Chad The Builder

04/17/2026

Work in progress Spring 2026 , custom home in Santa Cruz Mountains. Construction by Chad the Builder. Design by Kurt Useldinger A.I.A. , Civil Engineering Hogan Land Services, GeoTech Engineering Rock Solid Engineering, Structural Engineering Andy Radovan,

10/21/2025

Excavation and re-compaction for soil densification.
What could get more exciting than digging a hole and covering it back up. Well maybe at the beach with the little kids.
But that’s how we almost always start building a home. Taking the soil out, putting it back and rolling over it with a very heavy vibrating big steel drum on a tractor we call a sheep’s foot. The Roman’s used a similar process, by hand, to “densify” the subgrade below their road pavers. In a lot of places those roads are still usable. In modern residential construction we avoid the “Leaning Tower of Piza Syndrome” by the science of soil engineering. We call this geotechnical engineering. Which has been employed at differing levels of science and art ever since the first human built an earthen wall . Essentially, make it so the foundation does not sink guys.
The science bit really started with Henri Gautier back in about 1717. But did not mature until the studies that resulted in the metric of the Proctor Curve and the California Bearing Ratio in the 1920’s. Today a “soil study “is required for every structure by the Uniform Building Code.
So, we dig up the area of the foundations, re-compact in “lifts”, typically 6” to 12” layers, test the density and so on until the building pad is at required elevation. In Sanat Cruz County and similar areas with big earthquake possibilities careful geotechnical evaluation and testing is essential. It’s even a metaphor. Your “structure” is only as good as it’s foundation.
Chad The Builder
October 20,2025.

01/28/2025

Is a Reverse Floor Plan Right for You?
Inverted floor plan, the main living areas are located on the upper levels, while bedrooms are typically placed downstairs.
One of the primary advantages is increased privacy.
Another perk is the potential for better views
Then there’s the bonus of enhanced natural light.
Reverse floor plans are an exciting design option offering numerous benefits and a few challenges. If privacy, stunning views, and an entertainer’s paradise sound like your cup of tea, this layout could be a match made in heaven. However, it’s essential to weigh these positives against potential limitations like accessibility and resale considerations.
I’d love to hear from you! Share your questions or thoughts with me, Chad the Builder. Let’s chat about your dreams for a new house.

01/27/2024

Just completed. Total remodel - addition, down to bare studs, for wonderful clients in Aptos. Design, permits and construction by Chad Williams Designer Builder.

11/22/2021

Chad helped us design and build a detached, three-car garage. We hired Chad because of his experience in working with Santa Cruz County. The project entailed obtaining variance so that the garage could be built in the desired location, obtaining a permit and managing the construction. Chad expertly handled every aspect of the project including drafting, coordination with the county, sourcing and managing subcontractors, scheduling and inspections. Chad is reliable, knowledgeable, personable and easy to work with. He kept us informed throughout the process on what's coming next. He made sure that all the comments from the county were fully addressed in a timely manner. After a no-go attempt at a permit with another professional who failed to deliver permit plans and kept hitting roadblocks with the county, working with Chad was a welcome breath of fresh air. Having trust and confidence in his services, we were happy that Chad agreed to manage the construction as well. Thanks to Chad, we have a head-turner of a garage that matches our house beautifully. We wouldn't hesitate to hire Chad for another project.
Anton Koukharski 11-2021

09/29/2021

A privilege to be drawing up the plans for this CZU fire rebuild for the family that lost their home. My design work is now off to the engineers for documentation.

09/23/2021

A garage that could be a house. 846 sq ft with 12' ht walls and 17/12 tutor style roof.
Design, permits and construction recently completed by
Chad Williams Designer Builder
in Santa Cruz Mountains.
GeoTech Butano Geotechnical Engineering
Civil engineering Mike Goodhue Civil Engineering
Structural Engineering R3 Consulting Engineers
Earthwork and foundations Raymond Construction
Framing Jeff Meyers Construction
Electrical Tim Nestler
Drywall Nine Start Drywall
Painting Richard Tribble Painting
Roofing Lindy Roofing
and the infinite patience and cooperation of the owners.

09/03/2021

04/24/2018

01/11/2017

CWDS is a residential design, drafting and land use firm in Watsonville, CA. Chad Williams is a certified Green Building Professional and Master Builder.