habitat for Humanity gives away free homes.

That is not the case, says Carmen Rempel, CEO, Habitat for Humanity Victoria. First off, families must qualify for the home ownership program by demonstrating a real need for adequate and affordable housing, the ability to pay a mortgage and the willingness to volunteer for 500 hours in lieu of a down payment, which can include time to the build, the ReStore or other Habitat projects.

“We volunteered 300 hours, and my mom and grandfather volunteered 200 hours for us at the ReStore,” says Emily Konzelman.

Rempel explains that anyone can assist a family to complete their volunteer hours.

“We had a single mom who organized a big blitz,” says Rempel. “She co-ordinated 25 family, friends and co-workers, all of whom showed up for her in various ways to complete her 500 hours.”

Meanwhile, Rempel cannot underscore the positive impact on families’ overall health when they become homeowners.

“The impact is extraordinary and multi-faceted,” says Rempel, adding right now the non-profit is building a 13-unit multiplex project in Saanich, B.C. “There is really good research and data which specifically focuses on families, and how home ownership can boost physical and mental health. When people can stabilize their lives by owning a home, everyone, including the community, thrives.”

So, how does home ownership happen through Habitat for Humanity?

Habitat for Humanity is a global non-profit housing organization working in approximately 70 countries. In Canada, and throughout the world, Habitat’s model differs. In Canada, the process begins with prospective families completing an application that includes reference checks and a confirmation of employment.

Habitat Victoria builds and sells homes to families at a low price point, made possible through generous donations.

“The family gets a traditional mortgage from Vancity for as much as they can qualify for,” says Rempel. “Then, Habitat lends the rest of the mortgage at zero per cent.”

Rempel went on to say: “Because we are also the lenders, we can ensure their mortgage payment never exceeds 30 per cent of their gross household income. We conduct an annual review with the families, and if need be, we adjust their mortgage payments based on their annual income to ensure their home remains affordable and they have security for perpetuity.”

If they choose to move before the mortgages are up, the family can sell, but they must notify Habitat and get the home appraised. Habitat has first option to purchase the home back from the family at the appraised value. But if they stay and complete the mortgage agreement with Habitat, the home is fully theirs.

According to the 2024 Statistics Canada survey , 45 per cent of Canadians reported being very concerned about safe, affordable housing because of the rising costs of housing or rent. In 2024, Habitat for Humanity Canada , assisted 222 families to become homeowners.

The Annual Habitat for Humanity Victoria Gingerbread Showcase brings together local community members in support of affordable home ownership. Held at the Hotel Grand Pacific, it is Habitat Victoria’s premier annual fundraiser.  Visitors can enjoy the wonderfully imaginative gingerbread houses daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. until Jan. 4, 2026.

“This is one of those events that fill you with joy,” says Rempel. “Every gingerbread creation tells a story, and when you visit, vote, and donate, you are helping write a much bigger one about building homes and hope right here in our community.”

For more information about Habitat for Humanity, or to donate, apply to the program or for volunteer opportunities, visit habitat.org .

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Long before he became a realtor, Ryan Sidhu used to walk by a particular house in his South Surrey neighbourhood, stop and admire it. He never imagined he would one day be representing the sumptuous home for sale.

“It’s stunning,” he says. “The sellers are meticulous; they maintain the landscaping and the interior to the nines. I haven’t seen something of that quality and that beautifully layered in a long time The entire exterior is stone,” from the facade to the patios to the paving to the hot tub and rock waterfall cascading into a stone-cloaked pool.

He says the owners situated the pool off the primary bedroom so they could nip out through the double French doors for a quick dip.

Sidhu is particularly struck by the gated mansion’s backyard. “I’ve been going to L.A. a lot recently and one of my favourite places is the Polo Lounge at the Beverly Hills Hotel. This house has that feel, the way the bricks are laid and the way that the awning comes out to cover the patio. It feels like you’re sitting poolside at the Beverly Hills Hotel.”

He says the one-acre property abuts a green belt with a creek that runs below. A sitting area with fire pit, picnic table and gazebo sheltering a barbecue are primed for outdoor entertaining. Mature trees, hedges and flowering shrubbery ensure peace and privacy.

On the inside

The rock theme continues inside the 8,169-sq.-ft. estate, including to the unique stone fireplace, which stretches to the ceiling. “The owners had a vacation home in the Okanagan and loved the stones along the lake shore,” says Sidhu. “They got permission to hire a company to take out stones by hand from the bottom of the lake. So it’s natural B.C. lake stone — not something you see every day.”

To add warmth — while maintaining the stone theme in touches of travertine — the owners outfitted the interior with wood, lots of wood, including fir, mahogany and cedar spanning floors, walls, ceilings and cabinetry. “They said the woodwork took a few years to complete,” says Sidhu. “The barrel-vaulted ceiling in the great room was all done on site. It’s really beautifully finished.”

A secret safety/panic room hides behind the large, wood-panelled walls of the den/office.

The gourmet kitchen features granite countertops, a refrigerator by Sub-Zero, and a six-burner cooktop/stove from professional-grade manufacturer Dacor. A separate prep kitchen has outdoor access for easy entertaining.

The primary bathroom has stained-glass windows, Kohler fixtures, a free-standing soaker tub, a jet tub by Ultra, and steam room by ThermaSol. The curved glass shower has a separate steam shower that you can walk out of and into a regular shower. There’s another steam room in the basement, as well as a sauna by Homecraft.

The owners hired a local artist to paint a mural of a ceramic pot with ivy winding up the wall along the main floor hallway. “There was a picture that really resonated with our client, so she asked the artist to replicate it on the wall,” says Sidhu. There’s a similar mural on the wall of the temperature- and humidity-controlled, brick-accented wine cellar with stone-mosaic floor.

A bar, media room, gym, and guest bedroom complete the lower level.

A detached guest suite/coach home with a bedroom, open-concept kitchenette, seating area and a bathroom sits atop the oversized triple garage. “They have a really large family, as well as a lot of grandkids to come, and they wanted their guests to have a private space,” says Sidhu.

Overall, he says of the house that stopped him in his tracks years ago, “With the details and landscaping and the amount of care that’s gone into maintaining the property, it’s probably one of the best conditioned homes I have seen at its age.”

In the neighbourhood

Numerous schools and a wide variety of recreational activities, many within walking distance, make up South Surrey’s prestigious Elgin Chantrell community. Crescent Beach is a six-minute drive away, and the Nicomekl River is 11 minutes. The neighbourhood’s namesake, Chantrell Creek, runs all the way to the river and its riverfront park. There are many more parks, as well as the Nico-Wynd Golf Course, nearby. There are also a variety of restaurants and shops along King George Hwy.

History buffs will be interested to know of several historic markers nearby, including for the Semiahmoo Trail, used as early as 1858 by American miners trying to skirt official licensing costs and head tax during the Gold Rush, according to the City of Surrey. In 1872, the B.C. government widened the trail to accommodate wagons, making it the main road connecting Canada and the U.S. The trail today is mostly unpaved and preserved as a natural green space.

Location : 3122 136th Street, South Surrey

Listed for: $6,488,888

Year built: 2001

Type: Five bedrooms, seven bathrooms

Size: 8,169 sq. ft.

Realtor: Listed by Ryan Sidhu, Macdonald Realty, Surrey

For more detailed mortgage information, explore our guide to Canada’s lowest national insured and uninsured mortgage rates, updated daily. Related

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Creating a beautiful space usually requires a statement piece, a focal point that sets the tone for the room’s interior design and reflects the personality and style of those who call it home.

A statement piece immediately draws attention and stands out from the other decor in the room, says Tanya Ali, founder and creative director at Tali + Roche Designs .

“It can take many forms, such as a piece of furniture, artwork, a decorative item, or even the arrangement of furniture,” she says, adding the standout piece should introduce an unexpected or thoughtful element into the space.

Art is one of the most popular choices to add a statement piece into a room. “One of my favourite artists is Lisa Ochowycz ,” says Ali, adding that in her own home she likes to keep everything monochromatic, play with textures and then introduce colour through artwork or decorative pillows.

While statement pieces are sometimes custom and expensive, Ali believes there are cost-effective ways to add a focal point.

Look for work by local or emerging artists through events such as Vancouver’s Eastside Culture Crawl or consider renting art, she suggests.

“Finding statement pieces through thrift stores, second-hand shops or DIY projects can also be an economical way to [find] them. Ultimately it should reflect the homeowner’s personality and style, rather than following trends,” she says.

Interior designer Stephanie Hilton, owner of Stephanie Hilton Design , believes statement pieces should complement the overall design rather than conflict with it, using elements like scale, colour and materials to create an impactful but cohesive look.

“If you have a transitional home adding something that’s not aligned with the rest of the design — something farmhouse or very traditional — wouldn’t make sense. Instead of walking into a space saying, ‘that’s really cool or unique,’ you’re puzzled, it makes everything look disconnected. It has to make sense in the space, complement it, but stand out at the same time,” she says.

Scale is one of the most important aspects to consider when deciding on a statement piece and choosing the right scale is especially important in smaller spaces like condos, adds Hilton, who cautions that while people are often aware of buying something too large for space, buying something too small will look like an afterthought and give the room an unfinished look.

When considering scale, don’t only think about the size of the room, also think about the pieces that are in it, she says.

“If you have a living room with condo size furniture you don’t want something that’s overbearing in the room.”

Colour is one of the ways to make a statement in a room. Hilton is currently completing a project for colour-loving residents who have opted for a custom yellow velvet couch and burnt orange ottomans.

“It’s fun because not many people like to get into that kind of colour,” says Hilton.

In a more neutral space a furniture item like a mid-century sideboard or a light fixture will make a statement, she adds.

“There are also lots of vintage and statement lighting pieces [available]. Mid-century is always going to be a classic; it is one of those exceptions that you can put into any design. My house is very neutral and I have a beautiful walnut mid-century record player that doesn’t go with anything. It’s a statement piece, right? Number one, it’s a record player and secondly, it’s different than all my other wood tones, but it stands out and it’s very unique,” says Hilton.

“Feature wall plaster and natural finishes are huge right now, and sometimes those alone serve as artwork. I recently completed a project where we did a Venetian plaster fireplace with custom lighting that was plastered to match and lime wash in the bedroom. There’s nothing on the walls because [the finish on the walls] is the art,” she says.

Nicole Begrand-Fast, principal at Begrand Fast Design Inc. in Kelowna, works on many interior designs where the most eye-catching aspect is a lake view.

When working with a view, such as a lake, the view itself can be the primary statement and the interior design should complement and not compete with it, says Begrand-Fast who recently designed the interiors in Stober Group’s Movala mixed-use development in Kelowna’s South Pandosy neighbourhood where many of the condos and penthouses have lake views.

“A great view is definitely a statement that no one gets tired of. Going into a space, whether it’s huge or smaller, assessing the views and the natural light, the layout of furnishings, what you’re seeing when you’re standing in the kitchen, what you’re seeing when you’re seated in the living room, all need to be considered. We also compete with focal points such as fireplaces and televisions that [to be functional] also need to be seen. But to me, having those beautiful views, that is the art,” she says.

Some ways to make the most of the view plus see the TV or enjoy a focal point like a fireplace, is to include swivel chairs in the space.

“You can enjoy the view during the daytime, but in the evening when it’s dark then you can turn and view a television or a fireplace so having that flexibility lets you interact with the view and the indoors, depending on the time of day,” says Begrand-Fast.

She adds that elements from the view, be it a lake, mountain or forest view, are great inspiration to pull into a statement piece.

“So, any of the tones and colours in the views that you’re seeing out there could become great statement pieces and have flow and consistency because that’s what you’re looking at,” she explains, adding she always suggests toning down the colours.

“You wouldn’t literally take the same blue from a lake — really look at the tones and the colours of the lake, they can be quite moody with greyish or greenish blues.”

Another way to add a statement piece is through texture. At Movala, Begrand-Fast covered an interior wall with ribbed natural oak to make a statement in the bedroom.

Ali also believes texture in a fibre or a finish can be the star of room.

“It could be a very textural aspect like velvet or introducing different fabrics into the mix to create a statement,” she says suggesting rich and earthy tones will draw attention.

“It could also be an heirloom or a piece of art you have purchased or inherited — it could be a coffee table with a shagreen finish. At its core that’s what a statement piece is; something a bit unexpected,” says Ali.

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Weekly roundup of three properties that recently sold in Metro Vancouver.

21247 94B Ave., Langley

Type: Four-bedroom, three-bathroom detached

Size: 2,068 square feet

B.C. Assessment: $1,260,000

Listed for: $1,250,000

Sold for: $1,223,500

Sold on: Sept. 30

Days on market in this listing: Five

Listing agent: Adam Chahl PREC at Oakwyn Realty

Buyers agent: Michelle Chung PREC at Sutton Group — 1st West Realty

The big sell: Langley’s Walnut Grove is the location for this four-bedroom detached home that sits on a 5,380-square-foot lot near Dorothy Peacock Elementary, West Langley Elementary and Walnut Grove Secondary schools. Other amenities are also nearby including Walnut Grove Community Centre, shopping, parks, transit, and access to highways. The updated home was built in the mid 1980s with three family bedrooms on the upper level adjacent to the principal reception rooms, and a useful renovated one-bedroom suite on the ground floor that could be used as a mortgage helper or in-law suite. On the exterior, a low-maintenance durable 50-year metal roof has been installed, a deck provides a view across the fully-fenced rear garden, and a generous driveway offers parking for up to five vehicles. The property was snapped up with an accepted offer coming after just five days.

502 — 1200 West Georgia St., Vancouver

Type: One-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment

Size: 689 square feet

B.C. Assessment: $721,000

Listed for: $679,800

Sold for: $620,000

Sold on: Sept. 10

Days on market in this listing: 33

Listing agent: Ali Eshghi at Virani Real Estate Advisors

Buyers agent: Pete Shpak PREC and Lee Bryant PREC at Oakwyn Realty

The big sell: The award-winning Residences on Georgia development features two condominium towers coupled with a base of townhouses that were built by Westbank in 1996 in collaboration with James K.M. Cheng Architects. Apart from the convenience of a position in the heart of downtown, there is an on-site fitness centre, a courtyard garden, concierge services, and underground parking (this unit comes with one parking stall). The 5th-floor suite has views across the garden, and features one bedroom plus a large windowed den that listing agent Ali Eshghi states could be used as a second bedroom. At almost 700 square feet, the home can offer sizable rooms including an 18-foot-long living room, as well as a dining area and insuite laundry. Also on hand is a dedicated storage locker, a strata that accepts pets and rentals (with restrictions), and a monthly maintenance fee of $517.80.

4459 West 5th Ave., Vancouver

Type: Four-bedroom, four-bathroom detached

Size: 2,297 square feet

B.C. Assessment: $3,554,000

Listed for: $3,188,000

Sold for: $3,208,000

Sold on: Aug. 17

Days on market in this listing: 17

Listing agent: Mario Felicella PREC at Sutton Group — West Coast Realty

Buyers agent: Bob Bracken at ReMax Real Estate Services

The big sell: Buyers’ agent Bob Bracken reports that this custom-built Point Grey family home sold back in August with multiple offers that pushed the final sale figure over the listing price. What appealed to prospective purchasers was a prime position in the centre of Point Grey coupled with tantalizing vistas that offer both city and water viewpoints. The house was built in 2007 with an open-plan main floor that combines a living/dining area with a gourmet kitchen and a spacious family room with access to the landscaped garden. The upper level has three bedrooms including the primary bedroom that boasts a large ensuite bathroom and private deck. A lower level has a fourth bedroom and additional space that could be expanded. The icing on the cake, however, is a top-floor recreation room that walks out to a rooftop deck complete with mouth-watering views.

These transactions were compiled by Nicola Way of BestHomesBC.com.

Realtors — send your recent sales to nicola@besthomesbc.com

Learn more about the latest mortgage rates and explore our guide to Canada’s lowest national insured and uninsured mortgage rates, updated daily. Related

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Not too long ago, Squamish was mostly known as a pit stop on the way to Whistler. Today, it’s a place where designers, architects, artists, builders and makers have put down roots and are creating work that feels unmistakably shaped by the Sea to Sky landscape.

Some of these people moved to Squamish for affordability or lifestyle, and have got much more from the move than they bargained on. Squamish is fast becoming one of the most interesting design communities in British Columbia.

For interior designer Josianne Bérubé of Stark Architecture & Interior Design , the change was gradual but distinct.

“We began to feel the design community taking shape in Squamish a few years ago,” she says. More studios and creatives started choosing Squamish as their home base rather than commuting to Vancouver, and what was once a scattered group is now a connected ecosystem rooted in shared values and a design language that reflects the Sea to Sky region, she says.

Bérubé traces these changes back to the upgraded highway and international attention from the 2010 Winter Olympics, which brought new people to town. Then came the pandemic, which accelerated everything.

“The pool of talent that has gathered here since then has been incredible,” she says.

The mountains, the light, the trails, and the pace all seem to shape how people think and work in Squamish, says Bérubé.

“In Squamish, nature isn’t a backdrop, it’s a collaborator,” says Bérubé. Designers work in constant dialogue with the environment, letting the landscape guide materials, form and intention. She describes the creative energy as raw, natural, deeply connected and rooted in respect for place rather than trends.

This sense of connection also fuels collaboration.

“Designers here support one another because we’re collectively trying to honour the region through our work,” she says. The shared purpose gives the community a cohesive feel, even while it is still forming.

Megan Mauracher is national program manager for IDS (the Interior Design Show ), and moved to Squamish in 2018, noticing something cool was going on.

“There was this common thread of people who’d figured out how to do work they loved while combining it into living the life they wanted,” she says.

Over the past eight years, she has watched that thread turn into a vibrant network of studios, fabricators, entrepreneurs and collaborators.

The community has really transformed after the 2020 shift to remote work, she says. More designers arrived with the belief that creativity needs room to breathe.

“You can hike the Chief before work, walk by the river at lunch, or bike after hours, all within a 10-minute radius,” she says. And while the outdoor lifestyle gets the headlines, the real anchor is community size, says Mauracher.

“In Squamish, you know your neighbours,” she says. There is a sense of building something together.

Furniture designer and woodworker Jon Hewitt of architectural millwork company Leon Lebeniste reminds us that the design story in Squamish did not start yesterday. He first arrived in 2008 and saw a community already taking shape, mostly connected to outdoor soft goods R&D.

“Arc’teryx, FYI Design, Sea to Summit, Silverfoot… the OG companies centred around the outdoor adventure industries,” he says.

He points out that long before the latest wave arrived, Squamish was home to architects, industrial designers, and makers linked to companies like Fraserwood Industries, which helped shape development across the region.

Infrastructure paved the way for the next phase.

“The Sea to Sky Highway development for the Olympics was a major unlock,” he says. Once commuting became realistic, Squamish hit a sweet spot for people who wanted serious careers and outdoor time in the same 24 hours.

He believes the scene is no longer in its infancy. Instead, it is gathering momentum, talent and higher expectations.

“The quality bar keeps rising as more talent arrives,” he says.

Painter and commercial artist Kathy Ager offers a different view, because she is only just beginning her life in Squamish. She has lived in Amsterdam, Lisbon and Barcelona, so the size of Squamish feels new.

Rather than feeling anonymous in a major art city, she has found clarity in Squamish.

“I feel like I can hear myself think, and like the only person making specifically what I’m making,” she says.

She remembers Squamish as a quick rest stop in the 90s. When she returned in 2022 to visit a friend working on a mural downtown, she was struck by how much had changed.

“I was amazed by how much development had happened in town and how many people live and visit here now,” she says. The mix of new growth and older murals feels important to her.

“I hope the character of downtown is preserved, especially older murals like Ken Skoda’s on 2nd Avenue,” says Ager.

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The floral industry has let the No. 1 indoor Christmas plant become a simple commodity. In box stores, we see rows of red, white and pink poinsettias jammed together — inspiring no one.

In fact, today’s spectacular selection of unique varieties — with their range of bract variegations, colour combinations and various sizes — deserves better because, for decor opportunities, poinsettias have so much more to offer.

My favourites are the tiniest ones of all — the pixies. Each year, usually in August, they are the last poinsettias that growers start propagating. Grown in 2.5- or 3-inch pots, pixies produce tiny, single blooms in time for the holidays. They are, by far, the most versatile and connective poinsettias. They fit nicely on a desk, small tabletop or windowsill. As a small gift, they are some of the most appreciated, especially by folks who are not able to get out much.

We love to use pixies in small containers, along with other plants, like Christmas ferns, kalanchoes and other mini tropicals. Being a type of euphorbia, they also play nicely with succulents. Because they are in tiny pots with just a small amount of soil, pixies need a little more attention with watering but are otherwise easy to care for.

Poinsettias in 4-inch pots come in a wide range of colours and, again, because of their smaller size, they offer more versatility than larger poinsettias. They can fit almost any space in your house or office. In the past, they were the focal point in a white chrysanthemum/poinsettia combination called a mumsettia. Today, that partnership has shifted to a white kalanchoe/poinsettia combo called a kalsettia, which lasts far longer. Another favourite is a fernsettia, which is a 4-inch poinsettia surrounded by various types of small ferns.

Single-bloom poinsettias can be planted together for some spectacular combinations of red, white and pink, or with some of the many new colours and varieties available today for unique colour palette options. Planted in low bowls, they will add a touch of festivity to office or home locations.

Multi-bloom poinsettias, grown in small pots, probably provide the most value of any poinsettia on the market today. Grown well, they will produce a significant bloom display, while still fitting so many locations. I also like that they create a really classy look when planted in a quality container.

Poinsettias in four-inch pots are more widely grown by most producers, so we often see a greater selection of new varieties in this size rather than in the smaller sizes. Along with traditional reds, whites and pinks, you will find bicolours, tricolours and speckled poinsettias, as well as a good range of new pinks, salmons and burgundies. One of my favourites is a very deep red speckled with white. The Tapestry variety is a dark red with variegated yellow and green foliage. These multi-bloom gems are the most popular as they are just the right size for table centres and for seasonal get-togethers.

This poinsettia size is the most used for combination plantings. Four-inch multi-blooms play nicely with white flowered peace lilies, Christmas ferns, multicoloured syngoniums, trailing pteris ferns and a host of other tropicals for stunning mixed gardens that last well into the new year. These many unique varieties will provide a great new, spiced-up look for traditional mixed gardens. They are quite unique and make perfect gifts that are easy to look after.

Princettias were introduced many years ago, initially as a potential outdoor summer annual, but there were some challenges, especially production issues. They never quite fit that niche, but over time the intensity of their colours, particularly the bright whites and radiant pinks, really captured people’s attention. Today, they bring premium prices in the market because of their vibrancy. Again, smaller four-inch pot sizes seem to be the most popular because of their versatility.

Another unique variety that is lots of fun is the fully double Christmas rose. When grown well, its bracts have layers of ruffled red petals, giving them the appearance of double flowers. Remember, with poinsettias, the flowers are in the centre of the plant. It is the bracts that turn colour. They now come in white, pink and marbled varieties.

The floral industry, as well as many growers, also add value with two different processes. By using a special transparent glue sprayed on the foliage, poinsettias can be dusted with glitter to add some sparkle that shines brightly both in the sunlight and in evening indoor light.

Today, there are eco-friendly paints that come in a wide range of colours, and they can be used to dress up poinsettias. White poinsettias are the easiest to paint, but pinks and reds also look pretty spectacular painted with different colours.

Many new poinsettia varieties are far easier to grow and care for in our homes. They should be placed out of drafts, and they need to be checked daily for watering. Simply pick up the pot to feel its weight, and water with warm water only if the pot feels on the lighter side. Because of their more sensitive root system, poinsettias do not like wet soil.

It’s been proven scientifically that poinsettias are non-poisonous, though their sticky sap may be unpleasant on your fingers.

I love all sizes of poinsettias, especially some of the larger varieties, which are true showstoppers. However, it’s the smaller sizes that offer so many more opportunities to enjoy them in our living spaces.

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