Carrin Michael Johnson is the Founder and CEO of Life House Design & Construction, a veteran-owned company based in San Diego that specializes in innovative housing solutions like full-home renovations and Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). As a Navy veteran and community-focused entrepreneur, Carrin uses design, construction, and education to help homeowners build equity and improve their communities. He also serves as Vice President of the San Diego Black Chamber of Commerce Diamond BID and regularly speaks about housing equity, smart growth, and community empowerment.
About Carrin Michael Johnson
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
Family is everything to me, I work with my wife Laura in the company we co-founded and we have three daughters together
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I’m currently an entrepreneur working in design and construction, focused on housing solutions like renovations and ADUs that help people build long-term stability and equity. My background includes military service, which shaped how I approach leadership, problem-solving, and responsibility. What I love most about what I do is seeing real impact — taking ideas from concept to completion and knowing the work improves how people live, supports families, and strengthens communities. Looking ahead, I’m focused on continuing to grow work that blends business, service, and long-term value.
Q: What advice would you give to people?
Dont give up on your dream, if you dont see them coming to past, get in community and anchor down with working hard.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
I see myself is a 10-20 unit investor and also a restaurant and lounge investor
Carrin Michael Johnson & Our Community
Q: What are a few of your favorite restaurants in our community?
. The Taco Stand
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
I have worked in your community for 3 years now.
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
a property owner who just had a baby and worked for meta facebook.
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
I’d say Brockton Villa always gives me that nostalgic La Jolla feeling. The views, the history, and the classic breakfast spot energy really capture what makes this community special. It reminds me of simple weekends with family or friends, enjoying local flavors and the unique charm of our coastline — the kind of place that sticks with you long after you leave.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
I had my engagement party in a place in La Jolla and my early dates with my wife were at the coves
Q: If you could choose anyone alive today and not a relative, with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would you meet for this lunch?
If I could have lunch with anyone alive today who isn’t a relative, I’d choose Daymond John, founder of FUBU and investor on Shark Tank. I admire how he built a global brand from the ground up, stayed true to his roots, and uses his platform to mentor and empower other entrepreneurs — especially in communities that are often overlooked. I’d love to talk with him about scaling a business, creating economic opportunity, and how leadership can positively impact communities. For this lunch in La Jolla, I’d pick The Taco Stand — a casual spot that feels approachable and lets for a real, grounded conversation about ideas, strategy, and giving back.
For Fun
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
I like the movie TENET alot and TV shows my favorite is the Mandalorian
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
Most people don’t know that I’m a Navy veteran. My time in service shaped how I approach challenges, leadership, and discipline — but it also gave me a deep appreciation for community, teamwork, and the value of helping others. Outside of work, it’s a side of me that isn’t obvious, but it really informs how I live and lead today.
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
10
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
Laura Rios Johnson my wife
Q: What community organizations and/or local nonprofits do you admire/support?
I admire and support organizations that focus on community development, equity, and local entrepreneurship. Specifically, I have a lot of respect for the San Diego Black Chamber of Commerce, where I serve as Vice President of the Diamond BID, because of their work empowering Black business owners and fostering economic growth. I also support initiatives that expand housing opportunities and provide resources for underserved communities, as these align closely with my work in design, construction, and ADUs. Organizations like these play a crucial role in building stronger, more connected neighborhoods, and I’m proud to contribute where I can.
Q: What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
Do or do not, there is no try
Q: What Neighborhood do you live in?
I currently live in La Mesa
What I love about my Neighborhood:
Its quite and Dog friendly for my Labordoodle named charlie brown
Please describe your ideal San Diego weekend:
the gym and hanging out at the beach
Q: Finally, what three words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Security, community, and growth. Home is more than a place — it’s where people feel safe, connected to those around them, and have the space to grow, build equity, and thrive.
Website:https://www.lifehousesd.com/
