(NC) Prepare your paintbrushes: colour is back. Neutral aesthetics have dominated for seasons on end, but design tastemakers have shifted their focus to adventurous interiors.

Sharon Grech, Benjamin Moore colour and design expert, shares how to confidently move on from neutral tones and kickstart a colour revival.

Balance a room
“Colour has visual weight, so be mindful of the size of your space,” Grech advises. Larger rooms can handle darker tones and strong saturation. Smaller spaces can benefit from airier, pale tones; but with ample lighting, a bold hue can be a joyful transformation.

Make a statement
There is something alluring about a room that is bursting with colour. Be bold in your expression and have fun. Instead of using an oversized piece of art for your wall, create an area of interest by painting a wall section behind a favourite piece of furniture. Paint unexpected corners of your home, like a bookcase, chimney or ceiling, to add a splash of colour and inject your...

(NC) Unless you’re living in a seven-bedroom mansion, chances are you’re like most Canadians: trying to make the most of your small living space. From studio apartments to three-bedroom family homes, most of us are craving more space, particularly when home is also the office.

Maximizing your small space to include an office is not an insurmountable challenge. With the right tools and a little planning, you can bring the benefits of a much larger space to wherever you work.

1. Get a desk that works
Though you may love the look of something larger, chances are you can make do with a compact desk. Measure your workstation and see what makes sense, taking into account the space you want versus what you actually need. Pro tip: an adjustable standing desk can give you the option to stretch your legs throughout the day.

2. Invest in an ergonomic chair
Considering this is where you’ll be sitting for eight hours a day, investing in the right chair is crucial. Find something with...

(NC) Downsizing for retirement can relieve stress and help you focus on what is truly important. Whether you feel ready for the change or you’re a little nervous to plant roots somewhere new, here are some tips for a smooth and easy transition.

Start decluttering now
Even if you don’t plan to move for some time, it’s worth cutting down on your clutter. Begin thinking about items you really want to keep forever, such as your mother’s china. If those antique dishes mean a lot to you, keep them for your next place and plan to actually use them. If they are just taking up space, recognize that and don’t feel bad about finding them a new home. Beginning to tackle this step now will save you last minute stress and guilt when it comes time to move.

Consider your lifestyle
Are you looking to leave behind the hustle and bustle of city life? Or, are you excited by the option of walking to nearby shops and activities in an area where you don’t have to rely on a car?...