Custom ADU Design and Construction

Olympia’s Trusted Partner in ADU and Tiny Home Construction

Transform your property with a custom-built ADU from Mallard Brothers Construction.

As Olympia’s leading eco-friendly contractor, we specialize in creating Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and Tiny Homes designed to fit your needs, whether you’re looking to generate rental income, build a home office, or create a comfortable living space for family.

Our experienced team manages every detail from planning and design to utility connections and construction, ensuring a smooth and stress-free process.

What Are ADUs?

ADUs, or Accessory Dwelling Units, are self-contained living spaces built on a property with an existing primary residence. Known as Mother-in-Law suites, Tiny Homes, or Detached Accessory Dwelling Units (DADUs), these spaces range between 500-900 sq ft, comfortably accommodating one or two occupants.

ADUs are versatile – ideal for family, rentals, or as a private workspace – and provide a smart investment with an average ROI of 7 years.

Types of ADUs

Mallard Brothers offers a variety of ADU types to fit your property and lifestyle.

Attached ADUs

Connected to the main home but with private entrances, providing independence within proximity.

Detached ADUs (DADUs)

Stand-alone units that offer privacy and versatility for guests, rentals, or workspaces.

Garage Conversions

Transform your garage into a livable space while navigating Thurston County codes around wells and septic systems.

Custom Tiny Homes

Eco-friendly and efficient, designed for minimal living without sacrificing comfort.

ADA-Accessible ADUs for Aging in Place

Our team is experienced in building ADA-accessible ADUs for aging in place, allowing loved ones to live comfortably and safely. From wider doorways and ramps to barrier-free showers, our ADUs can be tailored with accessible features to support a range of mobility needs.

Fast-Tracked ADU Design with Preapproved Plans

If your property is within Olympia city limits, our team can expedite your project using Olympia’s Preapproved ADU plan sets. By choosing from these four designs, you’ll reduce permitting time and bypass additional engineering costs, helping you realize your ADU faster.

Craftsmanship Redefined

Why Choose Us?

With Mallard Brothers, you’ll experience quality craftsmanship, attention to detail, and a personalized approach to each project. We bring your vision to life with durable materials, thoughtful layouts, and seamless integration with your property’s existing style.

Whether you want to build from a pre-approved plan or need a fully customized ADU, our team works closely with you to ensure the final result fits your vision and lifestyle.

Key Steps in the ADU Building Process

Building an ADU with Mallard Brothers is collaborative process

1

Initial Consultation and Feasibility Study

We assess your property’s requirements, including zoning, sewer, and septic capacity, to determine the best path forward.

2

Design and Planning

Choose from pre-approved plans or work with our designers to create a custom layout that fits your unique needs.

3

Permits and Approvals

Our team handles all necessary permits and regulations, ensuring full compliance for a worry-free build.

4

Construction and Finalization

From utility connections to finishing touches, our skilled team completes your ADU with precision and quality, ready for move-in.

Customization Options

Our ADUs are designed with flexibility in mind, allowing you to customize features to suit your preferences and lifestyle

Interior and Exterior Design

Choose from vaulted ceilings, cedar details, or custom finishes for a truly unique look.

Outdoor Spaces

Add saunas, covered decks, or landscaped seating areas for added comfort.

Energy-Efficiency Features

Solar panels, sustainable materials, and eco-friendly choices available to meet your green goals.
  • From first contact through construction

    …and the final inspection, the Mallard Brothers (Kevin, Keenan & Tyler) were phenomenal. Their team approach with clients, great communication and collaboration skills in addition to exemplary design, carpentry and construction skills resulted in a studio/home that’s beautiful, friendly, welcoming and awesome! It was truly a pleasure working with them and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them.
    Dane Kirkendall
  • Positive, can-do attitudes!

    If you are looking for a company who is truly in tune with your needs then these guys are for you! The only thing that matches their high standards of building is there positive, can-do attitudes! Doing business with Mallard Brothers Construction is, has been, and always will be a pleasure!
    Joseph Z

Frequently Asked ADU Questions

An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is an additional living space on a property with an existing primary residence. It can be attached or detached, depending on the space available and your needs. Tiny Homes are typically small, eco-friendly homes that may be used as ADUs, while Mother-in-Law Suites are ADUs designed specifically for accommodating family members or guests. Each serves similar purposes but varies in design, layout, and customization options.

The ADU design and permit process typically takes about 4 months, while construction can take around 3 months, depending on the project’s scope. Our team manages the entire process, from initial planning and design to obtaining permits, construction, and final walkthrough. We work closely with you at every step to ensure the ADU meets your vision and needs.

Yes, ADUs are great investment opportunities that can generate rental income. Many of our clients use ADUs as long-term rentals or short-term vacation rentals. With an average ROI of about 7 years, ADUs are a smart way to add value to your property while helping cover mortgage costs.

We offer extensive customization options, including layout, interior finishes, ceiling details, and energy-efficient features like solar panels. You can also add outdoor elements such as decks, patios, and saunas, making your ADU a true reflection of your style and needs. Our team can also guide you on using preapproved designs to expedite the permitting process if you’re in Olympia.

Whether an ADU connects to a sewer or a septic system depends on your property’s setup. Properties on sewer systems are generally easier to permit, while those on septic may have additional requirements, such as capacity checks and site evaluations. Our feasibility studies help you determine the best options based on your property’s specific situation, ensuring a smooth, compliant build.

While we’re based in Olympia, WA, we can build ADU’s within reasonable driving distance. Just reach out with your project details and we’ll let you know.

Ready to Start Your ADU Project?

 Contact us today to learn more and start building an ADU that enhances your property value and quality of life.