White screwdriver on a light background at an angle
Group photo outside Shelter Institute with diverse participants in winter clothing

How did we get here?

For half a century, Shelter Institute has empowered people to build their own homes and take control of their living environments. What began as a school in response to America's first energy crisis has evolved into a multigenerational enterprise with three dynamic divisions.

THINK. BUILD. LIVE.

Today, Shelter Courses offers in-person and online education with thousands of graduates annually; Shelter Design Build provides custom residential and commercial design and build services specializing in timber frame construction paired with panelized building systems that can create 1,700 square feet of insulated shell in just three days on site; and Shelter Tools, which started out of necessity in the 70's to bring excellent tools to students, has grown into an international supplier focused exclusively on the highest quality implements—if we sell it, we use it and love it.

Throughout our evolution, our commitment to durable, adaptable, and energy-conscious construction techniques has inspired thousands to become doers.

Our History

1972 - 1988

Where it All Began

A young tree illustration in the Shelter Institute cream color

1990 - 2019

Expanding Horizons

A middle aged tree illustration in the Shelter Institute cream color

2020 - NOW

The Future of Building

A fully grown tree illustration in the Shelter Institute cream color

1972 - 1988

Where It All Began

1990 - 2019

Expanding Horizons

2020 - Now

The Future of Building