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50+ Years
experience
Custom Home Builders in Ontario | A & R Design Build
A & R Design Build has been crafting custom homes and cottages for over 45 years, serving clients across Central Ontario. Founded in 1973 by Ren Ouellet, a licensed carpenter and R2000 certified builder, our company has built a reputation for excellence through the completion of more than 1,500 projects. We pride ourselves on being a family-owned business that listens to clients before, during, and after construction, ensuring their vision becomes a reality. Our team offers flexible solutions, from turnkey homes to DIY-friendly packages, accommodating diverse client needs. With a focus on quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction, we have grown primarily through referrals and repeat business.

Our expertise extends to customizing Viceroy-style homes, modifying existing plans, or creating entirely unique designs tailored to individual preferences. We handle every aspect of the building process, including lot preparation, permits, insurance, and coordinating trades, to simplify the journey for our clients. Our commitment to transparency and professionalism has earned us testimonials highlighting timely project completion, exceptional workmanship, and dedicated customer support. Located in Innisfil, Ontario, we invite you to visit our model home and experience the A & R Design Build difference firsthand.
Services
Custom Home Building Cottage Construction Turnkey Solutions Foundation Framing Plan Customization Lot Preparation Permit Assistance Insurance Coordination Trade Scheduling DIY-Friendly Packages
Details
  • Year established: 1973
Highlights and features
  • We offer over 45 years of experience in custom home building.
  • Our team provides personalized design and build solutions.
  • We handle all project phases, from permits to final inspections.
  • Our R2000-certified expertise ensures energy-efficient construction.
  • We maintain a strong reputation built on referrals and repeat clients.
Associations and certifications
  • R2000
What people say
Professionalism and experience Quality of work Prompt response to concerns Excellent customer service Well sealed and insulated
Services
Custom Home Building
A & R Design Build specializes in constructing fully customized homes tailored to client preferences. Our team collaborates closely with homeowners to transform architectural plans into reality, ensuring every detail aligns with their vision. With over 1,500 completed projects, we deliver quality craftsmanship and personalized service across Ontario.
Cottage Construction
We build bespoke cottages designed for Ontarios landscapes, from Muskokas rocky shores to Dufferin Countys forests. Our process includes site-specific planning, energy-efficient construction, and seamless integration with natural surroundings. Clients benefit from our expertise in creating durable, comfortable retreats suited for seasonal or year-round use.
Turnkey Solutions
Our turnkey service covers every phase of construction, from initial design to final occupancy. We manage permits, coordinate trades, and handle logistics, providing clients with a completed home ready for move-in. This option ensures a stress-free experience for homeowners seeking a fully finished property without self-managing any steps.
Plan Customization
We adapt existing home plans or create new designs to meet specific client needs. Whether adjusting layouts, upgrading materials, or incorporating unique features, our in-house team ensures modifications align with structural integrity and aesthetic goals. This service empowers clients to personalize their dream home without starting from scratch.
DIY-Friendly Packages
For hands-on clients, we offer foundation and framing packages that allow partial self-construction. We deliver high-quality materials and pre-built components to the job site, enabling homeowners to complete finishing work at their own pace. This flexible approach balances professional support with cost-effective, customizable builds.
People
Ren Ouellet Jr.
Owner
With 25 years of experience alongside his father, Ren Ouellet Jr. took ownership of A & R Design Build in 2018. He continues the legacy of quality craftsmanship and client-focused service, ensuring the company maintains its reputation for excellence in custom home construction.
Laura McAdam
Design & Building Consultant
Laura McAdam provides expert guidance to clients throughout the home-building process. Her role includes addressing inquiries, coordinating consultations, and supporting project execution to ensure a seamless experience for homeowners working with A & R Design Build.
Questions
What types of homes does A&R Design Build construct?
We specialize in custom-designed homes and cottages, including turnkey solutions, DIY-friendly packages, and energy-efficient R2000-certified builds tailored to Ontario’s landscapes.
Can I customize an existing home plan?
Yes, our team modifies existing plans or creates new designs to meet your specific needs, ensuring structural integrity and aesthetic alignment with your vision.
Do you handle building permits and inspections?
Yes, we manage all necessary permits, inspections, and insurance coordination to streamline the construction process for our clients.
What areas do you serve?
We primarily serve Central Ontario, including Muskoka, Dufferin County, Parry Sound, Innisfil, and Barrie.
Is financing assistance available?
We assist clients in navigating construction loans and financial arrangements, working with third-party lenders to support their project funding needs.
Can I visit a model home?
Yes, our Carlyle model home is located at Highway 400 and Innisfil Beach Road, south of Barrie, by appointment.
Reviews (2)
Nick
Jan 23, 2022 Report
A&R is the builder we decided to use after months of research on custom home and module home designs. A&R Like all builders use many trades to raise your your home from excavation to final finished stage. We did experience problems with craftsmanship in the beginning of our project. Rene the owner who does listen to your concerns acted quickly to address and rectify all problems to our expectations. A&R allowed us to change some of the designs of the home along the way which is unheard of with other builders. Rene will work with you to make your dream home come true. The site supervisor Dan is
Jenny Straine
Nov 29, 2018 Report
These guys did an amazing job on our cottage build I would recommend them to friends and family. We are finally into our new home and loving it I just had the interior decorator come in and the furniture is arriving next week