White Crane Design:Build – Twin Cities ADU Builder and Remodeling Experts
White Crane Design:Build is an award-winning, woman-owned design-build firm based in the Twin Cities, Minnesota. Founded in 2002 by Susan Denk, the company has spent over two decades helping homeowners in Minneapolis and St. Paul stay in the neighborhoods they love — while transforming their homes to better meet their needs. Their team of designers, project managers, carpenters, and trade partners is known for delivering projects on time, on budget, and above expectations.
As a full-service ADU builder and residential remodeling company, White Crane specializes in rejuvenating the charming older homes found throughout the Twin Cities. Their expertise spans a wide range of projects, including accessory dwelling unit construction, garage conversions, and above-garage apartment additions.
ADU Construction in Minneapolis and St. Paul
White Crane has completed notable ADU contractor work across the Twin Cities metro area. In the Standish-Ericsson neighborhood of South Minneapolis, they worked with the owners of a 1931 Tudor-style home to design and build an apartment above their detached garage — a classic example of a detached ADU solution that adds living space without sacrificing the character of the original home.
In St. Paul, they took on a project that involved tearing down an existing detached garage and constructing a brand-new garage with a fully functional accessory dwelling unit above it. This type of project is ideal for homeowners looking to add rental income, house extended family, or create a flexible living space on their existing property.
Whether the goal is a garage conversion, an above-garage suite, or a new backyard cottage, White Crane brings the same level of craftsmanship and attention to detail that has defined their work for over 20 years.
A Complete Design-Build Process
What sets White Crane apart as an ADU contractor and remodeling firm is their fully integrated design-build approach. Homeowners don't need to hire a separate architect, manage subcontractors, or oversee the construction process themselves. White Crane handles everything — from initial design concepts through final construction finishes.
Their process is structured and transparent, beginning with an initial consultation and moving through the following key stages:
- An in-home complimentary consultation to assess the space and discuss goals
- Precise as-built measurements and photography to ensure accurate pricing
- Preliminary design concepts presented at their showroom
- Full design development with material selections and approvals
- A detailed Construction Contract with final pricing and a build schedule
- A pre-construction meeting to align on communication and timing
- Complete project management through to final completion
Throughout the entire process, homeowners work closely with a dedicated designer and project manager. Daily communication is a standard part of how White Crane operates, ensuring that clients are always informed and confident in the progress of their project.
White Crane's team of senior designers and certified project managers brings decades of combined experience to every project. Their work is backed by a strong warranty, and their commitment to the community extends well beyond project completion. For homeowners in the Twin Cities looking for a trusted ADU builder or remodeling partner, White Crane Design:Build represents a proven, people-centered choice.
