Business profile: Little Cottage Company

MILLERSBURG, Ohio — When it comes to being outdoors, Little Cottage Company has you covered, figuratively and literally.

Based in Millersburg, Little Cottage Company is known as the premier source for a wide variety of customizable out-buildings, including storage sheds, chicken coops, children’s playhouses, dog kennels, hunting blinds and greenhouses, as well as specialty buildings such as personal chapels and school houses.

These unique, built-to-order structures come in a wide range of sizes and styles to suit every customer’s needs and budget, and are available fully constructed or in do-it-yourself kits.

History

Dan Schlabach founded Little Cottage Company in 1999. Schlabach had always been fascinated by architecture and scaled-down miniature versions of larger buildings. As his family continued to grow, Schlabach tapped into this interest to create fun and enriching places for his children to play, including a Victorian-style playhouse for his young daughter.

What started as a family project in his garage quickly became a full-fledged business that is now shipping products worldwide.

Since its beginnings 12 years ago, Little Cottage Company has expanded its product offerings in response to customers’ requests and has launched several new designs of playhouses, greenhouses and chicken coops in 2011.

Going green

As the “green movement” continues to gain momentum, Schlabach has noticed an upsurge in requests for hunting blinds, chicken coops and greenhouses, as people continue to create more self-sustaining lifestyles.

And chances are, as customers continue to need storage or shelter in their yards, Little Cottage Company will provide innovative and affordable solutions.

“Our buildings help people get more enjoyment from the out-of-doors,” Schlabach said. “By providing them the space they need to play, work, store their tools, hunt, grow a garden year-round, or house their animals, we are expanding their living area to the outdoors and optimizing their time outside; and that makes me feel good about what we do.”

Quality

Schlabach also said he feels good about the quality of the products his company creates.

“Our products are first designed thoughtfully to best fulfill the needs of our customers and then constructed carefully by true craftsmen who pride themselves on quality work,” Schlabach said. “From our most economical basics to our premium lines of products, consistent quality and workmanship are always top priority.”

Schlabach’s attention to detail and love for what he does are obvious in the products Little Cottage Company produces as well as the customer service on which his company prides itself.

“I love my job and I love having great employees, and it shows in our innovative and unique building designs and unsurpassed customer service,” Schlabach said. “You just won’t find any better. I guarantee it.”

For more information, visit www.cottagekits.com or call 330-893-4212.