O.G. Engineering, PLLC

I have worked with Owen on three challenging projects since he founded OG Engineering. He is a very competent, professional and skilled engineer, and has proven himself an invaluable collaborator and teammate through the design process. Getting him engaged in the project early as an integrated part of the design team, is a benefit to both the owner and architect from start to finish. Owen and I have navigated second story additions, soldier pile shoring systems, cantilevered steel staircases, and a number of other complexities necessary to get the job done to a very high standard. If you are considering Owen for your project I am happy to discuss his excellent track record; feel free to email (Sensitive Information Hidden) Kyle DeHaven, AIA NCARB

I am a homeowner who decided to do my own "architecture" for a very ambitious remodel that included an expansion of our 2-story footprint. It required tying into existing foundation and several roof forms at some very odd angles. Probably not what most people are looking for from structural engineer, but it's perhaps an extreme example of how his talent and working style would benefit most any architect and any designer/homeowner. For those non-architects wondering how the process might work, here's how it went for me. Owen helped in 4 phases: 1) Concept feasibility - looking at my existing structure and some preliminary design concepts (largely different roof forms) to narrow down to ones worth taking forward 2) Preliminary structural design - we explored likely structural requirements for some of my design choices which gave us a chance to try shifting shear walls around for better views, minimize thickness of posts between windows without getting into engineered window systems, etc. 3) Final structural design including calculations and the almighty stamp (angels sang!) 4) Consultation during construction - Owen was available for quick phone/Facetime calls to help me and my carpenter to understand some of the framing specs and, in some cases, find acceptable alternatives when we ran into roadblocks or just had an idea for a more efficient execution (e.g. after demo my carpenter found a far easier place to take a point load from roof down to floor joist, impossible to know until we could see all existing structure). A few things I loved about Owen: - He was clear up front on what he could and could not help with. Since I am not a licensed architect this was crucial for me to know where I'd need to invest my time vs. assume he'd take care of it. - He was highly collaborative yet efficient by distinguishing where a different approach "would most probably work" vs. "maybe work" vs. "doubt it" vs. "no way". This helped me channel my energies into the "probabilities and maybes" and avoid expensive explorations into dead ends. For example we allowed Simpson Strongwalls to stick out like wings to maximize window space (and give the exterior an interesting look I have grown to like!) - He was willing to explain enough "why" to arm me in imagining some alternative designs that better complied with laws of physics ;) - He was very creative in finding the economical ways for me to get what I wanted. For example he specified existing deck structure to support a 2x10 bump out of the kitchen. That saved us ripping into the floor for cantilever or pouring more footings for post and beam! - He was willing to explain enough "why" to arm me with constraints I could use in re-imagining designs that worked better with both my needs and laws of physics ;) I cannot recommend O.G. highly enough!

I have now worked professionally with Owen in several projects, and can attest both to his superior customer service and attention to detail. He produces clear and concise structural drawings that make the permitting process as pain-free as possible. He’s also quick to respond to any questions or issues that may arise in the course of construction, which saves a ton of time and stress! OG Engineering has and will be my engineers of choice for current and future projects.

We've used O.G. Engineering a few times for various projects around the house. We've loved working with him. He's been prompt, given us multiple options to solve problems, and is reasonably priced. I would recommend him, and plan to use him again, for any other projects that require structural engineering.

We’ve worked with Owen on several residential remodels—large and small. He takes the time to visit the site to get a full understanding of the project He’s not only willing, but prefers to meet the owners and explain strategies. Owen’s deliverables are consistently clear and thorough.

I have had the pleasure working with O.G. Engineering on several residential projects in varying scale from a second story addition to a full basement renovation. I really enjoy working with Owen. He is very professional and personable. Regarding projects and deliverables, his management is excellent because he is organized, keeps to his deadlines, is responsive to email and Client needs and his drawings and calculations are clear (and with no permit corrections). I would highly recommend Owen and will continue to work with him on my projects.

I am a general contractor in the San Francisco Bay area. I met Owen through my architect on a job in San Mateo California. This job was quite comprehensive and Involved renovating the entire home to add a second story addition. Many of the interior walls were removed to create more space for the first floor. As a result we needed to incorporate steel columns and beams to support a second-story addition. It became quite critical to make these connections from the old to the new seamlessly and to keep their job in budget. Owen and I worked together to come up with the most simple and cost-effective ways to address all of the structural aspects. Owen did a flawless job! After one year the project is now completed and the homeowners are very very happy. Not once during my time building did I need to go back to Owen with a "problem" that was not foreseen or predicted. As a builder I feel we should not "think" while we build. We should just build. When the structural design is flawed builders start "thinking" about how to address the areas that have not been designed well structurally. As a result it slows the project down. Thank you Owen for making my job more enjoyable! Anthony Cuellar Accolade Construction

Owen engineered our remodel. He performed high quality work at a reasonable price. He researched all appropriate city code. He was easy to work with and produced his work in a timely manner. He coordinated with our contractor while keeping us in the loop. After the remodel was completed, he answered questions related to drainage and he referred me to other professionals that better handle that sort of work. The people he recommends are good too. I would recommend him for any engineering project.

I hired Owen to evaluate some interior walls for load bearing. It was a pretty simple job, but did require some back and forth communication and further evaluation after his initial site visit. I particularly appreciated his ability and willingness to clearly communicate his thought process, answer questions and talk through solutions. I couldn't have asked for a better working relationship, and at a fair price, in my opinion. Highly recommended.

Owen has been so helpful throughout our remodel. We had a very horrible contractor that messed with the structure of our house and Owen has been there trying to help us fix this ordeal with his engineering expertise and other related labor. He has gone out of his way to help look up codes and regulations for us, something he usually doesn't do. He helped us with the designs and drawings needed for the city permit.

I am small residential general contractor based out of Seattle. I have had the privilege of working with Owen on a handful of my projects in the last couple years. Owen is now my go to engineer for all my clients and my personal real estate development needs. He is a wonderful, creative and attentive engineer. He works quickly and efficiently and has been a pleasure to work with as a GC.

Excellent engineering that leads to an easy inspection. Owen is responsive, listens to your objectives and then provides exactly what is needed for a smooth project. My husband and I along with our contractor have used his services twice in the last year,- a 1300 sq ft deck that includes support for a spa and a complete new foundation for a home built in 1918 that will now support a second story as well meet todays earthquake standards.