Pacific Beach Triplex

This Pacific Beach project takes an existing property and transforms it into a modern triplex — three distinct living units that share a cohesive architectural identity. Located within the coastal zone, the project required navigating a complex regulatory environment while delivering a design that maximizes the potential of the site.

The challenge with coastal zone remodels is that every decision is scrutinized. Height limits, setbacks, lot coverage, and parking requirements all constrain the design envelope. Rather than treating these as limitations, we used them to drive creative solutions — compact floor plans that feel spacious, stacked volumes that maximize views, and shared outdoor spaces that benefit all three units.

Each unit is designed to feel like its own home, not an apartment. Private entries, dedicated outdoor space, and thoughtful sound separation ensure that residents enjoy the privacy of a single-family home with the efficiency of multi-unit living. The layout prioritizes natural light and ventilation, with each unit receiving exposure on at least two sides.

The exterior presents a modern coastal aesthetic — clean lines, natural tones, and durable materials selected to withstand the salt air environment. The building's massing is broken into distinct volumes to reduce its visual scale and relate to the surrounding neighborhood context.

Now breaking ground, this project represents the kind of work we find most rewarding — taking a constrained site, navigating complex regulations, and delivering a result that exceeds what anyone thought was possible within those boundaries.