Mariko Reed
Example of a mid-sized 1950s dark wood floor and brown floor entryway design in San Francisco with a blue front door

You can thank Bartels for taking the barn door out of the barn and placing them into homes and offices worldwide. Introducing the original stainless modern barn door hardware, we continue to feature only the highest quality products on the market today. One-of-a-kind and unconventionally modern barn doors will prove to be transformative within any space. Dare to be original with us!

For an 1800s farmhouse in the Hudson Valley, I worked collaboratively with my clients bringing together their personal collection of furniture, objects, and antiques from their extensive travels throughout Italy, Spain, Morocco, India, and Greece with eclectic finds I sourced locally. Intent on preserving many of the original architectural elements, we refurbished the working fireplaces and solid wood doors outfitted with hardware from the early 1900s (which had been hand-forged by the blacksmith who had once lived there). Since my clients love to entertain, we added additional rooms suitable for hosting large house parties and updated most of the home's fixtures and fittings. We repainted many of the rooms introducing warm, muted tones of moss, mauve, and hay and custom fabricated much of the furniture. The blue couches in the living room feature a rich navy mohair velvet beside pillows with antique textiles, meanwhile the primary bedroom dons a pink linen bedcover and chunky mohair blanket in a warm citrine.

This distinguished residence presents a refined stucco exterior, creating a clean and enduring facade that beautifully anchors the property to its landscape. The crisp, smooth texture of the stucco is perfectly complemented by the addition of striking blue shutters, which introduce a vibrant touch of coastal personality and elegantly frame the home's classic fenestration.

Kitchen in Bronco | Key Feature: A Scottsdale new-build rooted in sculptural modernism, Bronco Revival balances bold black-and-white contrast with organic textures, natural wood elements, and statement lighting. As a groundbreaking “Live Lab” designer residence, it’s a first-of-its-kind space where luxury furnishings are tested in real-world conditions before being introduced into high-profile client homes. Challenge: Because Bronco Revival was the designer’s personal residence, the project carried a unique level of pressure and intention. The challenge was creating a Scottsdale new-build that felt elevated and editorial while still functioning as a true family home. Every selection had to balance bold sculptural modernism (high contrast, statement lighting, architectural furnishings) with durability, comfort, and day-to-day livability. In addition, the home served as a “Live Lab,” meaning new vendors, materials, and luxury furnishings needed to be tested in real-life conditions before being trusted for future high-profile client projects. Solution: We approached the project with a highly curated, test-and-refine design strategy, treating each space as both a finished interior and a real-world evaluation environment. Key furnishings, textiles, and materials were selected to support the modern organic vision while also standing up to the demands of everyday family life. We worked through selections intentionally, layering in bold contrast, natural woods, and sculptural statement pieces, while prioritizing performance materials, pet-friendly durability, and timeless foundational elements. By using the home as a lived-in showroom, we were able to validate what truly performs beautifully, refine our vendor relationships, and confidently carry those proven selections into future client designs. Materials: MadeGoods: Sculptural Davion coffee tables | Loloi: Custom performance rug collection | Schumacher: Bespoke drapery fabrication | Aesthetic Wall Coverings: Pioneering wallpaper application on ceiling beams | Zac + Fox: Exclusive textile collaboration via Made Resource Group | Budget ($ Range): $300K | Timeline (Duration): 4 MONTHS

Bathroom - transitional bathroom idea in New York

Set high in the Hollywood Hills, this historic mid-century modern home marks the first commissioned residential project by acclaimed California architect A. Quincy Jones. Thoughtfully reimagined, the remodel honors the home’s architectural legacy while introducing a refined, contemporary sensibility. Our approach focused on preserving the original design, including clean lines, indoor-outdoor flow, and natural materials, while elevating each space through layered textures, custom millwork, and curated finishes. Color and quirk create additional charm in the home, while warm wood tones and sculptural elements preserve the interiors. The result is a home that feels both iconic and livable.

From Mid-Century Classic to the Present An iconic design updated with comfort, function, and flow for today. A Remodel That Balances Past and Present What started as a desire to update a classic Eichler soon became an exploration of how Mid-Century Modern design can successfully evolve for today. The client, a tech professional with a passion for scuba diving and underwater photography, wanted a home that would both honor its original character and feel tailored to his daily life. A lifelong technology enthusiast, he still owns the very first Mac desktop he saved up for as a teenager working at Radio Shack, a detail that underscores his appreciation for design that melds function and form. Honoring Separation While Expanding Possibility Unlike many contemporary remodels where walls are opened up to create expansive living spaces, this project took a more restrained approach. The client valued the defined rooms of the original plan and wanted to preserve as much wall space as possible for displaying his large-format underwater photography. The emphasis was not on dramatic spatial reinvention, but on thoughtful refinements. Klopf Architecture shaped a gallery-like backdrop while also expanding the primary suite, modernizing materials and fixtures throughout the home, and improving the functionality and layout of the kitchen. The finished home feels at once timeless and renewed, an Eichler that continues to inspire while fully supporting the lifestyle of its present-day owner. A major turning point came mid-design. The original project brief had not included an addition, but as the reconfiguration of the primary bedroom and bath unfolded, it became clear that an expansion was the best approach to achieve the client’s vision of a more spacious suite. Fortunately, the adjustment came at a stage when revisions were still manageable and was integrated seamlessly, showing how thoughtful course corrections can strengthen a project rather than hinder it. Navigating Challenges With Precision The design development included multiple conceptual rounds, balancing preservation with subtle expansion. During construction, an existing post previously thought to be load-bearing turned out not to be. The structural engineer was able to pivot quickly, and both the post and the cross beam that had been intended to replace it could be omitted, allowing the original rhythm of the Eichler beam bays to be preserved. Sustainability was not just a checklist item, but a way to align the home with the client’s values of simplicity, efficiency, and long-term functionality. R-38 roof insulation reduced energy usage, solar panels with battery storage provided independence and resilience, and passive comfort strategies eliminated the need forenergy-intensive air conditioning. An electric vehicle charger and an on-demand hot water recirculation system (with call buttons as opposed to having constant circulation) add to the home’s long-term efficiency factors. Together, these moves created a home that is quieter, more comfortable, and better equipped for the future, qualities that supported the client’s pragmatic approach to design and living lightly. Details That Respect the Eichler DNA The remodel carries forward the Eichler’s original spirit while introducing new layers of modern livability. Originally, the house was approached along a deep, narrow walk, with the garage on one side and the house on the other, leaving the front door tucked far back within this chasm-like space. By pulling the entry forward, the design reshaped the arrival experience, creating a clearer threshold and a natural drop-off zone for bags, shoes, and keys. This shift also made room for a custom bench at the entry that extends seamlessly through the glass sidelight. The bench and drop-off zone now work together as a single, integrated sequence that supports everyday living while offering a tactile reminder of Eichler’s philosophy of connectedness. At the client’s request, Klopf reintroduced a classic Eichler gesture by extending the exterior siding into the entry and living room. The detail reinforces a sense of indoor/outdoor continuity while providing a subtle architectural surface that allows the client’s photography to take visual precedence. The signature concrete masonry wall at the front was reconstructed using blocks sourced to match the originals, now strengthened with rebar for seismic resilience while maintaining a private outdoor courtyard, visually extending the kitchen outward. A decorative trellis element, a detail borrowed from a neighboring Eichler, restores a familiar mid-century modern architectural motif. At the courtyard entry door, a custom etched glass sidelight with an ocean-themed design featuring kelp and jellyfish serves as a subtle homage to the client’s passion for deep-sea diving. Landscaping became an integral part of the overall transformation. The homeowner engaged landscape architect Randi Johnsen of Third Nature Studio to shape a series of calm, inviting outdoor rooms that read as a natural extension of the interiors. While technically outside of the core construction scope, the landscape design proved central to achieving a sense of completeness and connectedness across the property. Such whole-property considerations often emerge as design ideas take shape, underscoring the importance of flexibility in planning and budgeting, as well as close collaboration among the design team starting early in the process. The Value of Evolving Scope As with many custom residential projects, the scope evolved during the design process. What began as a targeted remodel grew to include a new/expanded primary suite, a rebuilt CMU patio wall for strength and longevity, and a solar panel array and battery storage for energy resilience and carbon-reduction. Each thoughtful decision represented a conscious investment in the home’s performance and character, rather than a cost overrun. The result was a project delivered on schedule, tailored precisely to the client’s lifestyle, and positioned to add long-term value both functionally and aesthetically. By embracing scope evolution as an opportunity rather than a challenge, and relying on good design paired with transparent communication, this remodel demonstrates how Eichler homes can be adapted for contemporary living without erasing their DNA. Klopf Architecture project team: John Klopf, AIA, and Klara Kevane, Elise Webb and Nicholas LaNasa. Contractor: Golden Cove Construction Landscape Design: Third Nature Studio Structural Engineer: Daniel Bastiao Design Photography: ©2025 Mariko Reed Year Completed: 2024 Location: Sunnyvale, CA

A bold statement and a warm welcome — that’s the tone our client set for this Guest Bathroom Renovation In Bucktown. The blue labyrinth vanity wallpaper introduces a striking element to the room, boasting bold geometric patterns that elevates the overall design. Secret Silver tiles grace the shower wall, niche, and floor, creating a sophisticated atmosphere with its marble effect and contrasting tones. The gray-painted wall and white ceiling tie everything together to create the perfect balance without overwhelming the space. The space is enhanced with the decorative accent of Newbury Glass Penny Mosaic in the shower floor, giving the bathroom an additional creative expression through its distinctive shape and color. The Shadowbox mirror from Shades of Light features a sleek matte black finish, providing depth in the border for both aesthetic appeal and function. The Industrial Triangle Shade Three Light lights up the vanity, embodying industrial minimalism, making the room burst with light and style. This guest bathroom brought our client's vision to life – a modern and inviting space that is functional at the same time. Project designed by Chi Renovation & Design, a renowned renovation firm based in Skokie. We specialize in general contracting, kitchen and bath remodeling, and design & build services. We cater to the entire Chicago area and its surrounding suburbs, with emphasis on the North Side and North Shore regions. You'll find our work from the Loop through Lincoln Park, Skokie, Evanston, Wilmette, and all the way up to Lake Forest. For more info about Chi Renovation & Design, click here: https://www.chirenovation.com/

Kid Bedroom in Bronco | Key Feature: A Scottsdale new-build rooted in sculptural modernism, Bronco Revival balances bold black-and-white contrast with organic textures, natural wood elements, and statement lighting. As a groundbreaking “Live Lab” designer residence, it’s a first-of-its-kind space where luxury furnishings are tested in real-world conditions before being introduced into high-profile client homes. Challenge: Because Bronco Revival was the designer’s personal residence, the project carried a unique level of pressure and intention. The challenge was creating a Scottsdale new-build that felt elevated and editorial while still functioning as a true family home. Every selection had to balance bold sculptural modernism (high contrast, statement lighting, architectural furnishings) with durability, comfort, and day-to-day livability. In addition, the home served as a “Live Lab,” meaning new vendors, materials, and luxury furnishings needed to be tested in real-life conditions before being trusted for future high-profile client projects. Solution: We approached the project with a highly curated, test-and-refine design strategy, treating each space as both a finished interior and a real-world evaluation environment. Key furnishings, textiles, and materials were selected to support the modern organic vision while also standing up to the demands of everyday family life. We worked through selections intentionally, layering in bold contrast, natural woods, and sculptural statement pieces, while prioritizing performance materials, pet-friendly durability, and timeless foundational elements. By using the home as a lived-in showroom, we were able to validate what truly performs beautifully, refine our vendor relationships, and confidently carry those proven selections into future client designs. Materials: MadeGoods: Sculptural Davion coffee tables | Loloi: Custom performance rug collection | Schumacher: Bespoke drapery fabrication | Aesthetic Wall Coverings: Pioneering wallpaper application on ceiling beams | Zac + Fox: Exclusive textile collaboration via Made Resource Group | Budget ($ Range): $300K | Timeline (Duration): 4 MONTHS

Set within a wooded landscape, the Millwick Pool House and Guest House expand upon the original courtyard residence with a series of carefully scaled accessory structures. A new pool and pavilion extend daily life outdoors, strengthening the dialogue between architecture and trees. Nearby, the guest house introduces a pop-up dormer and clerestory windows that bring generous light into a compact footprint, creating a lofted retreat that feels both intimate and expansive. Together, the additions deepen the home’s connection to its forested setting while reinforcing the clarity and sculptural character of the original design.

Dining Room in Bronco | Key Feature: A Scottsdale new-build rooted in sculptural modernism, Bronco Revival balances bold black-and-white contrast with organic textures, natural wood elements, and statement lighting. As a groundbreaking “Live Lab” designer residence, it’s a first-of-its-kind space where luxury furnishings are tested in real-world conditions before being introduced into high-profile client homes. Challenge: Because Bronco Revival was the designer’s personal residence, the project carried a unique level of pressure and intention. The challenge was creating a Scottsdale new-build that felt elevated and editorial while still functioning as a true family home. Every selection had to balance bold sculptural modernism (high contrast, statement lighting, architectural furnishings) with durability, comfort, and day-to-day livability. In addition, the home served as a “Live Lab,” meaning new vendors, materials, and luxury furnishings needed to be tested in real-life conditions before being trusted for future high-profile client projects. Solution: We approached the project with a highly curated, test-and-refine design strategy, treating each space as both a finished interior and a real-world evaluation environment. Key furnishings, textiles, and materials were selected to support the modern organic vision while also standing up to the demands of everyday family life. We worked through selections intentionally, layering in bold contrast, natural woods, and sculptural statement pieces, while prioritizing performance materials, pet-friendly durability, and timeless foundational elements. By using the home as a lived-in showroom, we were able to validate what truly performs beautifully, refine our vendor relationships, and confidently carry those proven selections into future client designs. Materials: MadeGoods: Sculptural Davion coffee tables | Loloi: Custom performance rug collection | Schumacher: Bespoke drapery fabrication | Aesthetic Wall Coverings: Pioneering wallpaper application on ceiling beams | Zac + Fox: Exclusive textile collaboration via Made Resource Group | Budget ($ Range): $300K | Timeline (Duration): 4 MONTHS

In this sun-drenched primary bedroom, a dramatic vaulted ceiling creates an immediate sense of spaciousness and tranquility. The addition of crisp shiplap paneling draws the eye upward, introducing subtle, tactile texture and a refined nod to the home’s waterfront locale.

Set within a wooded landscape, the Millwick Pool House and Guest House expand upon the original courtyard residence with a series of carefully scaled accessory structures. A new pool and pavilion extend daily life outdoors, strengthening the dialogue between architecture and trees. Nearby, the guest house introduces a pop-up dormer and clerestory windows that bring generous light into a compact footprint, creating a lofted retreat that feels both intimate and expansive. Together, the additions deepen the home’s connection to its forested setting while reinforcing the clarity and sculptural character of the original design.

Step into the rejuvenation of a 1956 Golden Valley home, once owned by the clients’ mothers and now transformed under their ownership with a much-needed kitchen remodel. The original kitchen lacked countertop storage, featured outdated cabinets with black hinges and handles, embraced the typical soffits of the 50s era, and lacked an inviting ambiance. Fueled by a passion for the outdoors and gardening, the homeowners opted for earthy green cabinets from Crystal Cabinets, seamlessly blending with the natural sanctuary just beyond their back door. The addition of a black glaze over the green cabinets, along with walnut accents, brought warmth and personality to the space, achieving the cozy, friendly vibe the homeowners desired. Prioritizing functionality, a center island was introduced for entertaining grandchildren, top-of-the-line Subzero and Wolf appliances were seamlessly incorporated, and customized storage solutions were implemented to cater to the homeowners’ specific cooking needs. Soffits were removed, a closet with a vent stack was repurposed, and the vinyl floor was replaced with new hardwood to match the living room seamlessly. The homeowners’ collection of brass kitchenware found its elegant showcase in a traditional hutch with opaque seedy glass doors, adding a touch of sophistication to the space. Personal touches, such as hand-selecting a granite stone slab reminiscent of their favorite landscape in Duluth, a glazed ceramic tile backsplash reaching the ceiling line, and the inclusion of Bicycle Glass, a local artisan, for wall sconces and pendants, further enhanced the kitchen’s unique character. Blown glass orbs soften sightlines, while the gold/black brilliance kitchen faucet with a textured handle adds a playful touch. Every aspect of this new kitchen is a reflection of the homeowners’ down-to-earth personalities, creating a space that is both functional and filled with personality.

Set high in the Hollywood Hills, this historic mid-century modern home marks the first commissioned residential project by acclaimed California architect A. Quincy Jones. Thoughtfully reimagined, the remodel honors the home’s architectural legacy while introducing a refined, contemporary sensibility. Our approach focused on preserving the original design, including clean lines, indoor-outdoor flow, and natural materials, while elevating each space through layered textures, custom millwork, and curated finishes. Color and quirk create additional charm in the home, while warm wood tones and sculptural elements preserve the interiors. The result is a home that feels both iconic and livable.

Set within a wooded landscape, the Millwick Pool House and Guest House expand upon the original courtyard residence with a series of carefully scaled accessory structures. A new pool and pavilion extend daily life outdoors, strengthening the dialogue between architecture and trees. Nearby, the guest house introduces a pop-up dormer and clerestory windows that bring generous light into a compact footprint, creating a lofted retreat that feels both intimate and expansive. Together, the additions deepen the home’s connection to its forested setting while reinforcing the clarity and sculptural character of the original design.

This living room embraces rich color, texture, and architectural softness to create a space that feels both elevated and inviting. A deep burgundy tufted sofa anchors the seating arrangement, paired with sculptural navy lounge chairs that add contrast and depth. The dramatic marble coffee table introduces natural movement and grounds the composition with a bold, organic statement. Floor to ceiling sheer drapery wraps the room in warm, filtered light, softening the architecture and enhancing the layered palette. A patterned area rug and velvet benches bring additional dimension, while warm wood case goods and brass accents add refinement and cohesion. The result is a curated, artful interior that balances structure with comfort, blending modern lines, rich materials, and thoughtful detailing into a timeless yet expressive living space.

Bedroom in Bronco | Key Feature: A Scottsdale new-build rooted in sculptural modernism, Bronco Revival balances bold black-and-white contrast with organic textures, natural wood elements, and statement lighting. As a groundbreaking “Live Lab” designer residence, it’s a first-of-its-kind space where luxury furnishings are tested in real-world conditions before being introduced into high-profile client homes. Challenge: Because Bronco Revival was the designer’s personal residence, the project carried a unique level of pressure and intention. The challenge was creating a Scottsdale new-build that felt elevated and editorial while still functioning as a true family home. Every selection had to balance bold sculptural modernism (high contrast, statement lighting, architectural furnishings) with durability, comfort, and day-to-day livability. In addition, the home served as a “Live Lab,” meaning new vendors, materials, and luxury furnishings needed to be tested in real-life conditions before being trusted for future high-profile client projects. Solution: We approached the project with a highly curated, test-and-refine design strategy, treating each space as both a finished interior and a real-world evaluation environment. Key furnishings, textiles, and materials were selected to support the modern organic vision while also standing up to the demands of everyday family life. We worked through selections intentionally, layering in bold contrast, natural woods, and sculptural statement pieces, while prioritizing performance materials, pet-friendly durability, and timeless foundational elements. By using the home as a lived-in showroom, we were able to validate what truly performs beautifully, refine our vendor relationships, and confidently carry those proven selections into future client designs. Materials: MadeGoods: Sculptural Davion coffee tables | Loloi: Custom performance rug collection | Schumacher: Bespoke drapery fabrication | Aesthetic Wall Coverings: Pioneering wallpaper application on ceiling beams | Zac + Fox: Exclusive textile collaboration via Made Resource Group | Budget ($ Range): $300K | Timeline (Duration): 4 MONTHS