Finding a home is not easy in a seller’s market, but when my clients discovered one—even though it needed a bit of work—in a beautiful area of the Santa Cruz Mountains, they decided to jump in. Surrounded by old-growth redwood trees and a sense of old-time history, the house’s location informed the design brief for their desired remodel work. Yet I needed to balance this with my client’s preference for clean-lined, modern style. Suffering from a previous remodel, the galley-like bathroom in the master suite was long and dank. My clients were willing to completely redesign the layout of the suite, so the bathroom became the walk-in closet. We borrowed space from the bedroom to create a new, larger master bathroom which now includes a separate tub and shower. The look of the room nods to nature with organic elements like a pebbled shower floor and vertical accent tiles of honed green slate. A custom vanity of blue weathered wood and a ceiling that recalls the look of pressed tin evoke a time long ago when people settled this mountain region. At the same time, the hardware in the room looks to the future with sleek, modular shapes in a chic matte black finish. Harmonious, serene, with personality: just what my clients wanted. Photo: Bernardo Grijalva

Klopf Architecture, Arterra Landscape Architects, and Flegels Construction updated a classic Eichler open, indoor-outdoor home. Expanding on the original walls of glass and connection to nature that is common in mid-century modern homes. The completely openable walls allow the homeowners to truly open up the living space of the house, transforming it into an open air pavilion, extending the living area outdoors to the private side yards, and taking maximum advantage of indoor-outdoor living opportunities. Taking the concept of borrowed landscape from traditional Japanese architecture, the fountain, concrete bench wall, and natural landscaping bound the indoor-outdoor space. The Truly Open Eichler is a remodeled single-family house in Palo Alto. This 1,712 square foot, 3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom is located in the heart of the Silicon Valley. Klopf Architecture Project Team: John Klopf, AIA, Geoff Campen, and Angela Todorova Landscape Architect: Arterra Landscape Architects Structural Engineer: Brian Dotson Consulting Engineers Contractor: Flegels Construction Photography ©2014 Mariko Reed Location: Palo Alto, CA Year completed: 2014

Silicon Valley ADU: modern Japanese bath: integrated trough sink with a removable panel to hide the drain, matte black fixtures, white Krion® countertop and tub deck, matte gray floor tiles. Cedar panelling extends from wall to ceiling (vaulted) evokes the spirit of traditional Japanese bath houses. Large skylight hovers above the family size tub; bifold glass doors opening completely to the outdoors give a sense of bathing in nature. building Lab is a design build firm specialized in modern architecture.

The project’s starting point was to understand the building’s original post and beam structure and to use that internal logic to formulate a sympathetic remodel. With an emphasis on the upper back unit, the owner’s private residence within this recently purchased Edward Killingsworth triplex, the first order of business was to strip the excess out and to return the complex to something that resembled the original. With a limited budget, the tact was to restore where possible, and to insert where needed, but always with a sympathetic eye. The kitchen quickly became the primary focus and it was soon realized that by removing the division between the existing galley and family room that the essence of the structural system could be revealed. Once opened the datum of the layered beams was adhered to with the kitchen reinforcing this overhead water line. The primary internal wall was then highlighted with a new wood veneer with the refrigerator recessed (borrowing a bit of space from the master closet) and the existing heater chromed.

The project’s starting point was to understand the building’s original post and beam structure and to use that internal logic to formulate a sympathetic remodel. With an emphasis on the upper back unit, the owner’s private residence within this recently purchased Edward Killingsworth triplex, the first order of business was to strip the excess out and to return the complex to something that resembled the original. With a limited budget, the tact was to restore where possible, and to insert where needed, but always with a sympathetic eye. The kitchen quickly became the primary focus and it was soon realized that by removing the division between the existing galley and family room that the essence of the structural system could be revealed. Once opened the datum of the layered beams was adhered to with the kitchen reinforcing this overhead water line. The primary internal wall was then highlighted with a new wood veneer with the refrigerator recessed (borrowing a bit of space from the master closet) and the existing heater chromed.

IT'S ALL IN THE DETAILS.The contemporary Geode collection looks for inspiration to the timeless beauty of natural materials and the geometry of semi-precious crystals. The collection’s primary material is white oak, quarter sawn and cathedral sawn to emphasize the wood’s beautiful grain and cerused with a hint of gold. The wood is paired with stone, with tumbled metal and with smoked glass, and is complemented by textured fabrics in a rich array of tonal neutrals. With silhouettes that borrow from classic design and subtle geometric motifs that repeat throughout the collection, Geode offers a livable approach to contemporary that evokes earthy comfort without sacrificing elegance or sophistication.

What’s the best way to describe this customized-to-fit master bathroom remodel in Alameda? A bold, grey and beautiful bathroom upgraded for a couple's 6th anniversary! From its quality materials and contrasting colors to plenty of space and personalized built-ins, this bathroom borrows a lot from a modern, aesthetically pleasing and functional farmhouse design. Alameda Bathroom Remodeling - https://www.devart8.com/

This project will be on the 2017 home tour- check it out in person, Sept 30th- Oct 1st!! Project Description: The goal of the homeowner was to modernize and expand the existing kitchen, and open up the space between the kitchen, dining room and living room. There was also a need for a large mudroom and a remodeled basement level. Castle was able to remove most of the walls separating the main floor living spaces and design a new contemporary kitchen that provided lots of added cabinet and countertop space. Walnut cabinetry with a painted pantry cabinet complement Caesarstone countertops and Italian backsplash tile. The entire main floor is open and inviting. Almost 60 sq. ft. was borrowed from the garage to create a spacious mudroom area. The mudroom floor is finished in large, beautiful slate tiles. A new bathroom and media area were added to the basement, along with several new windows that bring in wonderful, natural south and east-facing light. Designer: Mark Benzell Home Style: Rambler/Ranch Design Style: Mid-Century Modern Full details at: http://www.castlebri.com/kitchens/project-2966-1/

The project’s starting point was to understand the building’s original post and beam structure and to use that internal logic to formulate a sympathetic remodel. With an emphasis on the upper back unit, the owner’s private residence within this recently purchased Edward Killingsworth triplex, the first order of business was to strip the excess out and to return the complex to something that resembled the original. With a limited budget, the tact was to restore where possible, and to insert where needed, but always with a sympathetic eye. The kitchen quickly became the primary focus and it was soon realized that by removing the division between the existing galley and family room that the essence of the structural system could be revealed. Once opened the datum of the layered beams was adhered to with the kitchen reinforcing this overhead water line. The primary internal wall was then highlighted with a new wood veneer with the refrigerator recessed (borrowing a bit of space from the master closet) and the existing heater chromed.

This project will be on the 2017 home tour- check it out in person, Sept 30th- Oct 1st 2017!! Project Description: The goal of the homeowner was to modernize and expand the existing kitchen, and open up the space between the kitchen, dining room and living room. There was also a need for a large mudroom and a remodeled basement level. Castle was able to remove most of the walls separating the main floor living spaces and design a new contemporary kitchen that provided lots of added cabinet and countertop space. Walnut cabinetry with a painted pantry cabinet complement Caesarstone countertops and Italian backsplash tile. The entire main floor is open and inviting. Almost 60 sq. ft. was borrowed from the garage to create a spacious mudroom area. The mudroom floor is finished in large, beautiful slate tiles. A new bathroom and media area were added to the basement, along with several new windows that bring in wonderful, natural south and east-facing light. Designer: Mark Benzell Home Style: Rambler/Ranch Design Style: Mid-Century Modern Full details at: http://www.castlebri.com/kitchens/project-2966-1/

This project will be on the 2017 home tour- check it out in person, Sept 30th- Oct 1st!! Project Description: The goal of the homeowner was to modernize and expand the existing kitchen, and open up the space between the kitchen, dining room and living room. There was also a need for a large mudroom and a remodeled basement level. Castle was able to remove most of the walls separating the main floor living spaces and design a new contemporary kitchen that provided lots of added cabinet and countertop space. Walnut cabinetry with a painted pantry cabinet complement Caesarstone countertops and Italian backsplash tile. The entire main floor is open and inviting. Almost 60 sq. ft. was borrowed from the garage to create a spacious mudroom area. The mudroom floor is finished in large, beautiful slate tiles. A new bathroom and media area were added to the basement, along with several new windows that bring in wonderful, natural south and east-facing light. Designer: Mark Benzell Home Style: Rambler/Ranch Design Style: Mid-Century Modern Full details at: http://www.castlebri.com/kitchens/project-2966-1/

This project will be on the 2017 home tour- check it out in person, Sept 30th- Oct 1st 2017!! Project Description: The goal of the homeowner was to modernize and expand the existing kitchen, and open up the space between the kitchen, dining room and living room. There was also a need for a large mudroom and a remodeled basement level. Castle was able to remove most of the walls separating the main floor living spaces and design a new contemporary kitchen that provided lots of added cabinet and countertop space. Walnut cabinetry with a painted pantry cabinet complement Caesarstone countertops and Italian backsplash tile. The entire main floor is open and inviting. Almost 60 sq. ft. was borrowed from the garage to create a spacious mudroom area. The mudroom floor is finished in large, beautiful slate tiles. A new bathroom and media area were added to the basement, along with several new windows that bring in wonderful, natural south and east-facing light. Designer: Mark Benzell Home Style: Rambler/Ranch Design Style: Mid-Century Modern Full details at: http://www.castlebri.com/kitchens/project-2966-1/

Less than six feet wide and without an existing closet, this narrow foyer needed storage without sacrificing circulation. Borrowing a small amount of space from the adjoining room allowed us to create a recessed alcove with a floating walnut bench and concealed upper cabinetry. Vertical wall paneling defines the nook, while open space beneath the bench keeps everyday shoes accessible and the walkway clear.

VPC’s featured Custom Home Project of the Month for March is the spectacular Mountain Modern Lodge. With six bedrooms, six full baths, and two half baths, this custom built 11,200 square foot timber frame residence exemplifies breathtaking mountain luxury. The home borrows inspiration from its surroundings with smooth, thoughtful exteriors that harmonize with nature and create the ultimate getaway. A deck constructed with Brazilian hardwood runs the entire length of the house. Other exterior design elements include both copper and Douglas Fir beams, stone, standing seam metal roofing, and custom wire hand railing. Upon entry, visitors are introduced to an impressively sized great room ornamented with tall, shiplap ceilings and a patina copper cantilever fireplace. The open floor plan includes Kolbe windows that welcome the sweeping vistas of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The great room also includes access to the vast kitchen and dining area that features cabinets adorned with valances as well as double-swinging pantry doors. The kitchen countertops exhibit beautifully crafted granite with double waterfall edges and continuous grains. VPC’s Modern Mountain Lodge is the very essence of sophistication and relaxation. Each step of this contemporary design was created in collaboration with the homeowners. VPC Builders could not be more pleased with the results of this custom-built residence.

Classic Eichler living room. Original brick fireplace updagted with gas insert and integral color plaster covering. Soffit lighting concealed to look like extensions of beams. Wall washers positioned to accent antique Japanese screen

What’s the best way to describe this customized-to-fit master bathroom remodel in Alameda? A bold, grey and beautiful bathroom upgraded for a couple's 6th anniversary! From its quality materials and contrasting colors to plenty of space and personalized built-ins, this bathroom borrows a lot from a modern, aesthetically pleasing and functional farmhouse design. Alameda Bathroom Remodeling - https://www.devart8.com/

Sink into a Bungalow classic. Borrowing details from a mid-17th century sofa made for Knole, a formal house in Kent, England, our Bungalow sofa is styled with cozy, comfy details. Clad in a rich mocha Chenille fabric with retro modern styling. Arms gently slope outward and boxy bolster pillows that extend to the sofa’s base add comfort and design savvy. Wood base and tapered legs with square metal ferrules. Dimensions: 88.75W x 35.25D x 33H Seat Height: 20 Arm Height: 28.5 Features: Seat Width: 66.5 Seat Depth: 20.5 Loose Seat and Back Cushions, Loose Inside Arm Cushions, Metal Ferrule Construction: Blendown Supreme Cushion, No Sag Seat