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Premium Modern ADU Design in San Diego County
Welcome to Your Dream ADU
Designed by Todd Kuhlman
Kuhlman Scott Architects specializes in designing high-end modern Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) for homeowners throughout San Diego County. Our architectural team focuses on creating sophisticated, space-efficient living environments that elevate your property and provide exceptional functionality for family living, guest accommodations, or rental opportunities.
Accessory Dwelling Units shouldn’t feel like an afterthought. At Kuhlman Scott Architects, we design premium modern ADUs that elevate your property and create exceptional living spaces for family, guests, or long-term rental.
Our architectural team specializes in high-end, contemporary ADU designs tailored for San Diego County homes, blending modern aesthetics with intelligent use of space, natural light, and the Southern California lifestyle.
Whether you’re creating a private guest residence, multigenerational living space, or luxury rental opportunity, our ADU designs are crafted to feel like a standalone modern home—just in a smaller footprint.
Designed for the Way San Diego Lives
San Diego homeowners value outdoor living, clean architecture, and thoughtful design. Our ADUs reflect those values with:
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Modern architectural styling
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Open, light-filled interiors
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Seamless indoor-outdoor flow
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Premium finishes and materials
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Intelligent, space-efficient layouts
Every ADU we design is customized to complement your primary residence while adding lasting value to your property.
Many ADUs are designed as simple additions.
We design them as exceptional living environments.
Our approach focuses on creating ADUs that offer:
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Architectural sophistication – clean modern lines and thoughtful proportions
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High-end livability – spacious layouts that maximize comfort
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Privacy and independence – ideal for family members, guests, or tenants
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Long-term property value – a well-designed ADU increases both usability and resale appeal
From detached backyard residences to integrated modern suites, Kuhlman Scott Architects ensures every project reflects the same quality and design standards as a full custom home.
Premium ADUs That Feel Like Real Homes
ADU FAQs
What is an ADU?
An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a smaller residential unit located on the same property as a primary home. ADUs can be detached backyard homes, attached additions, or converted spaces such as garages. In San Diego County, ADUs are increasingly popular because they allow homeowners to add living space for family members, guests, or rental income while maximizing the value of their property.
How much does it cost to build a premium ADU in San Diego County?
The cost of building a premium ADU in San Diego County varies depending on size, site conditions, and level of finishes. Modern architect-designed ADUs with high-end materials and thoughtful layouts typically cost more than basic prefab units, but they provide greater long-term value, livability, and rental potential. Working with an experienced architect ensures your ADU is designed efficiently and complements your existing home.
What size ADU can I build in San Diego County?
California state law allows many homeowners to build ADUs up to 800 square feet by right, with larger units often permitted depending on the lot size, zoning, and local regulations. Some properties may qualify for 1,000 to 1,200 square feet or more. An experienced architect can help evaluate your property and determine the best ADU size and configuration allowed by local codes.
What is the difference between an ADU and a Junior ADU?
A Junior ADU (JADU) is typically created within the existing home and is limited to 500 square feet. It often shares a bathroom with the main residence and has fewer requirements than a full ADU. A standard ADU, on the other hand, is a fully independent living space with its own kitchen, bathroom, and entrance, providing greater privacy and flexibility for occupants.
Can an ADU increase the value of my home?
Yes. A well-designed ADU can significantly increase property value in San Diego County. Because ADUs provide additional living space and potential rental income, they make homes more attractive to future buyers. Premium architectural ADUs that match the style of the main residence often deliver the greatest long-term value.
Can I rent out my ADU in San Diego?
In most cases, homeowners in San Diego County can rent out their ADU for long-term tenants. Many homeowners build ADUs as income-generating rental units or executive guest houses. Local regulations typically require rentals to be long-term (30 days or more), though rules may vary by city.
How long does it take to design and build an ADU?
The timeline for designing and building an ADU varies based on permitting, project complexity, and construction scheduling. The architectural design and permitting process can take several months, followed by construction. Working with an experienced architectural team helps streamline the process and avoid common delays.
Why work with an architect to design an ADU?
Working with an architect ensures your ADU is designed to maximize space, natural light, privacy, and long-term value. Instead of using a generic plan, architects create a design tailored to your property, neighborhood, and lifestyle. For homeowners seeking a modern, premium ADU that enhances their property, architectural design is essential.
Meet Todd Kuhlman
Kuhlman Scott Architects was founded by Todd Kuhlman after working as an licensed Architect for 30 years. He has experience as a general contractor and developer.
As an architect and builder, Todd has directed the design, development and construction of homes, mixed-use projects, commercial buildings and spaces, and multi-family residential communities in Illinois, Arizona, and California since 1989.
He has built an exceptional team with Architects, General Contractors, and Civil Engineers.
Let's Get to Work
At Kuhlman Scott Architects, we believe in creating designs that are too good to leave on the drawing board - every concept reflects our passion for transformative, client-specific architecture, ready to inspire and impress.