Search results for "Checklist" in Home Design Ideas

This Paradise Model ATU is extra tall and grand! As you would in you have a couch for lounging, a 6 drawer dresser for clothing, and a seating area and closet that mirrors the kitchen. Quartz countertops waterfall over the side of the cabinets encasing them in stone. The custom kitchen cabinetry is sealed in a clear coat keeping the wood tone light. Black hardware accents with contrast to the light wood. A main-floor bedroom- no crawling in and out of bed. The wallpaper was an owner request; what do you think of their choice?
The bathroom has natural edge Hawaiian mango wood slabs spanning the length of the bump-out: the vanity countertop and the shelf beneath. The entire bump-out-side wall is tiled floor to ceiling with a diamond print pattern. The shower follows the high contrast trend with one white wall and one black wall in matching square pearl finish. The warmth of the terra cotta floor adds earthy warmth that gives life to the wood. 3 wall lights hang down illuminating the vanity, though durning the day, you likely wont need it with the natural light shining in from two perfect angled long windows.
This Paradise model was way customized. The biggest alterations were to remove the loft altogether and have one consistent roofline throughout. We were able to make the kitchen windows a bit taller because there was no loft we had to stay below over the kitchen. This ATU was perfect for an extra tall person. After editing out a loft, we had these big interior walls to work with and although we always have the high-up octagon windows on the interior walls to keep thing light and the flow coming through, we took it a step (or should I say foot) further and made the french pocket doors extra tall. This also made the shower wall tile and shower head extra tall. We added another ceiling fan above the kitchen and when all of those awning windows are opened up, all the hot air goes right up and out.

Thinking of remodeling your home? Before you get started, check out these inspiring ideas and smart tips for home renovations and makeovers from the home experts at Goldenline Remodeling.
Whether you’re looking to increase the property value of your home ahead of a sale or closing on a house you can’t wait to make your own, chances are there’s a renovation or remodeling project in your future. Which means you’ll have a lot of things to consider, not least among them how to find a contractor, how to mitigate costs, and, no less important, how to translate your Pinterest ideas into reality. AD is here to help. We tapped some of our most trusted renovation sources and combed our archives to bring you this compendium of power home remodeling ideas for every room, including tried-and-true advice from the experts, checklists to help you get started, and stunning before-and-after kitchen, bath, and living room transformations for inspiration. So whether you’re revamping a space to make it more functional or simply more beautiful, this handy guide is your one-stop shop for all things home renovation.
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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

Here you can see the dome skylight that's above the soaking tub and how the round wall extrudes from the wall opening up the bathroom with more space. The Oasis Model ATU Tiny Home Exterior in White and Green. Tiny Home on Wheels. Hawaii getaway. 8x24' trailer.
I love working with clients that have ideas that I have been waiting to bring to life. All of the owner requests were things I had been wanting to try in an Oasis model. The table and seating area in the circle window bump out that normally had a bar spanning the window; the round tub with the rounded tiled wall instead of a typical angled corner shower; an extended loft making a big semi circle window possible that follows the already curved roof. These were all ideas that I just loved and was happy to figure out. I love how different each unit can turn out to fit someones personality.
The Oasis model is known for its giant round window and shower bump-out as well as 3 roof sections (one of which is curved). The Oasis is built on an 8x24' trailer. We build these tiny homes on the Big Island of Hawaii and ship them throughout the Hawaiian Islands.

There were some druthers with the kitchen and there was a desire to make certain rooms more grown-up again. Unlike some of our clients who get rid of their formal dining rooms, this family wanted to keep theirs. They saw it as good space for entertaining and doing work – why not make it more stylish and purposeful?
THE REMODEL
Design Objectives
Keep the craftsman style of the home but make it more modern
Update the dining room to be more formal for entertaining and provide storage for china, stemware, wine, etc.
Open up the kitchen to improve flow
Incorporate new decorative lighting throughout the home to accent the home’s style
Transform the staircase into a statement piece that greets visitors – redesign it with arts & crafts details in the balusters, newel posts and handrails
Design Challenges:
Open up the dining room window for more light and a better view of the backyard. The previous window felt closed in with heavy shutters.
Improve kitchen flow without making the footprint larger
Make the entire home feel updated and cohesive while staying true to the house’s style.
THE RENEWED SPACES
We bumped out the dining room window to make a new bay window. The glass mullion design mimics the craftsman style, setting the tone for the room while letting plenty of light in. It really opened up that end of the dining room. The view of the backyard is much bigger now, too. It’s also a great nook for playing board games, doing puzzles and playing with Legos.
We actually got rid of a walk-in pantry that had cut off a corner of the kitchen, and were able to keep all the main walls intact. The old pantry room is where the fridge is now, as well as a tall pantry cabinet, some additional cabinets and a new countertop surface. The flow is much better and it’s roomy now, with a kitchen table that’s great for informal meals, homework and kids seating when adults are entertaining in the dining room.
The cabinet, tile and countertop colors are still neutral but offer a more muted palette. To bring in the craftsman style, simple architectural details were added such as the hood and window valance, decorative furniture toes, a shaker door on the perimeter cabinets and a more modern cabinet door style on the island, pantry and refrigerator areas. New decorative lighting was added in the kitchen, dining room, living room, foyer and second-floor hallway to make the entire first floor feel updated. Also, the entire staircase was revamped. The existing hardwood was kept in place but stained medium brown to bring in some warmth.
“The Drury process made this project turn out better than we imagined,” one of the homeowners told us during the final photoshoot. “There were so many features we didn’t know about – like charging drawers – and ways of going about the remodel that didn’t come to us naturally. We’re so glad Alicia had so much experience and so many checklists. We got to think through everything and arrive at the best possible design for our family.”

I love working with clients that have ideas that I have been waiting to bring to life. All of the owner requests were things I had been wanting to try in an Oasis model. The table and seating area in the circle window bump out that normally had a bar spanning the window; the round tub with the rounded tiled wall instead of a typical angled corner shower; an extended loft making a big semi circle window possible that follows the already curved roof. These were all ideas that I just loved and was happy to figure out. I love how different each unit can turn out to fit someones personality.
The Oasis model is known for its giant round window and shower bump-out as well as 3 roof sections (one of which is curved). The Oasis is built on an 8x24' trailer. We build these tiny homes on the Big Island of Hawaii and ship them throughout the Hawaiian Islands.

This Paradise Model ATU is extra tall and grand! As you would in you have a couch for lounging, a 6 drawer dresser for clothing, and a seating area and closet that mirrors the kitchen. Quartz countertops waterfall over the side of the cabinets encasing them in stone. The custom kitchen cabinetry is sealed in a clear coat keeping the wood tone light. Black hardware accents with contrast to the light wood. A main-floor bedroom- no crawling in and out of bed. The wallpaper was an owner request; what do you think of their choice?
The bathroom has natural edge Hawaiian mango wood slabs spanning the length of the bump-out: the vanity countertop and the shelf beneath. The entire bump-out-side wall is tiled floor to ceiling with a diamond print pattern. The shower follows the high contrast trend with one white wall and one black wall in matching square pearl finish. The warmth of the terra cotta floor adds earthy warmth that gives life to the wood. 3 wall lights hang down illuminating the vanity, though durning the day, you likely wont need it with the natural light shining in from two perfect angled long windows.
This Paradise model was way customized. The biggest alterations were to remove the loft altogether and have one consistent roofline throughout. We were able to make the kitchen windows a bit taller because there was no loft we had to stay below over the kitchen. This ATU was perfect for an extra tall person. After editing out a loft, we had these big interior walls to work with and although we always have the high-up octagon windows on the interior walls to keep thing light and the flow coming through, we took it a step (or should I say foot) further and made the french pocket doors extra tall. This also made the shower wall tile and shower head extra tall. We added another ceiling fan above the kitchen and when all of those awning windows are opened up, all the hot air goes right up and out.

This Paradise Model ATU is extra tall and grand! As you would in you have a couch for lounging, a 6 drawer dresser for clothing, and a seating area and closet that mirrors the kitchen. Quartz countertops waterfall over the side of the cabinets encasing them in stone. The custom kitchen cabinetry is sealed in a clear coat keeping the wood tone light. Black hardware accents with contrast to the light wood. A main-floor bedroom- no crawling in and out of bed. The wallpaper was an owner request; what do you think of their choice?
The bathroom has natural edge Hawaiian mango wood slabs spanning the length of the bump-out: the vanity countertop and the shelf beneath. The entire bump-out-side wall is tiled floor to ceiling with a diamond print pattern. The shower follows the high contrast trend with one white wall and one black wall in matching square pearl finish. The warmth of the terra cotta floor adds earthy warmth that gives life to the wood. 3 wall lights hang down illuminating the vanity, though durning the day, you likely wont need it with the natural light shining in from two perfect angled long windows.
This Paradise model was way customized. The biggest alterations were to remove the loft altogether and have one consistent roofline throughout. We were able to make the kitchen windows a bit taller because there was no loft we had to stay below over the kitchen. This ATU was perfect for an extra tall person. After editing out a loft, we had these big interior walls to work with and although we always have the high-up octagon windows on the interior walls to keep thing light and the flow coming through, we took it a step (or should I say foot) further and made the french pocket doors extra tall. This also made the shower wall tile and shower head extra tall. We added another ceiling fan above the kitchen and when all of those awning windows are opened up, all the hot air goes right up and out.

This Paradise Model ATU is extra tall and grand! As you would in you have a couch for lounging, a 6 drawer dresser for clothing, and a seating area and closet that mirrors the kitchen. Quartz countertops waterfall over the side of the cabinets encasing them in stone. The custom kitchen cabinetry is sealed in a clear coat keeping the wood tone light. Black hardware accents with contrast to the light wood. A main-floor bedroom- no crawling in and out of bed. The wallpaper was an owner request; what do you think of their choice?
The bathroom has natural edge Hawaiian mango wood slabs spanning the length of the bump-out: the vanity countertop and the shelf beneath. The entire bump-out-side wall is tiled floor to ceiling with a diamond print pattern. The shower follows the high contrast trend with one white wall and one black wall in matching square pearl finish. The warmth of the terra cotta floor adds earthy warmth that gives life to the wood. 3 wall lights hang down illuminating the vanity, though durning the day, you likely wont need it with the natural light shining in from two perfect angled long windows.
This Paradise model was way customized. The biggest alterations were to remove the loft altogether and have one consistent roofline throughout. We were able to make the kitchen windows a bit taller because there was no loft we had to stay below over the kitchen. This ATU was perfect for an extra tall person. After editing out a loft, we had these big interior walls to work with and although we always have the high-up octagon windows on the interior walls to keep thing light and the flow coming through, we took it a step (or should I say foot) further and made the french pocket doors extra tall. This also made the shower wall tile and shower head extra tall. We added another ceiling fan above the kitchen and when all of those awning windows are opened up, all the hot air goes right up and out.

This Paradise Model ATU is extra tall and grand! As you would in you have a couch for lounging, a 6 drawer dresser for clothing, and a seating area and closet that mirrors the kitchen. Quartz countertops waterfall over the side of the cabinets encasing them in stone. The custom kitchen cabinetry is sealed in a clear coat keeping the wood tone light. Black hardware accents with contrast to the light wood. A main-floor bedroom- no crawling in and out of bed. The wallpaper was an owner request; what do you think of their choice?
The bathroom has natural edge Hawaiian mango wood slabs spanning the length of the bump-out: the vanity countertop and the shelf beneath. The entire bump-out-side wall is tiled floor to ceiling with a diamond print pattern. The shower follows the high contrast trend with one white wall and one black wall in matching square pearl finish. The warmth of the terra cotta floor adds earthy warmth that gives life to the wood. 3 wall lights hang down illuminating the vanity, though durning the day, you likely wont need it with the natural light shining in from two perfect angled long windows.
This Paradise model was way customized. The biggest alterations were to remove the loft altogether and have one consistent roofline throughout. We were able to make the kitchen windows a bit taller because there was no loft we had to stay below over the kitchen. This ATU was perfect for an extra tall person. After editing out a loft, we had these big interior walls to work with and although we always have the high-up octagon windows on the interior walls to keep thing light and the flow coming through, we took it a step (or should I say foot) further and made the french pocket doors extra tall. This also made the shower wall tile and shower head extra tall. We added another ceiling fan above the kitchen and when all of those awning windows are opened up, all the hot air goes right up and out.

Thinking of remodeling your home? Before you get started, check out these inspiring ideas and smart tips for home renovations and makeovers from the home experts at Goldenline Remodeling.
Whether you’re looking to increase the property value of your home ahead of a sale or closing on a house you can’t wait to make your own, chances are there’s a renovation or remodeling project in your future. Which means you’ll have a lot of things to consider, not least among them how to find a contractor, how to mitigate costs, and, no less important, how to translate your Pinterest ideas into reality. AD is here to help. We tapped some of our most trusted renovation sources and combed our archives to bring you this compendium of power home remodeling ideas for every room, including tried-and-true advice from the experts, checklists to help you get started, and stunning before-and-after kitchen, bath, and living room transformations for inspiration. So whether you’re revamping a space to make it more functional or simply more beautiful, this handy guide is your one-stop shop for all things home renovation.

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

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 portable custom home office add-on was inspired by the Oasis model with its 6' round windows (yes, there are two of them!). The Round windows are pushed out creating a space to span bar slab to sit at with a ledge for your feet and tile detailing. The other End is left open so you can lounge in the round window and use it as a reading nook.
The Office had 4 desk spaces, a flatscreen tv and a built-in couch with storage underneath and at it's sides. The end tables are part of the love-seat and serve as bookshelves and are sturdy enough to sit on. There is accent lighting and a 2x10" ledge that leads around the entire room- it is strong enough to be used as a library storing hundreds of books.
This office is built on an 8x20' trailer. paradisetinyhomes.com

This portable custom home office add-on was inspired by the Oasis model with its 6' round windows (yes, there are two of them!). The Round windows are pushed out creating a space to span bar slab to sit at with a ledge for your feet and tile detailing. The other End is left open so you can lounge in the round window and use it as a reading nook.
The Office had 4 desk spaces, a flatscreen tv and a built-in couch with storage underneath and at it's sides. The end tables are part of the love-seat and serve as bookshelves and are sturdy enough to sit on. There is accent lighting and a 2x10" ledge that leads around the entire room- it is strong enough to be used as a library storing hundreds of books.
This office is built on an 8x20' trailer. paradisetinyhomes.com
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