Owner Story: Building a Custom Muskoka Family Cottage
What It’s Really Like to Build a Custom Muskoka Family Cottage
Building a custom cottage in Muskoka is more than a construction project - it’s a family decision, a legacy investment, and the realization of a long-held dream.
Thinking about building or rebuilding in Muskoka?
Before making big decisions about land, design, or budgeting, having the right conversation early can make all the difference.
Call Bert at CedarCoast to talk through your ideas, property opportunities, and family goals.
1-800-563-5647
Stephen and Elena began their journey the way many CedarCoast families do: exploring options, visiting the annual Cottage Life Show in Mississauga, and trying to understand what the right next step might look like.
Several years after moving into their Acton Island cottage, they reflect on what the experience was really like - from the first meeting to living in the home today.
The Dream Stage: How This Muskoka Cottage Journey Began
Before drawings. Before permits. Before construction. There was a conversation. “We went to the cottage show one day, and we met Pat and Bert… we liked their approach.”
Like many families considering building a custom Muskoka cottage, Stephen and Elena did their homework. They toured model cottages along Highway 11. They met different contractors. They explored pre-designed options. Nothing felt quite right. Until they met CedarCoast.
The first meeting wasn’t high pressure. It wasn’t overwhelming. It was a relaxed, thoughtful first get-together (with cookies!) focused on listening.
Each member of the family completed questionnaires to share what they envisioned. From that input, multiple custom plans were developed - designed around how the family actually lives. As Elena explains in this video, “They listened and took our information and produced plans that were very workable.”
Designing a Custom Family Cottage in Muskoka
One of the biggest fears when building a custom cottage is decision fatigue. “You didn’t give me 7,000 things to look at.” Instead of overwhelming them with endless choices, CedarCoast showed them options based on their preferences and lifestyle. The selections felt manageable. The direction felt clear.
Changes were handled quickly and transparently. Updated drawings were shared. Adjustments were visible.
The design evolved - but never felt chaotic.
What stood out most? Communication. “The communication was very open, very transparent.” Through Buildertrend software, phone calls, and in-person meetings, they always knew where the project stood. Questions were answered. Concerns were addressed. “No concern was too small.”
A Comfortable, Guided Building Process
During construction, Stephen and Elena visited the site regularly. Watching the Douglas fir timber frame rise, the vaulted ceilings take shape, and the stone fireplace become the heart of the great room was an exciting experience. “It was neat listening to Bert talk about what it was going to look like when it was done.”
What looked small in framing opened up once completed. What felt large balanced out once finished. CedarCoast guided expectations throughout - helping them see the finished vision before it was complete.
Today, the great room is filled with natural light, anchored by a warm stone fireplace, and framed by spectacular timber beams overhead. It’s where the family gathers.
Built for Generations on Acton Island
This property has history. Stephen’s parents purchased the land in the 1960s and built the original cottage themselves. The new custom Muskoka cottage honors that legacy while creating a space designed for future generations. “It’s something nice for us from a heritage point of view to leave our children.”
Before committing to build, they asked their children if they would continue coming to Muskoka. The answer was an enthusiastic yes.
Now, from May to Labour Day, the cottage is a gathering place:
- Family celebrations
- Long summer weekends
- A retreat from city life
- A space where grandchildren will one day make memories.
“There hasn’t been one person invited up that hasn’t been blown away by the workmanship and the craft.”
This is what a custom family cottage in Muskoka is truly about.
Life After Move-In: Support That Continues
One of the most telling parts of their story happened after construction was complete. “When the job is finished, you are still part of the CedarCoast family.”
When a winter issue required additional structural support on an overhang, CedarCoast returned promptly and resolved it.
As Stephen says, “CedarCoast is our warranty.” The relationship didn’t end when the keys were handed over. It continued. And that ongoing support reinforced their confidence in their decision.
Thinking About Building a Custom Cottage in Muskoka?
Stephen and Elena’s advice to anyone considering building? “Go ahead and take that step. You’ll be well taken care of.”
Building a custom Muskoka cottage is a journey - one that requires trust, communication, and experience. If you’re exploring the idea of building your own family cottage - even if you’re still 'just dreaming' - the best place to start is with a conversation.
