About O’Malley Builds California Custom Building Experts
Patrick O'Malley founded O'Malley Builds after building a career that intentionally spanned three disciplines: architecture, real estate ownership, and general contracting. His formal architectural education gave him a design-first perspective. Years as a licensed real estate professional taught him how projects are evaluated financially. And direct work in construction management showed him where projects typically break down — in the handoffs between professionals who don't share the same language.
O'Malley Builds was built on the belief that a single team with fluency across all three disciplines produces better projects — at lower cost, with fewer surprises, and better long-term value. Patrick is actively involved in every project the firm takes on.
Active projects in Pacific Palisades and Santa Monica reflect the team's range across high-end residential development, commercial build-outs, and multi-unit housing. The firm is also actively supporting homeowners through the Pacific Palisades fire rebuild process.
Licenses & Credentials
California General Contractor License No. 1140508
Issued by the California Contractors State License Board. This license authorizes O'Malley Builds to serve as the licensed general contractor of record on residential and commercial projects across California — assuming legal responsibility for subcontractor management, permit compliance, lien management, and code adherence.
California Real Estate License No. 02230199
A licensed real estate professional with direct experience evaluating projects from a development and investment perspective. This background informs how O'Malley Builds approaches feasibility review, pro forma analysis, and long-term value planning on every project.
Formal Architecture Background
Patrick's architectural training provides the design literacy to review plans critically, identify constructability issues early, and communicate effectively with architects throughout the design process — reducing change orders and protecting design intent through construction.
Current Project Focus
O'Malley Builds is currently active in Pacific Palisades and Santa Monica, with ongoing residential development and fire rebuild work across Los Angeles. The firm's San Diego office handles projects in Solana Beach and surrounding coastal communities.
Why Southern California
Pacific Palisades, Santa Monica, and the greater Los Angeles coastal market require specific local knowledge — hillside construction constraints, HOA approval processes, LADBS permitting procedures, and a labor and materials market that behaves differently than other regions. O'Malley Builds has operated in this market for over 15 years and brings that accumulated local knowledge to every project's planning and execution.
A Complete View of the Building Process
Our foundation is built on diverse expertise. Our founder didn’t just start in construction—they began with a formal education in architecture. This design-first mindset evolved through becoming a property owner, a licensed real estate professional, and a licensed general contractor.
This unique path allows us to bridge the gap between three vital areas:
Design Intent
Financial Reality
Construction Execution
Why Our Approach Works
Most projects suffer from "handoff" problems—where the architect, the owner, and the builder aren't on the same page. We solve that. Because we understand the entire lifecycle of a project, we eliminate unnecessary delays and confusion.
Whether we are working on a small-scale renovation or a large-scale development, our focus remains the same: controlling costs without sacrificing style.
Our Proven Track Record
With over 15 years of experience across the architecture and construction industries, we have the skills to handle complex challenges in both the residential and commercial sectors.
Current & Past Highlights:
Pacific Palisades:Â Actively leading high-end residential developments.
Santa Monica:Â Managing sophisticated commercial projects.
Versatility:Â Proven success in both large, complex builds and smaller, detailed projects.
At a Glance
15+ Years of Mastery
Deep roots in design, building, and real estate.
Full-Circle Knowledge
We understand the "why" behind the design and the "how" of the construction.
Efficiency First
We prioritize cost control and project speed through better planning.
Local Experts
Deeply involved in the Southern California 
development landscape.
Our Development Portfolio
Transform your development vision into reality with our comprehensive real estate development services that combine architectural insight and construction knowledge.