Same footprint. Completely new home.
Whole home remodels are the most cost-effective way to modernize a home without moving. ADU PALS designs and permits gut-level renovations across San Diego County — from layout re-planning to full mechanical and finish upgrades. The best remodels are indistinguishable from a new build inside.
What's included
Whole home remodels are architecturally as involved as a new custom home — sometimes more, because you're working with what's already there. Every project starts with as-builts and a structural read.
- 01 As-built survey of existing structure
- 02 Feasibility + concept planning (2–3 layout options)
- 03 Full architectural + interior design
- 04 Structural engineering + Title 24 energy compliance
- 05 MEP coordination and load calculations
- 06 City permit drawings + submission
- 07 Construction admin (RFIs, changes, field decisions)
- 08 Optional in-house build under one contract
How whole home remodels work
Assess + envision
On-site walkthrough, as-built survey, and 2–3 concept directions. You pick one before design begins.
Design
Full architectural design, interior planning, and material selections. Unlimited revisions until sign-off.
Permits
Structural, Title 24, MEP. Submission and correction rounds — we handle every conversation with the city.
Build
Optional in-house construction. Most whole-home remodels require the family to move out for 4–8 months.
Common questions
01 How much does a whole home remodel cost in San Diego?
For a full gut renovation, expect $300–$500/sqft delivered — roughly $600K–$1.2M for a 2,000 sqft home. Design + permits typically run 8–12% of construction. Cosmetic remodels (kitchen + baths + finishes only) run $150–$250/sqft.
02 Is it cheaper to remodel or rebuild?
In most SD County submarkets, a gut remodel is 20–35% cheaper than a tear-down-and-rebuild of the same square footage — assuming the foundation and structure are sound. If either is failing, rebuild becomes competitive.
03 Do I have to move out during a whole home remodel?
For a true gut remodel, yes — 4–8 months typically. The disruption is too great to live through safely. For phased remodels (kitchen first, then baths, then bedrooms), you can often stay if you have flexible space.
04 How long does the whole process take?
Plan on 14–24 months from first call to move-back-in. Design + permits: 6–10 months. Construction: 6–12 months.
05 Can I remodel and add square footage at the same time?
Yes — and it's often smart. Combining a remodel with an addition takes advantage of already-open drywall, active permits, and site logistics. Doing them separately can cost 20–30% more.
Often paired with this.
Home Additions in San Diego
Adding to your home is almost always cheaper than moving. ADU PALS designs and permits second-story additions, room expansions, and attached additions…
Learn more →Custom Home Design + Architecture in San Diego
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Learn more →Interior Design Coordination in San Diego
The reason kitchens and baths always cost more than expected is that they get designed twice — once by the architect, once by whoever picks the finish…
Learn more →Ready to remodel?
Free feasibility review. Real cost bands before you commit to design.