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19/04/2011  |  0

Design Manitoba

Whether your style is contemporary, classic, modern or adventurous, Design Manitoba has what you need to spark your creative element and turn your home into a unique piece of art.

Having an eye for design since a young age, John Tinkler, founder and co-owner of Design Manitoba, began designing, building and selling his own furniture. Encouraged by demands from customers, he opened Design Manitoba to showcase his designs to Winnipeg. Beginning with only 500 square feet of space, the store relocated several times over the years and now displays a vast array of furniture and accessories in a 12,000 square foot showroom.

The growth of the company was fueled by a high demand for a unique, high quality product. Customers also valued the personal service and expert advice. Now in their 34th year, they are still growing and adjusting as the market changes. Aside from the continued high quality and personal service, Tinkler also attributes the current growth to the strong housing industry in Winnipeg. “Winnipeg is a good place to be. It is a growing and healthy market. The housing industry is a good indicator [of sales in the interior furnishings market], which has been very strong in Winnipeg,” explains Tinkler. With the growing online market, Design Manitoba has also sold its products across Canada and internationally, and hope to further grow their online sales.

The company is strongly rooted to Winnipeg, selling locally designed and made products. “There is a large group of talented designers in Winnipeg, and I feel good being able to support the local industry.” Some of the designs are imported from around the world, including France and Italy. By importing furniture, Design Manitoba is able to showcase several different genres of design, thereby appealing to a larger market. From mattresses and bedding to lighting and love seats, Design Manitoba has everything – you can literally furnish your entire home.

What sets Design Manitoba apart, is the longevity of this company in the market. They have been able to stay at the top of the market by adapting and growing to meet the current needs of customers, both in design and service. There are not many companies in Winnipeg that sell the classic and contemporary look – many offer more traditional styles. Design Manitoba employs nine design consultants that are able to provide their professional advice and help you achieve the look you are going for, whether it is for your home or office. Design Manitoba has also started to rent out their furniture for different events, such as business functions or home staging. Recently, they began renting out their furniture for weddings. It is becoming increasingly popular to make a bridal lounge for the big day. By promoting this service in the Wonderful Wedding Show, Design Manitoba has been able to further differentiate itself in the market.

For more information please visit www.designmanitoba.com.

This posting was written by Natalie van Rosmalen who is an Account Coordinator with McKim Cringan George and a member of the Yes! Winnipeg volunteer team. If you are interested in becoming a Yes! Winnipeg volunteer, please fill our the volunteer survey.