Kitchen trends this year are building on the momentum of last year and are on track to be even simpler, cozier and more nature-inspired than 2021. The pandemic fundamentally changed how we live and work inside our homes – the heart of that change starts in the kitchen, a place of comfort and family. This year’s hottest trends focus on simple luxuries with an organic style, putting function and convenience at the forefront.

• Vintage is in. It started out of necessity because of supply-chain issues and quickly became a design choice to go vintage over big-box store, adding charm and character to the kitchen with antique and vintage pieces. Try an heirloom table or a cabinet filled with handcrafted ceramics.

• Natural colours. White, of course, is a kitchen classic. But this year, try a splash of brightness to bring the colours of nature to your home: sunny yellow, burnt orange, moody blue, sandy browns and calming greens are all sizzling hot in 2022.

• Bold materials. Traditional tile has had its day. Now, bold materials that evoke a certain sense of rawness are in. Try stone countertops like marble balanced with a modern wood finish in light or medium tones (grained walnut and white oak are gorgeous).

• Arches and curves. Elegant, rounded curves – like a rounded pantry door – provide a distinct contrast to the more typical square doorways and cabinets.

• Accent lighting. Lighting can make all the difference to the mood of a room. Try smaller table lamps on countertops, warmer-coloured LED bulbs and decorative hanging chandeliers.

• Kitchens as multipurpose rooms. Adults working and children learning from home during the pandemic changed how we use our homes: the need for multifunctional design has become more important than ever and that trend continues in 2022, making functional design a must. Try a bar or kitchen island with stools or a small breakfast table tucked in a nook.

It’s a new year and a new tax season! Although your 2021 tax return isn’t due until April 2022, the sooner you start preparing the better. It pays to learn how to keep more of your hard-earned money in your own pocket and these tax credits for homeowners are a great way to start. Don’t forget to keep all receipts and documentation when you submit your tax return in case the CRA requests more information.

• First-time home buyers' tax credit: You can claim $5,000 if you bought your first home last year (or if you haven't lived in a home owned by you or your spouse in the last four years). It must be a qualifying home though.

• GST/HST new housing rebate: If you paid Goods and Services Tax (GST) or Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) on a home that was newly built or substantially renovated, you may be eligible for the new housing rebate on part of the tax. 

• Home buyers' tax credit for people with disabilities: You may be eligible for the Home Buyers' Tax Credit even if you aren't a first-time home buyer, if you or your spouse/common-law partner meet the CRA’s eligibility requirements for a person with disabilities. 

• Home accessibility tax credit: In the same vein, if you meet the CRA’s eligibility requirements for a person with disabilities or you are over the age of 65 (or you are eligible to make the claim for someone else), and you make permanent renovations to your home in order to make it more accessible. 

• Deductions from moving: If you moved to attend school full-time, launch a new business or take a new job, your moving expenses could be tax-deductible. 

• Working from home: If you work from home, you may be able to claim eligible home office expenses. 

• Rental income: If you are renting out all or part of your property (including short-term rentals), don’t forget to declare the income earned. On the flip side, don’t forget to allowable expenses such as property taxes or interest. 

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Please seek professional advice for your own personal situation.