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 was a project at a beautiful home nestled in the woods of Toro Canyon. Our brief was to create integrate the design into the existing style of the home. The result: beautiful and super-functional primary bathroom with two water closets and a zero-entry shower perfect for our elderly client. Two wallpapers;; grasscloth and a mural wallpaper by a local artist.

HAWTHORNE HAMPTONS The Hawthorne House is a fusion between the Classic Queenslander and Hampton style home. The Harmony between the 2-style work well together and we had to be sympathetic to the existing pre-1946 character home. The street scape had to be fused together between old and new so the house read as one and would stand the test of time. The clients brief was to make the house more functional for the family with more space and usable areas that connected all spaces to the outdoors. The lower rooms still had to capture natural light and breeze but have a connection to the outdoor courtyard area. The current house lacked views of the Brisbane city so the key for the design was to enhance the city views from the upstairs living areas with large doors and windows that framed the city. The client particular wanted WOW features in the house. Upon arriving at the entrance, a large void/Entrance carries your attention up through the house with the stunning coffered ceilings and wainscoting drawings your eyes to the upper floors. The 1st floor was all about connecting the living areas together while enjoying the amazing Brisbane city views. The heart of the house is the Kitchen that connects the indoors and outdoors together. Outdoors is where the family can enjoy their summer days around the pool area.Hawthorne House is a truly stunning house with Hampton details that make this house a truly enjoyable house to live in.

Client: Private Residence In West London Brief: To supply & install sisal to stairs
Inspiration for a staircase remodel in London

Located in Buckinghamshire, this bedroom project is a great example of our approach to smart design, quality finishes, and practical touches. Our designer created the space, perfectly capturing the brief from the outset with no revisions needed. Our dedicated Installation and Project Manager then managed the project, overseeing every detail from start to finish to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience. For this project, we soundproofed the floors, updated the lighting, and handled the full decorating work, transforming not only the master bedroom but also two additional bedrooms. The finished furniture features Porcelain Nature fronts paired with a Smoked Oak carcass, brought together by 22mm Modern Vinyl worktops. Elegant brushed nickel fluted bar handles add a subtle touch of texture and warmth. Clever features like an IR sensor wardrobe light and a pull-out shoe shelf make this space as functional as it is stylish. A matching chest of drawers completes the setup. At Oxfordshire & Buckinghamshire Kitchens, we believe the details matter. This project is a great example of how clever design and good workmanship can really change a home for the better.

Client: Residence In Central London. Brief: To supply & install wood floor.
Inspiration for a transitional living room remodel in London

Client: Private Residence In West London Brief: To supply & install grey carpet to stairs with black whipping
Example of a trendy carpeted u-shaped wood railing staircase design in London with carpeted risers

This amazing remodel by J.S. Brown & Co. in the River Forest neighborhood in Dublin, Ohio was designed with sunshine in mind! By removing an interior wall, the kitchen was completely opened to the adjacent sunroom for maximum views of the spectacular back yard. Also on the mission brief from the homeowners was shady place to enjoy their yard outdoors. A large roof over a paver patio was just the ticket for watching the grandkids run around in cool comfort.

inspired by the client's brief for a mediterranean look with retro touches, this is our proposal for the second floor of a beautiful seafront townhouse. while keeping a more classical feel in the lower floors of the house, we have worked on a contemporary look on the first floor, mirroring the fact that this is a newly built floor.

Client: Private Residence In West London Brief: To supply & install herringbone wood to premises
Example of a transitional living room design in London

Durable. Fresh. Inspiring. The design brief for this property was specific - upscale student meets single professional. The space can be easily adapted and cleaned and included; low-pile, stain resistant carpet; scrubbable wall paint; low maintenance, aqua plank vinyl flooring and Scandinavian furnishing, encompassing classic plastic elements. Together, mixed with Mid-century modern decor, this property has become a pleasing space to both focus on studies and live with flexibility, allowing either students of professionals to add their personal style. Keeping within a specified budget, the house sparks interest by using mustard and grey colour blocking; LED pendants; a chalkboard painted wall; tan faux-leather stools; staggered Herringbone gloss tiles; a photography gallery wall, and brushed brass finishings on cupboards, handles and light fixtures. With my client, we have completely renovated this 4 bed, 3 bath from it’s studs to a fit-for-purpose investment.

Client: Private Residence In West London Brief: To supply & install herringbone carpet to stairs
Inspiration for a transitional carpeted u-shaped staircase remodel in London with carpeted risers

50/50s House is a love letter to the 1950’s. Our clients, Gina and David have a love for books and found objects and wanted to display their collections with pride. The brief also called for a home that would afford them and their teenagers the ability to occupy different spaces without feeling disconnected. Bold lines and playful geometry work in tandem with the charm of the existing house to create a beautiful healthy home that is as endearing as it is enduring.

Client: Private Residence In West London Brief: To supply & install dark wood flooring to room
Trendy living room photo in London

Client: Private Residence In West London Brief: To supply & install white carpet with a black border as a carpet runner to stairs
Mid-sized elegant carpeted u-shaped staircase photo in London with carpeted risers

Client: Private Residence In North London Brief: To supply & install Panaget wood flooring
Trendy hallway photo in London

Galena, Ohio en suite bathroom update. Our client requested that we use ZERO tile in their project, so we chose AMI cultured marble for the shower panels. Creating the illusion of tile without the grout, and the cleanability of a solid surface. LVT flooring was used in other parts of the house and fit the homeowner's brief for their bathroom. A sleek slipper tub and LED mirrors add to the clean, modern aesthetic.

Client: Private Residence In West London Brief: To supply & install decking to garden
Deck photo in London

Client: Private Residence In West London Brief: To supply & install wood flooring to areas
Inspiration for a transitional light wood floor living room remodel in London