Colin Hunter knows Muskoka. The local contractor specializes in creating relaxing cottage spaces that have verve and durability. He can bee seen on HGTV Canada’s Summer Home, along with series host Samantha Pynn. Here, he offers his top five tips for cottage renovation.
1. LOOK TO THE FUTURE
Envision the end goal for your cottage project. Avoid short-term renovation solutions. Instead, focus on what will be great for years to come.
2. PLAN IN THE CITY
Before starting the renovation, do as much planning as you can in the city. Each hour of planning saves three hours of work—especially when the hardware store is far away!
3. BUY DURING THE WEEK
If you can, purchase fixtures, appliances and materials before heading out for the weekend. Don’t be shy about using Craigslist and Kijiji to get some great deals.
4. LIGHTEN UP
Use natural looking materials and light shades of paint. The real beauty of the cottage is the surrounding nature. Avoid colours and fabrics that detract from the views.
5. MANAGE YOUR TIME
Set realistic goals of what to achieve, and then attack. Always make sure to enjoy some afternoon sun. You can make up for it in the evening!
For information about Colin and his services, visit 919reno.com or call 416-919-7366. Summer Home airs Mondays at 8 p.m. on HGTV Canada, or watch full episodes at hgtv.ca.
Originally from Niagara-on-the-Lake, chef Brown has spent more than two decades cooking in wine-and cottage-country kitchens (he moved to Parry Sound in 1993). At Kudos Kuisine (one of Where’s best new restaurants of 2011), he combines the skills he developed in Niagara with culinary influences from Northern Ontario, including traditional inspirations from the Shawanaga First Nation.
Stay, Dine, Do
