Pedregal is one of the most sought-after gated communities in Cabo San Lucas — and for good reason. With panoramic ocean views, cobblestone streets, and unmatched privacy, it’s a dream location for luxury homebuyers and investors alike. But for those planning to build a home from the ground up, Pedregal presents some unique challenges that not everyone is prepared for.
In this article, we explore the real-life construction experience behind Villa Ambuja, a 10-bedroom custom villa currently being built by ICSA, led by renowned architect Icsael Reyes, who has been designing and building luxury properties in Los Cabos for over 15 years.
🏗️ Building in Pedregal: More Than Just a Dream Lot
Pedregal's mountain terrain provides breathtaking views — but also demands a high level of engineering, planning, and creativity. Before you break ground, here are key factors you need to consider:
1. Steep Terrain & Excavation Challenges
Most Pedregal lots sit on steep slopes carved into the hillside. To even begin construction, builders often have to break through solid rock using jackhammers and heavy machinery. This makes excavation more time-consuming and expensive compared to flatter lots in other areas.
2. Access and Logistics
In many cases, trucks and machinery can't access the construction site directly. Materials must be manually carried or lifted into place, significantly increasing labor requirements and time on site.
3. Multi-Level Structural Requirements
Because of the topography, Pedregal homes are rarely single-story builds. Multiple levels, retaining walls, and complex structural engineering are almost always required — meaning you need an experienced architect who understands how to design with the land, not against it.
🔧 Why ICSA Chose Steel for Villa Ambuja
Most homes in Cabo are built using concrete, but Villa Ambuja is being constructed with a steel frame — one of the only residential projects in Los Cabos currently doing so.
Here's why steel is a smart solution in Pedregal:
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Faster Build Time – Steel is prefabricated off-site, lifted by crane, and assembled quickly.
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Greater Design Flexibility – Wider open spans without bulky concrete supports.
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Earthquake Resistance – Steel offers better seismic performance than concrete.
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Cooler Interiors – Steel construction allows for better ventilation and temperature regulation.
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Space Efficiency – Structural components take up less room, giving you more usable space.
Although steel is slightly more expensive upfront, the long-term savings and structural advantages often outweigh the initial investment — especially on a challenging lot.
💰 Construction Costs: What’s the Price Per Square Foot in Pedregal?
As of now, the average cost to build in Pedregal sits around $360 USD per square foot, according to Icsael. This varies depending on the complexity of the project, materials used, and the fluctuation between the Mexican peso and the U.S. dollar.
Because materials are sourced and priced in pesos, currency changes can slightly affect your overall budget. However, most experienced builders will factor in reasonable buffers to account for this.
🏠 Design Starts with the Land
One of the most important takeaways from our conversation with Icsael is that design begins with a deep understanding of the lot itself. That means:
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Analyzing topography
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Identifying rock formations
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Assessing wind flow, sun exposure, and drainage
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Planning for hurricanes and seismic activity
This initial research influences not only the design and layout of the home but also its long-term durability and livability.
“You’re not just designing a home — you’re designing for the mountain, the climate, and the safety of your investment.”
— Icsael Reyes, Architect, ICSA
✅ Work With the Right Team
If you’re thinking about building a custom home in Pedregal, the most important decision you’ll make is who you hire. Between the terrain, engineering, and logistics, building here requires experience, creativity, and precision.
With over 15 years of experience, ICSA is one of the most respected architecture and construction firms in Cabo. Led by Icsael Reyes, the team specializes in turning complex lots into modern, functional, and beautifully designed homes that stand the test of time.
📍 Ready to Start Your Pedregal Dream Home?
Whether you're looking to build a luxury vacation rental like Villa Ambuja, or your own private getaway, our team is here to help guide you through every step — from land selection to design and construction.
LOTS FOR SALE IN PEDREGAL: CLICK HERE!
Contact us today to learn more about building in Pedregal:
📩 Email: [email protected]
📞 Phone / WhatsApp: +52 6241133352
🌐 Website: www.jorgesellscabo.com
🏗️ Architecture & Construction: ICSA – Icsael Reyes
