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Father and son duo offer expert construction and renovations

Muskoka is a unique place, and nowhere is that more evident than in home and cottage construction.

Contractors here need to navigate a host of complexities that are unknown outside the area. They need to be able to work on islands, deal with half-load restrictions in the spring, bring materials to nearly inaccessible properties, build around (or remove) granite outcrops, protect delicate water frontage, and so much more.

Having a wealth of local knowledge helps overcome these challenges, and Don Hammond and his son Elliott have that in abundance. Working extensively in Muskoka, they’ve also built an incredible network of regional experts to call on as needed. 

Don arrived in Muskoka in the ‘80s, and Elliott was born and raised here. Together, they are a dynamic duo of complementary skills. 

Rather than specializing in one aspect of construction, the team draws on their diverse backgrounds to offer a wide range of services. 

One area of expertise among many is constructing or upgrading exterior living spaces. Don has 30 years of experience with cottage properties, upgrading boathouses, building docks, constructing Muskoka rooms, and more besides. 

Muskoka rooms are often in demand – in fact, they’re something of a must-have in the region, since they can lengthen the seasonal enjoyment of a home or cottage. 

“We have created some really extraordinary Muskoka rooms for clients,” says Elliott. “These additional spaces add ambience, and you can take in the surrounding nature with carefully appointed views.” 

Elliott brings a great deal of landscaping experience to bear, with skills in hardscaping as well as operating heavy machinery. “Years of experience leading a crew have enabled me to see the clients’ vision and communicate that clearly, in order to hit deadlines and often exceed the clients’ expectations,” he says. “Outdoor patios, stone steps, retaining walls, decks and wood accents… we excel at all of it.”

Although father and son have different backgrounds, they do share a number of attributes, including a dedication to excellence.

“People often say they’re amazed by our work ethic,” says Don. “But really, we’re just dedicated to seeing a job through to completion at a high level of quality. It needs to be built right, or else what’s the point?”

Their clients back them up on that.  “Over the past years Don and Elliott have completed many projects on my waterfront property,” says cottage owner Paul W. “They are on time, on budget and meticulous in their work.  I tend to be a bit of a perfectionist and they have never let me down.” 

Coppergroup Renovations is committed to open and clear communications with all clients at all times.

They love to work with clients to help bring their vision to a high standard, communicating any time a plan needs to be adjusted for practical reasons, and suggesting improvements that will help enhance the client’s appreciation of the final structure. 

And in the process, they build great relationships by listening as well as sharing ideas. “We build trust when communication is a two-way street with our clients,” Don says.

In an industry where trust is crucial, this is no small thing. Our homes and cottages are integral to our lives, and Don and Elliott respect this immensely.  

“Whether it’s deck and patio construction, siding and exterior finishes, landscaping or hardscaping, we make a plan, and we listen to our clients,” Elliott notes. “We can work with them on a wide array of property management projects, because we both bring so much diverse experience to the work.”

No matter what they’re building, Don says, being able to work alongside his son is a particular privilege. “Elliott is a true partner – and he’s earned that role. He takes the lead in some areas, and I take the lead in others. It’s a real joy to be able to share accomplishments and challenges together, to brainstorm ideas and approaches, and just to work with each other.”

“I started off teaching him. Now it’s not at all unusual for him to be teaching me.” 

As their business continues to grow and evolve, one thing is very clear: high standards, integrity, and a customer-focused approach run in the family.

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