September 15th, 2025

The Ultimate Guide to Building Custom Cottages in Ontario

A modern white cottage with black trim and landscaped gardens set against a forest backdrop in Muskoka.

Building a custom cottage is easier than you think.

But we get it.

The process can feel overwhelming.

There are a lot of moving parts.

We also understand it’s a huge investment.

That’s why we created this guide.

It takes you through the entire process from start to finish.

Everything you need to know is sitting right below.

If you’re ready to build your dream cottage, this is where to start.

Step 1: Defining Your Vision

Your cottage should fit the way you live. 

Picture your ideal life, then map it to spaces.

 

Ask yourself:

How often will you host guests? 

This influences guest suites, mudrooms, and flexible space.

Will this be for quiet retreats or social weekends? 

The answer affects noise zones, kitchen size, and gathering areas.

Will your lifestyle change in 10 years? 

Aging-in-place needs and family growth influence your cottage’s design.

Do you want simplicity or luxury? 

This sets the tone for finish levels and investment.

How frequently will you spend time at your cottage? 

This impacts maintenance needs, automation systems, and utility access.

Step 2: Setting a Realistic Budget

Without a detailed budget, unexpected costs can derail your build.

Break down every major expense to set priorities.

Prepare for extras like permits, landscaping, and site servicing.

Here’s a closer look at the budgeting process for custom cottages.

 

Understand Price Per Square Foot

In Ontario’s Cottage Country, a custom luxury cottage typically ranges from $400 to $500 (and higher) + per square foot.

This can increase with premium finishes, remote access challenges, or custom architectural details.

A 3,000 sq. ft. modern Muskoka cottage may cost upwards of $1.5 million with basic finishes, before furnishings, landscaping, or docks.

 

Break Down Your Total Budget

Here’s what to include:

  • Land acquisition
  • Site servicing (well, septic, hydro, propane)
  • Design and planning
  • Permits and fees
  • Construction labour and materials
  • Interior finishes and furniture
  • Landscaping and shoreline work
  • Contingency (at least 10–15%)

 

Invest Where It Matters Most

Knowing where to allocate extra budget can improve comfort, longevity, and resale value. 

Focus on these elements in your cottage plans.

 

Building Envelope

Invest in high-performance insulation, durable siding, and quality windows and doors. 

These improve energy efficiency, reduce utility costs, and protect against harsh weather conditions.

 

Kitchen & Bathrooms

These are the most-used spaces and key resale drivers. 

Premium fixtures, solid cabinetry, and timeless finishes offer daily enjoyment and long-term value.

 

Mechanical Systems

Choose a high-efficiency HVAC system, radiant floor heating, and smart thermostats. 

Comfort and energy savings are well worth the initial upgrade.

 

Foundations & Structure

Cutting corners here leads to expensive repairs later. 

Prioritize strong foundations, quality framing, and moisture-resistant materials—especially on sloped or rocky lots.

 

Windows With a View

Large lake-facing windows bring in natural light and amplify your connection to nature. 

Consider energy-efficient glass that pays off in year-round comfort.

 

Outdoor Living Spaces

Decks, docks, and porches are where memories are made. 

Durable materials and thoughtful layouts increase functionality and extend your living space outdoors.

 

Smart Planning

Design with future flexibility in mind.

Aging-in-place features, tech infrastructure, and modular storage keep your custom cottage adaptable for decades.

 

Permitting and Site Prep

Partner with a custom cottage builder to help navigate local zoning, environmental reviews, and site-specific challenges. 

Doing it right from the start avoids delays, rework, and frustration.

Step 3: Choosing Your Cottage’s Location

The region, lake, and even lot orientation shape your entire cottage experience.

Find the perfect location for your custom cottage with these tips.

 

Understand the Regions

We have built custom cottages across Ontario’s most desirable lakefronts for over 25 years.

We know the regions and the terrain.

Each area offers a distinct character, lifestyle, and set of practical considerations:

 

Muskoka

The gold standard in Cottage Country. 

Muskoka is known for its luxurious lakefronts, iconic boathouses, and high-end custom cottages

Premier lakes like Rosseau, Joseph, and Muskoka offer an unmatched blend of prestige, natural beauty, and exclusivity.

 

Kawarthas

A family-friendly region that balances nature and accessibility. 

Easier proximity to the Greater Toronto area makes it popular for weekend getaways.

The landscape offers a mix of wooded lots and gentle shorelines.

 

Simcoe

Offers a wide variety of lot types and waterfronts. 

Its combination of urban conveniences and quiet lake areas makes it incredibly versatile. 

This balance supports both seasonal getaways and comfortable year-round living.

 

Parry Sound

A rugged and scenic region for those who love dramatic landscapes, quiet coves, and a slower pace. 

Great for privacy, larger lots, and bold natural settings.

 

Southern Georgian Bay

Offers sweeping views, rolling terrain, and proximity to year-round recreation like skiing and boating. 

An excellent fit for those seeking an active lifestyle in all four seasons.

 

G+B INSIGHT: Spend some time in each region. Take a weekend to explore the lifestyle, lake activity, and local infrastructure. These first impressions often reveal where you feel most at home.

 

Know Your Waterfront Type

Not all waterfronts are the same, and understanding the differences can help you make a smarter investment.

 

Big lakes

These iconic destinations offer breathtaking views, expansive boating opportunities, and a sense of prestige. 

They also come with higher price tags, increased competition, and more restrictive regulations around shoreline development.

 

Small lakes or rivers

Perfect for those seeking quietude, gentle waters, and a slower pace. 

You’ll often find more privacy, reduced property taxes, and a greater variety of available lots.

 

Non-waterfront lots

These properties offer affordability without sacrificing access to nature. 

They typically come with fewer permitting challenges.

Many are located just minutes from the shoreline or public access points.

 

G+B INSIGHT: If your dream is a front-row seat on a Muskoka lake, be prepared to move quickly and make strong offers. High-demand areas don’t stay available for long.

Step 4: Finding and Evaluating Your Lot

A well-chosen lot lays the foundation for everything to come.

It influences your cottage design, construction process, and long-term value.

Here is what you need to know:

 

Check the Topography

Flat lots offer easier access for machinery and fewer foundation challenges.

Sloped or rocky terrain often demands custom engineering, which can increase both complexity and cost.

Analyzing the topography early helps avoid costly surprises during excavation and framing.

 

Understand Access

You will need reliable access in all seasons.

Ask these questions during your lot evaluation:

  • Is the road plowed in winter?
  • Will you need to arrange snow removal?
  • Are there extra costs for road upkeep?
  • Who owns or maintains the road?
  • Do you need a driveway permit?
  • Can fire trucks and emergency vehicles reach the lot?

 

Plan Your Utilities

Cottage lots rarely come ready with utility services. 

You’ll need to plan how your cottage gets water, power, waste handling, and internet.

Include these questions in your lot evaluation:

  • Is power available, or will you need a generator?
  • Will you drill a well or pull from the lake?
  • What septic system fits your soil and home size?
  • How will you handle garbage and recycling?
  • Has the soil been tested for building and septic?
  • Are your lot lines surveyed and marked?
  • Do you need special approvals for nearby water or wetlands?
  • Can you get reliable internet?

 

LOT CONSULTATION: In some cases, our firm offers personalized lot consultations to assess design factors. This proactive service helps you avoid costly constraints and move forward with confidence. Schedule a call today to explore this service.

Step 5: Navigating Permits for Cottage Designs

Permits give you the green light to build.

Apply early to avoid delays and extra costs.

Use this checklist of (Potentially) required approvals and permits.

 

Access and Entry

  • Year-Round Road Access Approval
  • Seasonal Access Plan
  • Driveway Entrance Permit

 

Utilities and Services

  • Electrical Service Permit
  • Off-Grid Power Plan
  • Water Supply Source Approval
  • Septic System Permit
  • Waste and Recycling Service Plan
  • Internet Access Plan

 

Land Assessment and Planning

  • Legal Lot Survey
  • Soil Testing Report (If necessary)
  • Geotechnical Report( If necessary)

 

Regulations and Approvals

  • Fire Route and Emergency Access Approval (If necessary)
  • Conservation Authority Permit (If applicable)
  • Zoning Compliance Certificate
  • Building Envelope Approval
  • Drainage and Stormwater Management Plan
  • Tree Preservation or Removal Plan (If applicable)

 

Know Local Zoning Rules

Before you can break ground, you’ll need to know how local zoning bylaws affect your building plans. 

These rules dictate what you can build, where you can build it, and the height limitations of your luxury cottage.

Some areas have special rules:

  • Shoreline setbacks (often 20–30 meters)
  • Maximum building height (commonly 9 meters)
  • Lot coverage limits (typically 5–10%)

 

Expect an Extended Timeline

Permits can take 4–12 weeks, depending on the township. 

When you partner with our design-build firm, we handle the permitting and design for zoning requirements.

This saves you time, prevents missed details, and avoids excessive costs.

Step 6: Choose Your Cottage’s Style

Your cottage style sets the tone for every design choice.

Choose a look that supports how you live and matches your taste.

Here are some of the best cottage designs.

NOTE: Images are AI-generated concept designs to inspire your imagination.

Modern Cottage

  • Clean lines and open layout: Creates a sense of spaciousness and flow.
  • Neutral colour palette: Enhances light and keeps the space feeling calm.
  • Natural materials with sleek finishes: Blends rustic warmth with modern ease.
  • Large windows: Brings in natural light and connects the interior to the outdoors.

Modern Farmhouse Cottage

  • Expansive A-frame glass façade: Frames stunning lake views while flooding the interior with natural light.
  • Warm wood cladding with stone base: Blends rustic charm with a natural presence.
  • Covered porches and pergolas: Offer shaded outdoor living spaces that extend the home’s usability year-round.
  • Gabled rooflines and dormer windows: Add depth and classic farmhouse character with a modern edge.

Rustic Wood Cottage

  • Board-and-batten or horizontal siding: Adds classic charm with clean lines.
  • Black-framed windows and metal roofing: Give a contemporary twist to a traditional form.
  • Shiplap and exposed beams: Infuse warmth and texture throughout.
  • Functional, family-friendly layout: Supports everyday living and hosting.

Scandinavian Minimalist

  • Log or timber construction: Provides authentic character and natural insulation.
  • Stone fireplaces: Act as a cozy focal point and heat source.
  • Warm, earthy tones: Creates a grounded and comforting atmosphere.
  • Handcrafted or vintage finishes: Adds uniqueness and a sense of history.

Coastal Cottage

  • Light wood finishes: Keep interiors bright, clean, and warm.
  • Streamlined storage and built-ins: Maximizes function without clutter.
  • Simple forms and neutral tones: Promotes calm and visual clarity.
  • Emphasis on natural light: Makes small spaces feel larger and airier.

Contemporary Chalet

  • Light blues, whites, and sandy neutrals: Reflects the lake or shoreline feel.
  • Weathered wood and wicker accents: Adds breezy texture and relaxed style.
  • Large windows or French doors: Encourage indoor-outdoor living.
  • Open, airy furniture layout: Supports casual entertaining and movement.

Muskoka Cottage

  • Vaulted ceilings and dramatic rooflines: Frames views and feels expansive.
  • Floor-to-ceiling windows: Showcase nature and bring in light.
  • Stone and timber mix: Combines modern design with rustic materials.
  • Open-concept living spaces: Encourage gathering and connection.

Step 7: Select Your Building Materials

Choosing the right materials lays the foundation for how your cottage will look, feel, and function. 

Natural options offer durability and a timeless connection to the landscape around you. 

Explore this list to find materials that align with the way you want to live.

 

Natural Building Materials for Cottages

Wood  

White oak flooring

Hickory flooring

Walnut accents

Cedar or pine ceiling panelling

Butcher block countertops

Reclaimed wood

 

Stone  

Granite countertops

Quartzite countertops

Marble countertops (honed)

Slate floor tile

Fieldstone fireplace surrounds

Flagstone interior thresholds or hearths

 

Textiles Sisal rugs

Seagrass rugs

Linen drapery

Cotton canvas slipcovers

Leather accents

 

Tile & Clay / Plaster  

Terracotta tile

Zellige (handmade clay tile)

Porcelain tile (dense ceramic)

Clay plaster

Lime plaster for wet areas

 

Metals & Glass  

Unlacquered brass hardware

Bronze or blackened steel accents

Copper lighting or plumbing

Recycled glass tile

 

Natural Finishes  

Hardwax oil for wood

Tung oil or linseed oil

Beeswax finish

Casein/milk paint

Mineral or silicate paint

Limewash

 

Natural & Low-Impact Insulation/Underlayment  

Sheep’s wool insulation

Cellulose insulation

Cork underlayment or flooring

 

Step 8: Choose Your Core Living Features

Lifestyle-driven features will elevate your daily living experience and make your space feel truly personal.

Choose features that shape comfort, flow, and time together.

Use the list below to explore must-haves for each room.

 

Main Living Areas 

Open Great Room

Create an airy social hub with room for entertaining. 

Vaulted Ceilings

Bring in more light and enjoy spectacular views. 

Indoor-Outdoor Doors

Slide open to connect your living space with nature. 

Fireplace Wall

Anchor your room with warmth and an epic focal point. 

Built-In Entertainment Wiring

Add speakers and media now for seamless hosting later. 

 

Bedrooms and Privacy

Main-Floor Primary Suite

Stay comfortable long-term with main-level privacy. 

Soundproof Bedroom Walls

Sleep better and give guests quiet separation. 

Private Guest Wing

Host family and friends with a separate ensuite. 

Loft or Bunk Room

Add flexible sleeping areas for kids and overflow. 

Blackout Window Options

Create a dark environment for high-quality sleep. 

 

Work, Wellness, and Utility 

Home Office

Set up a quiet zone for productive remote work. 

Home Gym

Stay on track with your training in any season. 

Mudroom With Storage

Keep your entry organized and gear-ready. 

Laundry With Storage

Manage dirty clothes and turnover with ease. 

 

Modern Technology 

Smart Climate Control

Adjust heating and cooling from anywhere. 

Zoned HVAC

Fine-tune temperatures in specific rooms for personalized comfort. 

Efficient Insulation

Save energy while keeping your cottage cozy. 

Backup Generator

Stay powered through storms and outages. 

Smart Security and Lighting

Monitor, control, and protect with your phone.

Step 9: Design a Modern Kitchen

The kitchen is the heart of your custom cottage.

Design with intention to balance beauty, efficiency, and comfort.

Use this zone playbook to plan your kitchen’s layout.

 

Storage

Walk-in Pantry

Keep bulk items, dry goods, and small appliances organized.

Tall Cabinets

Save space with vertical storage for seasonal or infrequently used items.

Deep Drawers

Maintain easy access to heavy cookware without bending or digging.

Pull-Out Spice Racks

Keep spices within reach while cooking.

Appliance Garage

Hide countertop appliances behind a cabinet door to reduce clutter.

Corner Carousel

Maximizes use of deep corner cabinet space with rotating trays.

 

Meal Prep

Large Island With Seating

Adds workspace for food prep while doubling as a social hub.

Prep Sink on Island

Allows two people to work simultaneously during meal prep.

Stone Countertops

Resists heat, stains, and knife damage for long-lasting function.

Outlet Strips Under Island Overhang

Powers small appliances without visible cords or wall outlets.

 

Cooking

Wall Oven

Raise your baking to eye level for easier access and better visibility.

Cooktop

Allow flexible placement for a more efficient layout.

Pot Filler

Fill large pots directly at the stove to reduce lifting and spills.

High-CFM Vent Hood

Remove steam, smoke, and cooking odours quickly.

Smart Oven Controls

Enable mobile monitoring and control of cooking functions.

 

Gathering

Pendant Lights

Illuminate the island while adding decorative character.

Dimmers

Adjust brightness to suit cooking, dining, or entertaining moods.

Drink Fridge

Keep beverages cold and accessible without crowding the main fridge.

Coffee Bar

Centralize morning routines with a space for coffee-making.

Open shelves

Provide quick access to everyday dishes and display space for decor.

Glass Cabinet Doors

Protect special items while keeping them visible.

Built-in Speakers

Delivers music or audio entertainment discreetly into the kitchen space.

 

Cleaning

Farmhouse Sink

Accommodate oversized pots, pans, and baking trays.

Quiet Dishwasher

Enjoy meals or conversation without noise.

Hidden Waste Bins

Keep garbage and recycling out of sight.

Drip-Dry Cabinet

Offers concealed space for air-drying dishes above the sink.

Pull-out Towel Bar

Stores dish towels neatly and out of view.

Step 10: Create Spa-Like Bathrooms

Transform your bathroom into a private refuge that mirrors the feel of a luxury spa. 

Explore these thoughtful details to create a rejuvenating daily escape.

 

Water Features

Spa Ensuite

Combine a rain shower and a freestanding tub for spa-like luxury.

Wall-Mounted Faucets

Keep counters cleaner and make everyday maintenance faster.

Double Sink Vanity

Give two people space to get ready at once and streamline busy mornings.

Handheld Shower Wand

Improve flexibility for rinsing, cleaning, and accessible bathing.

 

Heating and Comfort

Radiant In-Floor Heat

Deliver steady warmth underfoot for a more comfortable start to the day.

Heated Towel Racks

Provide warm towels after bathing for added elegance.

Heated Toilet Seat

Offer year-round comfort with minimal energy use.

 

Natural Light

Skylights or Clerestory Windows

Fill your bathroom with natural light while maintaining privacy.

Frosted or Privacy Glass

Allows daylight in without compromising seclusion.

Solar Tubes

Channel sunlight into small bathrooms without taking up wall space.

 

Surfaces and Fixtures

Large Format Tile

Minimize grout lines for a cleaner look and easier upkeep.

Textured Tile Flooring

Reduce slipping risk while adding visual interest.

Quartz Vanity Top

Combine long-lasting durability with easy-care elegance.

Matte Black or Brass Hardware

Add contrast and style with on-trend finishes.

 

Lighting and Mood

Dimmable Lights

Adjust brightness to match your mood or time of day.

Backlit Mirrors

Softly illuminate your face without harsh shadows.

Wall Sconces at Eye Level

Offer even light for grooming tasks.

Toe-Kick Lighting

Subtly light your bathroom floor at night without disrupting sleep.

Step 11: Plan Your Outdoor Living Spaces

In Cottage Country, the magic often happens outside the walls of your home. 

Picture morning coffee on the dock, starlit dinners under a pergola, lazy afternoons in a hammock.

Your outdoor spaces should elevate your lifestyle and bring you closer to nature.

Design these areas with intention to ensure your cottage feels complete.

 

Build a Versatile Deck

Your deck acts as a hub for outdoor gatherings.

It should be able to serve multiple functions. 

Consider these features for comfort and utility:

Dining Zone with Pergola

Enjoy alfresco dining in a defined gathering space.

Fire Table Lounge Area

Relax into the evening with warmth and cozy seating.

Covered Porch With Bug Screens

Enjoy lake views without pests ruining your experience.

Hot Tub Nook

Soak in privacy after a long day on the water or trails.

Sun Deck with Loungers

Unwind with a book or layout under the sun.

Built-In Bench Seating

Maximize seating with clean lines and open floor space.

 

Choose the Right Dock for Your Shoreline

Think of your dock as your front porch on the water.

It’s a place to launch boats, jump in, or just relax with your morning coffee. 

But picking the wrong style can mean sagging, slipping, or pricey repairs down the road. 

Use the chart below to find the best fit for your shoreline, water conditions, and lifestyle.

 

Dock Options for Lakefront Cottages

Floating Dock

 

Adjusts with the water level and removes easily for winter.

 

Crib Dock

 

Stays solid in shallow and stable water year-round.

 

Pipe Dock

 

Sets up quickly and adjusts to soft lake bottoms.

 

Pole Dock

 

A budget-friendly option for calm and shallow areas.

 

Lift Dock

 

Protects your dock from ice and storms by raising it out of the water.

 

Cantilever Dock

 

Leaves the lakebed untouched—great for sensitive shorelines.

 

Roll-In Dock

 

Moves in and out of the lake with built-in wheels for easy setup.

 

Construct an Elegant Boathouse

Imagine sliding into your covered slip, lifting your boat with the press of a button, and heading to the second-storey deck for endless views.

A well-designed boathouse makes all of that effortless.

Use this list to prioritize features that elevate both fun and function.

Second-Storey Lounge

Add sweeping lake views and a bonus entertaining space.

Guest Bunks

Give guests privacy with sleeping space above or beside your boathouse.

Entertaining Area

Host by the water with built-in seating, bars, or covered patios.

Custom Gear Storage

Keep paddles, vests, and tackle organized with built-in cabinetry.

Boat Lift System

Raise boats out of the water to prevent damage and algae build-up.

Changing Room and Shower

Provide a clean space to rinse off after the lake.

Fishing Station

Clean fish on a dedicated counter with water access.

Charging Ports

Power up e-boats, water vehicles, and devices with reliable outlets.

Storage Loft

Tuck away seasonal gear, cushions, and floaties out of sight.

Architectural Harmony

Design the boathouse to match your cottage’s style.

 

CUSTOM BUILDER TIP: Boathouses typically require at least 300 feet of shoreline frontage and may involve strict conservation authority approvals. Work with a boathouse builder familiar with local bylaws.

 

Incorporate Natural Landscaping

A nature-inspired landscape does more than beautify.

It protects the shoreline, minimizes maintenance, and blends your home into its environment. 

Lean into natural features rather than working against them.

Explore these ideas for natural landscaping:

Native Plants

Support local wildlife and resist pests naturally.

No Lawns

Reduce upkeep and avoid fertilizer with low-maintenance groundcovers.

Stone Pathways

Create natural walkways between the cottage, dock, and outdoor spaces.

Rain Gardens

Absorb runoff and prevent shoreline erosion.

Natural Accents

Use boulders, driftwood, and moss to blend with the environment.

Step 12: Begin Construction

One day, it is just dirt and trees.

And the next, it is footings in the ground, walls rising skyward, and the unmistakable feeling that your custom cottage is becoming real. 

While progress can feel exciting, it’s the planning and coordination that ensure everything stays on track.

 

Construction Timeline Overview

Most custom cottages follow a similar construction flow. 

Below is a general timeline with estimated durations for each stage:

Site Clearing and Grading (2–4 weeks)

Removal of trees, levelling of land, and prepping the site for excavation and construction access.

Foundation Poured (2–3 weeks)

Includes excavation, footings, formwork, and concrete curing.

Framing and Roofing (4–8 weeks)

Walls go up, trusses are placed, and your custom cottage takes its basic shape.

Mechanical Rough-Ins (3–6 weeks)

Installation of plumbing, HVAC, and electrical systems before insulation and drywall.

Insulation and Drywall (2–4 weeks)

Critical for energy efficiency, this step includes spray foam, batt insulation, vapour barriers, and drywall taping/finishing.

Interior and Exterior Finishes (8–16 weeks)

Flooring, cabinetry, trim, paint, siding, stonework, and everything else that brings the space to life.

Final Inspections and Walk-Through (1–2 weeks)

Municipal inspections, occupancy approvals, and last-minute touch-ups before move-in.

 

TOTAL CONSTRUCTION TIME: 12–18 months, depending on site complexity, weather conditions, and customization level. Read this article to learn why you should partner with a custom cottage builder, such as Gilbert + Burke: 9 Advantages of Hiring Custom Home Builders.

Step 13: Final Inspections and Move-In

Before the keys are handed over, there’s a critical series of finishing touches and inspections.

This ensures your custom cottage is not only beautiful but safe, functional, and truly move-in ready.

 

Walk-Through

Even with the best craftsmanship, minor imperfections are inevitable. 

That’s why a final walk-through with your cottage builder is essential.

During this inspection, you should:

  1. Test all lights, faucets, doors, and appliances
  2. Note minor fixes (touch-up paint, hardware alignment, or silicone gaps)
  3. Check that everything matches the agreed design and specs
  4. Ensure the cottage is professionally cleaned and move-in ready

 

Final Inspections

Structural Framing

Verifies that all load-bearing elements and framing comply with code.

Electrical and Plumbing Systems

Ensures wiring, outlets, lighting, piping, and fixtures are safely installed and meet current safety standards.

HVAC Systems

Confirms proper ventilation, ductwork, and heating/cooling operations.

Septic System

Assesses tank, leaching bed, and drainage to ensure proper waste management.

Insulation and Energy Performance

Validates that insulation meets energy efficiency requirements.

Safety Features

Includes smoke detectors, carbon monoxide alarms, stair railings, and fire egress compliance.

Once all inspections are passed, your Occupancy Permit is issued.

This is your official green light to move in.

Build Your Luxury Cottage With One Trusted Partner—Gilbert + Burke

Building a custom cottage is one of the most personal and significant investments you’ll ever make. 

At Gilbert + Burke, we make sure it’s also one of the most rewarding.

Our complete suite of design-build services gives you everything you need under one roof.

 

An All-in-One Design-Build Experience

Unlike firms that leave you juggling designers, trades, engineers, and municipalities, we handle it all:

Vision Planning

Clarify how you want to live before any plans are drawn. Engage in a lifestyle discovery with our team to make sure your custom cottage reflects your values, needs, and dreams.

Lot Consulting

Know exactly what you’re working with before you build. Our team assesses sunlight, views, topography, and access to help you avoid expensive design or construction surprises.

In-House Architecture & Design

Get custom cottage plans crafted by award-winning designers. Turn your vision into a beautiful cottage design tailored to your lifestyle and the landscape.

Permitting & Zoning

Skip the red tape and stay compliant from day one. We handle all township approvals, environmental regulations, and conservation requirements so you don’t have to.

Transparent Budgeting

Stay in control of your investment. Get a breakdown of every cost and prioritize your budget so you always know where your money is going.

Construction Management

Build with confidence from the ground up. Our team coordinates every trade, material, and timeline to keep your project on track.

Interior Design & Finishes

Bring your cottage to life, one detail at a time. We guide you during finishing and feature selections that align with your desires.

After-Care Support

Enjoy peace of mind long after move-in. We stay available for questions, seasonal upkeep guidance, and referrals to trusted maintenance partners.

 

Ready to Start Building?

Schedule a call with our Director of Client Experience today.

Let’s talk about your goals, explore ideas, and get clear on what’s possible.

This is the first step to making your dream a reality.

Choose a cottage builder who’s with you every step of the way.

What to Read Next

How to Winterize Your Cottage 2
October 25th, 2025

How to Winterize Your Cottage

Read More Read More
A modern white cottage with black trim and landscaped gardens set against a forest backdrop in Muskoka.
September 15th, 2025

The Ultimate Guide to Building Custom Cottages in Ontario

Read More Read More
Luxury Muskoka boathouse interior at sunset with cedar walls docked wakeboat, LED accents, glass doors framing calm lake view.
August 2nd, 2025

How Much Does It Cost to Build a Boathouse?

Read More Read More
Ken Jaquith Director Of Client Experience
Have Questions? Ask Ken! learn more
learn more