About

About DNA Design Group | Premier Architecture & Interiors - San Diego

Founded by Danish architect Jesper Pedersen in 2001, DNA Design Group is a full-service architecture and interior design firm offering services globally. DNA's Design & Build Division specializes in European architectural design, interior renovation, mid-century remodels, new construction, custom homes, and project management. Partnering with over thirty award-winning companies, DNA's Interior Division integrates modern furnishings and contemporary Italian cabinetry - custom kitchens, bathrooms, wall units, and closets into the design. DNA Design Group offers complete peace of mind turnkey solutions for their clients from design concept through project completion.

Founder – Jesper Pedersen

Jesper Pedersen, a Danish architect, began his career building commercial projects in Edinburgh, Scotland and London, and Ascot, England. While attending University in Denmark, Jesper was profoundly influenced and inspired by Danish design legends- Arne Jacobsen, Jorgen Utzon, and Henning Larsen. After graduating near the top of his class, Jesper joined the well-regarded Danish architect and development firm – JFP, where he designed and managed both residential and commercial projects. Having established a proven track record in the industry, Jesper was asked to join one of the largest construction companies in Denmark – Hoffman and Son. As their youngest Senior Project Manager, he successfully managed multimillion-dollar commercial projects throughout Copenhagen.

While on holiday in Costa Rica, Jesper met his future wife, a California native who prompted his relocation to San Diego, CA, and the founding of DNA. Jesper has spent his time building DNA by working with both the trade and the end client not only in the US but in Mexico, Europe, and Asia as well. He has worked with some of the top design teams and furniture manufacturers in the world – firms such as the Pininfarina Design Group in Mexico City and Fritz Hansen in Denmark. As DNA has evolved into the design firm it is today, Jesper continues to bring his architectural and project management experience, as well as his style, into the world of interior design. Jesper is best known for integrating his unique design ascetic and expertise with his client’s tastes, personality, and budget.

Jesper also co-designed IQ haus, an innovative modular home solution. IQ haus debuted its much-talked-about IQ-start home at the 2010 Dwell design show in Los Angeles. IQ-start offers an affordable, turnkey building solution with a premium fit and finish.

One of Jesper’s favorite rooms to design is the kitchen, so it is no surprise this is where he spends a good deal of downtime with his wife, Cathi, and best design to date – daughter Emma. He enjoys cooking and entertaining for family and friends. Moreover, true to his Danish roots, he is all about being around the dining table and creating a ‘hyggelig’ (cozy) environment accomplished by clean lines, a neutral palette, and color provided by his food, art and the loved ones in his life.

With over 25 years in the design and building industry, Jesper’s passion for design shows in all of his work – as an architect, designer, project manager, and entrepreneur.

Jesper Pedersen, Founder of DNA Design Group

  • "We have been using DNA since 2001. They are incredibly reliable, honest and creative. We fell in love with their design to the point that we can’t go back to anything else. Everything they have done for us remains in great condition and up to date. We’ve used their services for two major renovations and upgrades and after 17 years we are about to go through a new small upgrade and here they are as good as when we first met them so many years ago. For anyone looking for an amazing new project do not hesitate to use DNA Design Group."

    — Silvia Chayet

  • “Jesper was outstanding in every way. I chose to work with Jesper after seeing his work on his website and meeting him. He listened closely to my vision, asked smart questions, and spent a lot of time early in the process to make sure the plans were right. During the construction phase, he paid close attention to the details and made sure that everything was done correctly. He also evaluated all of the project costs and would make creative suggestions about how to save costs without sacrificing the quality project. His artistic sense was excellent, and I would highly recommend him.”

    — Chris Huffman

  • “Jesper Pedersen is amazing. He is one of a kind here in San Diego as no one else matches his Danish design experience and architectural education. I had the pleasure of working with Jesper on renovating my 1600 sq ft 3 br/3ba condo in downtown San Diego and my mid-century modern house in North Pacific Beach. He took places that people literally asked me why I would even think of buying them and turning them into gorgeous, modern residences that still have a lot of warmth. We actually held the reception for our wedding at the house. Jesper takes time to ensure that everything is 100% perfect. Not only is his design amazing, but he is also a pleasure to work with.”

    — Amit Singh, Esq

  • “I rarely write reviews, but I feel that I really needed to write one this time. DNA completely re-designed our personal residence 12 years ago. They did such a great job and were so attentive to our ideas, what was important to us, and the ergonomics of the complex space and managed to design a beautiful and timeless modern home that we have been enjoying ever since. The communications were always very straightforward, and considering the caliber of design, the fees were very reasonable. Because of that great previous experience, we recently had DNA re-design a very modern 4,000 Ocean view house that came out truly amazing and most of all on budget! I would definitely recommend DNA.”

    — Lee Gilroy

  • “I have done numerous renovations in Palm Beach, Fl, Greenwich, CT, Martha’s Vineyard, MA, and La Jolla, CA. Without a doubt, my kitchen renovation with DNA Design Group was the smoothest, and most professional experience I have ever had. Through blind faith, I hired DNA Design Group to do a total kitchen design and renovation project in California while I was living full time on the East Coast. Jesper and Millene handled the whole project with absolute precision in design, material quality, as well as cost estimation. Every deadline was met exactly as outlined. The only “surprise” in the project was when I arrived in California to find an absolutely gorgeous kitchen that far exceeded my expectations!”

    — Mary Karlan

  • “Working with Jesper Pedersen of DNA Design Group has been a pleasure. As both an architect and designer, Jesper has a keen sense of balance , scope and proportion. He considers your desires and goals ,including budgetary constraints, and listens well before presenting options. He is excellent at presenting an overall view that is color coordinated, balanced and beautifully designed. His staff is very good at researching product and prices and obtaining necessary permits and approvals. He is always available and responds quickly to questions and requests. We highly recommend Jesper and his firm.”

    — Jerry Sheldon

  • “Jesper is a brilliant and dedicated professional with a phenomenal level of expertise in design, construction and architecture. He has a very thoughtful, and patient approach which helped me select the absolute right color, style, finish and special features for my kitchen cabinets. He remained involved until the project was completely finished and did an excellent job with interfacing with my General Contractor, Architect Appliance supplier, and installer. I was so fortunate to have selected Jesper and DNA and give him the highest recommendation as his expertise made it possible for all the puzzle pieces of my kitchen to fit together perfectly.”

    — Sandi Goldstein