San Diego ADU

Elevated Design for Your San Diego ADU Project

Ten Seventy Architecture offers a full suite of design and construction services to help people who love modern architecture navigate the challenges of constructing a San Diego ADU (accessory dwelling unit).

Our newly released pre-approved ADU plans make it easier than ever to build a modern + affordable ADU in San Diego.

Our Modern Architecture Studio Can Help Build Your Dream ADU in San Diego

ADUs (commonly referred to as granny flats, companion units, guest houses, and in-law suites) are a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to expand their home’s living space or utilize their lot for rental property opportunities.

With over a decade of experience navigating San Diego’s notoriously complex code, we have the expertise to help our clients accomplish their project goals with modern + functional architectural design. You’ll share your vision and we’ll do the rest, from designing your ADU to securing the proper permits and finishing construction.

If you’re ready to take the next step, click the button below to schedule a complimentary consultation. We’d love to help make your dream project a reality.

Book an ADU Consultation

Key Features of Our San Diego ADU Projects

When considering to build an ADU, there are many design and construction details to keep in mind. Our team of experienced San Diego ADU builders will listen to your project goals and leverage city regulations to create a sleek + functional accessory dwelling unit that perfectly fits your timeline and budget.

Our Integrated Process for San Diego ADU Projects


Our modern design studio puts your needs at the center of our proprietary design process. We take care of everything for your project in-house, from drafting a design and securing permits to building your dream ADU. At Ten Seventy Architecture, we guide you through each step of the San Diego ADU development process to complete your project on time and within budget. 

With more than a decade of experience navigating San Diego's complex code and building ADUs, we understand the importance of partnering with expert contractors and engineers. With our streamlined process, you won't have to coordinate with multiple companies to get the job done. And, we gather client feedback throughout the process to shape our design direction, ensuring you have confidence in the final product.
Example of Modern ADU Design

High-End Modern Design for Your San Diego ADU

Looking to create a custom high-end ADU? You’ve come to the right place. Our team specializes in developing modern, minimalist, and mid-century modern ADU designs. Check out our portfolio of projects that showcase our expertise navigating San Diego’s municipal codes and regulations.

Even if you’re on a tight budget or timeline, Ten Seventy Architecture can help you design and build an incredible ADU that will impress the whole neighborhood. We’ve also recently begun self-funding our own ADU projects, giving us an enhanced perspective on the process.

If you’re wondering how to get started, check out our ADU project guide. Inside, you’ll find helpful visualizations of San Diego ADU building codes. We also regularly release helpful content related to ADUs on our modern architecture blog
Example of Modern ADU Design

Our New Pre-Designed ADU Plans are Now Available

Introducing our newly released pre-designed, pre-approved ADU plans. Last year, our team of architects designed, permitted, and built a self-funded accessory dwelling unit. Through this project, we developed a universal design that can be customized to fit the size of your lot and other project needs. These plans fit in any lot in San Diego that qualifies for an ADU. There’s also potential to use this design in other municipalities throughout California.

Our pre-approved plans will save you time and money so you can begin your San Diego ADU project without the hassle of intensive research on city codes and regulations before getting approval. Whether you’re on a tight budget or simply aren’t looking for a fully custom design, our pre-approved plans are perfect for you.

Example of ADU 3D Rendering

Discover Our Portfolio of San Diego ADU Projects

We have 10+ years of experience as leading San Diego ADU architects, helping our clients build incredible accessory dwelling units. Our past projects are a testament to our passion for modern + minimalist design.

Start Your San Diego ADU Project with 3 Simple Steps

Schedule an ADU Consultation

Learn More About Our Team of San Diego ADU Architects + Your Project Options

Book a Meeting to Talk to Us About Your ADU Project and Get Our Professional Advice

Have a Plan to Confidently Hire the Best San Diego ADU Architects for Your Project

Get to Know the Team Behind Our San Diego ADUs

At Ten Seventy Architecture, we know that the success of any project depends on our relationships with our clients. We strive to create thoughtful, innovative designs, ones that will improve your quality of life for years to come.

Founder / Principal Architect

Sean Canning

Sean is a graduate of NJIT, where he studied architecture + industrial design. He relocated to San Diego in 2009 to open the boutique architecture studio, Ten Seventy Architecture, focussing predominantly on modern, minimalist, + creative architecture. Sean has also won various awards for modern furniture he has designed.

  • California Registered Architect

  • LEED Accredited Professional

  • Bachelor of Architecture (NJIT)

  • Certification in Project Management (SDSU)

Profile Picture of Sean Canning - Principal Architect and Owner of Ten Seventy Architecture in San Diego, California

Project Manager / Permit Specialist

Margaret Canning

Margaret is also a graduate of NJIT, where she studied architecture + civil engineering. She relocated to San Diego in 2010 working at a LEED consulting firm before taking a job as a project manager in San Diego’s permit office for 5 years. Later she brought her skillset to Ten Seventy Architecture where she manages projects + permitting.

  • LEED Accredited Professional

  • Bachelor of Architecture (NJIT)

  • Masters of Civil Engineering (NJIT)

  • Certification in Project Management (SDSU)

Margaret Canning Profile Photo of Ten Seventy Architecture

Architectural Designer

Jen-Ni Lin

Jen-Ni is our Architectural Designer who works on projects which require greater graphic illustration. She works on our aesthetic commercial projects as well as small modern ADU projects that require tight planning and out-of-the-box thinking. Jen-Ni is a talented designer who can develop good ideas into beautiful architecture.  

Margaret Canning Profile Photo of Ten Seventy Architecture

Architectural Designer

Nolan Delgado

Nolan is the team’s Architectural Designer who works on custom residential projects which require the highest level of attention to detail. He has worked to refine our 3D printed study models as well as build templated architectural processes. Nolan brings a modernists rational to our projects.  

Margaret Canning Profile Photo of Ten Seventy Architecture

10+ Years of Experience
in Construction and Home Design Services

"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.

"An element we loved about Sean was his ability to see creatively from the very beginning. And 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.

“5.000 stars. The recent opening of our ophthalmology practice has been a year in the making, and Sean Canning from Ten Seventy Architecture was integral to the successful design and execution of our space.”

Adam D.

“Highly recommend working with Sean, he is a licensed Architect who puts the customer's best interests first. I have worked with Sean on several projects, his thoroughness streamlines the project helping save money and time.”

Curtis P.

Our Complete Guide to Building an ADU in San Diego

Are you interested in building an ADU? Our comprehensive San Diego ADU guide is a great place to start. Download this free resource to learn more about the city’s complex municipal code and regulations.

A Quick Start Guide to Planning Your ADU Project

If you’re considering working with San Diego ADU architects to create your dream accessory dwelling unit, you can save time and money by reviewing our ADU project guide. This free resource outlines everything you need to know about building an ADU, with insider tips and tricks.

The guide is updated with 2022 San Diego ADU building regulations, including the full municipal code, helpful explanations, and visual diagrams. Once you’ve reviewed the technical code, you’ll have a strong understanding of how regulations will shape your project. From there, you’ll be ready to confidently hire an architect for your ADU project.

San Diego ADU Project Guide Mockup

Questions + Answers About Our San Diego ADU Plans

Below are common questions we often field regarding our San Diego ADU plans. If you have a question that you don't see answered below, simply use the form at the bottom of this page and we'll help you out as best we can.

How much Will This Pre-Approved ADU Cost?

Municipal permit fees will be about $10k per ADU. Current construction costs in San Diego start around $300/sf.

How Much Money Will I Save Compared to A Custom ADU?

By using one of our pre-designed ADU plans you can save upwards of $20k from typical design + engineering fees.

How Long Will It Take To Build This Pre-Approved ADU?

Permitting in San Diego can take around 3-4 months. Construction projects will generally take 12 months +/- depending on your contractor.

How Much Time Will I Save By Using These Pre-Approved Plans?

Our pre-designed ADU can shave 3-4 months off of our typical design process of designing an ADU from scratch.

Is Permitting Still Required for This Pre-approved ADU?

Yes, all projects, including ADUs + JADUs, require a permit.

What Do I need To Know About Permitting?

You don't need to know anything about permitting. We have the best permit expert in San Diego on staff!

How Long Will It Take To Customize The Plans?

If you'd like us to customize the plans per your specifications it will take us a few weeks.

How Can I Purchase These Pre-Approved ADU Plans?

Fill out the form on the bottom of this page to get in touch with us!