Search results for "Approach demonstrates" in Home Design Ideas

Our clients knew they wanted to achieve a look that matched the historic charm of this classic home, but also reflected their personal style. This recently completed project in Winter Park truly demonstrates a timeless approach to current trends.

For this HouseHome project, we transformed the main floor of a classic 1940s home into a luxury living space that balances historical integrity with contemporary refinement.
The renovation emphasizes ornate detailing and timeless architectural elements, celebrating the precision and craftsmanship of mid-century design while introducing modern functionality. The design aesthetic is rooted in discipline, subtlety, and quality, using a subdued color palette that enhances the home’s architectural features and highlights the care put into every detail.
Custom fine millwork and meticulously crafted trim elevate the spaces, adding depth, elegance, and a sense of permanence that only true artisanal work can achieve. This luxury main floor renovation in Colorado demonstrates HouseHome’s signature approach: blending historical inspiration, refined materials, and thoughtful design to create spaces that feel sophisticated, intentional, and timeless.
Every element—from layout to finishes—reflects a commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and enduring beauty...just the way the client likes it, and what we love to deliver at HouseHome.

Our clients knew they wanted to achieve a look that matched the historic charm of this classic home, but also reflected their personal style. This recently completed project in Winter Park truly demonstrates a timeless approach to current trends.
Find the right local pro for your project

The Setup
The homeowners of this Barrington Hills residence approached Drury Design with a clear vision: transform their existing kitchen into a space that would better serve their active family of four. With two young children who are homeschooled and love to bake with their mom, plus two dogs, this kitchen needed to function as the true heart of the home.
The existing kitchen was functional but didn’t maximize the potential of the beautiful natural light and scenic views available through the floor-to-ceiling windows. The space was locked between the dining room and family room, which limited structural modifications, but the homeowners wanted to create a more family-friendly environment that would complement the warm walnut built-ins and furnishings in the adjacent dining room while staying true to the home’s overall aesthetic.
Design Objectives:
Create a highly functional workspace that accommodates multiple family members cooking and gathering simultaneously
Maximize the connection to the beautiful outdoor scenery and natural light through thoughtful design choices
Establish a cohesive color palette that complements the existing walnut elements in the adjacent dining room without becoming too tone-on-tone (aka “matchy matchy”)
Improve the seating arrangement to take advantage of the stunning views (rather than facing away from the windows)
Work within the existing architectural constraints, including a curved soffit that could not be removed
Increase storage capacity while maintaining clean, uncluttered sightlines throughout the space
Design Challenges:
The curved soffit presented a design dilemma of whether to echo the curve throughout the kitchen or work with it in a more subtle way
The relatively low ceiling height required careful consideration to avoid making the space feel cramped or cave-like
The existing hardwood floor could not be refinished, which meant the new kitchen footprint had to match or exceed the original layout exactly
Finding the right balance of warm and neutral tones to complement both the existing walnut elements nearby and the natural outdoor views proved challenging
The refrigerator placement was constrained by door swing requirements, which affected the entire layout and prevented centering the sink on the back wall
Rethinking the original seating, which faced inward toward the kitchen (turning backs to the beautiful windows and outdoor views)
Pendant lighting from the previous kitchen obstructed views to the outdoors despite the abundant natural light available
The Renewed Space
Design Solutions:
The curved soffit was embraced subtly through the full slab backsplash, which echoes the curve without requiring curved cabinetry or architectural elements that might feel forced
Low ceiling challenges were addressed by using lighter painted cabinets for some tall elements, including the double oven, pantries, and refrigerator area, creating an airy feel while reserving the darker stained walnut for the center section and island
The floor constraint was managed by designing the new layout to cover all previously unfinished areas while maintaining the exact footprint, with only minor touch-ups needed in a few areas
The color palette balances warm walnut stain (harmonizing with the dining room built-ins) with soft, neutral painted cabinets – avoiding stark white that wouldn’t complement the home’s warm aesthetic
Refrigerator placement was optimized with a slim pullout pantry to the left, allowing proper door clearance while maintaining the desired layout flow and enabling the main pantry to be positioned adjacently
The seating was completely reimagined with a built-in banquette facing the windows, allowing diners to enjoy the outdoor views while providing flexible seating for two to four people
Decorative pendant lighting was eliminated in favor of recessed can lights, preserving the unobstructed views to the beautiful outdoor scenery
This kitchen transformation demonstrates how thoughtful design can dramatically improve functionality for a busy family while honoring existing architectural elements. The children immediately began cooking and baking with their mother in the new space, and the window-facing banquette has become a favorite gathering spot where the family can enjoy both meals and the beautiful outdoor views.

Buy Online Hijab Dress For Women
Abayas Islamic Clothing
There is no uniform way to deal with phrasing for Islamic dress. HIJAB is an Arabic word, initially alluding to a drapery or parcel, which later came to allude to Islamic dress as a rule, however, is presently usually metonymically diminished to the headscarf.
In the late years, Islamic dress has risen as tolerating locales of the dispute in the relationship between Muslim people group and the State. In particular, the wearing of Islamic headscarves by ladies in broad daylight places has brought up issues about secularism, ladies' rights, and national character. It has dependably been seen by the Western women's activist as onerous and as an image of a Muslim lady's subservience to men.
Accordingly, it frequently comes as a shock to Western women's activists that the shroud has turned out to be progressively basic in the Muslim world and is regularly worn gladly by school young ladies as an image of an Islamic character, liberating them typically from neo-pioneer Western social colonialism and mastery. For well more than two decades, Muslim ladies have been situated in the Australian prominent media contrary to the estimations of liberal majority rules system and the women's activist motivation. Muslim ladies, as though the demonstration of "disclosing" will some way or another offer the "balance" and "flexibilities" that Western ladies appreciate.
There are diverse styles of hijab. Contrasts essentially are because of the distinctions of area and culture. Muslim ladies in the subcontinent, India, and Pakistan, wear Burqa which is a two piece shroud comprising a head covering and an outfit.
Present-day patterns have changed the approach of numerous men and ladies towards Hijab. Men spruce up unassumingly and a dominant part of them cease from covering their heads with the exception of supplication times. Numerous ladies have taken up more popular methods for watching hijab.
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For this HouseHome project, we transformed the main floor of a classic 1940s home into a luxury living space that balances historical integrity with contemporary refinement.
The renovation emphasizes ornate detailing and timeless architectural elements, celebrating the precision and craftsmanship of mid-century design while introducing modern functionality. The design aesthetic is rooted in discipline, subtlety, and quality, using a subdued color palette that enhances the home’s architectural features and highlights the care put into every detail.
Custom fine millwork and meticulously crafted trim elevate the spaces, adding depth, elegance, and a sense of permanence that only true artisanal work can achieve. This luxury main floor renovation in Colorado demonstrates HouseHome’s signature approach: blending historical inspiration, refined materials, and thoughtful design to create spaces that feel sophisticated, intentional, and timeless.
Every element—from layout to finishes—reflects a commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and enduring beauty...just the way the client likes it, and what we love to deliver at HouseHome.

For this HouseHome project, we transformed the main floor of a classic 1940s home into a luxury living space that balances historical integrity with contemporary refinement.
The renovation emphasizes ornate detailing and timeless architectural elements, celebrating the precision and craftsmanship of mid-century design while introducing modern functionality. The design aesthetic is rooted in discipline, subtlety, and quality, using a subdued color palette that enhances the home’s architectural features and highlights the care put into every detail.
Custom fine millwork and meticulously crafted trim elevate the spaces, adding depth, elegance, and a sense of permanence that only true artisanal work can achieve. This luxury main floor renovation in Colorado demonstrates HouseHome’s signature approach: blending historical inspiration, refined materials, and thoughtful design to create spaces that feel sophisticated, intentional, and timeless.
Every element—from layout to finishes—reflects a commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and enduring beauty...just the way the client likes it, and what we love to deliver at HouseHome.

Creating a personal wellness retreat doesn't always mean starting from scratch. Through thoughtful design-build solutions, this Portland metro primary bathroom renovation showcases how reimagining your existing space can deliver extraordinary results.
Nestled into the side of Cooper Mountain, this stunning remodel artfully balances bold neutrality with warm, natural elegance. The centerpiece of the transformation—a spacious cedar-clad sauna—connects harmoniously with the expanded double shower, where biophilic accent tile reflects in the striking wall tile like dappled sunlight on water. The refined vanity area, featuring expertly repainted cabinetry and luminous countertops, ties the space together with subtle sophistication.
The success of this luxury renovation stems from strategic space planning and custom craftsmanship. By removing the existing oversized tub and deck—elements that weren't serving the homeowners' needs—we created space for a fully custom two-person sauna. The shower expansion, though modest at 12 inches, significantly enhanced the comfort and functionality for two users, demonstrating how thoughtful design can maximize every square foot.
What sets this project apart is its fully integrated design-build approach. Rather than relying on prefabricated solutions, the custom sauna was designed and constructed from the ground up. This complex undertaking required seamless coordination among electrical, plumbing, and HVAC trades across the Portland Metro Area, all working together to transform a standard bathroom into a high-performance wellness retreat.
Client collaboration played a pivotal role in the project's success. Through detailed 3D renderings, curated photo books, and hands-on material samples, the homeowners could confidently visualize and participate in design decisions. Every element—from the rich cedar sauna cladding to the plumbing fixtures—was carefully selected to create a perfect balance of aesthetics, performance, and budget considerations.
Speaking of budget, strategic decisions helped prioritize the homeowners' main objectives: a comfortable two-person sauna and an expanded shower. Instead of complete replacement, the existing cabinetry received a professional refinishing, maintaining a fresh, cohesive look while reducing material costs. By thoughtfully retaining elements like plumbing fixtures, electrical wiring, and the toilet location, we avoided unnecessary expenses while upgrading lighting with efficient LED fixtures where needed.
This primary bathroom and sauna project exemplifies how a collaborative design-build approach can transform your vision into reality. By combining strategic space planning, custom craftsmanship, and budget-conscious decisions, we created a personalized wellness retreat that delivers both luxury and functionality.

For this HouseHome project, we transformed the main floor of a classic 1940s home into a luxury living space that balances historical integrity with contemporary refinement.
The renovation emphasizes ornate detailing and timeless architectural elements, celebrating the precision and craftsmanship of mid-century design while introducing modern functionality. The design aesthetic is rooted in discipline, subtlety, and quality, using a subdued color palette that enhances the home’s architectural features and highlights the care put into every detail.
Custom fine millwork and meticulously crafted trim elevate the spaces, adding depth, elegance, and a sense of permanence that only true artisanal work can achieve. This luxury main floor renovation in Colorado demonstrates HouseHome’s signature approach: blending historical inspiration, refined materials, and thoughtful design to create spaces that feel sophisticated, intentional, and timeless.
Every element—from layout to finishes—reflects a commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and enduring beauty...just the way the client likes it, and what we love to deliver at HouseHome.

This inviting great room by James McNeal Architecture & Design (JMAD) showcases the beauty of vaulted ceilings with exposed wood beams, creating a warm and expansive gathering space. A central limestone fireplace anchors the room, while large steel-framed glass doors flood the interior with natural light and connect seamlessly to the outdoor patio. The soft, neutral furnishings balance the rich textures of wood and stone, demonstrating a refined approach to modern rustic interior design. Thoughtful planning of scale, light, and materials creates a space that feels both elevated and comfortable—perfect inspiration for open-concept living.

This thoughtfully designed luxury primary bedroom blends refined materials with calming tones to create a serene, elevated retreat. A custom statement wallpaper in soft blue and gray hues adds depth and visual interest, transforming the feature wall into a sophisticated focal point. The layered pattern introduces texture while maintaining a tranquil atmosphere—perfect for a restful master suite.
An upholstered bed with plush, tailored bedding enhances comfort, while custom nightstands with sleek hardware provide both function and elegance. Integrated modern wall sconces offer ambient bedside lighting, ideal for reading and creating a warm, inviting glow.
Carefully curated styling elements—including decorative accessories, layered textiles, and balanced proportions—reflect a cohesive, high-end interior design approach. From finish selections to lighting placement, every detail was thoughtfully considered to create a custom primary bedroom design that feels timeless, serene, and luxurious.
Ideal for homeowners seeking primary suite renovations, custom bedroom interiors, or luxury home design, this space demonstrates how elevated materials, statement wallpaper, and tailored furnishings can transform a bedroom into a sophisticated personal retreat.

This exterior renovation focuses on elevating the arrival experience through thoughtful architectural and landscape improvements. The redesigned entry sequence balances the historic character of the brick façade with contemporary detailing, creating a welcoming and timeless first impression for residents and guests alike.
New architectural lighting highlights the building's mature landscaping and emphasizes the texture of the historic masonry after sunset. Carefully selected plantings soften the approach while framing views toward the entrance, creating a sense of warmth and discovery. Updated railings, entry doors, and exterior finishes reinforce the building's identity while improving functionality and curb appeal.
The result is a refined and inviting entry experience that enhances both the architecture and the landscape, demonstrating how targeted exterior improvements can transform the perception of an entire property.

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 photorealistic 3D visualization inspired by a real interior. This conceptual project highlights minimalism, clean lines, and natural textures, emphasizing balance and harmony. It demonstrates how neutral palettes and thoughtful furniture placement can create a calm and sophisticated environment.
You will receive a visualization that accurately captures natural light, textures, and atmosphere, reflecting every subtle detail of the real space. My approach ensures a realistic and inviting representation, so you can confidently see how your interior will truly feel. Let’s bring your vision to life with precision and care.

The Setup
The homeowners of this Barrington Hills residence approached Drury Design with a clear vision: transform their existing kitchen into a space that would better serve their active family of four. With two young children who are homeschooled and love to bake with their mom, plus two dogs, this kitchen needed to function as the true heart of the home.
The existing kitchen was functional but didn’t maximize the potential of the beautiful natural light and scenic views available through the floor-to-ceiling windows. The space was locked between the dining room and family room, which limited structural modifications, but the homeowners wanted to create a more family-friendly environment that would complement the warm walnut built-ins and furnishings in the adjacent dining room while staying true to the home’s overall aesthetic.
Design Objectives:
Create a highly functional workspace that accommodates multiple family members cooking and gathering simultaneously
Maximize the connection to the beautiful outdoor scenery and natural light through thoughtful design choices
Establish a cohesive color palette that complements the existing walnut elements in the adjacent dining room without becoming too tone-on-tone (aka “matchy matchy”)
Improve the seating arrangement to take advantage of the stunning views (rather than facing away from the windows)
Work within the existing architectural constraints, including a curved soffit that could not be removed
Increase storage capacity while maintaining clean, uncluttered sightlines throughout the space
Design Challenges:
The curved soffit presented a design dilemma of whether to echo the curve throughout the kitchen or work with it in a more subtle way
The relatively low ceiling height required careful consideration to avoid making the space feel cramped or cave-like
The existing hardwood floor could not be refinished, which meant the new kitchen footprint had to match or exceed the original layout exactly
Finding the right balance of warm and neutral tones to complement both the existing walnut elements nearby and the natural outdoor views proved challenging
The refrigerator placement was constrained by door swing requirements, which affected the entire layout and prevented centering the sink on the back wall
Rethinking the original seating, which faced inward toward the kitchen (turning backs to the beautiful windows and outdoor views)
Pendant lighting from the previous kitchen obstructed views to the outdoors despite the abundant natural light available
The Renewed Space
Design Solutions:
The curved soffit was embraced subtly through the full slab backsplash, which echoes the curve without requiring curved cabinetry or architectural elements that might feel forced
Low ceiling challenges were addressed by using lighter painted cabinets for some tall elements, including the double oven, pantries, and refrigerator area, creating an airy feel while reserving the darker stained walnut for the center section and island
The floor constraint was managed by designing the new layout to cover all previously unfinished areas while maintaining the exact footprint, with only minor touch-ups needed in a few areas
The color palette balances warm walnut stain (harmonizing with the dining room built-ins) with soft, neutral painted cabinets – avoiding stark white that wouldn’t complement the home’s warm aesthetic
Refrigerator placement was optimized with a slim pullout pantry to the left, allowing proper door clearance while maintaining the desired layout flow and enabling the main pantry to be positioned adjacently
The seating was completely reimagined with a built-in banquette facing the windows, allowing diners to enjoy the outdoor views while providing flexible seating for two to four people
Decorative pendant lighting was eliminated in favor of recessed can lights, preserving the unobstructed views to the beautiful outdoor scenery
This kitchen transformation demonstrates how thoughtful design can dramatically improve functionality for a busy family while honoring existing architectural elements. The children immediately began cooking and baking with their mother in the new space, and the window-facing banquette has become a favorite gathering spot where the family can enjoy both meals and the beautiful outdoor views.

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

This Venetian plaster fireplace remodel in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan was designed to create a refined architectural focal point rooted in texture, simplicity, and timeless design. By combining clean lines with hand-applied finishes, this project transforms a traditional fireplace into a seamless, modern feature that enhances the entire living space.
The defining element of this fireplace renovation is the Venetian plaster finish. Applied by hand, the plaster creates a soft, dimensional surface with subtle movement and depth that shifts with natural light throughout the day. Unlike traditional stone or tile surrounds, Venetian plaster offers a more organic and elevated aesthetic—making it a popular choice for high-end fireplace remodels in Bloomfield Hills and throughout Oakland County.
The fireplace was reimagined with a simplified form and intentional proportions, allowing the material itself to take center stage. The seamless transitions between the surround and wall create a monolithic look, helping the fireplace feel fully integrated into the architecture of the home rather than added onto it.
An extended hearth adds both functionality and balance, grounding the design while maintaining a clean, minimal profile. Every detail—from the edges and returns to the finish consistency—was carefully executed to ensure a cohesive and polished result.
As a design-build remodeling firm serving Bloomfield Hills, Michigan and the surrounding Metro Detroit area, Costello & Co focuses on creating spaces that balance craftsmanship, materiality, and thoughtful design. This Venetian plaster fireplace highlights how a restrained, intentional approach can create a powerful visual impact without excess.
Whether you’re planning a fireplace remodel in Bloomfield Hills, MI or exploring Venetian plaster finishes for a custom feature wall, this project demonstrates how texture and simplicity can come together to create a timeless and elevated space.

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

The primary bedroom offers a calming retreat designed around timeless furnishings, warm earth tones, and inviting layers of texture. Anchored by the Minneapolis Bedroom Collection, the space blends classic craftsmanship with a relaxed contemporary feel, creating a sanctuary that feels both sophisticated and approachable. Soft neutral tones, richly patterned textiles, and thoughtfully selected accents add warmth and depth, while a cozy seating nook demonstrates how even compact spaces can support both comfort and functionality. The result is a serene primary suite designed for rest, relaxation, and everyday living.
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