Founded in 2015 by Ross Burley, Aeon Kitchens & Design helps clients improve their homes look and feel and functionality with custom cabinetry solutions tailored to their unique needs. Burley is a passionate kitchen design expert with over 20 years of experience in transforming homes across South Georgian Bay and beyond. Burley started his career by completing the Industrial Woodworking Technician program at Humber College. After working as a cabinet maker, he went back to school—this time in a trades program at Fleming College that covered a wide range of skills from carpentry to plumbing to masonry. After completing the program, Burley worked as a kitchen designer and installer for over 6 years. He decided to shift his focus to providing his expertise to the local community—leading him to establish Aeon Kitchens & Design in 2015. Over the years, the business has expanded its core offering of custom cabinetry and countertops to include project managing kitchen renovations to allow clients to have a one-stop shop experience. Aeon Kitchens & Design opened its Collingwood showroom location at 1 First Street Unit 104 in 2019, which is continually being updated to show clients the latest cabinetry products and features available.
Why Collingwood?
Having grown up in Whitby, Burley moved to Collingwood 13 years ago. When asked about why he chose Collingwood for his business, Burley says, “I love to enjoy the outdoor activities of our local area. Starting a business where you live always made sense to me because then you have a much greater connection to the local community, and a short commute to work is an added bonus.” Burley also notes that support from the Town of Collingwood’s Business Development Center partners has been pivotal to the success of his business. “I enrolled and graduated from the Starter Company Plus program through the Small Business Enterprise Centre. I was connected to wonderful mentors who were instrumental in helping get the business rolling and continuing the momentum forward. The BDC partners also helped provide us with a business loan when we expanded into our showroom location and the flexibility to pay it off completely when we had the means,” says Burley.
Partnerships with Local Businesses
From the earliest days of Aeon Kitchens & Design, partnerships with local businesses have played a crucial role in its success. From builders and contractors to carpenters, electricians, plumbers, drywallers, painters, tilers, to logistics and warehousing, there are myriad aspects to kitchen projects that need to come together in a coordinated way. Starting with a free in-home consultation, Aeon Kitchens & Design understands its clients’ needs and preferences, crafting a personalized solution tailored to the specific space. With a vast selection of materials, finishes, hardware, and styles, the team ensures the design is tailored to each client. “I’m a true believer in the power of networking, supporting Canadians, and supporting local businesses. We have built an amazing network of local tradespeople who help us on all aspects of a kitchen renovation for our clients,” says Burley. Aeon Kitchens & Design is also a proud partner of Habitat for Humanity ReStore. Its clients are able to donate their old kitchen to a great cause and receive a tax receipt for the appraised value. Proceeds from these donations go towards helping low-income families build and buy quality, affordable homes.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Asked about advice for entrepreneurs who are thinking of starting a business in Collingwood, Burley notes, “Book an appointment at the Small Business Enterprise Centre to learn more about the resources available to help get your business idea off the ground.” Looking Ahead to the Future Aeon Kitchens & Design is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year. Over the years, the business has made a name for itself for creating DREAM kitchens that blend modern aesthetics with improved functionality while using Canadian materials. “I’m very grateful for the opportunities and support we have received from our community. The town, our clients, trade partners, and my mentors have all been key components to our success, so thank you! We’re looking forward to the opportunity to continue serving our community over the years to come,” says Burley.
To learn more about Aeon Kitchens & Design, visit aeonkitchens.com, its Facebook page, or drop into its showroom at 1 First Street, Unit 104, Collingwood, ON.
Photos by: Dave West Photography