Cottage builders in Muskoka

A new chapter for your Muskoka cottage property.

A cottage can hold generations of family memories while needing a different kind of space for the years ahead. From The Ground Up Construction builds new and replacement cottages in Muskoka, with attention to the setting, the way your family gathers and the details that make a place feel like yours.

A considered approach

Building for the property, the family and what comes next.

New and replacement cottages

A new cottage on an existing family property begins with questions about what should change and what should remain familiar. Modern Cottage is a replacement build with traditional Muskoka character. Its photographs show one way a family property can move forward without losing its connection to the past.

Respond to the setting

A cottage has a close relationship with the land around it. Views, existing trees, rock and outdoor gathering spaces influence how the building feels. An early conversation about your particular property is more valuable than assuming that a design suitable for one site will suit another.

Make room for gathering

Kitchens, living spaces and sheltered outdoor areas often carry much of cottage life. Think about how many people use the property, how they spend time together and which spaces are most important. Those practical priorities provide a useful basis for discussing plans and construction details.

Consider inside and outside together

Moon River Cottage brings together generous glazing, timber details, a screened gathering space and terraces near the water. The project demonstrates the relationship between indoor rooms and outdoor places to sit. Your own priorities may be different; the purpose of the portfolio is to start a specific conversation.

Coordinate the work

A cottage build brings trades, materials and site decisions into one project. FTGU provides construction project management with practical oversight and consistent contact. Discuss the scope and the decisions you want to be involved in so expectations are clear before work progresses.

Plan from near or far

Many cottage owners spend part of their time outside Muskoka. A good working relationship needs clear conversations, not an assumption that you can be on site every day. Tell us how you expect to use the property and how you prefer to stay involved as plans and construction develop.

From the portfolio

A cottage that belongs to its surroundings.

Moon River Cottage exterior among trees and natural rock beside the waterfront

Moon River Cottage connects light-filled rooms with a treed waterfront setting. A screened space, timber accents and outdoor seating offer different ways to enjoy the property. The gallery is a useful reference for talking about the balance of indoor comfort, outdoor living and craftsmanship in your own project.

Should we renovate or replace an existing cottage?
That depends on the existing building, the property and the changes you want. Start by describing what works, what does not and how you want to use the cottage. A property-specific discussion comes before a recommendation.
Do you build for owners who live outside Muskoka?
Yes. FTGU works with local owners and those planning their Muskoka property from elsewhere, with consistent communication as part of the working relationship.
Where can I see examples?
Explore Moon River Cottage, Modern Cottage and Timber Home in the portfolio. Each shows a different approach to spaces for family life in Muskoka.

Explore Moon River Cottage See the Modern Cottage replacement build See all building services

Tell us about your property.

Share your location and the home, cottage or changes you have in mind. We can discuss the scope and what comes next.

Discuss Your Project