About DNA Design Group

Premier Architecture & Interiors - San Diego
about us

Founded by Danish architect Jesper Pedersen in 2001,

DNA Design Group is a full-service architecture and interior design firm offering services globally, with its work delivered through DNA Architecture, where design, planning, and execution are developed as a single, coordinated process.

DNA’s Design & Build Division specializes in European architectural design, interior renovation, mid-century remodels, new construction, custom homes, and comprehensive project management, blending architectural vision with precise delivery.

Partnering with over thirty award-winning companies, DNA’s Interior Division integrates modern furnishings and contemporary Italian cabinetry—including custom kitchens, bathrooms, wall units, and closets—directly into the architectural and interior planning process. 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.

founder

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 offered 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 31 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.

Q & A

Privacy & Client Experience

Do you work with privacy-sensitive clients?

Yes. The process is structured to support discretion from the outset.

How is client privacy handled?

Communication is direct, controlled, and limited to essential parties.

Who leads the project?

Each project is led at the principal level by Jesper Pedersen.

What does that involve?

Direct oversight from design through construction.

How do you maintain a low-profile process?

Focused teams, organized coordination, minimal disruption.

What is the overall experience?

Calm, clear, and well-managed from start to completion.

Will my project be shared publicly?

Only with approval. Many projects remain private.

Can my project stay completely confidential?

Yes. Full discretion is always an option.

How is photography managed?

By permission only, with careful control over what is shown.