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Updated Wellington Crescent suite offers character and value

Todd Lewys 5 minute read Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026

When people think about two-bedroom condominiums on Wellington Crescent, they typically think of three things.

First, they visualize a fancy high-rise building that comes with amenities like a 24-hour concierge, luxurious foyer, a gym and more.

Second, they think the condo will be unattainable due to high condo fees, ridiculous property taxes, and of course, a price tag that resides somewhere in the stratosphere.

And third, there’s the chance (and a pretty good one at that) a condo on Wellington Crescent will feel dated.

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Some like it hot

Colleen Zacharias 7 minute read Preview

Some like it hot

Colleen Zacharias 7 minute read Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026

In more ways than one, Niki Jabbour won’t forget last year’s gardening season.

The author of four bestselling books on vegetable gardening, Jabbour lives and gardens in Halifax, N.S. In 2025, the province experienced a “one-in-50-year” drought. According to the Canadian Drought Monitor (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada), Halifax recorded its third-driest three-month period (July, August and September) on record.

The year 2025 was one of significant and widespread drought across Canada. Environment Canada ranked drought as the No. 2 weather story of the year, second only to the country’s record-breaking wildfire season. At one point last year, Jabbour also had to evacuate from her home for a week as wildfires threatened parts of Halifax.

Earlier this year, Environment and Climate Change Canada released its annual global temperature forecast, predicting 2026 will likely be among the four hottest years on record.

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Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026

Photos by Niki Jabbour For

Niki Jabbour, shown here in her Halifax garden, says the drought and heat of 2025 has made resilience the biggest lesson for food gardens.

Photos by Niki Jabbour For
                                Niki Jabbour, shown here in her Halifax garden, says the drought and heat of 2025 has made resilience the biggest lesson for food gardens.

Age in place in your community and your home

Janine LeGal 6 minute read Preview

Age in place in your community and your home

Janine LeGal 6 minute read Friday, Feb. 27, 2026

As baby boomers officially become seniors, many begin to look at what “home” will look like for them in the coming years.

Aging in place, living safely and independently in one’s own home and community for as long as possible, is often the preference. Home is where the heart is, after all. Fortunately, options and services exist to ensure that older people can remain where they’ve planted roots and created memories.

As a developer involved in several roles in the industry, and vice-president of Qualico Communities Winnipeg, Bryan Ward knows about considerations for aging in place in communities where clients want to spend their entire lives. He wants people to have opportunities to find and stay in the right home for as long as possible.

“With Qualico, we are supported in trying new things — lots of different projects — building relationships in community and partnerships,” he says.Qualico’s largest neighbourhoods are in Winnipeg and include Bison Run in Waverley West and Sage Creek.

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Friday, Feb. 27, 2026

Photo by Darcy Finley

Bryan Ward, vice-president, 
Qualico Communities

Bryan Ward, vice-president, 
Qualico Communities

Sleek two-storey design lives large and luxurious

Todd Lewys 5 minute read Preview

Sleek two-storey design lives large and luxurious

Todd Lewys 5 minute read Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026

There’s one thing that’s certain when a home’s floor plan is exceptionally user-friendly: a lot of careful consideration went into its conception.

That was definitely the case with Discovery Homes’ 2026 Spring Parade of Homes entry at 125 Mill Rock Rd. in Highland Pointe, says the home’s sales representative, Reid Boles of Century 21 Bachman & Associates.

“I think the biggest strength of this home is that it feels much bigger than it is,” he says of the Drake, a sleek two-storey design that checks in at 1,907 square feet. “It feels more like it’s 2,200 square feet — it lives much larger than its listed square footage.”

Right from the start, it’s clear keen attention was paid to the placement and size of each space. The result is a home is that is very user-friendly from the generous foyer on in.

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Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026

TODD LEWYS / FREE PRESS

One of Discovery Homes’ newest designs, the efficiently planned Drake offers large families a great combination of style and utility.

TODD LEWYS / FREE PRESS
                                One of Discovery Homes’ newest designs, the efficiently planned Drake offers large families a great combination of style and utility.

Modern design meets natural beauty in Oak River Meadow

Todd Lewys 6 minute read Preview

Modern design meets natural beauty in Oak River Meadow

Todd Lewys 6 minute read Friday, Feb. 27, 2026

For the longest time, people in and around Île des Chênes yearned for new housing stock.

Well, their wait has ended.

Oak River Meadow, a master-planned community conceived by Terracon Development Limited in partnership with Waterside Development,is now underway.

“The first stage of 85 lots was serviced this fall, and we’re targeting that hydro services will be installed by late winter,” says Matt Glavin, land development manager for Terracon. “Foundations will be going in, with home construction ramping up in the spring.”

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Friday, Feb. 27, 2026

Photo courtesy of Terracon Development Limited

Photo courtesy of Terracon Development Limited

Final days of project inspire welcome awe in homeowners

Marc LaBossiere 6 minute read Preview

Final days of project inspire welcome awe in homeowners

Marc LaBossiere 6 minute read Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026

Nothing is more satisfying than a homeowner’s smile when entering a newly remodelled space upon completion, along with the subsequent moments of silence as the desired fresh new look is taken in for the first time.

Kitchen renovations are very satisfying to a contractor, as well. Not only can you greatly improve functionality with an updated design, but the esthetics are also primarily based on the homeowners’ colour and style preferences, chosen well before the project begins.

Once a kitchen begins to show signs of wear and tear, both functionality and esthetics begin to suffer greatly. In this instance, the old Arborite countertops were ready to crumble in certain areas due to persistent water infiltration. And because the counter along the peninsula area was level to the far side, whatever was placed on the countertop had a very good chance of landing on someone’s head in the sunken TV room, while sitting on the couch adjacent to the backside of the lower cupboards.

Most of the cupboard doors were loose on hinges, and the drawer-fronts were slightly off-level. And do get me started with what was evolving below the sink area, due to a variety of minor leaks!

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Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026

MARC LABOSSIERE / FREE PRESS

Although the existing shell of the space dictates cupboard placement potential, design changes greatly improve functionality.

MARC LABOSSIERE / FREE PRESS
                                Although the existing shell of the space dictates cupboard placement potential, design changes greatly improve functionality.

Randall Homes features must-see Meadowlands show home

Jennifer McFee 5 minute read Preview

Randall Homes features must-see Meadowlands show home

Jennifer McFee 5 minute read Friday, Feb. 27, 2026

Fashion meets function in one of Randall Homes’ most popular house models.

The two-storey home called The Dexter 1909 spans 1,909 square feet with three bedrooms and three bathrooms — yet it actually feels even bigger thanks to its functional design that makes the most of every inch.

“To be honest, it’s one of the most popular houses that we sell. The design accommodates additional living space on the main floor. Upstairs, it has three good-sized bedrooms and a loft area for additional space, plus a gorgeous ensuite off the owners’ suite with a huge vanity. It even has a beautiful second floor laundry room with a gorgeous window overlooking the front,” says Jason Jaquet, vice-president of Randall Homes.

“The functionality of the house is great. For the square footage and the price point that we’re able to offer for this home, you’re getting a lot — and it’s laid out so there’s no wasted space.”

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Friday, Feb. 27, 2026

Photos courtesy of EyeCandy Listings

Photos courtesy of EyeCandy Listings

Net-zero home aligns with sustainability-focused buyers

Michelle Bailey 4 minute read Preview

Net-zero home aligns with sustainability-focused buyers

Michelle Bailey 4 minute read Friday, Feb. 27, 2026

The word butterfly symbolizes transformation, growth, hope and new beginnings. Look no further than a recent build by Sterling Homes, a Qualico company, in Sage Creek where all of the above can be realized.

The home at 110 Butterfly Way is for those buyers seeking comfort, modern style and long-term sustainability, knowing they are purchasing a net-zero home.

According to the Canadian Home Builders’ Association, net-zero homes, whether new or renovated, produce as much clean energy as they consume. They are far more energy efficient than typical new homes and greatly reduce impact on the environment.

Every part of the house works together to provide consistent temperatures throughout, prevent drafts and filter indoor air to reduce dust and allergens. The result: exceptional energy performance and the ultimate in comfort — a home at the forefront of sustainability. It all adds up to a better living experience.

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Friday, Feb. 27, 2026

Photos by Mosaik Designs

According to the Canadian Home Builders’ Association, net-zero homes, whether new or renovated, produce as much clean energy as they consume.

Photos by Mosaik Designs
According to the Canadian Home Builders’ Association, net-zero homes, whether new or renovated, produce as much clean energy as they consume.

Energy-efficient Foxridge show home combines luxury with warmth

Janine legal 5 minute read Preview

Energy-efficient Foxridge show home combines luxury with warmth

Janine legal 5 minute read Friday, Feb. 27, 2026

Foxridge Homes is known for thoughtful design, functionality, flow and attention to detail, highlighting elevated craftsmanship and luxurious finishes while offering style, comfort and quality. Their future-focused homes incorporate sustainability, energy efficiency and smart home technology.

“There’s a passionate team — passionate about homes and how we are curating them,” says Colleen Chaput, marketing manager with Foxridge Homes. “It’s very much a collaborative team effort, and we are super-excited to present the homes, which have been very well received so far. Many of our show homes are sold already.”

One current offering is a show home at 1 Fieldstone Cres. in Oak Bluff West, beside the town of Oak Bluff, where McGillivray Boulevard meets the Perimeter Highway. The family-friendly community in a quiet neighbourhood gives residents the best of both worlds: convenience of urban centre amenities and the natural prairie landscape of rural life.

“It’s a beautiful area and it’s growing steadily,” Chaput says. “It’s so close to FortWhyte Alive and minutes from shopping on Kenaston Boulevard. There are spacious, wider lots — larger than typical city lots — which gives residents more outdoor space for gardens, play areas and patios.”

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Friday, Feb. 27, 2026

Photos by Scott Zeilke

Photos by  Scott Zeilke

Sienna by StreetSide offers sought-after setting

Kristin Marinade 4 minute read Preview

Sienna by StreetSide offers sought-after setting

Kristin Marinade 4 minute read Friday, Feb. 27, 2026

Bison Run is an up-and-coming neighbourhood in Winnipeg’s southwest corner. Conveniently located minutes from the University of Manitoba, Princess Auto Stadium, the new South Winnipeg Recreation Campus and the many retail and dining options along Kenaston and in Bridgwater, StreetSide Developments’ Sienna is the first midrise condominium in this desirable area that, until now, has primarily offered single-family and townhome options.

“Where Sienna stands apart is its setting,” explains Margaux Braund, marketing manager for StreetSide Developments. “This is the first midrise condominium community in Bison Run, which gives buyers an opportunity to own in a brand-new, master-planned neighbourhood surrounded by emerging amenities, schools, trails and recreation. It’s a unique chance to get into Bison Run at an early stage, while benefiting from everything we’ve refined in our past sold-out communities like Sage Village in Sage Creek and The Rise in Bridgwater.”

Built by StreetSide Developments, a Qualico company with decades of experience delivering high-quality multi-family homes, Sienna’s construction standards and comprehensive new home warranty provide exceptional peace of mind. Features like underground heated parking, a fully equipped fitness studio, a multi-purpose room ideal for co-working or meetings and a panoramic rooftop patio create an atmosphere that Braund describes as elevated everyday living that’s intentionally simple, convenient and amenity-rich.

Bison Run boasts immediate access to education, with both an elementary-middle and a high school a short walk away, and the University of Manitoba minutes down the road. The nearby campus offers sports and entertainment options at both Princess Auto Stadium and university sports facilities. To support active living and recreation, the property was intentionally selected for the nearby trails, wetlands and pedestrian-friendly streets. Just a jaunt away from one of Winnipeg’s most vibrant retail destinations, the proximity to Bridgwater Centre, Seasons of Tuxedo and Kenaston Commons makes the neighbourhood a rare combination of nature, convenience and community.

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Friday, Feb. 27, 2026

Rendering courtesy of Gryd

Rendering courtesy of Gryd

Start your dream-home journey at the Spring Parade

Lanny McInnes 3 minute read Preview

Start your dream-home journey at the Spring Parade

Lanny McInnes 3 minute read Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026

The Manitoba Home Builders’ Association’s Spring Parade of Homes has arrived!

The spring 2026 edition of the event opens at noon today and runs until Sunday, March 22, showcasing 119 new show homes crafted by Manitoba’s best builders. Once again, the MHBA is proud to present the biggest and best Parade of Homes event in Canada.

Show home hours in and around Winnipeg are: Saturdays and Sundays from Noon to 5 p.m.; Monday through Thursday from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.; Fridays by private appointment only.

Parade Show homes are also available to visit by booking a private appointment with the builder outside of the Parade’s regular hours. We encourage you to book a viewing by appointment to give yourself plenty of time to ask the show-home agent questions about the dwelling and its neighbourhood.

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Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026

MHBA photo

The 2026 Spring Parade of Homes event opens at noon today and runs until March 22, showcasing 119 new show homes crafted by our province’s best builders.

MHBA photo
                                The 2026 Spring Parade of Homes event opens at noon today and runs until March 22, showcasing 119 new show homes crafted by our province’s best builders.

Kitchen shell prep includes vinyl-plank flooring

Marc LaBossiere 5 minute read Preview

Kitchen shell prep includes vinyl-plank flooring

Marc LaBossiere 5 minute read Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026

In my world, the difference between a kitchen facelift and a full kitchen renovation is whether a large percentage of the existing space remains, or the entirety is gutted and repopulated once the shell has been prepped.

At a recent job site, the homeowners elected to revamp the entire space, which involved tearing out all the old to make way for the new. And in this instance, the shell prep included adding a new partial wall to the design, and installing new vinyl-plank flooring before the cupboards are set into position.

Generally, I’ve always advised clients to keep their existing upper and lower cupboards, so no great changes are required. And should the esthetics badly need an upgrade, the cupboard doors and drawer fronts can always be replaced.

Beyond the cabinetry, a facelift may then involve new quartz countertops, sink and faucet, as well as a newly tiled backsplash, all visual upgrades to enhance a tired-out space.

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Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026

Marc LaBossiere / Free Press

A partial wall is introduced during the shell prep stage of a kitchen reno to better suit the enhanced design layout of the new cupboards.

Marc LaBossiere / Free Press
                                A partial wall is introduced during the shell prep stage of a kitchen reno to better suit the enhanced design layout of the new cupboards.

Family embraces challenges, rewards of launching a fruit orchard

Colleen Zacharias 7 minute read Preview

Family embraces challenges, rewards of launching a fruit orchard

Colleen Zacharias 7 minute read Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026

Growing up on a farm near Boissevain taught Kelvin Hildebrandt many things. But becoming an orchardist has meant taking a comprehensive and strategic approach to acquiring a whole new set of skills.

In the process, Hildebrandt has consulted with local orchardists, including well-known growers like Betty Kehler and Bob Pizey who ran Plum Ridge Farm, a popular u-pick orchard located in the Interlake region near Teulon.

“They taught me a great deal,” says Hildebrandt.

Hildebrandt has also been influenced by Jean Spencer who owned a 150-tree apple orchard near Miami. “Jean was very welcoming and let me take care of her trees for a while,” he says.

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Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026

Peter Fuller photo

Windhover Orchard in Miami, Man., is named after the American kestrel, a small falcon found in Manitoba nicknamed ‘windhover’ for its habit of hovering in the air.

Peter Fuller photo
                                Windhover Orchard in Miami, Man., is named after the American kestrel, a small falcon found in Manitoba nicknamed ‘windhover’ for its habit of hovering in the air.

Highland Pointe two-storey built with family functionality, respite in mind

Todd Lewys 5 minute read Preview

Highland Pointe two-storey built with family functionality, respite in mind

Todd Lewys 5 minute read Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026

Large families typically look for two things in a new home.

First, it needs to be highly functional with a versatile floor plan that can accommodate family life — and offer spaces where individuals can go to enjoy some much needed private time.

Second, the home must offer exceptional value, ideally coming in at a price tag under $700,000.

Hilton Homes’ two-storey Lucinda design checks all these boxes and more, says company owner Spencer Curtis.

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Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026

Todd Lewys / Free Press

The Lucinda — a versatile, two-storey design by Hilton Homes — checks all the boxes for large families.

Todd Lewys / Free Press
                                The Lucinda — a versatile, two-storey design by Hilton Homes — checks all the boxes for large families.

Spring Parade of Homes just a week away

Lanny McInnes 3 minute read Preview

Spring Parade of Homes just a week away

Lanny McInnes 3 minute read Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026

Next Saturday, Manitoba’s best builders will begin a three-week showcase of 119 new show homes during the Manitoba Home Builders’ Association’s 2026 Spring Parade of Homes.

From Feb. 28 to March 22, people will have the chance to see the newest trends in homebuilding design and the latest fashions in residential décor. For those looking at buying a new house, the Spring Parade is the perfect way to see the best in today’s new housing market.

Not only does this year’s Spring Parade once again feature show homes in many of Winnipeg’s newest neighbourhoods, there are also great show homes available for viewing in communities outside the perimeter, including homes in Brandon, La Salle, St. Adolphe, St. Clements, Stonewall, West St. Paul, Oak Bluff West, Grande Pointe and Headingley. The 2026 Spring Parade of Homes is truly a Manitoba-wide event!

The MHBA Parade of Homes is also a great way for those who may not yet be in the market to build a new dwelling to get an up-close look leading-edge trends in residential technology, decor, finishings and fixtures.

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Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026

MHBA photo

Next Saturday, the province’s best builders kick off a three-week showcase of 119 new show homes during the MHBA’s 2026 Spring Parade of Homes.

MHBA photo
                                Next Saturday, the province’s best builders kick off a three-week showcase of 119 new show homes during the MHBA’s 2026 Spring Parade of Homes.

Overhauled Kingston Row gem offers heritage charm, modern utility

Todd Lewys 5 minute read Preview

Overhauled Kingston Row gem offers heritage charm, modern utility

Todd Lewys 5 minute read Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026

No matter how great a vintage home is, it can always be improved upon.

That’s exactly the case with a venerable 1938-built dwelling found on a fetching riverside lot at 207 Kingston Row in storied Elm Park, says Amber van den Broek of Re/Max Executives Realty.

“The home was re-imagined, expanded and rebuilt to modern standards by Macanta Design Build in 2022,” she says of the 2,409-sq.-ft., two-storey residence. “It was a complete rebuild from the studs from the ground up. The thought put into the design of the home is exceptional.”

That attention to detail is on display from the moment you set eyes on the house.

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Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026

Rebuilt and re-imagined in 2022, the 2,409-sq.-ft., two-storey home is a character-filled masterpiece from top to bottom.

Rebuilt and re-imagined in 2022, the 2,409-sq.-ft., two-storey home is a character-filled masterpiece from top to bottom.

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