CONNIE OLIVER: After 10 years, there's still lots to talk about

The more things change... It was 10 years ago this week that I wrote my first article for the Winnipeg Free Press. It's hard to believe that I've had the privilege of helping you with your decorating issues for over a . . .

Posted: 2009-12-05

CONNIE OLIVER: An easy and affordable bedroom makeover

I've been mulling over doing a bedroom makeover lately. Maybe it's the winter doldrums at work here but it's time for a change. Yes, it seems like just yesterday I did a whole "brown and pink makeover" in my bedroom . . .

Posted: 2012-02-04

Room to grow in LaSalle

Spacious bi-level perfect for large families

Over the past decade or so, many builders have phased out bi-level homes from their design catalogues. The reason is due to lot sizes in the city becoming smaller, making it increasingly difficult to build spacious bi-levels on narrow lots. Consequently, most . . .

Posted: 2022-02-12

Sweet 16

Westwood bungalow wears its age well

In realtor-ese, it's an oft-used expression. Yet, when used properly, it's appropriate. That expression? None other than, "this home shows real pride of ownership." In the case of a 16-year-old bungalow found at 22 Franklin Bay in Westwood, it's not hyperbole, . . .

Posted: 2012-03-24

Pop popcorn in fridge for safekeeping

QUESTION: I have taken on a new hobby, which is growing popcorn in my garden. What is the best way to store popcorn so it stays fresh? Biannce (Winnipeg) ANSWER: Popcorn is a great treat year round. One of the advantages . . .

Posted: 2013-07-20

SOLUTIONS: Tips to bring dinnerware up to scratch

QUESTION: I purchased a new set of dishes, only to find there are scratches left from the cutlery after use. This is the second dinnerware set I have had difficulty with. The dishes have both been ivory in colour with . . .

Posted: 2013-01-26

Warming up for winter

Floor-to-ceiling fireplace brings the heat

It can be quite flattering when a past client reaches out to request my design input to customize areas in a new home, because the renovations done in the old house are sorely missed. Recently, I was asked to . . .

Posted: 2023-09-30

Shelter from the storm

Pergolas are not only useful, they are also MAGICAL

Having mentioned in a previous column how trends tend to come in waves, this season is once again the "summer of pergola". By the close of my scheduled exterior builds, four or five pergolas will have been built for hire, . . .

Posted: 2022-07-16

Glitches call for quick fixes

When things go wrong, they can almost always be put right

I always aspire to achieve the best results for my clients under any circumstance. Whether it’s an interior or exterior project, each has its own set of variables that can wreak havoc. But circumstances that cause issues can always be . . .

Posted: 2025-07-26

Bright ideas

Getting those delayed jobs done feels great

The work on this condo apartment began sometime in early 2019 and included adding a feature wall, a facelift to a mobile island in the kitchen and a few other smaller jobs. Things ground to a halt in early 2020, . . .

Posted: 2021-03-20