Commercial design

Spaces that engage customers — and promote productivity

Shelter creates innovative business spaces that not only meet a company’s practical needs — but do so with style, creativity and charm.

Often, our clients are passionate entrepreneurs who have bold visions and strong opinions. We love partnering with such kindred spirits. It’s a joy to use our skills to support their brands and further their missions.

We design facilities for peak function and efficiency, while also enhancing the comfort and well-being of staff and customers. We want a company’s home to be a showpiece — every inch of which exudes its owner’s values and distinct character.

As a result, our eclectic commercial portfolio doesn’t reveal a trademark “Shelter” style. Rather, each project is indelibly shaped by the work an individual client does — and the persona they choose to present to the public.

Sustainable design

We consider design an important tool — one that can save energy, reduce pollution, and empower people to make positive environmental impacts.

Our longstanding commitment

Universal design

We create spaces to suit people of all abilities. Eliminating obstacles benefits everyone — and helps people age in place for as long as possible.

Our inclusive approach

Even in a workplace, it’s important to feel at home

It takes a certain sensitivity to craft spaces that help people feel welcome, comfortable and safe. And those qualities are equally important in a home, business or public setting.

Our firm focuses on optimizing people’s experiences in both personal and professional settings. Our experience with residential projects informs how we design staff kitchens, lounges and wellness spaces. It also helps us create business areas — including offices, conference rooms, warehouses and retail spaces — that elicit enthusiasm and promote balance.

Our residential expertise

Stories

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What is building science?

Thoughts from Shelter team member Mike Stark, AIA What is building science? Building science is an area of study that…

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Custom residential design solutions

In the design world, it's easy to get caught up in the grandeur of dazzling, large-scale projects. While this work…

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Sustainable design demystified

Thoughts from Shelter team member Piper Donlin, Allied ASID Why should we care about sustainability in the context of the…

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