While kids get to celebrate Easter with traditions such as the Easter bunny or decorating eggs, there are plenty of ways to celebrate the holiday tradition and change of season for adults, too. Read on for our guide to a grown-up Easter weekend, April 7th, in U/D! 

Hop to it – Enjoy a Spin Class at YYC Cycle 

Spring is a great season to put some spring in your step – and your workouts!

Earn all those Easter basket indulgences by hopping on a bike this spring with YYC Cycle. Their team of talented instructors create classes that offer a range of dynamic and engaging rides guaranteed to help you take on a new season with positive energy. Whether you’re into heart-pumping HIIT sessions or prefer rhythm-based rides that get you grooving to the beat, they’ve got something for everyone. It’s the perfect way to feel good and start the spring season on a high note.

Hop on over and book your ride today!

Brunch at OEB

After working up an appetite, put an adult spin on the search for the Easter eggs with brunch at OEB in U/D. From savoury eggs benedict and fluffy pancakes to creative creations like gnocchi breakfast carbonara and banana cream pie french toast, you can also get eggs prepared any way you like! So gather around the table, raise a glass, and enjoy the bounty of Easter brunch with those closest to your heart. Complete the experience by sipping on one of their famous brunch cocktails, like the mimosa flight or raspberry rumosa.

For some extra easter fun, be sure to enter OEB Breakfast Co.’s Destination for a Great Breakfast contest. They’re giving away a trip to one of their 18 restaurant locations! Just tell them why you or someone deserving in your life should win this delicious experience, and be treated to a trip that will truly fill the soul. Get all the details on their website.

Order online or dine-in for an egg-citing meal guaranteed to make you crack a smile.

Furry Friend Easter Treat Hunt with Pet Planet

Pop into Pet Planet and grab everything you need to create a DIY dog Easter treat hunt. Set up a series of trainers, treats and toys around the backyard to see what your pooch can find – it’s guaranteed to get their brain working hard! Mental stimulation is key to dog health because it improves their cognitive functions and can even be more exhausting than physical exercise for them. Plus, it is adorable to watch their minds busy at work and the tail-wagging excitement when they find their hidden treasures. Need some space to host your hunt? Don’t forget the Urban Dog Park at the North Pond. 

Hoppy Hour at The Banquet

Who says Easter games are just for kids? The Banquet Bar is a great spot to tap into your competitive side with adult friends while sipping on some hops to go along. From billiards and shuffleboard to a full-size Price Is Right wheel and 5 pin bowling, this spot in U/D is made for good times with good people. Start a new Easter tradition by creating a scoreboard and keeping track of wins and losses. With more than 30 beers on tap and a curated menu of signature cocktails, or mocktails there is something for everyone to enjoy. 

Book your reservation today and let the games begin.

Easter Dinner at Borough Bar + Grill

Your busy afternoon is winding down and the last thing on your mind is meal planning, never mind doing dishes. Borough Bar + Grill has a table waiting and your biggest decision will be deciding what to order.

While every day of the week is a culinary delight, Sunday’s are extra satiating and Easter Sunday is no exception. Borough’s Sunday Brunch runs from 11:00-2:00 and their Sunday prime rib dinner, offered in 6oz and 12oz with seasonal veggies and traditional Yorkshire pudding will be served starting at 5pm. Don’t take your chances and make sure to make a reservation to let Borough do the heavy lifting while you and your friends connect and reflect on the beautiful spring in U/D.

Easter Flavours at Village Ice Cream

What does the Easter Bunny love to eat? Carrot cake of course! Village Ice Cream is offering up a number of seasonal flavours in March, including Carrot Cake ice cream. So if you can’t wait until Easter, grab a cone and head over to Central Commons Park to enjoy some early spring sunshine.

Cheers to Spring with Market Wines

Sip sip, hurray! Raise a glass to the season of renewal with Market Wines  U/D. Their expertly curated selection has something for every palate, from crisp whites to full-bodied reds as well as an offering of spirits and beers. Not sure what to pick? Indulge in a tasting and discover the perfect pairing for your Easter brunch or dinner.

Market Wines also offers events to help ring in spring. Some of their early spring events include Budget or Baller, Wine & Burger, Everyday Bordeaux and Thirsty & Thrifty.

And if all the Easter fun has taken a toll on your sweet tooth (chocolate easter eggs anyone?), our friends at University District Dental are always ready to welcome you for a visit.

U/D Reaching Elevated Heights with New Rental Residential Project 

On your next visit to U/D, you may see some new retailers and buildings continuing to take shape in our mindfully made community. Gracorp and Harrison Street’s purpose-built rental project Block 15 is currently on the rise.

With an official name yet to be revealed, Block 15 will boast an impressive range of rental residences and modern amenities. The complex will create a dynamic and modern architectural profile across two residential towers, which will be eight and sixteen stories at completion.

This residential building will be the largest in the neighbourhood to date, boasting a total of 303 rental units. The concrete building will offer studio (380 square feet), one bedroom (515-660 sq ft), two bedroom (700-865 sq ft) and 3-bedroom (1170 sq ft) units. 

Located at the corner of 39th St and Kovitz Ave, Block 15 residents will be seconds away from our three-acre Central Commons Park and the Retail Main Street. 

Building amenities include keyless entry, a full-service fitness facility, a dedicated study space, an indoor lounge space, secure bicycle storage and a communal 9th floor rooftop courtyard with dedicated grill space, offering stunning views of both downtown Calgary and the Rocky Mountains. 

Block 15 is poised to exceed Built Green Gold certification and will be solar ready. They hope to foster a sense of belonging among residents while also emphasizing their commitment to sustainability, incorporating eco-friendly features into the building’s design.

“We are dedicated to creating another amenity-rich, tenant-focused development that aligns with University District’s vision,” says Novy Cheema, Vice President of Real Estate at Gracorp, “We look forward to helping more Calgarians find a great place to call home in one of the city’s most desirable communities.”

Pre-leasing is anticipated to begin in May 2025. 

Block 15 joins two other purpose-built rental projects in U/D, including Aria, located above Save-On-Foods and other retailers along our Retail Main Street, and The Forge, currently under construction. The Forge will offer 92 units above a retail podium at ground level, offering one, two- and three-bedroom options with an expansive outdoor area for residents. There are also rental residences that occasionally become available at Esquire.

Another new addition soon on the rise in U/D is Dean’s Landing by Rohit Communities. Offering a combination of elevated condominiums and stacked townhomes available for purchase, the 200-unit project will start construction in the spring of 2023 with occupancy starting in the fall of 2024.

Seed N Salt Announces Future U/D Location 

And some great news for those who love local, Seed N Salt,  a quick service café providing healthy and delicious food choices, is planning a future location in U/D. They offer a wide selection of bowls, salads, breakfasts, café drinks, smoothies, craft beer and regional wines, all created with fresh ingredients. We love how Seed N Salt’s philosophy of supporting local and seasonal farmers and producers aligns with our community vision. 

With an anticipated summer/fall 2024 opening date, the restaurant café joins an already impressive selection of restaurants, retailers and eateries in U/D, and will offer quick, healthy food options for on-the-go Calgarians and visitors who never want to compromise on nutrition. 

We look forward to featuring additional details about the new Seed N Salt location closer to its opening date.  

Save the Date – Homes by Avi to launch third U/D project this May

We are excited to be launching the third residential project from Homes by Avi this May. You’re invited to join us as we celebrate at our builder launch on May 6, 2023 from 12 – 5 PM at the Discovery Centre. Join us for music, light refreshments and a few surprises. Meet the builder and enjoy a guided tour of their new show suite. Watch our social media and website for all the details and mark your calendars!

A variety of professional businesses now call University District home, and they are attracting a network of bright minds who enjoy working in versatile spaces within a thriving and growing community. For some of our office tenants, offering accessibility to their clients is key, while for others, the many amenities within U/D and close proximity to major health and post-secondary institutions is a winning factor. We connected with some of our new tenants to learn a little more about their businesses and what attracted them to U/D.

Dr. Joseph Gonzales and his team at Clara Optometry offer patients eye exams, glasses, contact lenses, referrals and customized solutions for all your eyecare needs. Dr. Gonzales and his team at Clara Optometry use the latest advancements, treating their patients with modern technology and collaborating with industry leaders.

Says Dr. Gonzales, “I grew up in the northwest and went to school in this area from kindergarten until I graduated from the University of Calgary. This area has been very special to me for my entire life and was a huge reason why I wanted to open my practice here. The people at University District have been very welcoming and well organized with their visions and plans. I feel lucky to be a part of this amazing community.”

Another leading-edge business calling University District home is Cloudbreak University District, an advanced Ophthalmology practice providing treatment for Comprehensive, Cataract and Glaucoma patients. Cloudbreak University District provides patients with professional and thorough care, assessing their vision using advanced technology and then offering individualized treatment plans. 

Cloudbreak decided to open their practice within University District to be more accessible to patients in the northwest and beyond. With close proximity to public transit, free 3hr parking, and great amenities, Cloudbreak believes their office space at University District fits the bill perfectly.

“We care deeply about community and helping one another at Cloudbreak University District. Our team enjoys giving back to those in need and we participate in volunteer opportunities together. We feel that University District is the perfect place for our team to grow and give back in many different ways,” said Kheiara Canales, ophthalmic receptionist at Cloudbreak University District.

The team at Cloudbreak University District have enjoyed exploring the amenities offered in the area, including the variety of restaurants and quick dining options. Their team loves the ease of walking over to a work meeting or an after-hours get-together. University District is the perfect place for their team to support patients as well as getting life’s “to-do’s” done. 

Our office spaces are also a quick walk to nearby facilities such as the Alberta Children’s Hospital and the Brenda Strafford Foundation’s Cambridge Manor.

The latest office opening in Block 23 is The Vein Treatment Centre. Focused on vein health and skincare, they want to ensure their clients feel more confident by helping them achieve and maintain beautiful legs and skin.

In addition to these new medical practices, Staples Studio also calls Block 23 in U/D home. With a new state-of-the-art co-working space, this space offers remote workers, small businesses and large corporations the flexibility to create a work schedule based on their changing needs. 

Staples studio offers day passes, monthly passes and flex passes, so you can find something that meets your business needs. In addition, the Staples Studio co-working office has meeting rooms, podcast booths, private offices and community event spaces for rent, creating a unique experience for any business or working professional.

U/D offers the best of both worlds for professionals looking to start or grow their business while having easy access to restaurants, grocery stores, retail and other amenities. Attracting the right talent is one thing, keeping them is another. With an office in U/D, employers can offer built-in perks right at their fingertips, such as pathways, parks and ponds, quick after-work access to shops (whether you have a wine list or grocery list), and a Retail Main Street designed to thrive off people connecting to shop, eat, explore and socialize. These “added perks” go a long way to enhancing the office experience for employees.

Whether you’re moving out for the first time or downsizing to suit a new lifestyle, renting provides the ease, freedom, accessibility and convenience combined with access to urban living amenities. Perfect for renters, University District has all of your community needs covered. 

University District is one of the city’s most sought-after urban communities. Our feet-first approach perfectly combines residential living with commercial retailers, offices and plenty of places to eat, drink, and have fun. We are also home to a variety of parks and other natural features such as the expansive and interconnected walking trails and urban dog park.

Urban Lifestyle for Renters in University District 

Renting in University District has plenty of benefits for renters looking for an urban lifestyle, including: 

• Convenient amenities: U/D offers a variety of shopping, dining and entertainment options for busy people. 
• Proximity to higher education: Conveniently located near the University of Calgary, U/D is a popular destination and home for staff, students and faculty. 
• Safe and friendly urban community: A safe and friendly urban neighbourhood, U/D has a mix of residents at different life stages.
• Transit accessibility: Well connected to the rest of the city by public transportation, there are multiple bus stops and a nearby C-Train for convenience. Accessible to all major arteries in the city, and a quick drive to the mountains, U/D renters can make the most of their central location. 

People choose University District as a place to call home for various reasons, including convenient access to their workplace or the University and a quick commute to the downtown core. There’s also the variety of parks, green spaces, and the ever-expanding retail main street. We asked a couple of current residents why they chose U/D: 

“I have lived in University District for about a year and a half, but the proximity to the mountains and the University of Calgary originally drew me to the area. As an avid cross-country skier, I love the quick escape to the mountains. After a long week of working at the University, it is so nice to be out of town in less than 15 minutes,” says JP. 

“As a University of Calgary employee, I also find the proximity to my office extremely convenient. I consider myself very lucky to walk to work every day. I find that my lifestyle has become far more active since moving here,” explains EM.

Renting at Aria – Elevated Apartments at U/D

University District’s Aria Apartments combines the city’s most outstanding features to create a living environment unlike any other. Aria is a purpose-built apartment building located in the heart of the Retail Main Street that perfectly balances traditional form and contemporary conveniences. Available in one, two and three-bedroom combinations in multiple floor plans, Aria’s modern apartments are equipped with high-end appliances and air conditioning. Aria apartments offer various on-site amenities, including a fitness center and lounge areas.

One of its best features is invisible from the street: a 20,000 square-foot outdoor courtyard with exceptional recreational facilities, including firepits, BBQ stations, a pickleball court, a bocce ball court, a fenced-in pet area and more. There’s even an Airstream trailer, al fresco dining tables and lounge chairs to catch some summer rays. Have you visited this secret courtyard yet? 

“Living at Aria was an easy decision for my husband and I. When we first considered moving to the community, we were struggling to find a home we could downsize to that would still accommodate our dog. Thanks to the building’s dog-friendly amenities, living at Aria made the most sense. We also appreciate the high-end finishings they have in their suites. The large windows and modern kitchen make the space a place I love calling home,” continues JP

Renting at Esquire –  Condos at U/D

The Esquire condo development provides amenities like a 24/7 fitness centre, outdoor courtyards and a pet spa. With one, two and three-bedroom condo options coupled with nearby food, entertainment, retail and wellness services on the Retail Main Street, Esquire is perfectly situated to make life easy. Offering underground parking, secure entry and on-site security provides residents with safety, comfort and peace of mind. 

Watch for additional rental offerings in U/D with The Forge by Vivenda Group. Located on the Retail Main Street north of Village Ice Cream this project will have exciting details released in fall 2023. 

Visit our Discovery Centre

If University District sounds like the perfect place for you, visit our Discovery Centre located at 4410 University Ave NW, and learn more about renting or owning in NW Calgary’s most sought-after urban community. You can speak with our community ambassadors, talk to sales representatives or just explore the community information. Learn more about rentals here.

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to live in University District? We know the things that make U/D so special but we connected with three local residents to hear their stories about why they love to call our community home. 

Meet Justin

Justin is a single resident who has lived in University District for a year and a half. We asked Justin about some of his favourite aspects of the community, and here’s what he had to say: 

What originally drew you to living in University District? 

Justin: I was seeking a community that has a small feel with amenities that were easy to walk to. I was also taking into consideration the future growth in the immediate area and the upcoming developments looked really exciting. 

What is your favourite part about living in University District? 

Justin: My favourite part of University District is that it’s quiet, clean and has really beautiful parks. The access to major roads and pathways around the city is also a huge bonus for me.

Are there any hidden gems or places in the community that you like to share with family and friends? 

Justin: In the springtime, there’s a row of really stunning apple trees in Northwest Commons Park. I’m a sucker for pretty trees. I’ve also shown friends the new skating rink which is an awesome addition to our community for the colder months!

What are some of the amenities you use around the University District?

Justin: I typically work from home so I’ve spent a lot of time exploring the neighbourhood in my downtime. I spend a lot of time near the dog park and the water fountain/pond. As well, you’ll probably find me grocery shopping at Save-On-Foods or finding a bottle of red wine at Market Wines.

Meet Brett

Brett, his wife Shawna and their dog Arri have lived in the Noble development for more than a year. When asked about their favourite amenities in the community, Brett had a lot to share. Here are his thoughts:

What originally drew you to living in University District? 

Brett: We weren’t sure where in Canada we’d be living after my wife finished her MBA, but we knew if we stayed in Calgary, we wanted a community with a design focused on walkability. Pair that with being in the NW and with easy access to major roadways, this community was a perfect fit.

What is your favourite part about living in University District? 

Brett: Our favourite part is the closeness and proximity to amenities, which makes for easier living all around. Forgot an ingredient for dinner? No problem, zip down to the store. Need some emergency coffee? Boom, Monogram. Out of dog food? Pet Planet is right around the corner. You can’t beat the convenience of this community.

Are there any hidden gems or places in the community that you like to share with family and friends? 

Brett: A notable hidden gem for me is Orangetheory Fitness. One of their trainers, Alex, is great at instructing his classes and it makes working out super accessible. I love having Orangetheory (and Alex) so close to home.

What are some of the amenities you use around University District? 

Brett: One of the amenities I frequently over-use is Village Ice Cream. They have the best artisan ice cream in the city and I am so happy to have them within walking distance of my house. It also takes some of the calorie guilt away! Additionally, we often use the walking access and pathway to the University of Calgary.

Meet Mac

Mac has been living in University District’s Aria building for more than two years with his service dog, Veda. Mac and Veda have appreciated the community they have built in University District and had a lot of great things to share when asked about their life here: 

What originally drew you to living in University District? 

Mac: I was originally drawn to University District because of its future plans, as well as how close it is to the University of Calgary. There’s always so much to do in this community!

What is your favourite part about living in University District? 

Mac: I think my favourite part about living here is the community I’ve built for myself. A number of businesses know me (and Veda) by name and vice versa which is always a nice feeling. I also love the neighbourhood as a whole and its level of convenience and access to necessities.

Are there any hidden gems or places in the community that you like to share with family and friends? 

Mac: There are so many hidden gems in the area and I think each resident has something different they appreciate having so accessible. 

What are some of the amenities you use around the University District? Do you work or go to school nearby? 

Mac: I use almost all of the amenities in University District, from Pet Planet and University District Dental, to the VIP Cineplex Cinema. I originally went to the University of Calgary, which is when I fell in love with this area. Now, I go to Bow Valley College, which is still an easy commute.

Did you know that Fuwa Fuwa means fluffy fluffy? While we are convinced that Fuwa Fuwa is home to some of the fluffiest pancakes we have ever tasted, we want you to try for yourself.

Read below to enter our contest for a chance to try their popular treats, on us!

Fuwa Fuwa Joins U/D

As Calgary’s leading urban community, U/D is always looking to bring in retailers that fit the dynamic needs of U/D residents and visitors. We are ecstatic to welcome Fuwa Fuwa to U/D’s food scene serving up handcrafted soufflé pancakes and other one-of-a-kind artisanal desserts. 

Fuwa Fuwa is renowned for their soufflé pancakes which are the perfect balance between light soufflé and classic pancake. These no-knife-necessary clouds of goodness are made to order from a secret recipe that is unlike any pancake you have had before. If pancakes aren’t your style, Fuwa Fuwa’s menu has a diverse array of treats to choose from, including gluten-free options. Currently, Fuwa Fuwa in U/D exclusively offers gluten-free cheesecake and roll cakes.

It’s a must-visit destination for foodies or for anyone just looking to try something Instagrammable and delicious. Apart from their unmatched menu, Fuwa Fuwa’s new location gives off a warm and inviting ambiance for a picture-perfect experience. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, you’ll find something to love at this charming spot which now calls U/D home!

With the U/D location being just the second in Calgary, we sat down with Fuwa Fuwa to learn more about this one-of-a-kind spot!

What makes Fuwa Fuwa pancakes so fluffy?

Fuwa Fuwa: “Originating from Japan, handcrafted soufflé pancakes are traditionally served at weddings and celebrations for good fortune, but have now evolved to become a treat for every occasion – from breakfast to brunch to dinner, and everything in between. What differentiates them from traditional pancakes is they are soft, bouncy and incredibly light. 

Each Fuwa Fuwa pancake begins with egg whites whipped to soft peaks. Our fluffy pancake mix is made using locally sourced milk and is free of artificial additives, essential to their airy quality. The mixture is then cooked very slowly at a low temperature for up to 20 minutes, creating a high-quality dessert.”

What else do you serve other than pancakes? 

Fuwa Fuwa: “Croffles (croissant-waffles), Waffles, Basque Burnt Cheesecake, Macarons, Roll Cakes and Specialty Drinks.”

What are some things people may not know about Fuwa Fuwa?

Fuwa Fuwa: “While souffle pancakes have their origins in Asia, we always try our best to bring elements of east and west together. Fuwa Fuwa continues to innovate by experimenting with new ways to seamlessly blend elements of various cultures together in our menu, not only allowing our customers to taste flavours from around the world, but to also allow people – regardless of where they come from – to find familiarity and comfort in our creations.”

Stuck in the January blues? We have just the cure! Get out and enjoy the great outdoors here in the city. From the Central Commons Park ice rink, to plenty of restaurants, new retailers and more, there are so many things to do in U/D and beyond.

It can take some extra motivation to spend time outside in the winter. Lucky for us, we live in one of the most beautiful places in the world. There’s plenty to explore in our own backyard and we have a great to inspire your next outdoor winter adventure. 

Consider these ideas to help make your winter…simply wonderful!

1. Explore the urban outdoors in U/D – A must-see new amenity in University District is the Central Commons Park skating rink. Adorned with a larger than life light display, a temperature-regulated rink, fire features and community gathering spots, this urban park is the perfect destination to reconnect with family and friends.

U/D is also home to 12 kilometres of interconnected pathways, perfect for a walk with friends, getting exercise with your dog or taking a fat bike out for a spin. Nearby Bow Cycle has convenient rental options for all skill levels in case you haven’t tried a fat bike before.

2. Hit the slopes at Winsport – Calgary’s Winsport is home to so much more than a ski hill. Their tube park, public skating rinks and terrain park give you plenty of options to make this winter an adventurous one. Not sure where to start? Winsport offers lessons and rentals, and they also offer evening skiing and sliding under the lights.

PC: Neil Zeller, Chinook Blast

3. Visit ChinookBlast – Held annually at the end of January and early February, Calgarians are invited to celebrate winter through theatre, live music and community installations across the city during Chinook Blast. The public event showcases the best of Calgary’s recreation and arts scene while bringing warmth to some of the city’s coldest months. Events include light and art installations in Olympic Plaza, 10-minute plays by the High Performance Rodeo and plenty of live music at the Block Heater musical festival.

4. Go tobogganing in Confederation Park or in St. Andrew’s Heights – If the rush of skiing or tubing down Winsport is too much for you, keep it lowkey at a community toboggan hill. Northwest Calgary is home to four city-approved hills including Confederation Park, Hidden Valley, Royal Oak and St. Andrew’s Heights. If an incline isn’t your idea of fun, Confederation Park is also home to one of the city’s most popular cross-country tracks.

5. Visit the U/D Winter Pop-ups. As Calgarians we are used to not letting the winter weather keep us indoors. U/D is embracing the season and helping the community warm up to winter with some fun events.

On January 21 from 1- 4 join us in Central Commons Park for some winter fun. If you missed the skating performances at the Central Commons Park opening you are in luck as they are back again to dazzle us on the outdoor rink. You can also try your hand at Cabane à Sucre – maple sugar taffy making, first 150 complimentary, and take in the music and entertainment. 

Then on February 18 from 4 -7 head to the skating rink for a date night! With music, entertainment and hot drinks it’s the perfect way to spend some time with that special someone taking in the sights, sounds, and lights of Central Commons Park.

Watch our social media for all the details on the winter pop-ups. 

A new year is a great time for a home refresher. We sat down with two award-winning interior design experts, including Leanne Jenkins of Leanne Jenkins Design and Louis Duncan-He from Louis Duncan-He Designs, to get the scoop on each of their top five design trends in 2023.

Both of these Calgary-based designers bring a unique perspective to their craft. Leanne specializes in a variety of high end spaces including residential interiors, hotels, restaurants and office design. Louis and his team are the minds behind Rohit Communities Dean’s Landing in U/D.

Leanne Jenkins’ top five home design trends of 2023

1. Bold colours

Whether it be in wallpaper, appliances, bedding, furniture or paint, bold colours will be a strong trend in 2023. A tranquil colour palette with jewel tones, or one with bright cheerful colours, is emerging in interiors. Not sure where to start? Throw pillows and artwork are a great way to introduce colour into your space.

2. Overscale pendants

Gone are the days of three simple pendants over the island. Two large scale pendants at the island, or an oversized single pendant at a nook table are increasing in popularity. Overscale pendants are a great way to add a personal statement to a space. They are also an easy update to make. Experts at local lighting stores like Carrington Lighting and LightForm Calgary can set you up to ensure you find the right size and scale for your home.

3. Brown

According to Jenkins, warm brown tones in furniture, cabinetry, flooring, paint and accents are providing a feeling of coziness and dimension missing from monotone white and grey interiors. Rich wood tones are being used to balance white interiors to create a bright but cozy feel. A natural wood coffee table, warm toned blankets and throws or a new area rug are easy ways to mix and match warmer tones into your space to test them out.

4. 60’s and 70’s influence

This style may be somewhat short-lived, but can be incorporated tastefully into design with some long-term pieces such as Eames chairs or stained wood pieces (tying in with the brown trend). Not all 1970s design was bad design, and it can be done without reminding you of your grandparents’ basement. A great place to start with some small changes is a shag area rug or smaller decor pieces, both of which can be found at the Homesense on Shaganappi Trail in Market Mall.

5. Closed floor plans

As people worked from home during the pandemic, the desire and need for privacy and quiet spaces have led away from open floor plans. Creating cozy quiet areas, formal entries and closed off retreats are becoming a home must-have. Think about repurposing that small nook or unused corner in your home for some added separation from the main living spaces.

Louis Duncan-He’s Home Design Trends for 2023

Louis is an internationally published, award winning designer and entrepreneur. He believes that spaces should be timeless, authentic and designed with heart and soul. Hailing from a background in corporate advertising, Louis applies a unique client-centred approach with the goal to create distinctive spaces that reflect distinctive people.

1. Sustainability

We can’t deny that the focus on sustainability is becoming not just a trend, but a necessity. We’re seeing a real shift towards environmental education which impacts where products are sourced from and their carbon emissions. People are willing to pay a little more for locally sourced quality products and bringing vintage pieces into the mix. In addition, adding in hits of green (think large plants or living moss installations) to help increase the air quality in the home.

For some tips on how to bring some green into your living space, check out our blog on Indoor Plant Tips for Beginners, Collectors, and Pet Owners.

2. Fluted & Caning Detailing 

Fluted and caning details are everywhere! Fluted details offer a ribbed or grooved texture (usually vertical) applied to millwork, metals, glass, furniture and other accent pieces. Caning is a weaved texture (usually out of rattan or wicker) derived from cane, used in furniture and other accents. These details are elegant and are the perfect way to add in depth or a hint of an organic quality. 

Whether you start with a rattan chair or wicker side table, there are plenty of places to find fluted and caning home decor including Homesense at Market Mall, Urban Barn at Crowfoot or Metro Element in Kensington.

3. Curves

Whether it’s furniture, accessories or architectural details, curves are making a comeback. From elegant and simple executions like a curved dry walled staircase and arched wall details to cozy off-white boucle sofas, adding curves throughout a space is a seamless way to add cohesion and flow.

4.Plaster & Limewash

In 2022 we saw the emergence of “japandi”, a minimalist yet rich and layered mix of Japanese and Scandinavian design with key elements featuring limewash and plastered walls, soft and airy woods along with a minimalist sensibility. We are now seeing this more organic textured approach be applied to not just walls, but even in finishing textures of chandeliers and furniture – think plaster textured metals, milky and pearlescent glass and faux finished consoles and credenzas.

Limewash and plaster walls are easy to accomplish at home. By mixing plaster and paint, you can give any wall a rich and layered look.

5.Return of the Dining Room

While the last few years really tested the functionality of our home, one room that became the “sacrificial landing zone” was the formal dining room. We saw them metamorphosize to function as home offices, game zones and even make-shift classrooms. People are excited to claim their homes again and make them feel special for reconnecting with friends and family as we find our new normal, and the dining room is a huge focus for so many of our clients.