About Olerra Living Innovations and the Flex-Flat ADU
Olerra Living Innovations is a Colorado-based company specializing in modular accessory dwelling units, which they refer to as Flex-Flats. Their product is designed to serve as a backyard cottage, guest house, in-law suite, home office, or rental unit — essentially functioning as a fully realized accessory dwelling unit builder solution, but delivered through a modular construction model rather than traditional site-built methods.
The term "Flex-Flat" was coined by Olerra to reflect the adaptability of these spaces. Whether a homeowner needs a private retreat, a granny flat for aging parents, or a detached ADU for rental income, the Flex-Flat is designed to accommodate a range of uses within a compact, well-built structure.
Flex-Flat Models and Features
Olerra offers three primary Flex-Flat models, each suited to different needs and lot configurations:
- 245 sq ft Studio — A compact unit well-suited for use as a home gym, home office, or extra living space.
- 490 sq ft Studio — A mid-size layout designed for versatility and efficient use of space.
- 735 sq ft One- or Two-Bedroom — A more spacious layout intended for full-time living, guest accommodations, or longer-term rental use.
Each unit is built using steel-frame construction, which provides resistance to 165 mph winds, a 1-hour fire resistance rating, and the ability to support 105 lbs of snow and wind load. Spray foam insulation is used throughout for energy efficiency. Exterior finishes include Nichiha and Ceraclad fiber cement systems, and Olerra states that over 10,000 unique design combinations are available. Optional features such as rooftop patios and pergolas can be added for further customization.
Warranties included with each Flex-Flat are:
- 10 years on the structure
- 5 years on the building envelope
- 2 years on systems including HVAC, electrical, and plumbing
- 1 year on materials and workmanship
The Olerra Process: From Consultation to Completion
One of the more notable aspects of Olerra's offering as an ADU contractor is their end-to-end project management. The entire process — from design and permitting through manufacturing, site preparation, and installation — is handled under a single fixed-cost contract. This approach is intended to reduce complexity for the homeowner.
The typical project timeline runs as follows:
- Free property check and quote
- Contract, pre-permit planning, and approval — approximately 8 to 12 weeks
- Manufacturing — approximately 4 weeks
- Pre-delivery site work and shipping — approximately 3 weeks
- Installation, site work, and final completion — approximately 3 weeks
Most projects are completed within 3 to 6 months from contract signing. The units arrive approximately 90% complete from the factory and are typically installed on-site in a single day using helical pile foundations. Final on-site work — including utility connections and finishing touches — generally takes an additional 2 to 3 weeks.
In terms of cost, Olerra positions their Flex-Flats as 40 to 50% less expensive than traditional site-built ADUs and approximately 25% less than other prefab or modular competitors. Pricing varies depending on the model selected, site conditions, and any customizations requested.
Olerra also manages all permitting requirements, ensuring that each unit complies with local building codes. For homeowners in Colorado considering a backyard cottage builder or detached ADU builder, Olerra handles the regulatory side of the process as part of their standard service.
Common use cases for Flex-Flats include housing aging parents or adult children nearby, generating rental income — with potential monthly rental figures cited at over $2,500 in larger markets — or simply adding functional space without relocating. Financing options may be available through third-party lenders, and Flex-Flats can generally be covered under existing home insurance policies.