Get a Complimentary ADU Design + Permitting Consultation

Book a complimentary 45-minute consultation with our principal architect to get expert guidance on your ADU project, from design concept through approved permits.

Evaluate your property's ADU potential, including setbacks, zoning, and unit configurations

Get ballpark construction costs, permitting timelines, and projected rental income for your specific lot

Walk through the full design-to-permit process so you know exactly what to expect before committing

20+ ADU Projects Designed

More ADU experience than most architecture firms in San Diego. From garage conversions to ground-up builds, we've designed ADUs across nearly every neighborhood in the city.

Integrated Design + Permitting

One team handles everything from concept through approved plans. Our permit specialist spent years working inside San Diego's Development Services Department.

We've Been the Property Developer Too

Our principal architect has self-funded and developed multiple ADU projects on his own properties. We understand the investment side because we've sat in your seat.

Featured ADU Projects

A selection of ADU projects we've designed and permitted across San Diego. From garage conversions to ground-up builds, each project is tailored to maximize rental income and property value.

Client Testimonials

See what our client’s have to say about working with us.

"Sean and Margaret Have One of the Best Teams in Town."

They gave wonderful ideas and took the time to listen to my ideas. All of the plan designs were done according to schedule and they always responded to my calls or emails. If you want a professional who is on time and truly cares about your project, look no further and hire them!”
Valerie O.

"Sean Is The Guy If You Are Looking For A San Diego Architect."

I was referred to him via a mutual business connection, and couldn't be happier with his work...The final product was phenomenal. I could not be happier. His work was not only exactly what I was looking for, but he did it in a timely fashion."
Alexandra G.

"I Highly Recommend this Company for Residential Architecture."

Ten Seventy Architecture was the architect for my wife and I's home in Mission Hills, CA. Sean went out of his way to provide a clear process from start to completion. Sean listened to our ideas and had even better ones for us to review and approve.
Curtis P.

"Ten Seventy Architecture Is Very Easy To Work With."

They ask the right questions and take your needs into account when designing and are able to produce layouts that are functional. Their team is knowledgeable, creative and spot on. I always look forward to working on projects with them, it’s a collaborative effort from start to finish. Keep designing smart.
Brenda W.

"Sean Is Very Easy To Get Along With, Very Knowledgeable And Professional."

I worked with Sean in the renovation of my East Village house that is 100 years old. He is skilled in creating small but creative and functional spaces and he is practical in solutions. We have another project now and we would like to work with him again.
Sonya O.

"An Element We Loved About Sean Was His Ability To See Creatively From The Very Beginning."

I can tell you that when we walked out of the meeting with Sean, we both looked at each other and said: “That’s the guy we want” And we’ve had no regrets ever since.
Tom R.

"Sean Canning Is An Amazing Architect."

As a landscape designer I have been on two projects transformed by his extraordinary design expertise. You should call Ten Seventy Architecture if you desire a vision for your home beyond anything you could have anticipated.
Brookside Landscape Design

They Are Very Professional And Just As Importantly, Very Creative."

"Working with the Ten Seventy Architecture team has been excellent. They have worked on various projects with us from our San Diego Penthouse to our Warehouse space."
Victor N.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions + answers about ADU design, permitting, and construction costs in San Diego.

How Much Does It Cost to Build an ADU in San Diego?

Construction costs typically range from $300-$450 per square foot depending on project scope, site conditions, and whether you're doing a ground-up build or garage conversion. During your consultation, we'll give you a ballpark estimate based on your specific property and goals.

How Long Does the ADU Design and Permitting Process Take?

Most ADU projects take 3-6 months from initial design through approved permits, depending on your location and project complexity. Coastal zones and historic districts can take longer. We'll walk through realistic timelines during your consultation.

Can I Build an ADU on My Property?

Most single-family lots in San Diego qualify for at least one ADU under current California law. Setbacks, lot size, zoning, and utility access all factor in. We'll evaluate your specific property during the consultation and tell you exactly what's buildable.

What's the Difference Between an ADU, JADU, and Garage Conversion?

A standard ADU is a fully independent unit up to 1,200 sq ft. A Junior ADU (JADU) is built within your existing home's footprint at up to 500 sq ft. A garage conversion repurposes your existing garage structure, which often means lower costs and simpler permitting. We'll help you figure out which option fits your goals and budget.

Do I Need to Add Parking for My ADU?

In most cases, no. California state law exempts ADUs from parking requirements if your property is within half a mile of public transit, in a historic district, or part of an existing structure. We'll confirm your parking requirements during the consultation.

Ready to Explore Your Property's ADU Potential?

Book your complimentary 45-minute consultation with Sean Canning, our principal architect, and get a clear roadmap for your ADU project.