Since its incorporation in 1963, the Winnipeg Art Gallery [now the WAG-Qaumajuq] has welcomed visitors to experience one of the country’s finest art collections. But this Sunday, the gallery is taking art appreciation beyond its walls with the 12th edition of its Home Tour fundraiser.
From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., ticket holders will get an exclusive look inside five remarkable homes in Headingley, Manitoba. The event promises a blend of culture, design, and architecture — part exhibition, part living design magazine, and part immersive experience.
“Whether you're dreaming of your own renovation, fascinated by interior design, or simply curious to step inside homes that feel like works of art, this year's tour promises to be an inspiration at every turn,” said Esme Scarlett, chair of the WAG Home Tour.
Why home tours captivate
Asked why people are drawn to home tours, Scarlett said, “I think when you talk about walking along Wellington Crescent and looking at that beautiful architecture from the exterior, but then wondering what might be inside, I think that's exactly what inspires people to take in a home tour. We all like to peek inside something that's so beautiful and wonder what it's like in there and what life is like in those homes.”
Spotlight on Headingley
While past tours have focused on neighbourhoods like Tuxedo, River Heights, and Crescentwood, this year the committee wanted something different.
“The community is really growing and it has some really hidden gems that what we now know is most people aren't aware of,” Scarlett said. “Headingley is kind of where nature meets estate-style living. And these homes are tucked away. Many people don't even know they exist. So we thought this was a great opportunity to introduce the community of Headingley.”
According to Scarlett, planning begins long before the first guest sets foot inside. “This event, believe it or not, takes a year of preparation. There is so many details. There is so much work to do,” she said.
Finding the right homes is the first step, and reaching out to owners is key. “What we find is the five homeowners we have that are participating in this year's event are absolutely ecstatic to open their doors. They can't wait. It's so much fun.”
The Home Tour also depends on a large team of volunteers. “We have actually just over 100 volunteers who are going to be keeping this ship sailing on Sunday,” Scarlett said. “The volunteers do everything from getting the home ready to open, to taking tickets at the door, to answering questions that guests have.”
What to expect on the tour
Each ticket acts as a passport to all five houses, which visitors can see in any order. The accompanying map highlights the homes and includes points of interest like Shelmerding Garden Centre and Canadian Countertops, both offering refreshments and rest stops.
Scarlett gave a preview of the homes:
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A 2020 “Sugar Cube Home” built with insulated concrete forms on all three floors.
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A contemporary loft-style house featuring industrial finishes and a custom mural by local artist Rachel Lancaster, with a vintage truck suspended from the ceiling.
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A minimalist Scandinavian-inspired retreat with clean lines, an outdoor kitchen, and a custom pizza oven.
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A riverside property designed for entertaining, with luxurious interiors and a pool overlooking the Assiniboine River.
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A mid-century modern home from the 1950s, currently undergoing major renovations while preserving original design elements, set on 36 acres with a shuttle ride down a winding drive.
For visitors hoping to borrow design ideas, Scarlett confirmed that information will be on hand. “The volunteers on site do have some good basic information about the build and finishes that people are going to see. Also, many of the homeowners are also leaving out cards of their builders, their finishers, their designers.”
Supporting the arts
Tickets are $50, with proceeds supporting the Winnipeg Art Gallery’s arts initiatives and community programs. They can be purchased online at wag.ca or in person at Shelmerdine Garden Centre.
Looking forward to Headingley
For Scarlett, the event is about more than design inspiration. “It is such a fun day and I always love seeing the visitors come through and watching how much fun they have experiencing these homes,” she said. “But most importantly, I think I'm really excited to invite the community to come into the community of Headingley and experience it. Experience the nature, experience the estate-style living, just experience Headingley.”
With five extraordinary homes to explore, more than 100 volunteers ensuring a seamless experience, and all proceeds supporting the Winnipeg Art Gallery’s community programs, the 12th edition of the WAG Home Tour is more than just a stroll through beautiful spaces — it’s a chance to be inspired, discover the hidden charms of Headingley, and support the arts in Manitoba. For design lovers, architecture buffs, and the simply curious, this year’s tour promises a day of discovery you won’t want to miss.
The WAG Home Tour takes place Sunday, September 14 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Headingley.