Willie Dean
Willie Dean founded Ground Up Design Works in 2013. He focuses on residential projects with creative and sustainable designs. Willie specializes in ADU design with extensive experience in new construction, as well as garage and basement conversion. With 38 (and counting) built ADUs Willie has experience with a diverse array of people’s housing journeys and is excited to share what he knows about helping them build their backyard dreams.
Questions Asked and Answered
Let’s dive into your work in Oregon and California. Which markets specifically in CA have you worked in?
Tell us about any substantial differences in the ADU design work that you’ve done in those two markets: Process wise- title 24, net zero/solar, designing for dry vs wet conditions; Culture-wise; Cost wise, etc
We’ve talked in brief about the prefab/modular ADU market. While they haven’t gained a lot of purchase in Portland, I suspect that they will play a more prominent role in the coming years. But, it’s hard to put my finger on why and where they’ll play a more important role. What thoughts do you have about that?
I have a list of ADU design best practices in my book and web course and classes, but I’d love to hear your take on this question. Can you show us some ADU design best practices that you attempt to incorporate into you ADU design work?
What core information do you seek from the homeowner to help inform the design for a detached ADU?
Do you refer to a list like this when you’re designing? Or, is it a more organic practice?
Let’s say that 5 homeowners all want a 1BR/1BA. What factors dictate that you must differentiate the design for each of these clients?
Purely from a design perspective, do you prefer standalone detached new construction? Or, are just as happy to design a garage or basement conversion?