Search results for "Constructed precisely" in Home Design Ideas

Our client’s intension was to make this bathroom suite a very specialized spa retreat. She envisioned exquisite, highly crafted components and loved the colors gold and purple. We were challenged to mix contemporary, traditional and rustic features.
Also on the wish-list were a sizeable wardrobe room and a meditative loft-like retreat. Hydronic heated flooring was installed throughout. The numerous features in this project required replacement of the home’s plumbing and electrical systems. The cedar ceiling and other places in the room replicate what is found in the rest of the home. The project encompassed 400 sq. feet.
Features found at one end of the suite are new stained glass windows – designed to match to existing, a Giallo Rio slab granite platform and a Carlton clawfoot tub. The platform is banded at the floor by a mosaic of 1″ x 1″ glass tile.
Near the tub platform area is a large walnut stained vanity with Contemporary slab door fronts and shaker drawers. This is the larger of two separate vanities. Each are enhanced with hand blown artisan pendant lighting.
A custom fireplace is centrally placed as a dominant design feature. The hammered copper that surrounds the fireplace and vent pipe were crafted by a talented local tradesman. It is topped with a Café Imperial marble.
A lavishly appointed shower is the centerpiece of the bathroom suite. The many slabs of granite used on this project were chosen for the beautiful veins of quartz, purple and gold that our client adores.
Two distinct spaces flank a small vanity; the wardrobe and the loft-like Magic Room. Both precisely fulfill their intended practical and meditative purposes. A floor to ceiling wardrobe and oversized built-in dresser keep clothing, shoes and accessories organized. The dresser is topped with the same marble used atop the fireplace and inset into the wardrobe flooring.
The Magic Room is a space for resting, reading or just gazing out on the serene setting. The reading lights are Oil Rubbed Bronze. A drawer within the step up to the loft keeps reading and writing materials neatly tucked away.
Within the highly customized space, marble, granite, copper and art glass come together in a harmonious design that is organized for maximum rejuvenation that pleases our client to not end!

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

Our client recently purchased a newly-constructed home in order to downsize and have a low- maintenance home and yard. The existing side yard/back yard was undeveloped by the builder, leaving the homeowner with the huge challenge of creating a great outdoor entertaining space for family and friends, while creating privacy and overcoming the over 8-foot steep drop from the existing back porch down to the alley.
The grade was the largest challenge because the space was so narrow with such a large fall from existing porch to the property line. The second largest challenge is that this residence is located in a semi-private community where HOA approval of plans and materials is difficult, as all the residences here share a similar look and feel with a very clean and contemporary aesthetic.
We had to precisely shoot grades to know what kinds of retaining walls would need to be constructed along with how much backfill soil and dirt movement would need to be done. After that the design had to carefully consider the space with maximum functionality for outdoor entertainment with newly constructed walls to ensure it would last for many years to come. All of this was done with multiple meetings with the homeowners who are a retired engineer and active architect themselves. Once a design was settled upon, then submission to the HOA board of approval had to be completed and signed off on with all questions and concerns answered for the community by-laws.
The two biggest difficulties within the construction phase were that the neighbor next to the back yard had a large retaining wall not properly backfilled up to the property line. That neighbor wouldn’t allow us proper access and control to help alleviate the issues, so we had to skillfully work around this to ensure what we constructed would last, despite their property not being properly addressed. We also had to go through multiple shipments from the manufacturer due to large variances in the material’s appearance on the steps and another shipment that was broken during shipping. These two things delayed the project we were working to complete before the spring so the homeowner could have the maximum use of the space this year.
Topping off this challenging construction was a beautiful palette of native grasses, rosemary, groundcover, granite walkways, and synthetic grass to ensure year-round, practically effortless beauty.
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Precisely-placed plants provide the separation of spaces and the client's desired courtyard effect without restricting views of the gorgeous scenery.

Our client recently purchased a newly-constructed home in order to downsize and have a low- maintenance home and yard. The existing side yard/back yard was undeveloped by the builder, leaving the homeowner with the huge challenge of creating a great outdoor entertaining space for family and friends, while creating privacy and overcoming the over 8-foot steep drop from the existing back porch down to the alley.
The grade was the largest challenge because the space was so narrow with such a large fall from existing porch to the property line. The second largest challenge is that this residence is located in a semi-private community where HOA approval of plans and materials is difficult, as all the residences here share a similar look and feel with a very clean and contemporary aesthetic.
We had to precisely shoot grades to know what kinds of retaining walls would need to be constructed along with how much backfill soil and dirt movement would need to be done. After that the design had to carefully consider the space with maximum functionality for outdoor entertainment with newly constructed walls to ensure it would last for many years to come. All of this was done with multiple meetings with the homeowners who are a retired engineer and active architect themselves. Once a design was settled upon, then submission to the HOA board of approval had to be completed and signed off on with all questions and concerns answered for the community by-laws.
The two biggest difficulties within the construction phase were that the neighbor next to the back yard had a large retaining wall not properly backfilled up to the property line. That neighbor wouldn’t allow us proper access and control to help alleviate the issues, so we had to skillfully work around this to ensure what we constructed would last, despite their property not being properly addressed. We also had to go through multiple shipments from the manufacturer due to large variances in the material’s appearance on the steps and another shipment that was broken during shipping. These two things delayed the project we were working to complete before the spring so the homeowner could have the maximum use of the space this year.
Topping off this challenging construction was a beautiful palette of native grasses, rosemary, groundcover, granite walkways, and synthetic grass to ensure year-round, practically effortless beauty.

Our Lariat Leather Recliner alludes rustic elegance. This simple, stately chair offers all the comfort and convenience of a high-quality recliner with the body and frame of a high-end chair. This luxurious piece of furniture is made from the finest possible top-grain Italian leather, stretched over high-density cushioning and a hardwood frame. Bronze nail head accents serve to perfectly complement the deep, dulcet tones of this rich, hand burnished saddle leather. The Lariat is a subtle, elegant addition to virtually any home or living area. This unique piece of furniture is a surefire way to show off your sense of style and classical tastes. Thanks to its clean, elegant appearance, this piece pairs well with virtually any collection of furniture and any décor theme, instantly becoming a standout piece that you'll be proud to show off.
Overall Dimensions: 44" H x 33" W x 38" D
Arm Height: 26"
Seat Dimensions: 21" H x 21" W x 20" D
Semi-Attached Back
Overall Layout: 67"
Leather Description: Artisan Leathers beautifully evoke this time worn quality, unique to every individual piece, like the originals. To pure aniline leather crusts, already fully and carefully upholstered to the piece, a base color is created with multiple applications of waxes and oils, hand-worked by the leather Artisan. After drying, this craftsman then carefully builds-up the finish with an expert’s eye, and touch, to achieve an aged patina in just the right places to reflect the aged qualities only time, wear, and frequent care could have accomplished naturally. Every individual piece upholstered with Artisan Leather finishing methods is first beautifully built to the highest standards of quality. The leather is then hand-colored and aged to bespeak the loving touch of time, providing a quality antique appearance to a beautiful new piece of quality leather furniture. Every chair, sofa, or bench has its very own unique identity only these hand-crafted methods can provide, reflecting the presence of a time honored past.
True 100% top/full grain cowhide leather is characterized by variations in shade, texture, color and grain. Healed marks and scars are to be expected and enhance the natural beauty of the hides. These variations are normal and unique features of true genuine 100% top grain cowhide leather.
Frame Construction: Using traditional hand craftsmanship with modern manufacturing methods to produce frames that are among the finest used in the upholstery business. Each frame is precisely cut and hand assembled using kilned dried lumber. Double dowels are utilized in all structural parts to form sturdy, long lasting joints. To complete construction and add stability to the frame, large precisely cut corner blocks are positioned at each corner where the greatest stress occurs using both glues and screws. Limited Lifetime Warranty
Seat Cushions: Marshall Springs encased in 1.8 density foam, wrapped in 2 ounce fiber and encased in a sewn ticking. Limited Lifetime Warranty

Our Urban Architect Sofa is modern rustic style with timeless comfort and quality. Featuring a hand burnished leather to achieve an aged patina in just the right places to reflect the aged qualities only time, wear, and frequent care could have accomplished naturally. The large boxy arms and studded genuine brass nail heads add that rustic feel while maintaining a modern design.The stylish looks and comfort of the Urban Architect Leather Sofa is top of the line inside and out! Constructed with a hardwood frame and topped off with a high density foam cushion ensures lasting comfort and durability. 100% American Made to the highest quality of standards and craftsmanship!
Overall Dimensions: 31" H X 99" W X 42" D
Seat Depth: 23"
Seat Height: 20"
Arm Height: 31"
Leather Description: Artisan Leathers beautifully evoke this time worn quality, unique to every individual piece, like the originals. To pure aniline leather crusts, already fully and carefully upholstered to the piece, a base color is created with multiple applications of waxes and oils, hand-worked by the leather Artisan. After drying, this craftsman then carefully builds-up the finish with an expert's eye, and touch, to achieve an aged patina in just the right places to reflect the aged qualities only time, wear, and frequent care could have accomplished naturally. Every individual piece upholstered with Artisan Leather finishing methods is first beautifully built to the highest standards of quality. The leather is then hand-colored and aged to bespeak the loving touch of time, providing a quality antique appearance to a beautiful new piece of quality leather furniture. Every chair, sofa, or bench has its very own unique identity only these hand-crafted methods can provide, reflecting the presence of a time honored past.
Frame Construction: Using traditional hand craftsmanship with modern manufacturing methods to produce frames that are among the finest used in the upholstery business. Each frame is precisely cut and hand assembled using kilned dried lumber. Double dowels are utilized in all structural parts to form sturdy, long lasting joints. To complete construction and add stability to the frame, large precisely cut corner blocks are positioned at each corner where the greatest stress occurs using both glues and screws. Limited Lifetime Warranty
Seat Cushions: Marshall Springs encased in 1.8 density foam, wrapped in 2 ounce fiber and encased in a sewn ticking. Limited Lifetime Warranty

Our Cattlemens Leather Recliner features an exceptional artisan leather tanned to the highest standards of quality. Artisan craftsmanship and comfort, appealing materials blend together to create a timeless masterpiece! The bustle back provides ample head and neck support making this fine leather recliner a perfect place to relax after a long day. The Cattlemens Leather Recliner is accented with brass nail tacks and embossed leather details on the arm panels and wings. Experience comfort and quality with this 100% American Made Recliner!
Overall Dimensions: 41" H x 37" W x 42" D
Arm Height: 25"
Seat Depth: 20"
Seat Height: 19"
Leather Description: Artisan Leathers beautifully evoke this time worn quality, unique to every individual piece, like the originals. To pure aniline leather crusts, already fully and carefully upholstered to the piece, a base color is created with multiple applications of waxes and oils, hand-worked by the leather Artisan. After drying, this craftsman then carefully builds-up the finish with an expert's eye, and touch, to achieve an aged patina in just the right places to reflect the aged qualities only time, wear, and frequent care could have accomplished naturally.
Every individual piece upholstered with Artisan Leather finishing methods is first beautifully built to the highest standards of quality. The leather is then hand-colored and aged to bespeak the loving touch of time, providing a quality antique appearance to a beautiful new piece of quality leather furniture. Every chair, sofa, or bench has its very own unique identity only these hand-crafted methods can provide, reflecting the presence of a time honored past.
True 100% top/full grain cowhide leather is characterized by variations in shade, texture, color and grain. Healed marks and scars are to be expected and enhance the natural beauty of the hides. These variations are normal and unique features of true genuine 100% top grain cowhide leather.
Frame Construction: Using traditional hand craftsmanship with modern manufacturing methods to produce frames that are among the finest used in the upholstery business. Each frame is precisely cut and hand assembled using kilned dried lumber. Double dowels are utilized in all structural parts to form sturdy, long lasting joints. To complete construction and add stability to the frame, large precisely cut corner blocks are positioned at each corner where the greatest stress occurs using both glues and screws. Limited Lifetime Warranty
Seat Cushions: Marshall Springs encased in 1.8 density foam, wrapped in 2 ounce fiber and encased in a sewn ticking. Limited Lifetime Warranty

Nestled in the hills of Orinda, California, this 1951 residence is one of only seven extant homes, now known as “The Magnificent Seven”, designed by architect Olof Dahlstrand, a protégé of Frank Lloyd Wright. With its low-slung rooflines, natural materials, and deep integration with the sloping landscape, the home is a pristine example of mid-century modern design inspired by Wright’s organic principles. Over the years, prior homeowners have emphasized preservation, ensuring that the house remained relatively untouched. Each owner has respected the original architecture and stayed true to Dahlstrand’s intent. When a family of five—two college-aged sons and a middle school-aged daughter—acquired the property, they were captivated by its history, legacy of care, and architectural significance. While they appreciated Dahlstrand’s original vision, they also recognized the need to adapt the home for contemporary living while preserving its design integrity.
The remodel was conceived as a thoughtful response to the past—an effort to bring the house into the 21st century without compromising its soul. The primary mandate was to maintain architectural continuity while improving the functionality, comfort, and livability for a modern family. The design team—architects and contractor alike—worked with a shared reverence for the original architecture, allowing that mindset to guide even the most technical or pragmatic decisions.
A key objective was to increase natural light in the kitchen—a departure from Wrightian principles of enclosed, intimate cooking spaces—while maintaining the home’s architectural language. The kitchen was reconfigured to foster a stronger connection to adjacent living spaces while retaining the underlying concept of spatial separation. One of the most transformative architectural changes was the removal of a ridge beam that was originally planned to remain visible through the kitchen. During construction, the team collaborated on a better solution: a wide-flanged steel beam concealed within the roof envelope. This subtle move preserved the clean lines and ceiling continuity, a modern update carried out with utmost respect for the existing framework.
The home’s original powder room, previously accessible only through the kitchen, was relocated for better flow and privacy. A new powder room was carved out of former kitchen cabinetry—a narrow, interior space that could have felt dark and enclosed. To avoid this, the design extended the line of original transom windows into the new powder room and added a skylight above the vanity. The result is a bright and airy space that feels consistent with the rest of the home. Other updates included the installation of new solid-core interior doors with veneers carefully matched to the original mahogany, enhancing the continuity of the interiors. Even smaller decisions, such as placing the door knobs at 42 inches high, mirrored the original proportions. Every choice reflected a shared belief between the architect, contractor, and client: that new work should serve the integrity of the old.
The home’s extensive interior redwood millwork and paneling was meticulously restored. Where new materials were introduced—such as the replacement redwood soffit paneling—the contractor took pains to find finish nails that matched the original, rather than using modern equivalents. This level of craftsmanship and collaboration defined the project. It extended even to the detailing of a blind door to the new powder room, which had to disappear into the existing redwood board-and-batten wall. It was a team effort: the owner found a suitable handle, the architects devised the custom in-swing mechanism, and the contractor executed it so the door aligned precisely with the battens. Throughout, the homeowners were deeply engaged in the design process. One, a meticulous design enthusiast, focused on aesthetic integrity and historic detail. The other brought a practical and function-driven perspective, ensuring that new fixtures and materials would be durable and require minimal maintenance.
While the home’s location posed no major site challenges, sustainability was a key concern. The team upgraded the roof insulation, installed solar panels with battery storage, and added ductless mini-split cooling systems. Lighting was another area where modern technology was woven into a historic framework: new square LED fixtures echo the original custom perimeter soffit lights, maintaining the design language while offering advanced performance.
A planned expansion of a bedroom into suite with a bathroom had to be shelved due to budget constraints and the high cost of below-grade foundation work. Still, the team focused their efforts on making the most of the existing footprint, resolving constraints through design ingenuity rather than adding square footage. This renovation represents a collaborative achievement in preserving and evolving a historically significant home. Every decision was shaped by a shared ethos among clients, architects, and contractor: to maintain the home’s architectural soul while updating it for contemporary life. The result is a timeless modernist residence that continues Olof Dahlstrand’s legacy, remaining grounded in nature, craftsmanship, and human-scale design.
Klopf Architecture Team: John Klopf, AIA, Klara Kevane, Fernanda Bernardes
Interior Architectural Design: Klopf Architecture
Structural Engineer: Daniel Bastiao
Contractor: Don Larwood, Larwood Construction
Photography: Mariko Reed
Year Completed: 2022

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 Brompton Leather Recliner is a stylish and comfortable piece of furniture that is sure to enhance any living room or den. The recliner is crafted from high-quality, full grain leather with hand burnished details. The leather has a rich, warm tone that is reminiscent of traditional western living room furniture.
The design of the Brompton Leather Recliner is both classic and traditional, featuring clean lines and a sleek silhouette. The wide, padded armrests and deep, cushioned seat provide exceptional comfort and support, making it the perfect spot to relax after a long day. The recliner also features a smooth reclining mechanism that can be easily activated by simply pushing back.
The overall aesthetic of the Brompton Leather Recliner is one of understated elegance. The leather is accented by subtle stitching details, and the recliner rests on dark wooden legs that add a touch of rustic charm. Whether you're looking for a comfortable spot to read, watch TV, or just unwind, the Brompton Leather Recliner is a versatile and stylish choice that is sure to become a favorite in any home. 100% American Made to the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship!
Overall Dimensions: 40" H x 35" W x 40" D
Arm Height: 26"
Seat Dimensions: 20" H x 20" W x 22" D
Overall Layout: 71"
Leather Description: Artisan Leathers beautifully evoke this time worn quality, unique to every individual piece, like the originals. To pure aniline leather crusts, already fully and carefully upholstered to the piece, a base color is created with multiple applications of waxes and oils, hand-worked by the leather Artisan. After drying, this craftsman then carefully builds-up the finish with an expert’s eye, and touch, to achieve an aged patina in just the right places to reflect the aged qualities only time, wear, and frequent care could have accomplished naturally. Every individual piece upholstered with Artisan Leather finishing methods is first beautifully built to the highest standards of quality. The leather is then hand-colored and aged to bespeak the loving touch of time, providing a quality antique appearance to a beautiful new piece of quality leather furniture. Every chair, sofa, or bench has its very own unique identity only these hand-crafted methods can provide, reflecting the presence of a time honored past.
True 100% top grain cowhide leather is characterized by variations in shade, texture, color and grain. Healed marks and scars are to be expected and enhance the natural beauty of the hides. These variations are normal and unique features of true genuine 100% top grain cowhide leather.
Frame Construction: Using traditional hand craftsmanship with modern manufacturing methods to produce frames that are among the finest used in the upholstery business. Each frame is precisely cut and hand assembled using kilned dried lumber. Double dowels are utilized in all structural parts to form sturdy, long lasting joints. To complete construction and add stability to the frame, large precisely cut corner blocks are positioned at each corner where the greatest stress occurs using both glues and screws. Limited Lifetime Warranty

This small master bathroom in a 1980s ranch was in need of a dramatic transformation to better meet the “empty nester” homeowners’ changing needs and taste. To improve its functionality and allow us to include an enlarged porcelain tile shower, we borrowed 15 square feet from the adjacent seldom-used guest bathroom, but did so without sacrificing that room’s functionality and aesthetic. Total usable space between the two bathrooms was approximately 100 square feet. This redesign was challenging due to the limited space, but the final layout reflects a balance between beauty, efficiency, and the homeowners’ priorities. They were open to innovative finishes, which resulted in two precisely-crafted luxurious, spa-like bathrooms that allow for relaxation and optimal functionality.

Looking for a traditional western leather recliner that offers both style and comfort? Look no further than our Daphne Leather Recliner. This beautiful chair is crafted from 100% full-grain hand-burnished leather, with wing and arm panels accented in a fine croc-embossed leather. The olive green color tones add richness to your living space and make it easy to contrast with tan and lighter color tones. Plus, with its oversized bustle back, the Daphne Leather Recliner provides ample head, neck, and lower back support, making it one of the most comfortable chairs you'll ever sit in. Best of all, this fine leather chair is 100% American made to the highest standards of quality, so you can enjoy it for years to come.
Dimensions: 43" H x 38.5" W x 36" D
Seat Depth: 21"
Seat Height: 20"
Arm Height: 24"
Leather Description: Artisan Leathers beautifully evoke this time worn quality, unique to every individual piece, like the originals. To pure aniline leather crusts, already fully and carefully upholstered to the piece, a base color is created with multiple applications of waxes and oils, hand-worked by the leather Artisan. After drying, this craftsman then carefully builds-up the finish with an expert’s eye, and touch, to achieve an aged patina in just the right places to reflect the aged qualities only time, wear, and frequent care could have accomplished naturally. Every individual piece upholstered with Artisan Leather finishing methods is first beautifully built to the highest standards of quality. The leather is then hand-colored and aged to bespeak the loving touch of time, providing a quality antique appearance to a beautiful new piece of quality leather furniture. Every chair, sofa, or bench has its very own unique identity only these hand-crafted methods can provide, reflecting the presence of a time honored past.
True 100% top/full grain cowhide leather is characterized by variations in shade, texture, color and grain. Healed marks and scars are to be expected and enhance the natural beauty of the hides. These variations are normal and unique features of true genuine 100% top/full grain cowhide leather.
Embossed Leather Description: A leather used to accent many of today's home interiors. The leather hide is first embossed with a large crocodile grain and then colored by applying two base color coats of micro pigments. The leather is then wiped-off to give it a contrast of colors utilizing the base color combination. This color contrast is further accented by two additional top coat colors that are wiped-on by hand to give the leather a beautiful antique look. The last step is to slightly protect the hand work of the leather hide with a lacquer topcoat that provides great depth and warmth to the finished product.
Frame Construction: Using traditional hand craftsmanship with modern manufacturing methods to produce frames that are among the finest used in the upholstery business. Each frame is precisely cut and hand assembled using kilned dried lumber. Double dowels are utilized in all structural parts to form sturdy, long lasting joints. To complete construction and add stability to the frame, large precisely cut corner blocks are positioned at each corner where the greatest stress occurs using both glues and screws.

Dress up your living room, study or office with our cozy Sundance Leather Sofa. This fine leather sofa is covered in our signature hand burnished leather with subtle stamped leather accents in the arm panels. All of those rich, simplistic details add up to one thing: an always stylish, comfy and timeless high end living room sofa that you can be proud to include in any room of your home or office. Because we always use full and top grain leathers, both the texture and the color of the Leather Sofa will vary slightly, which means your piece can truly be called a one of a kind. Like a favorite leather jacket or perfectly broken-in pair of boots, this rustic elegant living room sofa is a luxury that only gets better with age. Luxury synthetic down seat cushions makes our Sundance Leather Sofa sit extra soft!
Dimensions: 35" H x 98" W x 40" D
Seat Height: 19"
Arm Height: 24"
Seat Depth: 25''
Leather Description: Artisan Leathers beautifully evoke this time worn quality, unique to every individual piece, like the originals. To pure aniline leather crusts, already fully and carefully upholstered to the piece, a base color is created with multiple applications of waxes and oils, hand-worked by the leather Artisan. After drying, this craftsman then carefully builds-up the finish with an expert’s eye, and touch, to achieve an aged patina in just the right places to reflect the aged qualities only time, wear, and frequent care could have accomplished naturally.
Every individual piece upholstered with Artisan Leather finishing methods is first beautifully built to the highest standards of quality. The leather is then hand-colored and aged to bespeak the loving touch of time, providing a quality antique appearance to a beautiful new piece of quality leather furniture. Every chair, sofa, or bench has its very own unique identity only these hand-crafted methods can provide, reflecting the presence of a time honored past.
Embossed Leather Description: A leather used to accent many of today's home interiors. The leather hide is first embossed with a large crocodile grain and then colored by applying two base color coats of micro pigments. The leather is then wiped-off to give it a contrast of colors utilizing the base color combination. This color contrast is further accented by two additional top coat colors that are wiped-on by hand to give the leather a beautiful antique look. The last step is to slightly protect the hand work of the leather hide with a lacquer topcoat that provides great depth and warmth to the finished product.
True 100% top grain cowhide leather is characterized by variations in shade, texture, color and grain. Healed marks and scars are to be expected and enhance the natural beauty of the hides. These variations are normal and unique features of true genuine 100% top grain cowhide leather.
Frame Construction: Using traditional hand craftsmanship with modern manufacturing methods to produce frames that are among the finest used in the upholstery business. Each frame is precisely cut and hand assembled using kilned dried lumber. Double dowels are utilized in all structural parts to form sturdy, long lasting joints. To complete construction and add stability to the frame, large precisely cut corner blocks are positioned at each corner where the greatest stress occurs using both glues and screws.
Seat Cushions: Features four inner channels filled with hypollergenic resilient denier fibers mixed with revolutionary micro-denier fibers to create cushions with the luxurious comfort and feel of down without the maintenance demands of down.

The Session Sofa is in stock at 86.5" x 36" in Desert 7 Fabric with two 20" x 31.5" x 2.75" cushions. Removable cover included.
Session is the latest addition from Eilersen, who has once again created a sofa for the most discerning of audiences. The construction is supported by slim legs made of brushed stainless steel, which achieves the familiar ambition of completing the shape through functionality.
As with all of Eilersen’s sofas, it is designed, produced and assembled to withstand the wear that occurs naturally at a popular place for relaxation and rest. “With Session, we have created a sofa that is as beautiful to look at as it is comfortable to sit in. The consistency of the construction is an achievement from a design point of view, but the most important thing for me is that the seating comfort is optimal, as well as that it continues to be so,” says designer Jens Juul Eilersen.
Just add a personal touch
The sofa has a fixed back, and the two loose back cushions can be moved around at pleasure. The seat is Eilersen’s renowned down top, which with its core of foam - and swaddling of down and duck feathers - ensures comfort and lasting resilience over the course of time. The Session is a modular piece of furniture and can be upholstered in textile or leather. Therefore, the possibilities for enjoying a sofa with a personal touch are virtually infinite. This means that Eilersen’s customers can choose the colour and structure that precisely matches their own preferences and dreams.
Eilersen Session Sofa Quick Ship
“With Session, we have created a sofa that is as beautiful to look at as it is comfortable to sit in. The consistency of the construction is an achievement from a design point of view, but the most important thing for me is that the seating comfort is optimal, as well as that it continues to be so,” says designer Jens Juul Eilersen.

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

Discover the timeless style and comfort of the Ranchero Leather Recliner. Crafted with the finest hand-burnished leather, this classic piece features an aged patina in just the right places to reflect the qualities that only time, wear, and frequent care can achieve naturally. The whip-stitched arms and studded brass nail heads add a rustic feel while maintaining a modern design. The Ranchero Leather Recliner offers stylish looks and unparalleled comfort that's top of the line both inside and out. Constructed with a hardwood frame and topped off with a high-density foam cushion, this recliner ensures lasting comfort and durability. Our 100% American-made product is crafted to the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship, ensuring that it will stand the test of time.
Overall Dimensions: 38" H x 36" W x 40" D
Seat Height: 18"
Seat Depth: 22"
Arm Height: 24"
Leather Description: Artisan Leathers beautifully evoke this time worn quality, unique to every individual piece, like the originals. To pure aniline leather crusts, already fully and carefully upholstered to the piece, a base color is created with multiple applications of waxes and oils, hand-worked by the leather Artisan. After drying, this craftsman then carefully builds-up the finish with an expert’s eye, and touch, to achieve an aged patina in just the right places to reflect the aged qualities only time, wear, and frequent care could have accomplished naturally. Every individual piece upholstered with Artisan Leather finishing methods is first beautifully built to the highest standards of quality. The leather is then hand-colored and aged to bespeak the loving touch of time, providing a quality antique appearance to a beautiful new piece of quality leather furniture. Every chair, sofa, or bench has its very own unique identity only these hand-crafted methods can provide, reflecting the presence of a time honored past.
True 100% top/full grain cowhide leather is characterized by variations in shade, texture, color and grain. Healed marks and scars are to be expected and enhance the natural beauty of the hides. These variations are normal and unique features of true genuine 100% top grain cowhide leather.
Frame Construction: Using traditional hand craftsmanship with modern manufacturing methods to produce frames that are among the finest used in the upholstery business. Each frame is precisely cut and hand assembled using kilned dried lumber. Double dowels are utilized in all structural parts to form sturdy, long lasting joints. To complete construction and add stability to the frame, large precisely cut corner blocks are positioned at each corner where the greatest stress occurs using both glues and screws. Limited Lifetime Warranty
Seat Cushions: Marshall Springs encased in 1.8 density foam, wrapped in 2 ounce fiber and encased in a sewn ticking. Limited Lifetime Warranty

Sponsored
Fredericksburg, OH
High Point Cabinets
Columbus' Experienced Custom Cabinet Builder | 4x Best of Houzz Winner

Our Cowboy Chaps Recliner simply oozes refined western elegance. This simple, stately leather recliner offers all the comfort and convenience of a high-quality recliner with the body and frame of a high-end chair. This luxurious Western piece of furniture is made from the finest possible top-grain Italian leather, stretched over high-density cushioning and a hardwood frame. Our Cowboy Chaps Recliner features a stately design reminiscent of the porticos of Southern estates. Bronze nail head accents serve to perfectly complement the deep, dulcet tones of the rich leather upholstery accented with a contrasting embossed leather. The Cowboy Chaps Recliner is a subtle, elegant addition to virtually any home or living area. This unique piece of furniture is a surefire way to show off your sense of style and classical tastes. Thanks to its clean, elegant appearance, this piece pairs well with virtually any collection of furniture and any décor theme, instantly becoming a standout piece that you’ll be proud to show off.
Overall Dimensions: 45" H x 39" W x 40" D
Arm Height: 27"
Seat Dimensions: 20" H x 23" W x 20" D
Semi-Attached Back
Overall Layout: 70"
Leather Description: Crafted from full grain, buffalo hides tanned by a third generation, family-run tannery in India. This Leather features a striking pull-up effect and authentically aged aesthetic that immediately draws you in. Another standout quality of this leather is its rich and surprisingly soft hand achieved through an extensive milling process and innovative wax treatment.
True 100% full grain cowhide leather is characterized by variations in shade, texture, color and grain. Healed marks and scars are to be expected and enhance the natural beauty of the hides. These variations are normal and unique features of true genuine 100% full grain cowhide leather.
Embossed Leather Description: A leather used to accent many of today's home interiors. The leather hide is first embossed with a large crocodile grain and then colored by applying two base color coats of micro pigments. The leather is then wiped-off to give it a contrast of colors utilizing the base color combination. This color contrast is further accented by two additional top coat colors that are wiped-on by hand to give the leather a beautiful antique look. The last step is to slightly protect the hand work of the leather hide with a lacquer topcoat that provides great depth and warmth to the finished product.
Frame Construction: Using traditional hand craftsmanship with modern manufacturing methods to produce frames that are among the finest used in the upholstery business. Each frame is precisely cut and hand assembled using kilned dried lumber. Double dowels are utilized in all structural parts to form sturdy, long lasting joints. To complete construction and add stability to the frame, large precisely cut corner blocks are positioned at each corner where the greatest stress occurs using both glues and screws. Limited Lifetime Warranty
Seat Cushions: Marshall Springs encased in 1.8 density foam, wrapped in 2 ounce fiber and encased in a sewn ticking. Limited Lifetime Warranty

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
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