Modern comfort. Preserved character. Built for Ontario seasons.
A cottage isn’t just a property — it’s where you unwind, disconnect, and return to something that feels like yours. At de Blois Built, we renovate cottages in Northumberland County, Prince Edward County, Hastings County, Bay of Quinte, Peterborough and the Kawarthas with a clear goal: make the space work better for the way you use it, without losing the character that made you fall for it in the first place.
We understand the particular challenges that come with cottage construction — older foundations, seasonal access, properties that weren’t designed for year-round use, and the need to work efficiently when owners often aren’t local. We manage each project with the same full-scope process we bring to any build: clear planning, coordinated trades and suppliers, and honest communication throughout.
Every cottage has its own history and its own set of constraints. We don’t apply a template — we start by understanding the structure, the site, and what you’re trying to achieve. Whether you’re converting a seasonal camp into a four-season property, updating an aging interior, or tackling structural issues that have been put off too long, our team develops a plan that’s realistic, well-scoped, and built to last.
We work closely with you from the first conversation through to final completion, keeping you informed even when you’re not on-site.
Here are the renovation services we most commonly deliver on cottage properties across Northumberland County and the surrounding areas.
Older cottages were often built in compartmentalized layouts that don’t suit the way people want to use them now. We open up floor plans thoughtfully — strategically removing walls where it makes structural and functional sense, improving sight lines and natural light, and creating spaces that feel connected without losing the warmth of a cottage interior. Every structural change is properly engineered and permitted.
Storage is often a luxury in cottage living, and freestanding furniture only goes so far in a smaller space. We build custom shelving, cabinetry, and storage solutions designed to maximize every square inch, while respecting the existing character of the cottage. If your cottage kitchen or bathrooms are the issue, we can renovate yours to combine function, craftsmanship and flow. Your new layout will make every day you spend at the cottage a little bit easier, well-made, and built to stay.
Outdoor living is often the heart of the cottage experience. At de Blois Built we specialize in constructing decks, covered porches, and outdoor living spaces designed to harmonize with your property and to hold up through Ontario’s freeze-thaw cycles — not just look good the first summer. Materials are selected for durability in exposed conditions, and every structure is securely integrated into the existing building.
Many cottages were built for summer use and simply weren’t designed to perform through a Canadian winter. We upgrade insulation and building envelopes to make properties comfortable and energy-efficient year-round — addressing air sealing, vapour barriers, and thermal performance in a way that works with the existing structure rather than against it. The result is a cottage that you can comfortably enjoy in every season.
Older cottage foundations are one of the most common sources of long-term problems — and one of the most commonly deferred. We assess and repair foundation issues before they escalate further, providing structural stability and peace of mind. Whether it’s underpinning, waterproofing, or addressing settlement, we approach foundation work methodically and with full transparency about what’s involved.
Cottage renovation requires a contractor who understands rural properties, older construction, and how to manage a project when the owner isn’t always nearby. Here’s what you get with de Blois Built:
Whether you’re tackling a long-deferred list of repairs or planning a complete transformation, de Blois Built brings reliability, consistency, and care to every step of the project. Let’s talk about what your cottage needs — and what it could become.
Our clients’ satisfaction is our greatest achievement. Here’s what a few of our satisfied clients have to say about their experience with de Blois Built:
Posted on Google Rick DeanTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. As a subcontractor we have had the privilege to work alongside de Blois Built, and they are an excellent team. Their professionalism, communication and attention to detail really stand out. The collaboration on their projects is strong, and the quality of the finished product speaks for itself. We look forward to many more collaborations in the future and highly recommend de Blois Built.Posted on Google James HunterTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Mike and team are incredible. Very high end finishing touches and solid work all round. They did our entire ground floor on time and on budget. Don't hesitate.Posted on Google Carl SpitzerTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Mike de Blois brought our designs to life and created a beautiful home for us. He and the team have an attention to detail that is impressive. Our full house renovation in mid town Toronto is now complete and we are very pleased.Posted on Google cristina popTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Michael is very skilled as a general contractor and has an honest, responsible character. Going through a renovation always has its stressful or overwhelming moments. You want to be in those moments with someone you trust is doing their best, and whose best assures a standard of excellence. This is Michael and his team. Throughout the building of our home, he and his team were wonderful to us as well as our neighbours. They took great care in the price quotations to ensure we scale the project to something we can afford. They matched their quote during post-Covid times, when prices were fluctuating and the market was difficult to predict. They worked with quality materials and did a great job aesthetically as well as functionally in our home. I cannot recommend this team enough. All the best in your renovation.Posted on Google Chris CurryTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Mike and the entire de Blois Built (“DBB”) Team were our contractor for an extensive full house renovation in Toronto that was completed in July 2024. Like any large and complex construction project it is all about the “Team”. DBB was nothing short of excellent throughout the years leading up to construction start, all the way until completion and thereafter. Their collaborative approach with Architects, Designers, Subtrades, etc., is what truly differentiates them from the crowd as they repeatedly came to the table with effective solutions to any issue that may have arisen. More importantly though, Mike and his team would proactively suggest design or cost-effective alternatives for consideration throughout the life of the project that in hindsight, now living in our house for a year, was true game changer on how small suggestions has produced big benefits and flow for our family’s needs. I would be more than happy to recommend Mike & DBB services to anyone considering a major (or minor) renovation or new build. Regards. Chris CurryPosted on Google Sarah HendersonTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Mike and his de Blois Built team’s skill, craft, attention to detail and design, as well as a solutions based approach not only brought our architect’s plans to life, but also made the experience of renovating our home an enjoyable one. Not to mention, Mike delivers on his promises, is always adding value and is an absolute pleasure to deal with. In fact, his whole team is a pleasure and it’s clear that they enjoy what they do. Thank you Mike and team for all your ideas, attention and hard work. We love our house!!! Sarah & Griff H. Hibou HousePosted on Google Chris WalcottTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We share this experience from a different perspective than a client, and we were and are very pleased working with de Blois. We are a subcontractor for plumbing mechanical AC irrigation installs and service. We have been in business for over 60 years and worked with many different contractors, those that truly care for their product and provide a great work culture are few and far between. De Blois definitely joins this club of selective contractors.Posted on Google Christine McNicolTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We couldn't be more pleased with our experience working with Mike and his team. First in 2015 to underpin and renovate our basement. Then in 2021 for a complete renovation and extension on the rest of our home. On both projects, from start to finish, the communication was absolutely incredible, keeping us informed every step of the way. The workmanship was excellent, showcasing the skill and dedication they put into every detail. When it came to budgeting and costs, everything was transparent, with no surprises—just honest, clear information. Mike himself is a standout guy—his attention to detail, kindness, and work ethic are unmatched. He listened to our needs, was attentive to every aspect of the project, and made sure everything was completed on time. We highly recommend Mike and de Blois Built for any project!Posted on Google SKONA Design IncTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We are pleased to have formed a great working relationship with de Blois Built and have partnered with them on many projects. Their team is hard working, professional, knowledgeable and take each project very seriously. They also support charities, so they’re a builder with a big heart. We highly recommend de Blois Built and look forward to working with them in the future.