Top 5 Features Every Custom Cottage in Ontario Should Have

Ontario cottage country is home to some of Canada’s most breathtaking landscapes—from the tranquil shores of Muskoka to the rugged cliffs of the Niagara Escarpment. Designing a custom cottage in these regions is about more than square footage; it's about creating a lifestyle that blends comfort, nature, and seasonal living.

Whether you’re building a family retreat or an investment property, incorporating the right features ensures your cottage feels timeless and functions beautifully for generations. Here are the top 5 features every custom cottage in Ontario should have, thoughtfully selected for regional climate, natural surroundings, and lifestyle needs.

1. Lakefront Views & Window Orientation

One of the biggest draws of owning a cottage in Ontario is access to lakes, rivers, and forests. To truly capitalize on this, your design should prioritize strategic window placement and indoor-outdoor flow.

Design Considerations:

• Floor-to-ceiling or picture windows that frame lakefront views

• Sliding or accordion doors that open to decks or patios

• Open-concept layouts that allow natural light to flow throughout

Why it matters: Whether you're nestled in Haliburton or the Bruce Peninsula, natural light and views increase the feeling of space and serenity—especially during long winters.

2. Screened Porches for Bug-Free Living

Bugs are part of cottage life, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice comfort. Screened porches provide a versatile indoor-outdoor space protected from mosquitoes, black flies, and rain.

Design Features:

• Vaulted or wood-paneled ceilings with fans for airflow

• Durable screen systems with seasonal panels

• Rustic-chic finishes like cedar or pine

Ontario Benefit: In areas like Muskoka and Parry Sound, a screened porch can be enjoyed from spring through fall and doubles as a dining room, nap zone, or evening retreat.

3. A Durable, Stylish Mudroom

The mudroom might be one of the most underrated cottage essentials, but anyone who has visited in spring thaw or after a trail hike knows just how necessary it is.

Must-Have Elements:

• Tile or waterproof flooring

• Bench seating with shoe/boot storage

• Wall hooks and cubbies for coats, life jackets, towels

Why it's a top feature: Especially near the Niagara Escarpment, where seasonal changes are dramatic, this transitional space keeps your interior clean while providing functional organization.

4. Natural, Local Materials

To achieve a timeless cottage aesthetic that blends with the natural environment, prioritize locally sourced or nature-inspired materials like:

• Reclaimed wood beams or paneling

• Natural stone fireplaces or exterior facades

• Slate, pine, and cedar details

Eco & Value Bonus: These materials are durable, low-maintenance, and often available regionally—ideal for off-grid or hard-to-access builds. Plus, they echo the landscapes of Georgian Bay, Kawarthas, or Lake Erie.

5. Energy-Efficient & Four-Season Functionality

Ontario cottages are increasingly used year-round, not just as summer getaways. That’s why incorporating energy-efficient features is a smart investment.

Key Upgrades:

• Triple-pane windows and proper insulation

• High-efficiency HVAC or radiant heating systems

• Septic and plumbing systems rated for cold temperatures

Why it matters: For winterized cottages in Haliburton or Collingwood, these features not only improve comfort but also increase resale value and lower utility bills.

Honorable Mentions

Other desirable features that elevate your cottage experience:

• Outdoor shower (great for lakefront properties)

• Bunkie or guest cabin for added space

• Fire pit or outdoor kitchen to enhance outdoor entertaining

Ready to design a cottage that’s as beautiful as it is functional?

At De Simone Designs, we specialize in custom cottages tailored to Ontario’s unique terrain, climate, and lifestyle. From site planning to final layout, we help you create a retreat that reflects your vision and stands the test of time.

📞 Contact us today to start planning your dream cottage.