--- title: "Encircle Design and Build — Design-Build Firms | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/design-build-firms/encircle-design-and-build-pfvwus-pf~629454073 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~629454073.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "Encircle Design and Build" category: ["Design-Build Firms"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/49c38cb801383871_8962-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "Portland, Oregon 97211, United States" phone: "(503) 867-0900" website: http://www.encircledesignbuild.com rating: 5 review_count: 19 best_of_houzz_awards: 13 followers: 258 last_updated: 2026-08-25 --- # Encircle Design and Build Original Houzz profile: [Encircle Design and Build](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/design-build-firms/encircle-design-and-build-pfvwus-pf~629454073) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Design-Build Firms - **Location:** Portland, OR - **Serves:** Portland - **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (19 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 13 awards (2014–2025), for Design, Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 50,000 Ideabook Saves We have closed our business. Thanks so much to all of our amazing clients, it has been a wonderful experience. Now we are ready to focus on different things..... Encircle Design and Build is a Portland based company committed to sustainable, artistic, affordable, & unique interiors. We focus on kitchens, baths, and whole house remodels in inner NE and SE Portland. We offer both design or design & build. We also are available for material specification or consulting work. ### Services Provided - Home Remodeling - Kitchen Remodeling - Bathroom Remodeling - Kitchen Design - Bathroom Design - Remodeling ### Areas Served - Portland ### Typical Job Cost $25,000 - 300,000 ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | Encircle Design and Build | | Address | Portland, Oregon 97211, United States | | Phone | (503) 867-0900 | | Website | http://www.encircledesignbuild.com | | License Number | 189152 | | Followers on Houzz | 258 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — www.facebook.com/Encircle-Design-and-Build-109637425729306/ - Blog — www.encircledesignbuild.com ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [Encircle Design and Build](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/design-build-firms/encircle-design-and-build-pfvwus-pf~629454073) - **Website:** http://www.encircledesignbuild.com - **Phone:** (503) 867-0900 ## Credentials - **Best of Houzz:** 13 awards (2014–2025), for Design, Service. ## Reviews **Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 19 reviews** *Aspect averages:* - Work Quality: 50.0 - Communication: 50.0 - Value: 46.0 ### Reviews **★★★★★ — carol miller, Nov. 2024** > what is your floor made of in the kitchen I love it. I have a cement floor stained and clear coat. but it isn't what I wanted,. at > the time, I couldn't find any one who could give me a cement floor, so I did it myself. **★★★★★ — Ilana Gurevich, Sept. 2022** > These guys are amazing. They are super organized and on it, there design sense is right on and the quality of there work is also dialed in. They arrive on time and finish the job on time too. I will never work with another design/build team again. **★★★★★ — MarePDX, Sept. 2022** > Working with Michelle and Klaas was a fantastic experience start to finish. They completely remodeled both bathrooms and the kitchen of our 1908 craftsman. The house was long overdue for some updating. We had seen their work and knew the design and execution would be top notch. We also expected that they'd be easy to work with, and they definitely were. Great communication and coordination the whole time. What we didn't expect was that the crews they hired would be equally as easy to work with and that the whole job would finish a little early. And on budget. They went above and beyond. It's easy to recommend these experienced, talented, and kind people. **★★★★★ — HU-173276894, March 2022** > I love my house so much! Klaas and Michelle did such a great job of listening to my ideas and hopes while also helping me make up my mind with all the little but important decisions that go in to a whole house remodel. My house was finished on schedule, and I felt that my house was well cared for the whole time by everyone who worked on the project. I love that my old house still has a personality and all the comforts of a modern home. I have been moved back in for 6 months now, and still look around every so often and think "wow, I am so happy here!" **★★★★★ — meredith caldwell, March 2020** > Encircle is the best remodel company in PDX! Mich and Klaas are super informative and help pick out the best designs for your space. Their communication is top notch and they are available to answer any and all questions. They leave the workspace clean on a daily basis. AND- they finished our master bathroom ahead of schedule. Hire Encircle for your next project today! **Comment from Encircle Design and Build:** > Thanks Meredith for such a wonderful review. Most of our success has to do with our clients believing and trusting in us. You guys did that so freely and fully that it makes all the difference. We hope you have decades of spa relaxation in your bathroom! **★★★★★ — AJ Johnson, Dec. 2018** > Encircle Design (Michelle and Klaas) was fantastic to work with, and I would highly recommend them for anyone looking for a design build company. They were very professional, regularly communicating updates, and quickly addressing any issues that popped up in our remodel project. They have a wonderful eye for the latest styles, but emphasize function over style and look. We've heard so many horror stories from friends about contractors going over budget, not responding to basic communication, and disappearing from projects. Encircle provided a project estimate, which they stuck to throughout the entire project. And they provided a project schedule that was right on the money. They are true professionals in an industry where professional service can be hard to find. **Comment from Encircle Design and Build:** > Thank you AJ for your wonderful review! We really appreciate you taking the time to write one, it means a lot to us. When we began the company we had 2 goals- be on time and on budget. It's great that you felt those attributes shine on to your project. We wish you years of happiness in your remodeled home. Cheers! Michelle **★★★★★ — Rachel Teadora, Aug. 2018** > We hired Michelle and Klauss for a full kitchen and bathroom remodel, and they were absolutely incredible to work with. They were on time and on budget, and bent over backwards to make it so. We are aware that remodels are often stressful, but Michelle and Klauss were so organized and detail-oriented that we didn't worry a bit. They were patient, thoughtful, and informative throughout the process, and took care to design spaces that are both modern and fit the character of our 1920s bungalow. Our kitchen and bathroom have been transformed into beautiful and functional spaces, and we couldn't be happier with the end result. **★★★★★ — Michele Limpens, Dec. 2016** > Our project involved a total kitchen remodel, adding a full bathroom, and a few miscellaneous projects around the house. This was our first remodel, so we weren’t sure what to expect and had a fair amount of anxiety related to all the decisions and choices that had to be made about the details of the project. Michelle and Klaas were very communicative throughout the project and did a great job walking us through the decision-making process. They were patient and responsive to our questions and directed us in ways that helped us make decisions we felt good about. > > We are really happy with the results, and Michelle and Klaas were a pleasure to work with. At the outset of the project, they provided us with a calendar/schedule outlining what things would be done when, so we had a clear understanding of what to expect and what the timelines for the various components of the project would be. And, except for one short and unavoidable delay due to weather, they stayed on schedule and finished the work on time. > > They worked with us on developing a design that really worked to meet our needs using the footprint and constraints of the existing space. One very pleasant surprise was the addition of a good-sized deck off of the new kitchen, which has added another level of livability and enjoyment to our house. They helped us get most of the features and design elements we wanted within the budget we had. And their work transformed our living space in ways we couldn’t imagine. We would definitely work with Encircle Design and Build again! **★★★★★ — Emily Lakner, Nov. 2016** > Encircle Design exceeded our expectations with our major bathroom remodel. Their design ideas, attention to detail, timeliness and professionalism are without a doubt top notch. From beginning to end they made sure we were not only comfortable, but also happy with all the work that was going on. Their sub-contractors were professional and considerate in our home. The whole process was truly a pleasure and we couldn't be happier with the outcome! We highly recommend Encircle and we hope to do business with them in the future! **★★★★★ — calpal\_re, Oct. 2016** > Encircle is amazing. This was our first remodel project, and we were a bit nervous. Michelle was very gracious and understanding- she walked us through the process. She asked smart questions to better understand what we wanted and came up with beautiful, practical ideas to get the most out of our bathroom. We were able to see a design of the remodel and materials before construction and Michelle set very clear expectations, so we knew what we were in for. The remodel work is better than we could have hoped - lucky for us everything went as planned, on time, and the results were exactly what we had agreed to. Klaas and Michelle really thought of everything, and show a genuine interest in helping us get what we wanted in a reasonable budget. This whole process was much easier than we expected. Seriously, our bathroom is beautiful. Hire Encircle and feel really good about it. **★★★★★ — Shannon, Aug. 2016** > Encircle Design was one of the most professional firms we have worked with. They were able to create a beautiful studio apartment out of a barren room over our garage. There recommendations were good, and they were very clear about what we needed to do to keep with our very tight time frame. They never missed a deadline, and their work has been topnotch. **★★★★★ — samlevine1, July 2016** > Michelle and Klaas created something out of not much for our project with them. They fully gutted our kitchen and bath in our 900sq foot home, and we feel like we have moved into a whole new house! The design is top notch, the work is impeccable, and their timing was right on. I can't say enough positive things about our experience with the Encircle Design and Build team. ## Selected projects - [Emily whole house remodel](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/emily-whole-house-remodel-pj-vj~6815655) - Location: Portland, OR - Photos: 13 - Description: Our client purchased a run down house in a great part of town. The layout was nice it just needed an overhaul from years of neglect. We replaced all of the windows, redid the wood floors, remodeled an existing bathroom, added a master bathroom to where a closet was, remodeled the kitchen, repainted the interior and exterior. - [Oregon Coast](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/oregon-coast-pj-vj~6717920) - Location: Rockaway Beach, OR - Photos: 7 - [Paul & Marilyn Kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/paul-and-marilyn-kitchen-pj-vj~5991541) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 6 - [Modern, Artistic Pearl Loft Remodel](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/modern-artistic-pearl-loft-remodel-pj-vj~1696953) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 18 - [Winer Whole House Remodel](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/winer-whole-house-remodel-pj-vj~5632030) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 14 - [NE Portland Kitchen Remodel for family that cooks and entertains](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/ne-portland-kitchen-remodel-for-family-that-cooks-and-entertains-pj-vj~5631664) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 5 - [18th Kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/18th-kitchen-pj-vj~187157) - Location: Portland, OR - Photos: 2 - Description: The original kitchen was cheaply remodeled with vinyl flooring, melamine counters, and inexpensive white cabinets. We gutted the kitchen with the goal of connecting the backyard to the kitchen. The cabinets are made from old siding, giving a warmth and character to the room. - [Shift Vacation Rentals- Low Gear](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/shift-vacation-rentals-low-gear-pj-vj~186280) - Location: Portland, OR - Photos: 23 - Description: A single family house, which had 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom, wasn't being used to its potential. The basement height was 6'5", just too low to use. So we jacked the house up 4' to allow for a spacious lower level apartment. We added 3 bedrooms and 1.5 bathrooms, plus a sunken patio to allow for a bright and inviting entry. - [Fresh vibrant bathroom remodel](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/fresh-vibrant-bathroom-remodel-pj-vj~475773) - Location: Portland, OR - Photos: 9 - Description: A family of 4 has one full bathroom and the goal was to make the space usable for 4 people. We added a double sink, maxed the vanity length and came up with storage above the toilet and double medicine cabinets. The glass tile and double shower heads make bathing or showers useful to everyone in the family. - [NE 27th Whole House Remodel](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/ne-27th-whole-house-remodel-pj-vj~382407) - Location: Portland, OR - Photos: 13 - [House Crashers Portland](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/house-crashers-portland-pj-vj~527119) - Location: Portland, OR - Photos: 8 - Description: This was by far the craziest project in regards to time lines and being filmed while working! Our firm was asked to be the design build team for the DIY network show House Crashers when they came to Portland. We literally remodeled a dark, overstuffed, depressing garage into a light bright eco modern bedroom, closet, and drop off zone. There are many custom made touches like the head board, sliding bard door (air plants on one side and burning man photo on the other), key hole entry that has a c… - [Shift Vacation Rentals- High Gear](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/shift-vacation-rentals-high-gear-pj-vj~186287) - Location: Portland, OR - Photos: 24 - Description: We designed the space as a vacation rental, so we wanted an inviting, open, comfortable space where family and friends could easily be together. A modern layout combined with relaxed, artistic, and unique interior design makes this boutique rental incredible. The original early 1900's house was a 2 bedroom - 1 bathroom. We jacked up the house and rebuilt the foundation enabling us to put a second apartment in the garden view level. - [Front Break- Shift Vacation Rentals - Mississippi District](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/front-break-shift-vacation-rentals-mississippi-district-pj-vj~1242911) - Location: Portland, OR - Photos: 20 - [Classic Bathroom](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/classic-bathroom-pj-vj~1143266) - Location: Portland, OR - Photos: 3 - [Mid Century Modern meets N Portland Kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/mid-century-modern-meets-n-portland-kitchen-pj-vj~1696849) - Location: Portland, OR - Photos: 3 - [Rear Break-Shift Vacation Rentals](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/rear-break-shift-vacation-rentals-pj-vj~1243147) - Location: Portland, OR - Photos: 22 - [NE 22nd Whole House Remodel](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/ne-22nd-whole-house-remodel-pj-vj~187151) - Location: Portland, OR - Photos: 18 - [Smith House Remodel](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/smith-house-remodel-pj-vj~939575) - Location: Portland, OR - Photos: 16 - [Mike + Samantha's Kitchen and Bathroom](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/mike-samantha-s-kitchen-and-bathroom-pj-vj~1868482) - Location: Portland, OR - Photos: 17 - Description: The goal for the this 1905 craftsman was to make the 844 square feet as usable as possible for a family of 4. Every inch counts in a 110/sf kitchen. We remodeled the kitchen, bathroom/laundry room, put on a new roof, and lots more! - [Portland- Pearl District Loft Facelift](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/portland-pearl-district-loft-facelift-pj-vj~437415) - Location: Portland, OR - Photos: 9 - Description: A Portland Pearl District Loft needed a "face lift" in many areas. The previous materials weren't well thought out, lacked artistic touches, and were really worn down. Our clients wanted to create a modern industrial feel to compliment the urban loft living. We liked the bones and layout of what was there, so we resurface most areas to give them a completely new look! [See all 25 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/design-build-firms/encircle-design-and-build-pfvwus-pf~629454073) ## Ideabooks - [Wish List](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/137798541/list/wish-list) — 3 ideas - [dressers 18th](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/135252256/list/dressers-18th) — 1 idea - [Container Houses](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/120648676/list/container-houses) — 5 ideas - [Rachel + Benjamin](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/104960007/list/rachel-benjamin) — 4 ideas - [our bathroom](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/74430335/list/our-bathroom) — 5 ideas - [Liz](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/73992735/list/liz) — 12 ideas - [Paul + Marilyn](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/68406617/list/paul-marilyn) — 14 ideas - [furniture](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/55851444/list/furniture) — 2 ideas - [Sam & Mike](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/57517085/list/sam-mike) — 3 ideas - [outd](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/49974079/list/outd) — 4 ideas - [concrete](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/49843325/list/concrete) — 7 ideas - [Kitchens I like](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/35181275/list/kitchens-i-like) — 2 ideas - [SE Portland House Remodel](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/8178267/list/se-portland-house-remodel) — 2 ideas [See all 13 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/michelleruber) ## Community Q&A **Q: what is the flooring before and after?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: That is marmoleum. I am not sure of the color. **Q: is there an enclosure for the green bath/shower?** *(in Photo Questions)* Enclosure in green bath shower? A: There is a half glass door that swings. **Q: great combination!** *(in Photo Questions)* I love your finish selections. Would you be so kind as to share the make and model of the backsplash tile? I love the “waves” in them. Kudos and thanks! A: Thanks for your sweet comments! The backsplash is Settecento- New Yorker Series. White Matte. It's a gorgeous tile and reasonably priced. Good luck with your project. **Q: Glaze color(s)?** *(in Photo Questions)* This tile is such a compliment to the space! Can you tell me if this is a single glaze color by Pratt and Larson, or are there multiple colors blended here? Just beautiful. Thanks for sharing. A: Thanks for the sweet words. There are 3 different glaze colors there. I like doing that with Pratt and Larson tile as they have such gorgeous variations. Good luck on your project! **Q: Can you tell me what the counters are?** *(in Photo Questions)* Can you tell me what the counters are? A: The counters are from Bend, Oregon called Cement Elegance. We love them. Good luck!! **Q: Glass enclosure?** *(in Photo Questions)* Is this 1, full glass enclosure (I cannot tell from the photo, as the door looks to be open ) ?? As opposed to 2 separate pieces of glass? A: It's one piece of glass that is hinged. You can look at the other photos of the project to see what it looks like closed. It's basically 30" wide. --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-08-25.*