About Adu Palo Alto
At ADU Palo Alto, we believe accessory dwelling units should feel like a natural extension of your home and lifestyle — thoughtfully designed, expertly built, and rooted in the character of Palo Alto neighborhoods.
Backed by decades of local building experience, ADU Palo Alto combines the craftsmanship of a custom home builder with the efficiency and focus of an ADU specialist. Our team provides turnkey ADU solutions, guiding clients through planning, permitting, design, and construction with a clear, hands-on approach.
Whether you are creating space for family, generating rental income, building a private office or guest retreat, or planning for long-term flexibility, we focus on delivering high-quality living spaces built with attention to detail, functionality, and lasting value.
Our Story
ADU Palo Alto is led by James Witt, a longtime Silicon Valley builder with over 40 years of experience constructing custom homes throughout Palo Alto and the surrounding area.
In 1971, James began his first homebuilding project while attending college. The home was completed on time, on budget, and ultimately auctioned and relocated to make room for the next student-built project home. That early experience shaped a philosophy that still guides the company today:
“Build a quality home with attention to detail and your reputation will sustain you.”
Over the decades, James Witt Construction became known for artisan custom homes, many of which sold before construction was completed. Today, that same commitment to craftsmanship continues through ADU Palo Alto — bringing high-quality backyard homes and modern living spaces to homeowners throughout Palo Alto and Silicon Valley.
Leadership
James Witt — President
James Witt has spent more than four decades building custom homes in Palo Alto and Silicon Valley. Known for his practical experience, attention to detail, and reputation for quality construction, James has built over 50 custom homes in Palo Alto alone.
His work focuses on creating one-of-a-kind homes and living spaces that balance craftsmanship, functionality, and long-term value. Rather than pursuing volume construction, James has always focused on select projects where quality and execution matter most.
Today, he leads ADU Palo Alto with the same principles that have guided his career since 1971: integrity, communication, thoughtful design, and quality construction.
Kelly Witt — Vice President
Kelly Witt helps lead operations, project coordination, and client experience at ADU Palo Alto. With a strong background in construction management, landscape construction, and high-end residential projects throughout the Peninsula, Kelly brings a modern, detail-oriented approach to the company’s ADU division.
Working closely with clients from initial planning through construction, Kelly focuses on creating a streamlined and transparent building experience while maintaining the craftsmanship and responsiveness the Witt name has become known for in Palo Alto and Silicon Valley.
What We Do
- Detached ADUs
- Attached ADUs
- Garage conversions
- Backyard cottages
- Home office studios
- Guest houses
- Permit coordination
- Design-build project management
- Full-service construction
Why Homeowners Choose ADU Palo Alto
- Local Palo Alto building experience
- General contractor expertise with ADU-focused execution
- Personalized service and direct communication
- High-quality craftsmanship and attention to detail
- Turnkey design and construction process
- Deep understanding of Silicon Valley properties and permitting
ADU Palo Alto was built on the belief that smaller homes can still deliver exceptional quality, comfort, and design — crafted with care, rooted in the community, and tailored to each client’s vision.