Today we’d like to introduce you to Michael Shelton.
Hi Michael, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’ve lived in the Heights since 1986, remodeling the rental apartments we own. In 1998, when my wife and I had our first child, I built a duplex garage apartment behind our house for my mother-in-law. Around the same time, our neighbors also welcomed their first baby and asked if I could design and build a similar place for their in-laws. That’s really where it all took off. Since then, we’ve completed 28 projects on our street, Harvard, and nearly 400 garages and garage apartments overall.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
A smooth road in construction? What’s that? Weather events like flooding and hurricanes are constant challenges for us. Navigating shifting permitting requirements and new City ordinances also keeps us on our toes. During COVID, things became even more difficult due to labor shortages and supply-chain disruptions. The soaring cost of lumber and other materials pushed many of our friends and subcontractors to the brink of closing their businesses. We managed to get through it, and even helped some of them along the way.
As you know, we’re big fans of Harvard Heights Construction. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
At Harvard Heights Construction, we design, permit, and build garages, garage apartments, and accessory dwelling units (ADUs) throughout the Heights and Houston’s Inner Loop. We’re known for our extensive knowledge in the Historic Districts and for creating architecturally appropriate designs. Clients appreciate our detailed proposals and transparent, upfront pricing. We believe construction comes with enough surprises already, and cost shouldn’t be one of them.
How do you think about luck?
I’m grateful and lucky that I am from Houston and “found” the Heights and Montrose areas in the mid 80s, when I was much younger. The architecture, people, culture, and vibe are priceless. No freeways or traffic to get anywhere, and everything is close by. It has been, and continues to be, a great home for my family. Houston is always growing, and I feel lucky to play a part in that growth, remodeling the old and building the new.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.harvardheights.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HarvardHeightsConstruction/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Mikeshelton002
