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Canada’s Foreign Investment Surge Isn’t Confidence, It’s A Looming Debt Crisis Global investment in Canada is surging, but is it a vote of confidence or vultures circling? Statistics Canada (StatCan) data shows foreign investment boomed in May, prompting some outlets to frame the surge as a renewed confidence in Canada. BMO argues the composition tells a very different story. Investors aren’t piling into Canadian companies, but […] The post Canada’s Foreign Investment Surge Isn’t Confidence, It’s A Looming Debt Crisis appeared first on Better Dwelling. https://betterdwelling.com/canadas-foreign-investment-surge-isnt-confidence-its-a-looming-debt-crisis/

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‘It allows for almost endless configurations’ – John Lewis’ impressive new modular sofa is the brand’s most future-proof design yet It’s no secret that I’m a big fan of modular sofas. So when a new design launches, I pay attention – especially when it’s from one of the best sofa brands that also makes excellent modular sofas. When I first saw the John Lewis Elara modular sofa at the brand’s autumn/winter 2026 press preview, I immediately fell in love. Investing in one of the best modular sofas is becoming more popular, as John Lewis reports that sales of their modular sofas have increased by 220% over the last three years. I rate the retailer’s Flow and Tokyo modular sofas very highly – but even David Barrett, head of home design at John Lewis, says that the new Elara modular sofa is even more special. John Lewis Elara 4 Seater Chaise End Sofa in Natural The Elara is not the cheapest of sofas. But given its generous size and flexible modular design, I think it's worth it. There are more compact configurations available, too, and you can build your own with individual modules, too. ‘Elara is fully modular and adaptable,’ David explains. ‘It differs from other John Lewis modulars through its availability in three different widths which allows almost endless configurations. The smaller modules can create a compact seating solution whereas the larger module enables you to create a grand corner group that accommodates the whole family and anything in between.’ As the Elara only just dropped on the retailer’s site, the individual modules in various widths are not yet available. But the ready-made Elara 4-seater chaise-end sofa, which sells for £4199 and can be with you within seven days, includes and shows the different seat widths. (Image credit: John Lewis/Phil Panting) Aside from this default ready-made option, the Elara sofa is available in 80 fabrics to choose from, several of which I got to see at the brand’s press showcase. If you go for the made-to-order option, the lead time is eight weeks. But aside from the various widths available, there are other things to love about the Elara sofa, too. Generously sized and deep-seated sofas have been rising in popularity this year as we all value comfort above all else. And this sofa ticks those boxes – so much so that I’d say it’s not the most small living room-friendly, however, it makes for the perfect open-plan living room idea. (Image credit: Future/Sara Hesikova) ‘The Elara is a stunning centerpiece that looks flawless from every angle, making it the ultimate choice for open-plan living. Its relaxed seating and loose back cushions provide unparalleled, everyday comfort,’ David at John Lewis says. And I can attest to that as I was so comfortable when trying the sofa IRL that I didn’t want to get up at all. The curvaceous shape of the sofa is another one of its benefits and aesthetically pleasing features which was inspired by Scandinavian design. ‘The Elara sofa brings our AW26 creative vision to life, combining Scandinavian design inspiration with insights gathered during Copenhagen Design Week,’ David confirms. Last year, the retailer impressed me with the showstopping John Lewis Pleat sofa design. But this year, it’s all about the Elara modular sofa for me. https://www.idealhome.co.uk/all-rooms/sofas/john-lewis-elara-modular-sofa

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This £2 IKEA plant pot will keep your plants hydrated during the August heatwave – it’s how I'm watering my plants when I go on holiday this summer Given that yet another heatwave is set to strike the UK this week, and the fact that I’m heading off on holiday, I’ve been struggling to come up with ways to water my houseplants when I’m gone. I’ve settled on IKEA's self-watering VÅRDTRÄD plant pot as a means to keep my plants healthy and happy while I’m gone. Anyone heading off on holiday will have spent a fair amount of time considering how to water plants on holiday. But what about your best houseplants? An irrigation system won't work unless they are in a large cluster together, so this is where a self-watering plant pot can come in handy. IKEA’s VÅRDTRÄD range starts at just £2, making it a highly affordable watering option. Meanwhile, its plentiful positive reviews sealed the deal for me. IKEA VÅRDTRÄD Self-Watering Plant Pot - In/outdoor Transparent/anthracite 9 Cm IKEA VÅRDTRÄD Self-Watering Plant Pot - In/outdoor Transparent/anthracite 19 Cm IKEA VÅRDTRÄD Self-Watering Plant Pot - In/outdoor Transparent/anthracite 24 Cm The VÅRDTRÄD plant pot is designed under the ethos that ‘Forgetting to water is human.’ It uses a built-in reservoir and capillary wick system to provide constant, slow hydration to your plants - perfect for when you’re going away for a few days. Water is stored in the base of the pot and travels upwards, into your soil, via a fabric wick. Just like drip watering systems, this plant sends water slowly to the roots of your planters, ensuring your plants get the right amount of water. On paper, it sounds like the perfect houseplant solution for holidays. But before I bought one, I wanted to get an expert opinion from someone who had first-hand experience. ‘Self-watering planters are an absolute lifesaver when I go on holiday and don't want my plants to dry up. They really take the weight off - you don't have to worry about your garden when you're supposed to be relaxing, so to me, they're well worth the money,’ Sophie King, Garden Editor at Ideal Home, told me. (Image credit: IKEA) And Sophie’s not the only one impressed by these plant pots. IKEA’s VÅRDTRÄD pot range has plenty of positive reviews to back it up. ‘I bought this plant pot for a work plant to take the stress out of trying to remember to water it when I’m busy. I’ll definitely get the next size when it needs repotting,’ says one. ‘These are amazing and seem to work for all types of plants. I had an aloe I thought I had killed either over- or under-watering, popped it in one of these and now it’s healthy and having babies. Peace lily was starting to go yellow (yes, I really am rubbish at watering!), now it’s healthy, green and flourishing after being put in one of these. Spider plants - love it! Miniature indoor rose that we got free from a supermarket as it was almost dead - recovered, flourishing and flowering! I genuinely would have considerably fewer plants alive if it wasn’t for this pot!’ said another. If you don’t have an IKEA local to you, don’t worry, as your local garden centre should stock self-watering plant pots, too. Alternatively, I’ve tracked down a few more you can shop online. B&Q Self Watering Indoor Plant Pots Set of 3 Amazon Bamworld Self Watering Plant Pots Indoor Set of 6 B&Q Verve Glazed Terracotta & White Terracotta Plant Pot With these self-watering plant pots, I'm confident my plants will be as refreshed as I am when I return from holiday. https://www.idealhome.co.uk/garden/houseplants/ikea-vardtrad-plant-pots

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Canada’s Young Adults Make Less Than 50 Years Ago, Senior Incomes Surged Maybe Canada’s peak opportunity for young adults really was in the 70s and 80s? Statistics Canada (StatCan) data shows the median income didn’t budge at all in 2024 after inflation. Since peaking in 2021, the median income hasn’t made much progress after inflation—except for older Canadians. While older demographics continue to see their real (inflation-adjusted) […] The post Canada’s Young Adults Make Less Than 50 Years Ago, Senior Incomes Surged appeared first on Better Dwelling. https://betterdwelling.com/canadas-young-adults-make-less-than-50-years-ago-senior-incomes-surged/

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This £4 supermarket buy has made my kitchen bin smell like a spa retreat – I’m not lying, it genuinely smells divine This summer, I’ve been testing out Febreze’s new Bin Fresheners (£5.99, Amazon), and I’m not lying when I say my bin actually smells good?! They’ve been brilliant at banishing bad smells from my kitchen bins. In hot weather, it doesn’t take long until rubbish starts to smell and fruit flies flock to your home as a result. While we all should be cleaning a kitchen bin regularly during summer, sometimes this isn’t enough to stop the pong. So, any product that promises to stop my bin from smelling, I’m more than willing to try. And I was genuinely left impressed with Febreze’s new Bin Fresheners. My bin has never smelled so good. Febreze Febreze Bin Freshener Refill Pack Outdoor Fresh 4x4.88ml You can order the bin fresheners from Amazon, but they're also available for £4 from supermarkets like Tesco and Savers. For £5.99, you get four fragrance refills, meaning you get 180 days of a lovely smelling bin. When I moved into my flat last year, I swapped out a standard plastic waste bin for Habitat’s 55 Litre Twin Compartment Pedal Bin (£70) as its space-saving design was better suited to my small kitchen. It’s proved incredibly easy to clean, and I’ve noticed fewer smells leak through than a kitchen bin. However, during this year’s heat waves, I have noticed bad smells when I open the lid. So, when I got my hands on the Febreze Bin Fresheners, I was excited to try them. They’re incredibly easy to use. You simply clean and dry the lid, insert the fragrance capsule into the holder and stick it to the lid via its adhesive liner. And from that moment onwards, there genuinely is a big difference between how my bin smelt before and after. I’d opted for the Outdoor Fresh scent, and every time I opened my bin it smelt almost spa-like. And no, that’s not a sentence I ever thought I’d write. (Image credit: Future PLC/ Kezia Reynolds) The fragrance pods last up to 45 days in a row, and in my experience, mask smells for that entire time. Febreze claims the fresheners fight up to 99% of common bin odours. I’m inclined to agree. Having tested the fresheners out on my regular waste bin, I’m planning to pick up more pods and apply one to my food waste bin. I currently use the bicarbonate of soda hack to stop my food waste bin from smelling, but Febreze’s pods have proved more effective in my experience with my general waste bin. Of course, you shouldn’t replace good bin hygiene with fragrance. Febreze’s pods are not designed to clean your bin, simply to mask poor smells. However, I have also noticed a reduction in flies this year compared to last year in my kitchen. Flies are attracted to decomposing food and rubbish, so your bin is a hotspot for attracting them. But while my bin now smells great to me, it’s less attractive for flies. This handy little cleaning buy has earned a permanent place on my list of best cleaning products. It’s managed to make the inside of my kitchen bin smell like a spa retreat, and that is something short of a miracle. https://www.idealhome.co.uk/house-manual/cleaning/febreze-bin-freshener

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Habitat just launched a 'pillow' sofa bed for £235, and I think this soft and squishy look is about to become the next big trend If you're in the market for a sofa bed, I think Habitat is *the* place to shop right now. Especially if you want a budget-friendly design that's perfect for smaller homes. The brand has just launched a brand new collection of sofa and chair beds, and there's one design in particular that has really caught my eye. Habitat's new 'Pillow' sofa bed costs just £235, and I think its soft and squishy look sums up one of the year's biggest furniture trends. Habitat Habitat Pillow Single Fabric Chairbed The new launch is available in a single or double design. As Ideal Home's Sleep Editor, I've spent the past five years testing the best sofa beds and best chair beds on the market, and in the past year, I've noticed a growing trend. This year, 'pillow' furniture is having a moment, and thanks to its soft, squishy, and cocooning vibes, I think it's a look that's here to stay. I first noticed this trend in the bedroom. This year's bedroom trends are all about turning the sleep space into a restful retreat; a look achieved with tactile fabrics, nurturing colours, and furniture with soft, curvaceous, and 'pillowy' shapes. (Image credit: Darlings of Chelsea) It began with headboard trends. At the start of 2026, clean lines and hard edges were very clearly on their way out, and soft, padded, and pillowy bed trends were on the way in. The idea was to create a sleep space that felt cocooning, restful, and like somewhere you wanted to curl up and 'nest' for a while. Now, the look has reached the world of sofa beds, and I think Habitat's new launch nails it perfectly. (Image credit: Habitat) The aptly named Pillow chair bed looks exactly like you might expect. It's an elevated version of Habitat's bestselling Roma chair bed, but this new Pillow version has softer corners designed to resemble a pillow. It's a small detail, yes. But it's often the small details that elevate a piece of furniture from run-of-the-mill to understated-luxe, and I think it's definitely a hosting solution to have on your radar as a result. And not least, because at £295 for the single chair bed, and £365 for the double, this new overnight hosting solution is a stylish option that is also far more affordable than it looks. I've rounded up some of the alternatives on the market below, and as you'll see, Habitat's options are by *far* the most budget-friendly. Habitat Pillow Fabric Double Chair Bed Habitat's Pillow chair bed may lack arms, but that makes it a great option for small rooms were space is at a premium. And, if you do have a little more room to play with, the larger £365 Habitat Pillow Fabric Double Chair Bed is another great buy. Swyft Model 08 Chair Bed Single Sofa Bed Swyft's 08 chair and sofa beds are some other great pillow-style options. Their flat-packed designs are also super useful for those with awkward access. However, they are more of an investment. Darlings of Chelsea Greenwich Medium Sofa Bed Similarly, Darlings of Chelsea's Lyndhurst sofa bed nails the pillow look both in its pillow-shaped backrest and pillow-effect armrests. However, this pull-out guest bed is a lot more money. Habitat is often the first brand to adapt designer looks for the high street, and I think its new Pillow chair bed will quickly become another trendsetter. I expect plenty more pillowy shapes to emerge on the high street in the last half of 2026 and beyond, but will they be as well-priced as this Habitat option? I doubt it. So, if you're looking for a small-space hosting solution that wins in the comfort, style, *and* budget-friendly stakes, I certainly think this chair bed is it. https://www.idealhome.co.uk/all-rooms/sofas/habitat-pillow-chair-bed-launch

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This new armchair from Habitat’s autumn 2026 collection looks designer – but it’s under £300, so snap it up while you can Even though it’s still the middle of the summer and temperatures are regularly climbing above 30°C, Habitat just dropped its autumn collection. Several pieces from the range are already trending, including the new Habitat Drape armchair. The Habitat autumn/winter 2026 lookbook was released at the end of last month, confirming the trending autumn colour palette I’ve been seeing across a few different collections. But when I first laid eyes on the designer-style Drape armchair, I was expecting a price tag well over £500. So I was pleasantly surprised by the £275 price point. Habitat Drape Fabric Armchair Given the high-end look of this accent chair paired with the affordable price point, I’m sure it’s going to fly off the shelves very soon – especially since it’s already trending on the Habitat website. So if you like the look of this stylish chair, better snap it up now while you still can. In many ways, the sculptural Habitat Drape armchair reminds me of the H&M Home chrome lounge chair which I named my favourite accent chair last year. The Drape chair has a similar curvaceous shape with exposed legs ‘draped’ with cushioning done in textured upholstery. But while H&M’s chair featured a then-trending chrome frame, Habitat’s chair comes with a solid oak wood frame instead. (Image credit: Habitat) For autumn and winter 2026, Habitat’s collection is leaning into a layered and textured look that feels cosy and comfortable. ‘For autumn/winter 2026, our design studio explores expressive, layered interiors that feel intentional and considered,’ says Nina Findley, director of product at Habitat. ‘The collection balances comfort and warmth with individuality, craftsmanship and purposeful design.’ I haven’t been able to test the Drape armchair IRL as of yet but I hope I’ll get to try it soon as the brand also praises its high comfort. Alternatives But while we’re on the topic of new-in Habitat armchairs, I also spotted a couple more designs that I think are worth investing in. Habitat Vinny Fabric Armchair If you want to make more of a statement with your choice of armchair then the Vinny is the one. It's upholstered in a juacquard check fabric in earthy tones with textured feel and equipped with curved armrests. Habitat Cub Fabric Swivel Chair Swivel chairs have been having a moment lately. And Habitat's take is one of the most elevated I've seen. Inspired by the mid-century aesthetic, the chair is fitted with a retro swivel stand in the most stylish way. Which Habitat armchair speaks to you? https://www.idealhome.co.uk/all-rooms/living-room/habitat-drape-fabric-armchair

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Octopus Energy is urging customers to avoid using electricity during the solar eclipse – what you need to know Customers of Octopus Energy will be rewarded with free electricity if they cut down their energy usage during the upcoming solar eclipse. On Wednesday 12 August, people across the UK will see an almost total eclipse for the first time this century. But this historical event is also a prime opportunity to save energy and money at home. If you’re looking to save on your energy bills, Octopus Energy is asking customers to cut back on electricity between 6 pm and 8 pm – when the eclipse is at its darkest and earn free electricity the following weekend. Here’s how it works. What is Octopus Energy's Eclipse Power Down Sessions? During the eclipse, the moon will cover part of the sun and will temporarily wipe out a portion of the nation’s solar energy generation. With the eclipse predicted to begin around 6 pm (the exact time depends on where you are in the country), Octopus says this is when energy demand peaks. (Image credit: Getty Images) So, instead of sticking a wash on, switching on the TV or even the kettle when you get home from work on Wednesday, Octopus customers should avoid using electrical appliances during the 6 pm to 8 pm window. Instead, why not go see the eclipse? Using a pair of solar glasses, of course. The idea is that by using less electricity, customers can help take the strain off The National Grid. In return, Octopus is offering a free hour of electricity the following Sunday when demand is less. The company will monitor your usage via your smart meter, and if you’ve used less electricity than you normally would, you’ll unlock your free hour. (Image credit: Future PLC/Davit Parmiter) To take part in Octopus Energy Eclipse Power Down Sessions should sign up online via their rewards sign-up portal. ‘Many of us will be looking up at the sky on Wednesday evening to experience this once-in-a-generation event. But as the Sun disappears, so will some of Britain’s solar generation, just as demand peaks,’ commented Rebecca Dibb-Simkin, Chief Customer Officer at Octopus Energy. ‘By shifting everyday tasks like the washing machine or dishwasher until later, households can help reduce the need for gas power stations - and earn rewards for doing their bit.’ If you’re worried about paying your energy bills, there are other methods to save money, too. Assess energy-guzzling habits such as leaving appliances on standby and ditch them, try using smart plugs and consider fixing your tariff if you haven’t done so already. https://www.idealhome.co.uk/house-manual/home-energy/octopus-energy-eclipse-power-down-sessions

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Canadian Insolvencies Surge To Second-Highest June On Record Canadian credit problems continue to emerge, conflicting with the narrative of improvement. Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy Canada (OSB) data shows insolvency filings climbed in June. The month marked the sixth straight year of growth, and the second-most filings on record.  What Are Insolvencies? Just so we’re all on the same page, let’s talk […] The post Canadian Insolvencies Surge To Second-Highest June On Record appeared first on Better Dwelling. https://betterdwelling.com/canadian-insolvencies-surge-to-second-highest-june-on-record/

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The best houses for sale with wildlife ponds Maynards, Little Sampford, Essex Cheffins Cheffins A 1670s, Grade II-listed former farmhouse with a moat that runs around three quarters of the grounds. It has exposed wall and ceiling timbers, oak floors, open fireplaces with wood-burning stoves and a bespoke kitchen. 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 receptions, 2-bed annexe, 5 acres. Price: £1.5m Cheffins 01799 -23656 Pond Cottage, Wilton, Marlborough Hamptons Hamptons Hamptons This 17th-century thatched cottage is situated in an idyllic position overlooking the village pond. It is accessed by a private bridge and surrounded by gardens that include well-stocked borders and a vegetable garden. The cottage has beamed ceilings, inglenook fireplaces and a large dining kitchen. 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, office/bedroom 5, 2 receptions, utility, garage. Price: £995,000. Hamptons 01672-837178 The Mill, Arnesby, Leicester, Leicestershire Fisher German Fisher German A converted, Grade II-listed 19th-century windmill with a two-bedroom cottage and a range of outbuildings set in grounds that include a wildlife pond and a paddock. The mill has a double-height entrance hall, a bespoke staircase and a glass walkway on the first floor that connects the main accommodation with the former windmill. 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 2 receptions, 2 studies, balcony, motor house, 4.44 acres. Price: £2.75m Fisher German 01858-410200 Bulkeley Grange, Malpas, Cheshire Savills Savills Savills Savills A restored, Grade II-listed Victorian country house with a terrace with stone steps leading down to a sunken garden, wildflower meadow and a pond. It has oak floors and period fireplaces. 7 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, 3 receptions, kitchen, library, stables, 9.7 acres. Price: £2.25m Savills 01244-323232 Tinley Lodge, Shipbourne, Tonbridge, Kent Knight Frank Knight Frank Knight Frank A country house surrounded by gardens that include a large pond with a pontoon, a Japanese garden with a wildlife pond, decking, multiple seating areas and an outdoor kitchen. It has an open-plan dining kitchen and living area with an Aga and French doors leading onto a courtyard garden. 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 2 receptions, study, 1-bed annexe, 2 studios, stables, paddocks, 8.01 acres. Price: £4.95m Knight Frank 020-3967 7176 Barley Hill Farm, Combe St. Nicholas, Chard, Somerset Knight Frank Knight Frank A Victorian former farmhouse with earlier origins set in large gardens that include two walled gardens, a wildlife garden with ponds, a wooden footbridge and wooded area adjoining a paddock and an orchard. 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 3 receptions, kitchen, 2-bed annexe, conservatory, office, dairy, 2-bed cottage, 1-bed coach house. Price: £1.65m Knight Frank 01935-812236 Loughbrow House, Hexham, Northumberland Galbraith Group This late Victorian house is now in need of some renovation. The house is surrounded by landscaped gardens and set on a small estate that includes two cottages, a gate lodge, a pond, a sequence of small streams crossed by stone bridges, a walled garden with a greenhouse, woodland and a former quarry. 7 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, 3 receptions, kitchen, reception hall, library, stables, grazing land, 31.4 acres. Price: £2.1m+ Galbraith Group 01434-693693 Puddledock, Norden, Corfe, Dorset Savills Puddledock comprises a 200-year-old building incorporated into a contemporary state-of-the-art house with a deck running the length of the property that overlooks the wildlife ponds. It has vaulted, beamed ceilings and a modern wood-burning stove. 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, reception, 7.06 acres. Price: £2.25m Savills 01202-856873 This article was first published in MoneyWeek's magazine. Enjoy exclusive early access to news, opinion and analysis from our team of financial experts with a MoneyWeek subscription. https://moneyweek.com/spending-it/properties/houses-for-sale-with-wildlife-ponds

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Yes, it’s only August, but this clever Aldi buy has convinced me to start planning for my winter garden – it'll be a game-changer when the temperature finally drops Although it may feel like summer is endless right now, I’m here to break it to you that now is the time to start preparing your colder for colder, wetter weather ahead. I know it’s still baking hot for most of the country, but the arrival of Aldi’s new Winter Greenhouse (£14.99) has me considering whether now is the right time to start prepping gardens for autumn. At the very least, Aldi’s budget winter greenhouse is worth snapping up now before the temperature drops and demand rises. If you’re one of those organised gardeners who keeps a close eye on the seasons, consider adding this winter greenhouse to your shopping list as one of those garden jobs you should do in August. How does that saying go? Fail to prepare… Aldi Winter Greenhouse Gardening in August is mainly about preparing for autumn. There are plants to cut back for a final flush of flowers at the start of the new season, plant crops that thrive in cooler conditions, and of course, it’s time to start harvesting your crops. It’s a transitional period, which is why it’s a good opportunity to start thinking about the months ahead. Landing in store on 13 August, the Aldi Winter Greenhouse has dropped as part of the supermarket’s Garden Tidy range, which has launched so that shoppers can get their gardens ready for winter on a budget. The greenhouse is designed to give vulnerable plants and shrubs a ‘cosy home’ during winter. It will shield your plants from harsh elements to ensure they bloom again in spring. The greenhouse also looks very easy to set up, with all you need to do is peg it out like a tent. If you have delicate bedded plants and shrubs, it looks like you can pitch the greenhouse directly over your vulnerable plants. (Image credit: Aldi) It has a roll-up door for easy access and is a great option if you lack the space for a permanent greenhouse structure. What I will say is that Aldi hasn’t said how much heat this greenhouse retains. Typically, an unheated greenhouse remains two to five degrees warmer than the outside temperature overnight and up to 20 degrees warmer on bright, sunny days. This will protect your plants from frost. However, if the temperature inside your greenhouse drops below five degrees, your plants are at risk. So, you’ll also want to explore other options such as using plant fleece and insulating your greenhouse if it needs it. Alternatively, I’ve found a few more highly-rated pop-up winter greenhouses that shoppers swear by to protect their plants. VonHaus Vonhaus Walk-in Greenhouse Reviews say this walk-in greenhouse is easy to assemble, spacious and great more raising seedlings. McGregor Mcgregor Garden Dome Greenhouse This greenhouse looks very similar to Aldi's. It's designed to withstand strong winds and protect vulnerable plants. Reviews say it's very sturdy and protects plants from frost. Outsunny Outsunny Greenhouse for Outdoor Portable Gardening Plant Grow House Green Shoppers say this greenhouse retains heat well even in winter. They say it's sturdy and stable - a great choice for growing veg in small gardens. Have you started planning for your autumn and winter garden yet? Or has this Aldi buy just inspired you to start? https://www.idealhome.co.uk/garden/garden-tools/aldi-winter-greenhouse-august-2026

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Canada’s Job Market Is Booming If You Ignore Population Revisions Canada’s economy is booming, as long as you ignore the actual data and upcoming revisions. Statistics Canada’s (StatCan) latest Labour Force Survey (LFS) shows seasonally adjusted employment climbed by 75,000 jobs in July. The unseasoned reality was a little less savoury, showing a 6-digit decline in the same month, along with rising unemployment. The picture […] The post Canada’s Job Market Is Booming If You Ignore Population Revisions appeared first on Better Dwelling. https://betterdwelling.com/canadas-job-market-is-booming-if-you-ignore-population-revisions/

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Toronto Real Estate Prices Wipe Out 2026 Gains, Drop To 5-Year Low Greater Toronto home prices wiped out gains made in the first five months of 2026 in a matter of weeks. Toronto Regional Real Estate Board (TRREB) July data shows prices fell to their lowest point in over five years. Both home sales and inventory fell, but one remains near record lows while the other is […] The post Toronto Real Estate Prices Wipe Out 2026 Gains, Drop To 5-Year Low appeared first on Better Dwelling. https://betterdwelling.com/toronto-real-estate-prices-wipe-out-2026-gains-drop-to-5-year-low/

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Mark my words, this new £230 Habitat chair bed is going to be an instant bestseller – it's cute, curvy, and tailor-made for small homes I'm calling it. Habitat has just launched a new £230 chair bed, and I think this on-trend design will become an instant bestseller. As Ideal Home's Sleep Editor, I've spent the last five years testing some of the best chair beds on the market, and, if you're looking for a space-saving overnight hosting solution, this affordable design is definitely one to have on your radar. Cute, curvy, and ideal for small homes, Habitat's Benji Chair Bed also nails one of the year's biggest furniture trends. Habitat Benji Single Compact Fabric Chairbed Habitat's budget-friendly Benji chair bed comes in four colourways: green, rust, natural, and blue. Habitat already makes one of the best value chair beds you can shop. The brand's super-popular Roma Chair Bed has been a bestseller for years, and with prices starting from under £200 for the single sleeper, it's easy to see why. However, the new Benji chair bed adds something new to the mix: namely, some designer curves. Its rounded backrest nails one of this year's biggest furniture trends, and makes it even more of a style statement in the home. (Image credit: Habitat) According to interior experts, as we move into the last half of 2026 and start looking towards 2027, boxy furniture is falling out of fashion and being replaced by more organic designs. As Shelley Cochrane, buyer at Furniture Village, explains, this new look is all about 'rounded edges, curved designs and organic shapes.' Plus, as Shelley explains, those organic shapes are perfect for a piece of furniture where relaxation is ultimately the name of the game. 'Curves are gentler and less rigid than straight lines,' says Shelley, 'and rounded edges create a soft and inviting atmosphere.' (Image credit: Habitat) Habitat isn't the first brand to bring designer curves to the high street: the recently launched Next Palma Chair Bed offers a similar curvaceous design. However, Habitat is now the brand that does it most affordably. The Next Palma Chair Bed currently costs £375, whereas Habitat's Benji Chair Bed has launched at a *very* affordable £230. That's nearly a £150 price difference, which I think means the Habitat Benji will quickly become a bestseller among those looking for a compact overnight guest bed. Habitat Benji Single Fabric Chairbed At £230, Habitat's Benji chair bed is nearly £150 cheaper than Next's similarly curved design, and it comes in more colour options. Next Palma Single Sofa Bed That said, Next's tactile boucle upholstery is a nice alternative to the jumbo cord fabric used on Habitat's Benji chair bed. And of course, these two curved chair beds aren't the only options worth having on your radar. If you're happy with straighter edges, it's also well worth considering these three alternative buys. Shop alternatives John Lewis Chair Bed Personally, I also love the clean-lined simplicity of this pinstriped chair bed from John Lewis. Habitat Roma Small Double Velvet Chairbed Habitat's bestselling Roma chair bed is stylish, compact, and now available in a wide range of upholstery options. Furniture Village Tabitha Snuggler Sofa Bed For a more classic look, this Furniture Village chair bed is a good timeless option. https://www.idealhome.co.uk/all-rooms/sofas/habitat-benji-chair-bed-launch

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This is the £29 Dunelm kitchen set that uni students (and their parents) are rushing to snap up – I wish I'd had one when I left for halls With August here, thousands of students (and parents) will be planning for a fresh year of university or embarking on life in shared halls for the first time. Dunelm has made that process a little easier with the introduction of its new £29 Kitchen Starter Pack, designed to take the stress of out of the big move. Kitted out with everything a student needs to make a start with cooking and meal prepping solo, this handy kit has all the basics covered including a saucepan and frying pan, as well as essentials tailor made for oven-pizzas, stir-fries and soups. All good student staples! Here's a closer look at everything you can pick up for your shared kitchen in one neat box with this starter pack. Dunelm Kitchen Starter Pack This 11-piece set is a bargain price at under £30. Dunelm has a surprising wealth of cookware treasures, including their cast iron casseroles which earned a glowing review from our in-house Home Economist. But rather than a heavy roaster, this set prioritises lightweight cookware essentials that pack neatly into one box. Seeing as most student halls can be very tight on space, this all-in-one approach is not only great for money saving but for keeping things tidy too. Starting with pots and pans, this set consists of an 18cm saucepan alongside a 25cm frying pan. This should cover most needs capacity-wise when cooking for one. Alongside that there's a 32cm baking sheet and a separate 33cm pizza tray – ideal for a fast dinner with that emergency pizza that students love to keep in the freezer. (Image credit: Dunelm) There's a wide range of handy accessories too. My favourite might be the spaghetti spoon, which has a built-in measuring element so that you don't end up with triple the amount of pasta you need. I could've definitely done with one during my first foray into cooking in my first year. You'll also find a slotted turner, solid spoon utensil, kitchen scissors, a hand grater, bottle opener and tongs within the box. The chopping board is another absolute essential that's thrown in. (Image credit: Future PLC / Holly Jolliffe) Prep boxes for university have become ever more popular in recent years and can help cut costs if you need to buy everything from scratch. IKEA's Student Box is a hit every year, though I can't see signs of it being available to buy just yet. The Swedish brand is a failsafe for good student cookware all year-round – our five-star review of the IKEA HEMKMOST 7-piece cookware set proves that. It's a great pick for a student who is very culinary-minded. If you like the idea of ticking uni essentials off your list in one fell swoop, there are plenty of other areas that Dunelm has covered with various all-in-one sets. Dunelm Bed in a Bag 10.5 Tog Duvet and Back Sleeper Pillow Set Everything you need to have a crisp, fresh set of bedding to climb into after your first day at university – perfect! Dunelm Dine Starter Pack This 16-piece set is ideal for student living and should hopefully last into second and third years too. Dunelm 7 in 1 Cleaning Bundle Share out the cleaning responsibilities with this clever, compact kit. It uses an interchangeable handle system so you have less to store. If you want to get ahead of your to-do list ahead of September, these clever kits seem the perfect place to start. I wish I'd been as organised for my first term fending for myself! https://www.idealhome.co.uk/all-rooms/cookware/dunelm-student-kitchen-starter-pack-2026

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Toronto Business Closures Hit Highest Level Since 2020 Lockdowns Toronto’s entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well—but so is the region’s crushing reality. Statistics Canada (StatCan) data shows Toronto CMA saw the most April business openings in at least 11 years. At the same time, it also saw the second-most April business closures on record—only behind 2020. The combination has driven the number of active […] The post Toronto Business Closures Hit Highest Level Since 2020 Lockdowns appeared first on Better Dwelling. https://betterdwelling.com/toronto-business-closures-hit-highest-level-since-2020-lockdowns/

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'Wildlife wineries' are the breakout trend gardeners are using to keep garden birds hydrated in August – this £15 shortcut means even tiny spaces can join in From hydration stations, bird bars and even wildlife wineries, there are plenty of cutesy names to call the bird baths we set up for wildlife to bathe, drink and play in during summer. However, if you have a tiny garden or balcony, it might feel like you can’t join in. Luckily, I’m here to tell you the opposite. Corner bird baths are the space-saving solution that means even the smallest of outdoor spaces can attract birds via their own wildlife wineries (or whatever your preferred name is!). Silly names aside, during periods of hot weather and drought, it’s incredibly important to leave water out for birds and other wildlife to help them stay healthy and hydrated. Here’s why a corner bird bath can be a great option if you’re short on space. Garden Haven Cast Iron Corner Bird Bath Jacobi Jayne Jacobi Jayne® Iron Old™ Corner Dish Bird Bath Petlicity Petlicity Cast Iron Bird Bath and Feeder Just because you have a small garden, it doesn’t mean you can’t embrace wildlife garden ideas. Leaving out water is essential during summer for birds, bees, insects and other wildlife - especially when there hasn’t been much rainfall. This summer, wildlife charities, experts and social media have been encouraging gardeners to set up hydration stations for birds and other wildlife during a heatwave. And with it, I've seen a host of adorable names, such as pollinator pitstops, bee bars and now wildlife wineries. While they all mean the same thing, they aim to encourage us to help wildlife by providing fresh water. If you want to support birds in hot weather, offering a fresh water supply can be a real help when supplies are scarce in nature. You will need to change the water every couple of days to keep it fresh and free from algae and mosquitoes, but your local birds will really benefit from having somewhere to wash, bathe and space. It's important to provide water during summer so birds can clean themselves, play and drink. (Image credit: Getty Images/ Jackie Bale) If you lack the space for a free-standing bird bath, a corner bath can come in handy. As the name suggests, a corner bird bath attaches to a fence post or corner, taking up minimal space in your garden Then, you can fill it with either water or bird food to create an integrated feeding station or bird bath. One of the biggest mistakes you can make when leaving water out for wildlife is assuming you need a large vessel. Even a small dish of water can make a big difference for wildlife. Just remember, if you want bees to also enjoy your wildlife winery, add some pebbles to your dish so they have somewhere to land and prevent drowning. Alternatively, a micro pond can be a great choice for courtyards and patios as you can create a stunning water feature that wildlife will love. Small wildlife garden essentials FaloStwer Falostwer Standing Bird Bath, This standing bird bath stakes into your lawn easily. Combining a bath and feeder makes it small garden-friendly. Thompson & Morgan Patio Pond Plant Basket This patio pond comes with three stunning aquatic plants, and will create a beautiful feature in your garden. Seedball Seedball Wildlife Friendly Wildflower Seed Balls, Collection of 6 Mixes All wildlife-friendly gardens have native wildflowers to attract and feed pollinators. Just because you have a small garden, it doesn't mean you can't make into a haven for wildlife. https://www.idealhome.co.uk/garden/garden-advice/corner-bird-bath