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Drew Thatcher Construction

Washington

ADU Builders, ADU Designers

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Website

https://thatcher-construction.com/

Drew Thatcher Construction is a Lakewood-based construction company specializing in accessory dwelling units and residential expansion projects throughout Pierce County. As a locally rooted ADU contractor, they help homeowners evaluate, plan, and build secondary living spaces that align with both the property itself and the homeowner’s long-term goals.

Their process begins well before construction starts. The company works through practical early-stage questions such as whether a property is better suited for a detached ADU, an attached addition, or a garage conversion, while also evaluating site conditions, zoning considerations, and utility access.

Because Lakewood contains a wide range of older homes, mature neighborhoods, and varied lot configurations, Drew Thatcher Construction approaches each project with an understanding of the local housing stock and the challenges that often accompany it.

Why Homeowners in Lakewood Build ADUs

Homeowners across Lakewood increasingly use accessory dwelling units to create more flexibility within their properties. Common reasons include:

Creating rental income from unused backyard or garage space
Building housing for aging parents or adult children
Adding guest accommodations with privacy and independence
Creating detached offices, studios, or workspaces
Preparing properties for long-term multigenerational living

The area’s proximity to Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) also contributes to demand for flexible housing arrangements, especially for military families navigating changing household needs and timelines.

Local Experience in Pierce County

Drew Thatcher Construction works specifically within Lakewood and the surrounding Pierce County region. Their familiarity with local neighborhood layouts, lot patterns, and municipal review processes allows them to identify potential challenges early in the planning phase.

Factors that commonly shape ADU feasibility include:

Lot geometry and usable space
Setback limitations
Existing utility infrastructure
Structural condition of existing buildings
Parking and access considerations

By addressing these issues upfront, the company aims to reduce costly surprises during permitting and construction.

Engineering-Informed Project Management

The company was founded by Drew Thatcher, a former U.S. Navy nuclear engineer. Project management is led by Jack Hance, whose background includes mechanical engineering and commercial construction experience.

That engineering-oriented foundation influences how projects are managed:

Scope and feasibility are carefully defined early
Structural and site-related trade-offs are evaluated upfront
Construction planning is approached systematically
Communication remains clear throughout the build process

Their approach emphasizes practical decision-making and minimizing avoidable complications later in the project.

ADU Construction Services

Drew Thatcher Construction offers multiple ADU formats depending on the property and homeowner goals.

Detached ADUs

Detached accessory dwelling units are standalone structures built separately from the primary residence. These projects are often selected when homeowners want:

Maximum privacy
Independent living space
Dedicated rental units
Backyard cottages or casitas
Housing for extended family members

When lot size and zoning allow, detached ADUs often provide the strongest separation from the main house.

Attached ADUs

Attached ADUs share at least one wall with the primary residence and are often a practical option when:

Lot size is limited
Existing layouts support expansion
Homeowners prefer closer proximity between living spaces

These projects can function well as in-law suites or multigenerational housing solutions.

Garage Conversion ADUs

For homeowners with underused garages, garage conversion projects can create functional secondary living spaces without constructing an entirely new structure.

However, Drew Thatcher Construction notes that garage conversions come with their own considerations, including:

Structural modifications
Ceiling height limitations
Utility integration
Layout constraints
Local approval requirements

Because of these variables, garage conversions are not always the simplest or least expensive path despite reusing an existing structure.

Design-Build Process

Drew Thatcher Construction operates as a design-build contractor, meaning design and construction are handled through one coordinated process.

This structure provides homeowners with:

A single point of accountability
More streamlined communication
Fewer handoff issues between designers and builders
Better coordination between planning and construction

Their process typically includes:

Initial Consultation

The company evaluates the property, discusses goals, and explores which ADU approach is most practical.

Design and Planning

Design concepts are developed alongside feasibility analysis, budgeting considerations, and construction planning.

Permitting Coordination

The team assists with permitting and municipal coordination required for ADU approval within Lakewood and Pierce County.

Construction

Construction is managed from start to finish with attention to scheduling, workmanship, and site coordination.

Final Completion

Projects conclude with walkthroughs and final quality review before occupancy.

Understanding ADU Costs

ADU pricing can vary substantially depending on:

Detached vs. attached construction
Garage conversion complexity
Site access and utility work
Structural conditions
Square footage
Interior finish level
Permit and infrastructure requirements

Drew Thatcher Construction focuses heavily on defining project scope early in order to reduce costly design changes and unexpected expenses during construction.

A Locally Grounded ADU Builder

For homeowners in Lakewood considering a granny flat, backyard cottage, in-law suite, garage conversion, or detached accessory dwelling unit, Drew Thatcher Construction offers a locally experienced and engineering-informed approach to residential construction.

Their focus on early feasibility, coordinated project management, and practical planning helps homeowners navigate the complexities of ADU construction with greater clarity and confidence.

Business Hours

Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed

Service Area

Lakewood WA

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/drewthatcherconstruction

Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/drewthatcherconstruction

23, Country Club Drive Southwest, Ponders Corner, Lakewood, Pierce County, Washington, 98498, United States

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