San Diego’s “SDG&E Building” Set for Multi-Million Dollar Design Competition

Sandor Shapery has owned the 444,986-square foot building at 101 Ash St. in downtown San Diego since 1993. Built in 1969, the former SDG&E/Sempra headquarters is long overdue for a remodel, and Shapery is opening the building’s future look to the public’s ideas and input.

On April 18th, he will launch a competition in 17 categories to remodel the building, all with cash prizes as an incentive, if designing a historic building isn’t enough. First-place winners will receive $5,000 and could be hired with a $20,000 retainer to carry out the plan.

Shapery said, “This is the biggest remodel I’ve ever done.” The makeover is expected to cost an estimated $40-$60 million. His initial creative thoughts for the 21-story building include an outdoor bar with panoramic views, a nightclub or restaurant, and penthouse luxury suites.