At shelter, we’ve thoroughly reinvented new-home construction, simplifying and streamlining everything from the basic structural components to the way they are fabricated, delivered, and assembled onsite. The result is a house that delivers the highest levels of architectural refinement, energy performance, comfort, durability, and sustainability—with a process that’s faster, easier, and more rewarding for you. Scroll down to explore our process!
Every Shelter starts in the OPAL studio, with a fully detailed 3D computer model tailored to reflect your unique project. We export the computer file directly to the production line, where it guides the manufacture of the building shell components, radically simplifying construction and achieving a higher degree of control and accuracy than is possible in site-built projects.
Shelter utilizes several foundation systems to accommodate most site and performance requirements, including concrete piers or helical piles, slab on grade foundation, or precast, site-installed foundation walls. Depicted is the precast foundation option.
High performance mechanical systems are installed to keep your Shelter comfortable and healthy. The type and location of the mechanical systems vary based on your Shelter’s design.
In non-slab-on-grade foundations, we use a factory-cut 5 Ply CLT floor panel system that is delivered to the site and installed on the foundation.
The Shelter wall system consists of factory-cut 3 ply CLT panels with wood fiber insulation and triple glazed high-performance windows and doors fully installed. The thermal performance of the walls varies depending on local climate and program requirements, ranging from R5 to R45.
Kitchen and bathrooms pods can be included as a drop-in pods in order to reduce construction time and coordination onsite.
The Shelter Roof system consists of factory-cut 5 ply CLT panels with wood fiber insulation. The thermal performance of the roof varies depending on local climate and program requirements, ranging from R7 to R80.
Your Shelter shrugs off the elements with exterior finish materials that combine durability, low maintenance, and authentic good looks, with choices of cedar or metal siding and cedar trim. A standing-seam metal roof is covered by a 40-year warranty and enables easy installation of rooftop solar panels.
Home is not the place for dangerous chemicals or mystery materials. Shelter thoroughly screens every product that goes into your house for long-term safety and sustainability:
-Highest quality, healthy, sustainable materials
-Fully recyclable, all-wood building shell
-Durable, attractive, low-emission finishes
-Zero-VOC paints
-Formaldehyde-free cabinets and plywood