Building or buying a home in cottage country is completely different from building in the city.

You’re building for weather, wildlife, isolation, seasonal extremes, and long-term generational use. The foundation you choose determines how well your home will stand up to decades of harsh conditions — especially in regions like Haliburton, Muskoka, Kawartha Lakes, and the Highlands.

That is exactly why ICF (Insulated Concrete Form) foundations are considered the gold standard for premium and lakefront properties.

If you’ve ever wondered why luxury builders prefer ICF — or why so many high-end cottages and four-season homes rely on it — here is the full breakdown.