With the arrival of spring, you know summer isn’t far behind, so don’t waste any time when planning to make the season even better. If you need professional advice and ideas to help you get started, look no further than the Winnipeg Home + Garden Show.
This annual rite of spring — now in its 50th year — runs from April 3-6 at the RBC Convention Centre, and shouldn’t be missed. This show is a vibrant marketplace where you can shop for home-related products and services, experience stunning displays to help inspire your next home project, connect with industry experts, and enjoy informative presentations from renowned local and international home professionals.
Whether you’re attending the show with a specific project in mind or just looking for some inspiration, home professionals have you covered. There are over 200 booths to explore, and many unique feature displays to enjoy like the Subaru Lounge, the Floral Studio, Blooms and Butterflies, the Pop-Up Market, the Sidecar Bar, and the ever popular “Ask a Landscaper” and “Ask a Renovator” booths where you’ll get a free 15-minute consultation on how to create either a backyard sanctuary or how to make your dream home come to life. And don’t forget the funky playsets to help keep your kids entertained while you browse, the unique workshops and much more!
As always, the main stage will feature appearances from some of the biggest names in the industry as well as plenty of local experts like owner and principle designer Scott Klassen of Inland Fine Furnishings, Alyssa Kostek of Grand Rising Gardens, DIYer Heather Barnes of @ourbarnesyard, and Kristin Hayward of iDesign Inc who will be speaking about how to design your dream home. International speaker Ken Sky will also be there to immerse attendees in the magic of the Cherry Hill Living experience located in the R.M. of Ste. Anne, a unique community with year-round luxury amenities designed for wellness, vitality and uncomplicated living. Don’t miss these speakers and many more.
This year’s celebrity presenter is Home Network’s top rated star of almost 20 years, Scott McGillivray. Best known as the star and award-winning Executive Producer of the hit series “Income Property”, “Moving the McGillivrays”, “Buyers Bootcamp” and most recently, “Scott’s Vacation House Rules” and “Renovation Resort.” Scott is an accomplished entrepreneur — he’s CEO of multiple successful businesses in both the media and real estate sectors as well as a real estate investor with properties across North America. As a skilled contractor, best-selling author, educator, and leading guest expert, Scott is trusted for successful renovation and return on investment tactics. He’s a respected influencer and digital trailblazer who engages daily with his 1M+ followers.
We were fortunate enough to be able to connect with Scott prior to the show despite his crazy-busy schedule, and he was kind enough to pass on some of his well-earned wisdom:
Q: In this current Canadian housing market, are you finding more people are renovating to flip their homes, or renovating to improve their current home?
Scott: The current Canadian housing market is in a unique position. With higher interest rates and affordability challenges, I’m seeing more homeowners choosing to renovate their existing homes rather than sell and upgrade. People are investing in quality-of-life improvements.
Q: Coast to coast, you’ve dreamed up some incredible homes and spaces. Tell us what characteristics you love most about working on properties located on the Prairies.
Scott: The Prairies offer a unique mix of beauty and open space that you don’t always find in other parts of Canada. What I love most about working here is the connection between architecture and nature — big space, nice views, natural light coming in through large windows, and materials that reflect the landscape.
Q: Like other cities across Canada, Winnipeg is facing a housing shortage. Given your recent focus on multi-residential development projects, tell us about one you’ve worked on recently that stands out and why.
Scott: I am working on many development projects at the moment but one that stands out is in Downtown Hamilton, which is actually part of the Scott McGillivray Real Estate Fund — 250 new residential units. I like it because it is right in the heart of downtown and situated directly on the future LRT line, so it’ll be perfect for commuting!
Q: Tell us about your love of hidden rooms and the most memorable one you brought to life.
Scott: Hidden rooms are one of my favorite design features because they add an element of surprise. One of the most memorable hidden spaces I’ve built was a bookcase that opened into a speakeasy-style whiskey lounge. It was for a homeowner who loved hosting but wanted a space that felt like a secret getaway.
Q: What are some of your personal favourite Smart Home must-haves?
Scott: My must-haves include:
• Smart Smoke and CO detectors to protect your home
• Automated lighting systems that adjust based on time of day or occupancy.
• Water softener and Ro system like Culligan to remove any hard water from your pipes
• Leak detection sensors — a small but crucial feature to prevent costly water damage.
Q: Your latest Home Network program, Renovation Resort, is back for another hit season. Tell us about the most memorable clients you’ve worked with while filming.
Scott: Every season brings incredible clients, but one that stands out was a couple who had inherited a run-down lakeside cabin. They had so much emotional attachment to it but were overwhelmed by the work needed. Seeing their reaction when we transformed it into a stunning retreat — while keeping the charm they loved — was unforgettable.
Scott will be speaking from the main stage on Friday at 6 pm and again on Saturday at 12 noon. His presentation is titled “How to navigate the real estate market in 2025” — a timely topic — so plan to attend.
The hours for this year’s show are noon to 8 pm on Thursday and Friday, 10 am to 8 pm on Saturday and 10 am to 6 pm on Sunday. Tickets are $13 for adults (ages 13+), $9 for seniors (ages 60+), while evening tickets (if you arrive after 4 pm) are just $7.50. You can also purchase 4-packs (4 tickets for the price of 3!) for $11.25. Buy your tickets early and save $2! Tickets are good for any day and include access to watch all the stage presenters.
For more details and ticket information visit www.winnipeghomeandgardenshow.com