“We’re a boutique building firm.We’ve found our niche, and it’s exactly where we want to be”
- Kip Phillips, North Echo Inc.
Kip Phillips, the owner-operator of North Echo Inc., a design, build, and maintenance firm based in Muskoka, values simplicity in both life and business. Instead of directing prospective clients to the testimonials on his website, he prefers to drive them around to see some of North Echo’s past projects and perhaps even stop to chat with previous clients if they’re home. Kip would rather sit down with you over a coffee on your property to discuss your vision than simply read about it on an online contact form. This genuine approach extends to his building philosophy as well; Kip finds immense satisfaction in focusing on quality and the often overlooked details that elevate a project to something truly extraordinary.
“We’re a boutique building firm,” says Kip, “we’ve found our niche, and it’s exactly where we want to be. We believe this approach is the perfect formula for success. With decades of experience and a steadfast commitment to building lasting client relationships, we ensure every project is a success.”
Each North Echo project is assigned a dedicated project manager, with Kip staying actively involved from start to finish. Together, they invest the time to deeply engage with their clients, ensuring that as the hundreds of decisions arise, they are well-prepared to guide the project in the direction the client envisions. “No client wants to be bogged down with trivial questions and tedious choices,” says Kip. “But if we understand their preferred aesthetic and the nuances that matter to them, we can confidently handle those small details, ensuring everything aligns with their vision.”
North Echo’s portfolio showcases a diverse array of projects, spanning from classic traditional designs to sleek contemporary styles. Kip’s passion for building was likely influenced by his family’s cottage, constructed in 1906, which still stands today as a testament to timeless craftsmanship. “Growing up in a traditional Muskoka cottage, I was surrounded with exposed structural elements, “ says Kip. “Seeing those exposed beams and understanding how everything fit together fascinated me. But modern architecture is equally captivating with its sleek, clean lines. The magic lies in how it all appears so effortlessly simple when done right.”
Born and raised in Bracebridge, Kip spent his summers at the circa-1906 family cottage on Lake Rosseau. Upon completing his postsecondary education and returning to Muskoka, he recognized the benefits of his intimate knowledge of the region for his work. “As Muskoka builders, we benefit from an intimate understanding of the terrain, the weather conditions typical to the area, and numerous variables that might not be apparent to those unfamiliar with building in Muskoka,” he explains. This encompasses considerations such as assessing the safety of ice when working on an island property and techniques required when building over water. And it’s not only about what you know but also who you know.
“Given the strong sense of community in Muskoka, I’ve developed enduring personal and professional relationships with numerous tradespeople over the years, some of which span decades,” he explains. That there’s a healthy mutual respect there helps to ensure a smooth workflow and reliable quality standards on all North Echo’s projects.
They also maintain excellent rapport with individuals at the various township offices and boast extensive experience in completing permit applications and advocating for their clients over many years. “After years in this field, we’ve acquired an in-depth understanding of local bylaws and regulations,” Kip explains. “So, even during initial brainstorming sessions with clients, we can typically provide insight into the parameters we’ll need to navigate.”
North Echo has been constructing homes, cottages, and boathouses across Muskoka since 2012. With this extensive experience in building throughout Muskoka, they’ve honed their craft to seamlessly integrate with the unique landscape and architectural demands of the region. Their track record of successful projects reflects their deep understanding of Muskoka’s distinctive building challenges and opportunities. Embracing the rich heritage of Muskoka, they recently embarked on the journey of purchasing and renovating a historical building in downtown Bracebridge.
Their relocation to this iconic Taylor Road space not only underscores their commitment to the community but also provides them with a dynamic and inspiring workspace to better serve their clients. “We’re equipped with the expertise, integrity, and craftsmanship required for any project,” Kip shares. “While we’re capable of handling large-scale jobs, we deliberately limit our workload to just a few projects simultaneously. This allows us to prioritize clear communication and meticulous attention to detail, ensuring exceptional outcomes for our clients.”
When Kip isn’t immersed in building or designing, you’ll likely find him enjoying precious moments with his family at their family cottage or out on the golf course. He deeply values the essence of “Summers in Muskoka,” relishing in the serene beauty and cherished memories created in this idyllic setting.
