Who We Are
Building Better Homes Since 2008.
At LJ Nelson Construction, we specialize in large remodels, custom homes, additions, and ADUs in Santa Barbara County. Our work is defined by attention to detail, honest communication, and a collaborative process—the result is healthier, more durable homes and clients who feel supported every step of the way.
Our Story
Experience matters. For more than 34 years, Lonnie Nelson has worked through every phase of construction—from digging footings and framing structures to crafting custom doors and cabinetry. That hands-on experience gives him a deep understanding of how to build homes to the highest standards and how each decision shapes their integrity, performance, and longevity.
That foundation shapes how we work:
Hands-on quality control—Our in-house carpentry team oversees details closely to ensure materials are installed correctly and finished with care and precision.
Trusted partnerships—Long-standing relationships with subcontractors and suppliers allow us to work efficiently without compromising standards.
Clear planning & communication—Clients are guided through each phase with realistic timelines and transparent estimates that help prevent surprises.
Health-forward building—Thoughtful material choices, moisture control, and well-designed assemblies support clean air, durability, and long-term performance.
The result: a home that’s not only beautiful and well built, but designed to support the people who live in it.
Guiding Principles
Every project is guided by the same core commitments—to our clients, our craft, and the homes we build together.
Integrity
Honest estimates, clear communication, and consistent follow-through at every stage of the project.
Collaboration
Long-standing relationships with clients, designers, and trade partners built on trust and shared standards.
Intention
Thoughtful decisions around materials, moisture, and building assemblies that support health, durability, and the people living in the home.
Craftsmanship
Decades of hands-on experience inform every detail, from the materials we specify to the way they're installed and finished—precision at every step.
Building Biology is a holistic approach to construction that considers how a home's materials, systems, and design affect the health of the people living in it—addressing everything from indoor air quality and moisture management to EMF exposure and non-toxic materials.
Building Healthier
Homes in Santa Barbara County
A well-built home supports the people living in it. We go beyond code—building with health, air quality, and longevity in mind from the very first decision. This isn't an added service, it's just what we do.
Kind Words From Clients
“Beyond the health-forward approach, what stood out was how easy they were to work with. Communication was clear and consistent throughout, and we always felt confident that our budget was being spent thoughtfully and with care. Even with a significant number of changes along the way, they stayed on timeline—which is very rare in construction projects!”
— Celsea, Santa Barbara Homeowner“Lonnie operates with a rare level of integrity and sets that tone for everyone on site. The project finished on an aggressive schedule, within budget, and with a relationship we truly value. We recommend Lonnie and his team wholeheartedly and are deeply grateful for the outcome they achieved.”
— Tyler, Santa Barbara homeowner“Lonnie and Melissa managed every aspect of the project with incredible organization and attention to detail. Their communication was clear, timelines were well managed, and the entire job was executed with a level of professionalism that made the process smooth for both our team and the homeowners.”
— Jodi, Santa Barbara Interior Design PartnerOur
Team
Lonnie Nelson
FounderLonnie Nelson grew up in construction — literally. The son of a carpenter, he was on job sites by age 13, learning the trades firsthand and developing a relationship with building that has defined his life ever since.
Over 34 years, Lonnie has worked through every phase of construction, from digging footings and framing structures to crafting custom doors and cabinetry. That depth of experience gives him a rare ability to see the building process as a complete system, anticipating challenges early, making informed decisions, and holding every stage of a project to a high standard of quality.
Lonnie continues to evolve with the industry, with a particular interest in health-forward building practices and Building Biology, approaches that prioritize not just how a home looks and performs, but how it supports the people living in it.
Outside of work, Lonnie plays guitar, practices yoga, and is an avid free-diving spearfisherman. He's actively involved with the Fish Reef Project, a Santa Barbara nonprofit dedicated to restoring marine habitats, a reflection of the same respect for craft, nature, and sustainability that shapes how he builds.
Melissa Christou is a construction Project Manager and health-forward building consultant with a background in operations leadership and a passion for homes that are as healthy as they are well built.
On the project management side, Melissa keeps builds organized and on track — managing schedules, coordinating teams, and using construction management software to ensure smooth communication and consistent follow-through.
As a board-certified Health & Wellness Coach and Building Biology New Build Consultant certified by the Building Biology Institute, she brings a deeper layer of expertise to every project. Melissa helps clients make informed decisions around materials, indoor air quality, EMF exposure, and moisture management, creating homes that are beautiful, durable, and genuinely supportive of the people living in them.
Project ManagerMelissa Christou
Ready to Break Ground in Santa Barbara?
Reach out to our team and we’ll get in touch to discuss your project in detail.