Our Story

Skandia Design is a distinct home renovation company based in Portland, Oregon. With our extensive experience dating back to 1993, we pride ourselves in providing top-notch services that encompass every aspect of remodeling, all the way from initial design to meticulous construction.

Let us transform your home into a masterpiece that reflects your unique style and individuality. Trust Skandia Design to make your renovation dreams a reality.

We are based outside of beautiful Portland, Oregon. We are local and hands on every step of the way!

Established in 1993, Skandia has developed into a growing family business. With our team ready to be a part of your renovation journey, we create an extremely personalized experience for each client based on their project needs.

Our team has over 80 years of combined experience, so with a wide range of knowledge to extend for each project. With continued education on the industry, products, materials & procedures, we guide our clients through the entire remodel process.

Our Team

Skandia Design Founder

Paul olson

  • My journey into construction began early, building homes with my dad as a teenager, from residential homes to apartment complexes. Originally, I aspired to be an art teacher for middle or high school students, but in the 1980s, schools were not expanding their art departments. This led me back to construction, where my passion for building and design truly took root.

    After working for a contractor in Seattle, WA, I received a job offer in Portland, OR, which led me to establish Skandia Design. For about nine months, I traveled back and forth between Seattle and Portland, determined to make this new venture a success. Finally moving my young family to Portland, Skandia was able to fully flourish in the Portland - Metro area!

    At Skandia Design, our mission is to transform homes into stunning, functional spaces that reflect our clients' unique styles and needs. We are dedicated to providing exceptional service, quality craftsmanship, and enduring value in every project we undertake. As a design and build company, we manage every aspect of your home renovation project—from material design and demolition to finishes—ensuring a seamless and personalized experience.

    When clients reach out to Skandia, they will be speaking to one of three people who will work consistently with them throughout the renovation process. We take pride in making our clients feel like an integral part of the design process, helping them bring their dream spaces to life with confidence.

    Beyond my work with Skandia, I enjoy painting, art, writing, and traveling, especially to visit my grandchildren! My background includes a BS in Graphic Design and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Applied Art from the University of Oregon. These experiences continue to fuel my passion for design and my commitment to helping our clients realize their visions.

    Call, text, or email Skandia today to start bringing your dream space to life. We look forward to working with you!

Skandia Design client relations

David Olson

  • With over fourteen years of experience at Skandia Design, my journey in construction began long before I joined the company. Growing up in a building contractor's family, I was immersed in the world of construction from an early age. My career path then took me into hospital and healthcare strategic planning, business development, and operations, where I gained valuable experience in medical facilities planning and construction. Eventually, I transitioned back to my roots in construction, first on a part-time basis while continuing my healthcare career, and then full-time.

    At Skandia, I wear many hats. I’ve been the facilitator of our home shows for many years, a role that naturally evolved into following up with potential clients interested in home remodels. I provide logistics support and often roll up my sleeves to participate in hands-on remodeling work. My broad skill set allows me to support clients, potential clients, and the company in numerous ways.

    One of my key roles is helping clients envision their ideal space. I work closely with my brother, who has owned the company for many years, to fine-tune the scope of work and estimate costs, ensuring potential clients have a clear understanding before moving forward with a design or construction agreement. It’s incredibly rewarding to see our clients return for additional projects or refer us to others, which happens often and is a significant part of our ongoing work.

    Creativity and communication are central to my role, particularly as I guide potential clients from the initial design agreement through to project completion. I believe that honesty, integrity, and clear communication are essential values that guide our operations and service at Skandia.

    Outside of work, I’m deeply involved with my family, including my adult children, my father, who lives with us, and my four siblings and their families. I cherish the time I spend with a wide circle of friends, enjoying various activities, traveling, and exploring new places. Traveling is a particular passion of mine, especially within the western United States, but I’ve recently expanded my horizons with a memorable trip to Southern Italy to visit my son and daughter-in-law.

    I am a lifelong learner, always seeking personal and professional growth through reading, podcasts, and videos on a variety of topics. I aspire to continue providing excellent support to our clients, helping them bring their visions to life with the same commitment to quality, creativity, honesty, and integrity that has been the hallmark of Skandia Design for over three decades.

    I’m always here to assist our clients, so if you have any questions or needs, don’t hesitate to reach out. It’s a privilege to be part of the Skandia team, and I look forward to helping you create spaces that enhance your life.

Skandia Design lead carpenter

Bil Frost

Meaghan Woehlert

  • I first joined Skandia Design right out of high school, working as a laborer and later as a designer. Over the years, I've had the privilege of working closely with our clients, helping to create homes that not only meet their needs but also stand the test of time. Although I no longer work as a face-to-face designer, my journey in design has been filled with valuable lessons—like the time I made a $2,000 mistake by not leaving enough room for a fridge door swing! That was over 15 years ago, and it’s a lesson I’ll never forget.

    After moving to Florida in 2021, I’ve taken on the role of Office Manager at Skandia. My responsibilities include setting up and maintaining our company’s accounting system, handling payroll, job costs, taxes, and managing our software like QuickBooks and Chief Architect. I also support the team by constructing sales aids, marketing materials, and overseeing office-related needs.

    While I may be working behind the scenes now, my passion for design continues. I keep my skills sharp by working on branding and website design, and occasionally, I still contribute to renovation projects. Two of my favorite projects were the Hostetler Basement and the Green Kitchen—both were extensive renovations that turned out stunning, thanks to the wonderful clients I collaborated with.

    In my spare time, I love camping with my family, homeschooling my oldest child, and enjoying the Florida sunshine. I believe that what you put out there reflects you, so I always strive to deliver work I’m proud of. I’ll be with Skandia until they no longer need me, and I’m grateful to continue growing with this incredible team.

    So, if you’re embarking on a renovation, remember—it’s not if, it’s when challenges arise. But rest assured, we’re here to help you navigate the tough days and celebrate the good ones. With Skandia, you’re in great hands.