About Us
Primitive Designs is a retail, import store located in Port Hope, Ontario. We have been importing unique arts and crafts from around the world for over 25 years! Open to the public 6 days a week - our 8000 square foot gallery (as well as numerous outdoor tents) - can occupy your time for hours! Our marketplace atmosphere, complete with music from around the globe, takes you on a journey from Bali, Thailand, & Nepal to Morocco, India, & Vietnam! Everything in the gallery is hand-made, and the Owners handpick every item. Primitive Designs is family-owned by Ron Dacey, Rhonda Cook and, their son Maximus.
Our History
For over 35 years, Primitive Designs has grown from a love of travel, craftsmanship, and discovering unique products that couldn’t be found close to home. Over the years, our family has travelled around the world, building long-lasting relationships with artisans, suppliers, and family-run businesses.
Today, we personally source and import products from Indonesia, Mexico, Thailand, India, Nepal, Vietnam, Brazil, Marocco, and more! Bringing together an ever-changing collection of unique finds from across the globe. Many of our supplier relationships have lasted for decades and continue to shape what you’ll find in our store today.
What started with a passion for unusual, handcrafted pieces has grown into an 8,000-square-foot retail store filled with home décor, clothing, gifts, garden pieces, furniture, and one-of-a-kind products.
After more than 25 years in business, Primitive Designs continues to grow and evolve while remaining proudly family-run, with the same goal: bringing interesting, well-made products from around the world to our customers here in Ontario.
Meet The Owners
Ron Dacey
I grew up in northern Ontario. At an early age, I left on an adventure to Europe. When I started to run out of money I headed to the bazaars in Turkey and started selling goods on the streets of Germany and Amsterdam. That's the root of our business. We still do the same thing. We buy goods and travel extensively in Southeast Asia, North Africa, India, and many other countries. We design and produce products for our store. We are no longer selling out of a Volkswagen van. We have become quite large and employ 17 people in our community. Even at my old age I still love what I do. Come and visit, it's a lot of fun.
Do Good and Inspire the Future
Rhonda Cook
I have spent the last 30 years of my life travelling the world. Here at Primitive Designs, we pride ourselves on hand-selecting every piece in our gallery. The joy of travelling is the people you meet. Seeing things some people will only get to see in films. I have been blessed to be able to be exposed to many different cultures. I was raised between the city (Toronto) and the country (ST. Thomas, Ont.) When I found Northumberland County, I fell in love. 25 years later I still call this my home. When people ask me what is my favourite country to travel to I always say Canada as there is no place like home.
Awards & Accomplishments
Entrepreneur of the Year
2004 · 2005
Customer First Award
2006 · 2021
Local Economic Impact Award
2012 · 2013 · 2015
People’s Choice Award
2018 · 2019
Hospitality & Tourism Award
2018 · 2022 · 2024
Maximus Dacey
Maximus Dacey started traveling the world at just 7 months old, visiting over 60 countries with his parents, Ron and Rhonda. This early exposure to diverse cultures and markets fueled his passion for discovering unique items. Max has established strong relationships with artisans worldwide, now reflected in the store's collection.
Since taking over Primitive Designs, Max and his team have introduced many new products. Max's dedication to curating a diverse selection ensures that each visit to Primitive Designs is an exciting experience.
We are
Dog Friendly
Shopping is more enjoyable when Fido gets to tag along! As long as they are friendly to other fur babies and on a leash, they are welcome in the shop!
Follow us on Social Media & TAG US in a photo of your dog at Primitive Designs to be featured on here!
