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Salvador Carbajal: The blueprint for faster, better builds
Salvador Carbajal is the founder of S-AC Design Group and S-AC Builders, leading every stage from concept to construction. Since launching his firm in 2020, he has completed over 200 architectural projects and 40 construction builds, specializing in custom single-family homes, multifamily residences, and ADUs. Beginning his career with one of the nation’s top general contractors, Salvador managed high-rise developments from the ground up—experience that shaped his seamless design–build approach. Through S-AC Design Group, he crafts spaces with a strong design–lifestyle connection, while S-AC Builders ensures flawless execution in-house. His mission is simple: create high-quality, meaningful spaces that bring visions to life.
In this episode, Jan and Salvador discuss:
- The differences between "like-for-like" rebuilds and full new builds in Los Angeles County and City
- Key permitting process timelines and requirements for Altadena and Pacific Palisades
- How to assemble the right team for a smooth construction project
- Strategies to avoid costly change orders and budget overruns
- The benefits of working with experienced architects, engineers, and contractors
Key Takeaways:
- In Altadena, “like-for-like” rebuilds can move quickly, with approvals often secured in just two months. By contrast, full new builds typically face a much longer timeline, averaging around eight months before permits are granted.
- Pacific Palisades, under LA City jurisdiction, allows greater design flexibility for “like-for-like” projects. The added advantage of the coastal exemption can significantly shorten the overall approval process.
- Working with a seasoned architectural firm and a skilled general contractor is essential. Their expertise not only speeds up the permitting process but also helps navigate complex construction challenges.
- A detailed, line-by-line bid from your contractor is a safeguard against unwelcome surprises. This level of transparency can greatly reduce the risk of mid-project change orders that inflate costs.
- Opting for a flat lot can save both time and effort during construction. Hillside lots, while often scenic, introduce additional complexity and longer timelines, especially for new builds.
“Choosing a general contractor is very important, and choosing a good architect or designer who knows what they're doing is important — even speed is important for you, then that's something to consider.”
- Salvador Carbajal
Connect with Salvador Carbajal:
Website: https://s-acm.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sac_designbuild/
Email: [email protected]
Connect with Jan Brzeski:
Website: https://scipfinance.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbrzeski/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RebuildingLAafterthefires
Email: [email protected]
Show notes by Podcastologist: Angelo Paul Tagama
Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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By Jan BrzeskiSalvador Carbajal is the founder of S-AC Design Group and S-AC Builders, leading every stage from concept to construction. Since launching his firm in 2020, he has completed over 200 architectural projects and 40 construction builds, specializing in custom single-family homes, multifamily residences, and ADUs. Beginning his career with one of the nation’s top general contractors, Salvador managed high-rise developments from the ground up—experience that shaped his seamless design–build approach. Through S-AC Design Group, he crafts spaces with a strong design–lifestyle connection, while S-AC Builders ensures flawless execution in-house. His mission is simple: create high-quality, meaningful spaces that bring visions to life.
In this episode, Jan and Salvador discuss:
- The differences between "like-for-like" rebuilds and full new builds in Los Angeles County and City
- Key permitting process timelines and requirements for Altadena and Pacific Palisades
- How to assemble the right team for a smooth construction project
- Strategies to avoid costly change orders and budget overruns
- The benefits of working with experienced architects, engineers, and contractors
Key Takeaways:
- In Altadena, “like-for-like” rebuilds can move quickly, with approvals often secured in just two months. By contrast, full new builds typically face a much longer timeline, averaging around eight months before permits are granted.
- Pacific Palisades, under LA City jurisdiction, allows greater design flexibility for “like-for-like” projects. The added advantage of the coastal exemption can significantly shorten the overall approval process.
- Working with a seasoned architectural firm and a skilled general contractor is essential. Their expertise not only speeds up the permitting process but also helps navigate complex construction challenges.
- A detailed, line-by-line bid from your contractor is a safeguard against unwelcome surprises. This level of transparency can greatly reduce the risk of mid-project change orders that inflate costs.
- Opting for a flat lot can save both time and effort during construction. Hillside lots, while often scenic, introduce additional complexity and longer timelines, especially for new builds.
“Choosing a general contractor is very important, and choosing a good architect or designer who knows what they're doing is important — even speed is important for you, then that's something to consider.”
- Salvador Carbajal
Connect with Salvador Carbajal:
Website: https://s-acm.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sac_designbuild/
Email: [email protected]
Connect with Jan Brzeski:
Website: https://scipfinance.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbrzeski/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RebuildingLAafterthefires
Email: [email protected]
Show notes by Podcastologist: Angelo Paul Tagama
Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.