Propel Studio

Propel Studio Architecture is a Portland-based architecture practice specializing in custom ADU design. The firm focuses on designing well-crafted accessory dwelling units that respond to each property’s site conditions, the homeowner’s goals, aesthetic preferences, and the architectural character of the primary residence. Its ADU portfolio includes detached new construction, garage-related ADUs, second-story units, and other customized configurations.

An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) — also referred to as a granny flat, in-law suite, backyard cottage, carriage house, or secondary dwelling unit — is an additional residential unit located on the same property as a primary home. Propel Studio has extensive experience designing ADUs in Portland and has also provided ADU design services in surrounding jurisdictions and other locations.

ADU Design Services

1. Detached ADU: Propel Studio specializes in custom detached ADUs designed as standalone backyard homes. Its portfolio includes numerous detached units ranging from compact approximately 500-square-foot homes to larger two-bedroom designs.
2. Garage-Related ADU: The firm designs ADUs positioned above or in conjunction with garages. Its Overhang ADU, for example, places a two-bedroom apartment above a two-car garage and workshop.
3. Second-Story ADU: Propel Studio has experience designing upper-level ADUs, including projects that use the space above garages to create independent apartments while working within setback and site constraints.
4. Interior / Conversion ADU: The firm’s ADU work also includes renovations and conversion projects, while its architectural guidance addresses options such as basement and attic apartments depending on local regulations and the property’s existing conditions.

What Propel Studio Offers Beyond ADU Design

Propel Studio’s role extends beyond preparing architectural drawings. The firm’s architects help homeowners evaluate what can be built on a property, how zoning requirements affect the project, and how the ADU can respond to functional and aesthetic goals. Its process can include site planning, architectural concepts, floor plans, design development, construction documentation, finish selections, and coordination with engineers, permitting staff, and construction professionals.

The studio places particular emphasis on custom design and site-specific solutions rather than applying a single standardized ADU plan. Its portfolio demonstrates a range of architectural approaches, including contemporary, sustainable, compact, and highly customized ADUs.

Propel Studio also has substantial experience with sustainable ADU design. The firm incorporates passive design strategies into its projects and has explored higher-performance approaches involving energy efficiency, solar power, geothermal systems, heat exchangers, water conservation, and other sustainability measures when appropriate to the project and budget.

The firm also provides zoning and permitting guidance. Its experience includes navigating Portland’s ADU requirements as well as researching requirements in surrounding jurisdictions such as Clackamas County, Gladstone, Milwaukie, Oregon City, Tigard, and Vancouver, Washington. Requirements can vary significantly by jurisdiction, including permitted ADU types, size, bedrooms, setbacks, and zoning.

Propel Studio’s recent materials state that it has over a decade of experience and a portfolio featuring hundreds of ADUs designed, demonstrating a substantial specialization in this building type.