Mary Pidlaski

I don't know about you, but I am so excited about spring!  It's as if all of humanity is being brought back to life! For many, it is a time to do a significant clean around the house, to declutter and remove unwanted items.  

Whether you are getting ready for a sale, or just wanting to maintain your haven, here are eight important things that should be included on every homeowner’s spring checklist this year:

Examine the Roof

During the winter months, the roof of your home takes a beating. After months of heavy snowfalls, wind storms and ice build-up, your roof shingles may be in need of some attention. Hire a professional to climb up onto your roof and do an inspection. Check if any shingles are missing, cracked, buckled, or if they are beginning to curl. Shingles that have any damage at all should be replaced. If it looks like you have more than just a few shingles to replace, it may be time to start budgeting for a new roof before next winter.

Clean Out the Gutters

While we are on the topic of roofs, check out the gutter situation. The gutters on your house should be cleaned at least annually to prevent clogs and damage. The best time to do it is in the late fall after the leaves have fallen off nearby trees. Winter storms tend to cause plenty of debris to fly around, and some of it could be lodged in your gutters. Getting this done again at the beginning of the spring season will set you ahead of the curve when it comes to summer storms and help improve the health of your roof. 

Inspect the Attic

Next, make your way up to the attic. Check for moisture, mould, water damage, or signs of any pesky critters living up there. Build-up of moisture could lead to significant damage if left undetected, and it is also a sign that you may need to get your roof inspected.

Thoroughly Investigate the Basement

After going up, it’s time to head down to the basement. Look for similar things as you would in the attic. Basements are more prone to issues such as water and moisture damage, especially as the seasons change. While you are down there, check for any cracks or signs of leaks in the foundation. Check out the sump pump and windows to ensure they are all sealed properly.

Inspect the Air Conditioning Unit

As the temperatures rise, it’s only a matter of time before you decide to turn on the AC to get some relief on those hot summer days. Make sure you do a thorough inspection of the AC unit, or hire a professional to do this for you if you’re unfamiliar with the required maintenance. The beginning of spring is a great time to change the filters and call in to have the unit serviced if needed.

Fence and Deck Maintenance

With all the snow and ice melted, it’s time to inspect your fences and deck. Check for cracked boards or panels, and make a plan to replace them if needed. It’s also good to check under the deck for signs of rodents or other pests that could have taken up residence during the colder months.

Spend Some Time on the Lawn

No one’s grass looks great after a long, harsh winter. Spend some time this spring tending to your front and back lawn. This could involve spreading grass seed or creating a better drainage system to eliminate water pooling, which is unpleasant to walk in and creates mosquito habitats.

Top-to-Bottom Interior Clean

Finally, we recommend doing a thorough top-to-bottom clean of your home’s interior. Clean out the fridge and kitchen cupboards and put all your winter wear away into storage. After all, lightening up your home and decluttering it will only add to the peace of mind that usually comes once the spring weather hits.

Last but not least, get back outside and enjoy it! 

Spring in Winnipeg is a breath of fresh air - literally.  After months of winter, we’re all ready to shake off the cold and bring some renewal indoors.  This is the perfect time to refresh your home and embrace new trends I do my best to keep up with design trends, scrolling social media, and visiting homes, and I’ve noticed a few staples that are popping up this season.  If you’re thinking of sprucing up your space, here are six spring home trends that will bring a fresh look into your space. 

1. Scalloped Edges: A Playful, Classic Touch

Scalloped edges have been trending for a while, but this season, they’re everywhere—especially in decor that leans towards classic, vintage, or grandmillennial aesthetics. These soft, wavy edges bring a playful and elegant touch to furniture and accessories.

How to try it:

• Scalloped-edge throw pillows for a cozy touch

• Picture frames or mirrors with soft curves

• A side table or accent chair with a delicate scalloped design

This trend is an easy way to add a bit of whimsy and charm to any space.

2. Pops of Red: A Bold & Unexpected Accent

If you’ve seen the “unexpected red theory” making the rounds on social media, you know that a dash of red can instantly elevate a space. This year, cherry red is one of the top trending colors, bringing energy and warmth to otherwise neutral spaces.

How to try it:

• A red vase or lamp for a striking focal point

• Cherry red throw pillows or artwork

• A small rug with red accents to anchor a space

Red pairs surprisingly well with many color palettes, making it an easy addition that doesn’t require a full redesign.

3. Tone-on-Tone Stripes: A Fresh Take on a Classic Pattern

Stripes never go out of style, but this season, bold tone-on-tone color pairings are making them feel fresh and modern. Instead of the usual high-contrast stripes, these use subtle shifts in shade to create depth and movement.

How to try it:

• Striped table linens for a lively dining space

• A throw blanket with soft tonal stripes

• Even striped furniture upholstery for a bigger statement

This trend blends well with both minimalist and maximalist styles, depending on how bold you go.

4. Spindle Furniture: A Vintage Revival

For years, mid-century modern dominated furniture design, but we’re now seeing a return to more traditional shapes—especially spindle furniture. With its turned wood details and antique-inspired silhouette, spindle furniture is perfect for adding timeless character to a space.

How to try it:

• A spindle-leg chair or bench in an entryway

• A classic spindle nightstand for a cozy, vintage feel

• Accent tables or bed frames with this historic design

It’s a look that feels both refined and relaxed, perfect for anyone wanting a balance of old and new in their home.

5. Hand-Drawn Sketch Art: Effortless & Understated

Heavy, moody artwork had its moment, but this spring, light, hand-drawn sketch art is having its turn. These pieces feel simple, organic, and slightly imperfect, adding an unpolished yet elegant touch to a space.

How to try it:

• Swap out framed prints for sketched portraits or nature-inspired pieces

• Look for charcoal or pencil-drawn artwork with a soft, airy feel

• Layer framed sketches on bookshelves for a subtle decor update

This trend is low-commitment and easy to mix into your existing decor—just swap out a frame, and you’re set.

6. Miniature Table Lamps: Small But Mighty Mood Lighting

Sometimes, small details make the biggest impact, and tiny table lamps are proof of that. These petite, charming lamps are popping up everywhere, offering warm, cozy lighting in unexpected spots.

How to try it:

• A cordless mini lamp on your kitchen counter for soft evening light

• A tiny lamp on a bookshelf to create a moody glow

• A small bedside lamp for a relaxed, layered lighting effect

Mini lamps are a quick and affordable way to make a room feel more inviting and polished without a major design overhaul.

Which Trend Will You Try?

Spring is all about renewal and fresh starts, and your home deserves the same energy. Whether it’s a pop of red, a vintage-inspired spindle chair, or a cozy new lamp, even small changes can make a big difference.

If you’re thinking of upgrading your home in a bigger way this spring—whether that’s staging for sale or finding a new space that better fits your lifestyle—I’d love to help. Let’s chat about your goals!

📩 Reach out anytime if you’re thinking about buying or selling this season.