Project Details

Location: Bracebridge, Ontario
Building Use: Commercial retail showroom


Structure Type: Custom-engineered steel building


Building System: Kodiak pre-engineered steel package

Key Features:

• Clear-span steel framing for a flexible, open retail layout
• Custom window spans and entry design for enhanced natural light
• Integrated in-floor heating system for year-round comfort
• High insulation values for improved energy efficiency
• Steel engineered specifically for local snow loads and wind conditions
• Low-maintenance exterior materials suited to Muskoka’s climate
  

Located in the heart of Bracebridge, Simply Cottage has built a reputation for timeless furniture, thoughtfully curated décor, and a distinctly Muskoka way of living. As the business continued to grow, the team needed a larger, purpose-built retail space that could support expanded product lines while preserving the warmth and character their customers expect.

To bring that vision to life, Simply Cottage partnered with Kodiak Metal Buildings to design and supply a custom-engineered steel retail building tailored specifically for a high-end showroom environment.

The goal was clear: create a modern commercial space that feels open, bright, and welcoming — without sacrificing energy efficiency, durability, or long-term performance in Ontario’s demanding climate.

Kodiak delivered a pre-engineered steel building system designed around flexibility, clear-span space, and architectural detail. The result is a structure that blends the emotional appeal of a traditional retail showroom with the practical advantages of precision-engineered Canadian steel.
Key design considerations included:

• An open-concept retail floor plan that allows Simply Cottage to reconfigure displays seasonally
• High ceilings and wide clear spans to showcase large furniture pieces without visual obstruction
• Expansive window systems and custom foyer detailing to maximize natural light and street presence
• A layout that supports both customer experience and back-of-house operations
  

This approach gave Simply Cottage the freedom to design an interior that feels warm and inviting — while benefiting from the strength and efficiency of a steel building envelope.

Beyond aesthetics, the building was engineered for long-term operational efficiency. The steel structure provides excellent thermal performance, reduced maintenance requirements, and structural integrity designed to withstand Ontario’s seasonal extremes — from heavy snow loads to fluctuating temperatures.

This combination allows Simply Cottage to focus on what matters most: delivering an exceptional in-store experience without worrying about the limitations of the building itself.

The new Simply Cottage location is more than a retail expansion — it’s a purpose-built commercial space that reflects Muskoka craftsmanship, community, and design values.

By using a custom steel building solution, Kodiak enabled a bright, open, and highly adaptable showroom that will support Simply Cottage’s growth for decades to come. The project stands as a strong example of how commercial steel buildings can deliver both performance and personality when designed with intention.

Thinking About Your Own Project?

Every Kodiak building starts with an idea — and becomes something extraordinary.
If you’re planning a retail, workshop, or commercial space, we’d love to help you bring it to life.