--- title: "Shelter Solutions LLC - ADU Specialist — Home Builders | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/home-builders/shelter-solutions-llc-adu-specialist-pfvwus-pf~1476527851 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~1476527851.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "Shelter Solutions LLC - ADU Specialist" category: ["Home Builders"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/1cb369810084b483_2984-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "Portland, Oregon 97212, United States" phone: "(971) 339-0007" website: http://www.shelter-solutions.net rating: 5 review_count: 54 best_of_houzz_awards: 12 followers: 166 last_updated: 2026-08-10 --- # Shelter Solutions LLC - ADU Specialist Original Houzz profile: [Shelter Solutions LLC - ADU Specialist](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/home-builders/shelter-solutions-llc-adu-specialist-pfvwus-pf~1476527851) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Home Builders - **Location:** Portland, OR - **Serves:** Portland, Beaverton, Tigard, Lake Oswego, Bethany, Tualatin, Milwaukie, Cedar Mill, Rockcreek, Cedar Hills, Garden Home-Whitford, West Slope, Clackamas, Raleigh Hills, West Haven - **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (54 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 12 awards (2013–2024), for Design, Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Recommended on Houzz - 25,000 Ideabook Saves - Best of Houzz winner - Online consultation - 44 years in business Shelter Solutions LLC is the premier ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) design-builder in the Portland metro area. Embracing the Design/Build methodology leads to expedited project completion, financial efficiencies and optimized value engineering. Every detail is managed by us, allowing a seamless and transparent experience. We collaborate with you throughout the entire process, ensuring a personalized ADU that aligns with your design preferences and financial plan. Our dedicated team accompanies you through Project Analysis, ADU Design, Engineering, Cost Evaluation, Permit Acquisition, Construction, and the Final Handover of the Keys. ### Services Provided - Custom Homes - New Home Construction - Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) - Green Building - Custom Home ### Areas Served - Portland - Beaverton - Tigard - Lake Oswego - Bethany - Tualatin - Milwaukie - Cedar Mill - Rockcreek - Cedar Hills - Garden Home-Whitford - West Slope - Clackamas - Raleigh Hills - West Haven ### Typical Job Cost $195,000 - 500,000 Accessory Dwellings (ADUs) from $195,000 - $500,000 ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | Shelter Solutions LLC - ADU Specialist | | Address | Portland, Oregon 97212, United States | | Phone | (971) 339-0007 | | Website | http://www.shelter-solutions.net | | License Number | 167738 | | Followers on Houzz | 166 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — Shelter Solutions, LLC - Blog — www.shelter-solutions.net ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [Shelter Solutions LLC - ADU Specialist](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/home-builders/shelter-solutions-llc-adu-specialist-pfvwus-pf~1476527851) - **Website:** http://www.shelter-solutions.net - **Phone:** (971) 339-0007 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - NAHB Certified Aging In Place Specialist (CAPS) - NAHB Certified Green Professional (CGP) - Earth Advantage Sustainable Home Professional - Earth Advantage ADU Specialist - Energy Trust of Oregon Partner - Oregon Home Builders Association - **Best of Houzz:** 12 awards (2013–2024), for Design, Service. **Affiliations** - [National Association of Home Builders](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/national-association-of-home-builders-pfvwus-pf~562065019) - [Home Building Association of Greater Portland](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/home-building-association-of-greater-portland-pfvwus-pf~1325785412) - [NAHB Certified Green Professional](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/professionals/schools-and-organizations/nahb-certified-green-professional-pfvwus-pf~1100930283) - [NAHB Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/professionals/schools-and-organizations/nahb-certified-aging-in-place-specialist-pfvwus-pf~471784673) ## Reviews **Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 54 reviews** ### Reviews **★★★★★ — Cindy F, Jan. 2020** > Shelter Solutions was great to work with. I was looking to build a somewhat accessible ADU for my parents when they need to be closer. After interviewing multiple design-build companies and seeing their work, I chose Joe, and I have no regrets. He and Thomas and their subcontractors were super - from initial conversations to the end of the project. They were respectful of my space, kept me on budget, and finished on schedule. I love the finished ADU! **Comment from Shelter Solutions LLC - ADU Specialist:** > Thanks Cindy. We're glad you and your parents are enjoying the ADU. **★★★★★ — Padraic Conway, Oct. 2019** > The team at Shelter Solutions were wonderful to work with. They finished the job on time and within budget. We were always kept up to date with what's happening and the process was not stressful at all. We are very glad we choose Shelter Solutions **★★★★★ — Cogan & Jerry Smith, July 2019** > We highly recommend Shelter Solutions. > > Never having built anything in PDX before, and having no referrals from others, we had to look for a contractor the hard way. Searching on-line for days reading reviews. Based on reviews, we narrowed it down to three companies. > > After interviewing those three, Shelter Solutions stood out. The long term experience of Joe Robinson, his deep knowledge of all the ADU building codes and permit process, made us feel confident of our choice. > > It ended up being the best Contractor built experience we've ever had. It was virtually "stress free" by our standards. > We had easy access to information and people when we needed it. We knew what they were doing and when. As we don't live in PDX that really helped us to schedule a visit. > > There are always hiccups in building, but Shelter Solutions stayed on course, on time and on budget. They exceeded every expectation. > > We could fill pages with all the praise and respect we have for Shelter Solutions Project Manager, Thomas Chavalia. His hands on approach to our project, his sense of humor, the respect he showed us at every turn, his desire to get the details right for us, made our ADU move-in-ready, with smiles on our faces. That does not happen every day in building. > > It feels great to be able to recommend a company who works so hard, and deserves to be your number one choice. No question at all, they for sure will be ours. **★★★★★ — Alison McIntosh, May 2019** > Shelter Solutions built an ADU for us in 2018, and we absolutely highly recommend them. The ADU is gorgeous, it was finished on time and on budget. We can't say enough good things about Shelter Solutions. > > We chose Shelter Solutions after having worked with them on two other large projects to our current house. Now that the company has transitioned only to ADUs only, it was an easy choice to go with them. > > We selected an already designed model that the company has put together: https://www.shelter-solutions.net/accessory-dwelling-units-adus/pre-designed-models/. It worked within our space. We selected this because it seemed simple, and met our needs. I wouldn't hesitate though to work with them if we needed to design our own ADU - they do amazing work. > > Once we selected the pre-designed model, we made one slight adjustment to the design to swap the placement of the living room and kitchen to better meet with the space needs. From there, the company conducted a feasibility study, the cost of which was wrapped in to the project once we went forward. During the study, Joe identified that we had an old cesspool on site, which needed to be taken care of during construction. > > The bid that Joe provided was accurate and detailed - everything from the start to the finish was included in the bid, including site prep and site finish work, finish details, etc. We knew exactly what we needed to spend before we signed a contract, and it was accurate. Joe is incredibly thorough and transparent - we saw every cost, detailed line by line, and he was patient with our questions about specific items, as well as ways to save money. The contract we signed was also clear, easy to understand, and detailed. > > From there, they used an online system to manage the choices that we needed to make - this process was simple, and not at all overwhelming. We were able to clearly see exactly which choices needed to be made (i.e., flooring, cabinets, tile, sinks, etc), where we needed to go to see our choices in person, which choices could simply be made online, and we made the choices online. It was simple, and not at all overwhelming. During the midst of this project, my husband and I were both working more-than-full-time, and with Joe and his team's well organized system, we were able to keep the project on track without being overwhelming. > > Once construction started, it was incredibly well organized and moved quickly. They clearly communicated when they would do work, and what they needed. They were clear about when different work would happen. Everything went smoothly, and the subcontractors were professional and well organized. We never worried about not being there or what was happening - which was a huge relief! > > The project was finished on time and on budget. Prior to turning over the keys, we had two walk thrus with Joe, and his team to identify small problems that needed to be fixed, as well as to learn about how to work the heating/cooling system, where the shut offs were, etc. The team was fantastic. > > It's been six months of having a renter in the ADU, and everything is great. I just can't recommend Shelter Solutions enough for this work - they are amazing. Thank you so much! **Comment from Shelter Solutions LLC - ADU Specialist:** > Thanks so much Alison that was beyond very nice. You and David are great people to work with. After all, this is the third project I have done for you. Thanks! **★★★★★ — Kris O, Jan. 2019** > Joe Robertson is a wonderful, knowledgeable, experienced and genuinely nice person to work with. He's been building ADUs for decades and 'really' knows his stuff. And he 'really' knows and understands the City of Portland ADU building codes. Joe's experience, competency and touring several ADUs reflecting his high quality work won us over in choosing Shelter Solutions. He evaluated our current home specs and our property. After discussing what we'd like - an 800 square foot, one level home with two bedrooms and two bathrooms - he and his design team depicted exactly what we wanted. > > Shelter Solutions made selecting the house components, viewing plans and documents, and conducting communication with them and the vendors very easy via an online app. We worked with Lois MacKenzie on the design selections, she was super helpful and friendly. Then Thomas Chavalia, the project manager began on all the construction elements. Thomas is the best - professional, knowledgeable, friendly, on task, on site and cool as a cucumber, even when a couple of complicated issues popped up. Always our ally, he answered any and all questions promptly and took care of even the smallest things immediately. > > During the building months, we were impressed as we watched the ADU emerge. We experienced and learned that building a property behind an existing property like ours - via a tight access space - is an art form. Watching the pros troubleshoot to bend around and with our current 'old house components' was simply amazing. In the end we got exactly what we'd hoped for, a gorgeous new ADU that we LOVE. We're extremely thankful, grateful and appreciative of the entire Shelter Solutions team. Their customer service is incredible and we'd choose them again in a heartbeat. **Comment from Shelter Solutions LLC - ADU Specialist:** > Thanks so much Kris & Lisa, that's very nice of you. You were both a pleasure to work with and we are happy that we could bring your dream to reality. **★★★★★ — Keely Montgomery, July 2018** > Owner Joe Robertson and Project Manager Thomas Chavalia both made our ADU build experience stress free. These guys have such integrity and are pros through and through. They were excellent communicators surrounding project details through the entire process and were quick to respond to any of our questions or concerns. Also important to note - they were on time (even early) and on budget. I have been project manager on many construction projects and I know what a rare gem these guys are based on past experiences. > > I would recommend using Shelter Solutions, LLC for your project without any hesitation. **Comment from Shelter Solutions LLC - ADU Specialist:** > Keely, Thanks so much. This was a great project and you and Josh were a pleasure to work for. **★★★★★ — Mark & Valerie Hope, June 2018** > We are so happy to recommend Shelter Solutions with all stars! The project (two car garage with two bedroom apartment above) progressed with good speed; their team overcame several and silly obstacles involved with permitting; and they staged construction differently than is usual on a short deadline to ensure that our solar could be installed and permitted before the credits expired. We never felt abandoned for periods of time while they attended to other projects as we have with other contractors. > > They displayed integrity in every way and at every stage, were calm in the face of the few challenges that arose, and were respectful of our preferences. They have a great team of skilled workers assembled who were on time at the various stages of construction, doing quality work. This is reflective of who the owner, Joe Robertson, is at his core, and also reflects his many years of experience. The final result is a beautiful, well designed two bedroom apartment above our two car garage. Everyone who has seen it has been enthusiastic about its livability and loveliness. Maybe you’ll see pictures on their site. > > We would especially like to highlight Thomas Chavalia, the project manager. He is a true professional, who is actually educated as a project manager, and it shows. His attention to detail, his follow-through and responsiveness were amazing. We have had experience with other contractors, so can say with assurance that Thomas is a cut or more above the rest. **Comment from Shelter Solutions LLC - ADU Specialist:** > That's very kind Valerie & Mark, > The biggest challenge was maneuvering the project through the permit process with all the challenges and time constraint. After that, Thomas did a great job in scheduling and completing the project like we typically do. It was a pleasure working with both of you. **★★★★★ — Catherine and Brian Dunn-Ormiston, June 2018** > Great experience! Owner, Joe, and project manager, Thomas Chavalia, are easy to work with. Thomas managed our ADU with great care and efficiency. Any concerns we had along the way were quickly and respectfully addressed. They were right on target with budget and project time line. If we ever find ourselves in need/want of another ADU, we'll call Shelter Solutions without hesitation. We highly recommend, thank you! **Comment from Shelter Solutions LLC - ADU Specialist:** > Catherine & Mark, > Thanks so much. That is a very cool little ADU. I love your idea and what we did with leaving the upper part open between the living room and the bedroom and adding the beams, and barn door. **★★★★★ — Clayton Morgareidge, March 2018** > Joe and his crew stayed on schedule, were available for questions and willing to make requested changes. The whole process was transparent and convivial. **★★★★★ — shefitz74, Feb. 2018** > I am forever grateful that my friend and realtor recommended Shelter Solutions to build my ADU. > Throughout the build process, Joe and his team demonstrated integrity and honesty, as well as excellent communication and availability. > I wholeheartedly recommend Shelter Solutions to anyone seeking a builder for their next project! **Comment from Shelter Solutions LLC - ADU Specialist:** > Thanks Shelagh, > It was a pleasure working for you and I am glad you are enjoying your new ADU. **★★★★★ — heiseihessian, Feb. 2018** > AMAZING company and service! We signed contract in June and by August the backyard was being prepped and by 2weeks before Christmas this 2story 800 sq ft 2-bed 2-bath ADU was move in ready. Very professional organization using Buildertrend for all communications and choice of finishes. The manager always listened to our asks and modified project as needed. Transparency at all stages helped keep ADU within our budget. In-laws provided funds from their house sale and are very happy with their new downsized home next to grandkids. We highly recommend to anyone thinking about ADUs. **★★★★★ — Bill Campbell, Feb. 2018** > I hired Shelter Solutions to build a detached ADU on my property. I had a set of approved construction plans when I contacted them. They offered suggestions for improvements, provided a wide range of options to choose from for everything from appliances to windows and quickly resolved issues as they came up. Construction completed a month earlier than expected and I am very happy with the results. Joe and his team were great to work with. I highly recommend them. **Comment from Shelter Solutions LLC - ADU Specialist:** > Thanks Bill, I will be posting pictures of your project soon, which turned out great! ## Selected projects - [Bullen ADU - SE Portland](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/bullen-adu-se-portland-pj-vj~6646059) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 28 - Description: Built for the owner of an investment property., This ADU was build for a relative of hers to live in. We did the whole project from start to finish while the owner lived in Chicago. Utilizing our cloud based construction software, the owner was able to keep track of everything just like she was on site., - [Murray ADU - N. Portland](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/murray-adu-n-portland-pj-vj~6646082) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 15 - Description: For the father, on his daughter's property in N. Portland. Custom designed from scratch to provide a comfortable, stylish home. - [Nutting-Lott ADU - NE Portland](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/nutting-lott-adu-ne-portland-pj-vj~6646078) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 10 - Description: For the mother on her adult daughter & son-in-law's property in NE Portland. Customized just the way she wanted it. - [Hendrick ADU](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/hendrick-adu-pj-vj~6322108) - Location: Portland, OR - Photos: 18 - Description: Tucked in the woods behind the existing house in urban Southwest Portland. An 800 sf ADU with 2 bedrooms, 1 1/2 baths, green metal roof. super energy efficient, custom walnut cabinets, LVP flooring, custom tile shower, and large covered porch on each level. - [Johnson Race Car Garage and ADU](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/johnson-race-car-garage-and-adu-pj-vj~6322075) - Location: Portland, OR - Photos: 14 - Description: In North Portland. The Owner is a Race Car enthusiest with race cars and other auto equipment. The lower level is a six car size garage-workshop. The second level is an 800 sf 2 bedroom ADU with a separate entrance from the side. Additional space is finished for the Owner's mom (who owns and lives on the property) for a quilting room and more living space for the adjacent house. - [Stuart ADU](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/stuart-adu-pj-vj~6121072) - Location: Tigard, OR - Photos: 16 - Description: New Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) built for the owner's parents. One level, 800 sf., 2 bedroom, 2 full accessible bathrooms, super energy efficient, many custom features throughout. - [Shambry-Bentley ADU](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/shambry-bentley-adu-pj-vj~5556464) - Location: Portland, OR - Photos: 17 - [Shaw ADU](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/shaw-adu-pj-vj~5904283) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 17 - Description: Contemporary one level two bedroom ADU in Washington County - [Young ADU/Garage](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/young-adu-garage-pj-vj~5757741) - Location: Portland, OR - Photos: 11 - Description: Recently completed this design/build project in N. Portland. The client had a rental home property with an old garage. We deconstructed the garage and built a new one divided in two - one bay for the existing rental home and one for the new ADU. Upstairs is a spacious one bedroom ADU. - [Montgomery ADU](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/montgomery-adu-pj-vj~5556455) - Location: Portland, OR - Photos: 14 - [Kim ADU](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/kim-adu-pj-vj~6039487) - Location: Portland, OR - Photos: 30 - Description: Conversion of a garage to an attractive ADU that matches the existing house. Downstairs is Living/Dining, Custom Kitchen & 1/2 Bath, Upstairs is Master Suite/Loft with large bedroom from front to back with huge skylight, custom master bath and closet. - [Eggerts ADU2](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/eggerts-adu2-pj-vj~5192017) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 20 - Description: 800 SF ADU with 2 bedrooms, 1 1/2 baths, ductless heat pumps, LVP flooring, quartz counters, private backyard setting for investment income. - [Timby ADU](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/timby-adu-pj-vj~2724774) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 15 - Description: A detached ADU in N. Portland to be used by owners for rental and family use. - [Fletcher ADU](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/fletcher-adu-pj-vj~5904294) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 12 - [Noble ADU](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/noble-adu-pj-vj~2724795) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 30 - Description: A new detached ADU in NE Portland to be used by the owners for short term rentals - [Lonesomeville Pottery Studio & ADU](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lonesomeville-pottery-studio-and-adu-pj-vj~6351974) - Location: Portland, OR - Photos: 18 - Description: Lonesomville Pottery Studio & ADU In the past several years our work has been dominated by ADUs. Here's a project we did a few years ago. A pottery studio on the first floor and an ADU above. We worked with the customers and did the initial design, site work, framing, and roofing. The owners took it over from there. These guys are incredible artists and craftsmen. Everything you see inside this incredible structure was hand crafted by these amazing men. Thanks Wayne & Dan for allowing us to work… - [Graybill ADU](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/graybill-adu-pj-vj~5802169) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 20 - [Vita-Barker ADU](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/vita-barker-adu-pj-vj~5747991) - Location: Portland, OR - Photos: 9 - Description: New detachd ADU behind the owner's home while maintaining privacy for the owner's back yard. Custom details throughout. - [Allison ADU](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/allison-adu-pj-vj~2604779) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 29 - Description: 800 sf two bedroom two bathroom ADU built in the owners back yard. To be used as short term rental. - [Campbell ADU](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/campbell-adu-pj-vj~2955559) - Location: Portland, OR - Photos: 35 - Description: An 800 sf ADU completed Feb. 2018. Exposed beam ceilings, two bedroom areas, on small office, 1 1/2 bath, In floor radiant heating, ductless heatpump, custom cabinets, polished concrete floors, cork floors & stairs, tile shower, patio with cedar trellis. [See all 61 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/home-builders/shelter-solutions-llc-adu-specialist-pfvwus-pf~1476527851) ## Community Q&A **Q: What is the difference between an ADU and a Tiny home?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: An ADU is an accessory dwelling unit to the primary home and has a permanent foundation. A tiny home can also be an ADU (typically at 400 sq ft or less in size). Most jurisdictions have limits on sizing of ADUs. In the City of Portland, the limit is 800 sq ft of livable space (not including attached garage or storage). If a tiny home is on wheels or not including a permanent foundation, it is not an ADU. We hope that helps! **Q: Washer / Dryer** *(in Photo Questions)* Are they standard size or smaller. If smaller do they do the job? And can you share the brand. Thanks A: Yes, they are smaller (4" wide) Several brands make them, these are Bromburg. The customers say they work great. **Q: Name of company that sells type window and screen** *(in Photo Questions)* A: Milgard **Q: What are the dimensions? I cant quite make out what the plans say.** *(in Photo Questions)* A: 17'1" x22'3" Outside Dimensions **Q: How did you heat this unit? Gas furnace? Wall heater? Thanks!** *(in Photo Questions)* A: A ductless heatpump (mini split) **Q: Where can I find this bed and these night stands?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: Believe it or not, this set was purchased through Costco about six years ago. --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-08-10.*