Case Study: The Tucked One

Publish Date: April 30, 2023
Picking up the pieces and creating a Space for Family, Focus, and Fun.
When the client’s original contractor dropped out, Greyhawk stepped in to bring their vision to life. The client wanted a bright, modern ADU that could serve multiple roles including a creative workspace, a hangout for kids, and a comfortable spot for visiting family, including their mother-in-law.
Set in Mill Valley, this 650 ft² project was a detached unit designed to flow seamlessly between indoor and outdoor living. With a budget of $370K–$390K and a 8-month build schedule, the team focused on creating a flexible, high-functioning space that felt both cozy and contemporary.
PROJECT AT A GLANCE
General Contractor | Greyhawk Construction |
Project Type: | Detached ADU |
Project Size | 650 ft² |
Location | Mill Valley, CA |
Project Start | Aug/ 2022 |
Design/Permit Duration | 5 months |
Construction Duration | 8 Months |
Project Completion | Apr. 2023 |

Working with Curveballs, Creatively
After a rocky start with a previous builder, Greyhawk’s first challenge was to rebuild trust. From day one, the team brought fresh energy and practical design insights that offered layout studies that made smarter use of the space and set the tone for a new direction.
Greyhawk’s approach was clear and adaptable:
- Design-Driven Direction: They provided detailed plans that aligned with the client’s new vision.
- Agility Under Pressure: The team stayed flexible, adjusting the construction schedule to work around the client’s holiday events while keeping the space functional.
- Transparent Communication: Open lines of communication ensured the client felt informed, supported, and confident that the project would be seen through to completion.
Throughout construction, adaptability remained a constant. Greyhawk collaborated closely with the client to explore and implement mid-project enhancements to natural lighting—balancing aesthetics with functionality. These updates were integrated without disrupting the timeline. Despite navigating evolving design needs and local code hurdles, the project was completed on time and within budget.









The Results
Greyhawk successfully delivered the project on time and within budget, achieving the client’s desired aesthetic without compromise. The team also navigated specific jurisdictional requirements with minimal impact to the schedule, ensuring a smooth and efficient construction process from start to finish.