Journal

Field notes on building better.

LatestCommercialApril 26, 2026

What Is a Feasibility Study? And Why It Comes Before Design.

The step most property owners skip — and the most expensive mistake in commercial development. What a feasibility study is, what it catches, and when you need one.

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Recent essays

Residential10 min read

How Much Does an ADU Cost in the Bay Area in 2026? Prices by City and Type

A detailed look at what a Bay Area ADU actually costs in 2026 — broken down by unit type, jurisdiction, hard costs, soft costs, and the specific line items that catch homeowners off guard.

Commercial9 min read

How Much Can You Actually Build on Your Commercial Lot?

Six things that really decide what you can build on a small commercial or mixed-use lot in California — and why the zoning code is only the start of the conversation.

Residential6 min read

ADU vs JADU in California: Which One Should You Build?

ADUs and JADUs are both California-protected housing types, but they differ in size, cost, rental potential, and permit pathway. Here's how to choose the right one for your property.

Tenant Improvement5 min read

How Long Does a Commercial Build-Out Actually Take in the Bay Area?

Between design, permitting, and construction, a commercial build-out in the Bay Area takes longer than most business owners expect. Here's a realistic timeline — broken down by phase, project type, and city.