Search results for "Demand performance" in Home Design Ideas

This stunning kitchen project in Fraserburgh perfectly blends modern aesthetics with functionality. The client envisioned a contemporary kitchen that maximised practicality while incorporating a striking island.
To achieve the desired look, we selected the Nolte Lux range with integrated MatrixArt handleless trims for a sleek and seamless appearance. Finished in Gloss White, the cabinetry is paired with Beton Concrete accents, creating a balanced mix of light and texture for a truly sophisticated feel.
The worktops, also by Nolte, feature a robust 40mm Concrete design, adding to the industrial yet refined charm of the space.
High-performance NEFF appliances were chosen to ensure the kitchen meets the demands of modern living. These include two Slide&Hide single ovens, a vented induction hob with an integrated extractor, and essential built-in appliances such as a fridge freezer and dishwasher.
A Blanco Zia sink in Anthracite was paired with a Quooker Fusion Square tap in a Chrome finish, offering instant boiling water for added convenience.
To enhance the flow of the home, a structural wall was removed, opening the kitchen into the conservatory and creating a spacious living area ideal for family gatherings and shared meals.
The multifunctional island serves as a focal point, combining a cooking zone, washing-up area, and informal dining space. Tall units were meticulously designed to extend to the ceiling, incorporating a goal post niche for added storage and visual interest.
Our expert team fully managed this project, ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish. Detailed drawings were provided to all on-site trades, resulting in a beautifully executed kitchen tailored to the client’s needs.
Ready to transform your space? Contact us today to begin your journey towards the kitchen of your dreams!

Nestled along South Boulder Creek with sweeping Flatirons views, Creekside is a custom modern mountain home shaped by one guiding principle: dissolve the boundary between light, landscape, and daily living. From the first conversations, the project began not with a floor plan, but with the land itself—carefully evaluating a rare, delicate site and letting its rhythms, constraints, and beauty set the tone for every decision.
Designed for a couple building their forever home in the Boulder foothills, the residence balances crisp modernity with the warmth and honesty of natural materials. Expansive glazing and clean lines are grounded by timber, stone, and tactile finishes—quietly luxurious rather than showy. The clients had spent years “chasing the light” from home to home; here, that pursuit became something more intentional. Instead of chasing the sun, the architecture invites sunlight to travel through the house across the day and seasons.
Light is treated as a living element, orchestrated to create moments of surprise and calm. An interior window captures southern exposure at the upper level, guiding it through the loft and filtering it into the northern living room below—an atmospheric shift that changes hour by hour. A glass stair bridge adds levitation and clarity, linking front and back, public and private. Beneath it, a serene Zen garden winds under floating stairs, creating a quiet pause in the home’s circulation.
Facing the creek, the home opens into a composition of glass and crisp geometry, framing moving water and long bands of daylight. Peaked roofs, timber beams, and stone cladding nod to regional vernacular, rooting the modern form in its mountain context.
Set beside a sensitive riparian corridor, Creekside demanded exceptional care, including meticulous deconstruction of an existing structure with 94% landfill diversion. Performance was treated as a design feature: HERS 4, ENERGY STAR certification, a 15.8 kWh solar array, 30 kW battery backup, 1 ACH air-sealed construction, and air-source heat pumps—proof that stewardship and comfort can coexist beautifully.

Elevate the everyday with this luxurious modern-farmhouse laundry and mudroom that blends high-end design with effortless function. Crisp shiplap walls, custom white cabinetry reaching the ceiling, and gleaming quartz countertops create a bright, sophisticated backdrop, while a statement chandelier and vintage French glass doors add boutique-hotel charm. Patterned encaustic and wood-look porcelain tiles bring warmth and durability underfoot, perfect for a busy family. Thoughtful details include a built-in folding station, pull-down drying rack, and abundant storage for a perpetually organized space. Ideal for discerning homeowners who demand beauty and performance in every square foot.
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Welcome to a newly built home in Redwood City, crafted from the ground up with over 25 years of skilled construction expertise. Original home was demolished. Every detail was thoughtfully designed to meet city standards, limitations, and requirements—resulting in a residence that feels light, crisp, and deeply connected to nature. Wood floors run throughout the home, creating warmth and continuity from the moment you step inside.
*Entry & Living Spaces*
As you enter through the clean, modern 8-foot door—perfectly aligned with the 9-foot ceiling—you’re greeted by a bright, open feel. The living room centers around a custom fireplace clad in artistic tile, paired with a built-in TV stand. Directly across, double sliding doors invite natural light and seamless indoor-outdoor living. The entire home enjoys a ceiling of 9' with a combination of vaulted ceiling in the primary bedroom.
*Kitchen – The Heart of the Home*
The kitchen is the true centerpiece. Designed with an open concept and surrounded by generous windows, it features quartz on both the countertops and full-height walls for a luxurious, cohesive aesthetic. A large island—topped with a full slab of quartz—anchors the room, offering extra space between the island and main counters for comfortable movement and entertainment. Two elegant clear pendant lights highlight its presence. Outfitted with top-tier luxury appliances designed for both performance and visual refinement.
White cabinetry keeps the look clean and minimalist, while oversized drawers provide functional storage for cooking utensils. The induction cooktop, paired with a pot filler, reinforces the modern and streamlined design. A double oven and an almost-hidden pantry maintain the sleek look, keeping the focus on the kitchen’s architecture and flow.
Mudroom & Dining Area Adjacent to the kitchen is a mudroom with a charming barn door leading toward the garage. A half-wall accent features eccentric black-and-white tile, complemented by bold black fixtures. A small custom hidden closet maximizes storage while maintaining a refined appearance.
The dining room, open and airy, continues the wood flooring and is adorned with stylish pendant lighting—perfect for gatherings and everyday meals. The wide, open staircase is fully exposed to the dining area and first floor, creating a striking architectural feature that visually connects the spaces. Its modern wood-and-metal design contributes to the home’s open flow while serving as a sculptural centerpiece within the main living level.
*Bedrooms & Laundry*
Guest and secondary bedrooms are bright and inviting, each with multiple windows framed in sleek black for a modern edge. Every bedroom enjoys its own bathroom, offering comfort and privacy. A compact but well-designed laundry room includes a sink and drying rack, making smart use of space.
The second story features an open layout with wide hallways, enhancing the sense of space and natural flow. This home also includes an office and one of the bedrooms is used for a workout space.
*Primary Suite*
Set apart from the other bedrooms for privacy, the primary suite is a luxurious retreat. An accent wall adds character, while a large walk-in closet offers abundant storage. A skylight fills the room with natural light, enhancing the open, breathable atmosphere.
*Bathrooms*
Each bathroom was thoughtfully designed with its own personality:
- Primary bathroom: The primary bathroom embraces a concrete-inspired look, featuring dual sinks and a spacious shower with double-sided niches—one for each person. An LED makeup mirror adds functional elegance.
- Second bathroom: Gray cabinet, tile wall, black fixtures, frameless shower door, and a striking floral tile accent.
- Third bathroom: White cabinets, gold fixtures, white tile floors, a shower stall, and a bold green tile feature wall with a large niche.
- Fourth bathroom: Blue cabinet, gray tile floors, a tub with frameless shower door, and gray wall tiles paired with sleek chrome fixtures.
- Powder Room: Half wall crown molding with black tile design and fixtures.
*Exterior & Landscape*
The planning process also emphasized low-maintenance landscape design, using easy-care plants that enhance the home’s natural feel without demanding constant upkeep. The home is also equipped with a dedicated EV charging station and solar panels, supporting energy efficiency and modern sustainable living.

Fulfilling the promise of their corporate mission of “Quality without Compromise” Fabrica manufactures carpets and rugs for the most demanding segments of the high-end style residential market. Fabrica's distinctive broadloom carpet, custom area rugs, and hand-tufted rugs have earned Fabrica an international reputation for exquisite style and exceptional performance.
Over their 40-year history of selling top quality floor coverings, Sarmazian Bros. Ltd.'s reputation for high caliber products and service is continually being enhanced by the testimonials of its customers. As a family-owned business, the Sarmazian brothers and their staff pride themselves on the ability to provide the best end-to-end purchasing experience in the market. New flooring is the foundation of personal expression in any home; at the same time, it is one of the most costly investments. This is why Sarmazian's takes the extra time to supply the expert knowledge, exceptional pricing, and professional installation enabling to transfer optimum satisfaction to the customer.
Sarmazian's award winning showrooms allow the imagination to go wild. The spacious design and interactive layouts let customers browse, touch, and feel the extensive selection of merchandise in a friendly relaxed atmosphere. Because Sarmazian Bros. deals directly with the manufacturers and installers we offer quicker service, better support, and pass on the savings directly to you, the customer.

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

High Rib insulated metal roofing panel offers a superior metal roof product while providing thermal and air tightness that increases a building's performance. It is an aesthetically pleasing metal roof product while reducing a building's overall demand for energy.

Welcome to a newly built home in Redwood City, crafted from the ground up with over 25 years of skilled construction expertise. Original home was demolished. Every detail was thoughtfully designed to meet city standards, limitations, and requirements—resulting in a residence that feels light, crisp, and deeply connected to nature. Wood floors run throughout the home, creating warmth and continuity from the moment you step inside.
*Entry & Living Spaces*
As you enter through the clean, modern 8-foot door—perfectly aligned with the 9-foot ceiling—you’re greeted by a bright, open feel. The living room centers around a custom fireplace clad in artistic tile, paired with a built-in TV stand. Directly across, double sliding doors invite natural light and seamless indoor-outdoor living. The entire home enjoys a ceiling of 9' with a combination of vaulted ceiling in the primary bedroom.
*Kitchen – The Heart of the Home*
The kitchen is the true centerpiece. Designed with an open concept and surrounded by generous windows, it features quartz on both the countertops and full-height walls for a luxurious, cohesive aesthetic. A large island—topped with a full slab of quartz—anchors the room, offering extra space between the island and main counters for comfortable movement and entertainment. Two elegant clear pendant lights highlight its presence. Outfitted with top-tier luxury appliances designed for both performance and visual refinement.
White cabinetry keeps the look clean and minimalist, while oversized drawers provide functional storage for cooking utensils. The induction cooktop, paired with a pot filler, reinforces the modern and streamlined design. A double oven and an almost-hidden pantry maintain the sleek look, keeping the focus on the kitchen’s architecture and flow.
Mudroom & Dining Area Adjacent to the kitchen is a mudroom with a charming barn door leading toward the garage. A half-wall accent features eccentric black-and-white tile, complemented by bold black fixtures. A small custom hidden closet maximizes storage while maintaining a refined appearance.
The dining room, open and airy, continues the wood flooring and is adorned with stylish pendant lighting—perfect for gatherings and everyday meals. The wide, open staircase is fully exposed to the dining area and first floor, creating a striking architectural feature that visually connects the spaces. Its modern wood-and-metal design contributes to the home’s open flow while serving as a sculptural centerpiece within the main living level.
*Bedrooms & Laundry*
Guest and secondary bedrooms are bright and inviting, each with multiple windows framed in sleek black for a modern edge. Every bedroom enjoys its own bathroom, offering comfort and privacy. A compact but well-designed laundry room includes a sink and drying rack, making smart use of space.
The second story features an open layout with wide hallways, enhancing the sense of space and natural flow. This home also includes an office and one of the bedrooms is used for a workout space.
*Primary Suite*
Set apart from the other bedrooms for privacy, the primary suite is a luxurious retreat. An accent wall adds character, while a large walk-in closet offers abundant storage. A skylight fills the room with natural light, enhancing the open, breathable atmosphere.
*Bathrooms*
Each bathroom was thoughtfully designed with its own personality:
- Primary bathroom: The primary bathroom embraces a concrete-inspired look, featuring dual sinks and a spacious shower with double-sided niches—one for each person. An LED makeup mirror adds functional elegance.
- Second bathroom: Gray cabinet, tile wall, black fixtures, frameless shower door, and a striking floral tile accent.
- Third bathroom: White cabinets, gold fixtures, white tile floors, a shower stall, and a bold green tile feature wall with a large niche.
- Fourth bathroom: Blue cabinet, gray tile floors, a tub with frameless shower door, and gray wall tiles paired with sleek chrome fixtures.
- Powder Room: Half wall crown molding with black tile design and fixtures.
*Exterior & Landscape*
The planning process also emphasized low-maintenance landscape design, using easy-care plants that enhance the home’s natural feel without demanding constant upkeep. The home is also equipped with a dedicated EV charging station and solar panels, supporting energy efficiency and modern sustainable living.

Madrona Passive House, a new Seattle home designed by SHED Architecture & Design and built by Hammer & Hand, combines contemporary design with high performance building to create an environmentally responsive and resource-efficient house.
The home’s airtight, super-insulated building envelope and passive design minimize energy consumption while providing superior thermal comfort to occupants. A heat recovery ventilator supplies constant fresh air to the home’s interior while recovering 90% of thermal energy from exhaust air for reuse inside. A rooftop solar photovoltaic array will provide enough energy to offset most, perhaps all, of the home’s energy consumption on a net annual basis. To manage stormwater the project employs permeable pavers for site hardscape and two cisterns to capture and control rainwater from the home’s roof and the green roof on the garage.
By investing in sustainable site development strategies, efficient building systems and an advanced envelope, the project aims to respect the home’s environmentally critical site and achieve one of the world’s most demanding building energy standards: Passive House.
Photos by Mark Woods Photography.

Where timeless texture meets today’s technology.
Imagine walking barefoot across a pool deck that feels soft underfoot, radiates warmth, and looks like it belongs in a Mediterranean estate. Sandstone Slabs by Techo-Bloc are designed for exactly that, bringing the natural look of quarried stone with the strength and durability of engineered concrete.
These slabs capture the irregular charm of hand-cut sandstone while providing consistent performance in harsh climates. Stain-resistant, slip-resistant, and chlorine-friendly, they’re perfect for high-end pool decks that demand both form and function.
Available in large-format sizes with soft color tones, Sandstone Slabs elevate any outdoor space with a high-end finish that feels grounded in nature yet built for the future.
Refined, resilient, and radiant; Sandstone Slabs transform your poolside into a sanctuary.
Book your private design consultation today: 516-522-8249

One of the most popular hardwood floor finishing which offers Tom & Peter Flooring is provided by WOCA. If you’ve decided that you want a natural looking wooden floor that is lacquer-free, then the likelihood is that you’ve chosen oil as your way of protecting your wood and making your floor look great at the same time. WOCA for wood flooring comes in various forms and is a great way of making sure that your wood is protected, but at the same time looks natural. A highly popular as well as effective way of treating wood floors, oils effectively penetrate into the wood and in some cases harden into the surface of the floor to stop damage and to maintain the wood in its optimum condition.
WOCA Oil finish hardwood flooring has taken the United States market by in 2014 and shows no signs of slowing down in 2016 and now. Here are some of the most common questions we have regarding this type of finish which we will I’m to answer in today’s my blog:
Is oil finish as durable as traditional factory urethane finishes with aluminum oxide?
When it comes to durability, oil finish flooring tackles the issue with a completely different method. The penetrating oil serves as protection from moisture and wear while allowing the user to feel the wood grains in their bare feet. If compared directly to factory finished aluminum oxide finish, the oil finish flooring will not perform as well to abrasion and impact. However, the beauty of this finish is the fact that it will camouflage any scratches which will inevitably accumulate over time.
Will this finish evaporate over time and will this be harmful for indoor air quality?
Another concern for oil finished floors its effect on indoor air quality. For on-site applications, some varieties suggest several coats which typically require the residents to be out of the home due to mild odors. However, there are factory finished UV-cured or single coat applications which lessen the downtime. Despite the odors produced during the drying process, oil finish floors rank amongst the lowest for VOC (volatile organic compound) emissions. Certain brands even boast true zero VOC. This fact alone makes oil finished floors one of the best options for green building solutions.
“WOCA products are certified by independent laboratories, the German Institute for Biological Building Materials, and are in accordance with DIN–Norm 53–160. WOCA WoodCare Denmark products meet or exceed the most stringent U.S. standards for volatile organic compounds.” –WOCA Oil Finish Manufacture
Does this type of finish require additional maintenance which I am not familiar with?
For weekly cleaning, oiled floors use a special cleaner which contains an oil and soap mixture. After a period of 12-18 months some oil may evaporate causing the wood grains to appear dry. An additional layer of oil can be reapplied to keep the floor looking fresh. Although oil finished floors require more involvement in periodic maintenance in high traffic areas, this maintenance can be done much easier than the equivalent of an onsite sand and refinish.
WOCA Master Color Oil contains pigment, which provides a single-step hardwood floor staining process. Laying down the stain and the finish in one step.
This product comes 14 different colors, from Black to Extra White, and you can mix them freely to create various color palettes that will meet the demands of any job.
Below are some pictures of the finished job…

Welcome to a newly built home in Redwood City, crafted from the ground up with over 25 years of skilled construction expertise. Original home was demolished. Every detail was thoughtfully designed to meet city standards, limitations, and requirements—resulting in a residence that feels light, crisp, and deeply connected to nature. Wood floors run throughout the home, creating warmth and continuity from the moment you step inside.
*Entry & Living Spaces*
As you enter through the clean, modern 8-foot door—perfectly aligned with the 9-foot ceiling—you’re greeted by a bright, open feel. The living room centers around a custom fireplace clad in artistic tile, paired with a built-in TV stand. Directly across, double sliding doors invite natural light and seamless indoor-outdoor living. The entire home enjoys a ceiling of 9' with a combination of vaulted ceiling in the primary bedroom.
*Kitchen – The Heart of the Home*
The kitchen is the true centerpiece. Designed with an open concept and surrounded by generous windows, it features quartz on both the countertops and full-height walls for a luxurious, cohesive aesthetic. A large island—topped with a full slab of quartz—anchors the room, offering extra space between the island and main counters for comfortable movement and entertainment. Two elegant clear pendant lights highlight its presence. Outfitted with top-tier luxury appliances designed for both performance and visual refinement.
White cabinetry keeps the look clean and minimalist, while oversized drawers provide functional storage for cooking utensils. The induction cooktop, paired with a pot filler, reinforces the modern and streamlined design. A double oven and an almost-hidden pantry maintain the sleek look, keeping the focus on the kitchen’s architecture and flow.
Mudroom & Dining Area Adjacent to the kitchen is a mudroom with a charming barn door leading toward the garage. A half-wall accent features eccentric black-and-white tile, complemented by bold black fixtures. A small custom hidden closet maximizes storage while maintaining a refined appearance.
The dining room, open and airy, continues the wood flooring and is adorned with stylish pendant lighting—perfect for gatherings and everyday meals. The wide, open staircase is fully exposed to the dining area and first floor, creating a striking architectural feature that visually connects the spaces. Its modern wood-and-metal design contributes to the home’s open flow while serving as a sculptural centerpiece within the main living level.
*Bedrooms & Laundry*
Guest and secondary bedrooms are bright and inviting, each with multiple windows framed in sleek black for a modern edge. Every bedroom enjoys its own bathroom, offering comfort and privacy. A compact but well-designed laundry room includes a sink and drying rack, making smart use of space.
The second story features an open layout with wide hallways, enhancing the sense of space and natural flow. This home also includes an office and one of the bedrooms is used for a workout space.
*Primary Suite*
Set apart from the other bedrooms for privacy, the primary suite is a luxurious retreat. An accent wall adds character, while a large walk-in closet offers abundant storage. A skylight fills the room with natural light, enhancing the open, breathable atmosphere.
*Bathrooms*
Each bathroom was thoughtfully designed with its own personality:
- Primary bathroom: The primary bathroom embraces a concrete-inspired look, featuring dual sinks and a spacious shower with double-sided niches—one for each person. An LED makeup mirror adds functional elegance.
- Second bathroom: Gray cabinet, tile wall, black fixtures, frameless shower door, and a striking floral tile accent.
- Third bathroom: White cabinets, gold fixtures, white tile floors, a shower stall, and a bold green tile feature wall with a large niche.
- Fourth bathroom: Blue cabinet, gray tile floors, a tub with frameless shower door, and gray wall tiles paired with sleek chrome fixtures.
- Powder Room: Half wall crown molding with black tile design and fixtures.
*Exterior & Landscape*
The planning process also emphasized low-maintenance landscape design, using easy-care plants that enhance the home’s natural feel without demanding constant upkeep. The home is also equipped with a dedicated EV charging station and solar panels, supporting energy efficiency and modern sustainable living.

M-S Pro Architects announce the completion of an indoor swimming pool in a state-of-the-art, single storey family home set in a picturesque location on the outskirts of Bratislava - one of Europe’s youngest capital cities. Kebony, a beautiful wood recommended by leading architects, was chosen to craft the ceiling of the swimming pool, which is designed to emulate rippling waves as well as for the terrace deck and structural beams.
Sustainability and a desire to recreate the close proximity often seen between wood and water in the natural environment were primary focuses in the design of this project. This led a requirement for a low maintenance wood, compatible humidity and with advanced durability, for the swimming pool ceiling. In addition, a high level of precision when cutting the wood was required in order to achieve the desired appearance of waves.
Supplied by Leading Market, Kebony was carefully selected for the pool ceiling, which consists of 490 lamellae of timber, due to its versatility, durability and environmental credentials. Kebony was also installed throughout the exterior of this property, both for the spacious outdoor terrace and the exterior and interior beams. One of the reasons to choose Kebony was the unified look of wood in all these different applications.
Developed in Norway, the patented Kebony technology uses an environmentally friendly process, which permanently enhances the properties of sustainable softwood with a bio-based liquid derived from agricultural crop waste. By polymerising the wood’s cell wall with furfuryl alcohol, the wood gains greatly improved durability and dimensional stability, giving it characteristics similar to those of tropical hardwood. In creating a wood with comparable properties to tropical hardwood that can be grown in a FSC certified, sustainably managed forest, the demand for tropical woods is reduced, allowing timber to once again be an important part of sustainable construction.
Tomáš Hubinský, Lead Architect at M-S Pro, commented: “From conception through to completion, the creation of this ceiling has been a real feat. Despite the challenges faced by such an intricate design, Kebony was the perfect material to convey our desired effect of waves rippling along the ceiling. We will continue to incorporate Kebony into our interior and exterior designs, with wood fast becoming the first choice material for all architects.”
Mette Valen, Sales Manager Norway at Kebony, explained: “The distinctive nature of this design cleverly portrays the capability of Kebony, demonstrating both the aesthetic and performance qualities of the product. We would be honoured to work with M-S Pro in the future and look forward to seeing how they utilise Kebony in their future projects.”

Welcome to a newly built home in Redwood City, crafted from the ground up with over 25 years of skilled construction expertise. Original home was demolished. Every detail was thoughtfully designed to meet city standards, limitations, and requirements—resulting in a residence that feels light, crisp, and deeply connected to nature. Wood floors run throughout the home, creating warmth and continuity from the moment you step inside.
*Entry & Living Spaces*
As you enter through the clean, modern 8-foot door—perfectly aligned with the 9-foot ceiling—you’re greeted by a bright, open feel. The living room centers around a custom fireplace clad in artistic tile, paired with a built-in TV stand. Directly across, double sliding doors invite natural light and seamless indoor-outdoor living. The entire home enjoys a ceiling of 9' with a combination of vaulted ceiling in the primary bedroom.
*Kitchen – The Heart of the Home*
The kitchen is the true centerpiece. Designed with an open concept and surrounded by generous windows, it features quartz on both the countertops and full-height walls for a luxurious, cohesive aesthetic. A large island—topped with a full slab of quartz—anchors the room, offering extra space between the island and main counters for comfortable movement and entertainment. Two elegant clear pendant lights highlight its presence. Outfitted with top-tier luxury appliances designed for both performance and visual refinement.
White cabinetry keeps the look clean and minimalist, while oversized drawers provide functional storage for cooking utensils. The induction cooktop, paired with a pot filler, reinforces the modern and streamlined design. A double oven and an almost-hidden pantry maintain the sleek look, keeping the focus on the kitchen’s architecture and flow.
Mudroom & Dining Area Adjacent to the kitchen is a mudroom with a charming barn door leading toward the garage. A half-wall accent features eccentric black-and-white tile, complemented by bold black fixtures. A small custom hidden closet maximizes storage while maintaining a refined appearance.
The dining room, open and airy, continues the wood flooring and is adorned with stylish pendant lighting—perfect for gatherings and everyday meals. The wide, open staircase is fully exposed to the dining area and first floor, creating a striking architectural feature that visually connects the spaces. Its modern wood-and-metal design contributes to the home’s open flow while serving as a sculptural centerpiece within the main living level.
*Bedrooms & Laundry*
Guest and secondary bedrooms are bright and inviting, each with multiple windows framed in sleek black for a modern edge. Every bedroom enjoys its own bathroom, offering comfort and privacy. A compact but well-designed laundry room includes a sink and drying rack, making smart use of space.
The second story features an open layout with wide hallways, enhancing the sense of space and natural flow. This home also includes an office and one of the bedrooms is used for a workout space.
*Primary Suite*
Set apart from the other bedrooms for privacy, the primary suite is a luxurious retreat. An accent wall adds character, while a large walk-in closet offers abundant storage. A skylight fills the room with natural light, enhancing the open, breathable atmosphere.
*Bathrooms*
Each bathroom was thoughtfully designed with its own personality:
- Primary bathroom: The primary bathroom embraces a concrete-inspired look, featuring dual sinks and a spacious shower with double-sided niches—one for each person. An LED makeup mirror adds functional elegance.
- Second bathroom: Gray cabinet, tile wall, black fixtures, frameless shower door, and a striking floral tile accent.
- Third bathroom: White cabinets, gold fixtures, white tile floors, a shower stall, and a bold green tile feature wall with a large niche.
- Fourth bathroom: Blue cabinet, gray tile floors, a tub with frameless shower door, and gray wall tiles paired with sleek chrome fixtures.
- Powder Room: Half wall crown molding with black tile design and fixtures.
*Exterior & Landscape*
The planning process also emphasized low-maintenance landscape design, using easy-care plants that enhance the home’s natural feel without demanding constant upkeep. The home is also equipped with a dedicated EV charging station and solar panels, supporting energy efficiency and modern sustainable living.

One of the most popular hardwood floor finishing which offers Tom & Peter Flooring is provided by WOCA. If you’ve decided that you want a natural looking wooden floor that is lacquer-free, then the likelihood is that you’ve chosen oil as your way of protecting your wood and making your floor look great at the same time. WOCA for wood flooring comes in various forms and is a great way of making sure that your wood is protected, but at the same time looks natural. A highly popular as well as effective way of treating wood floors, oils effectively penetrate into the wood and in some cases harden into the surface of the floor to stop damage and to maintain the wood in its optimum condition.
WOCA Oil finish hardwood flooring has taken the United States market by in 2014 and shows no signs of slowing down in 2016 and now. Here are some of the most common questions we have regarding this type of finish which we will I’m to answer in today’s my blog:
Is oil finish as durable as traditional factory urethane finishes with aluminum oxide?
When it comes to durability, oil finish flooring tackles the issue with a completely different method. The penetrating oil serves as protection from moisture and wear while allowing the user to feel the wood grains in their bare feet. If compared directly to factory finished aluminum oxide finish, the oil finish flooring will not perform as well to abrasion and impact. However, the beauty of this finish is the fact that it will camouflage any scratches which will inevitably accumulate over time.
Will this finish evaporate over time and will this be harmful for indoor air quality?
Another concern for oil finished floors its effect on indoor air quality. For on-site applications, some varieties suggest several coats which typically require the residents to be out of the home due to mild odors. However, there are factory finished UV-cured or single coat applications which lessen the downtime. Despite the odors produced during the drying process, oil finish floors rank amongst the lowest for VOC (volatile organic compound) emissions. Certain brands even boast true zero VOC. This fact alone makes oil finished floors one of the best options for green building solutions.
“WOCA products are certified by independent laboratories, the German Institute for Biological Building Materials, and are in accordance with DIN–Norm 53–160. WOCA WoodCare Denmark products meet or exceed the most stringent U.S. standards for volatile organic compounds.” –WOCA Oil Finish Manufacture
Does this type of finish require additional maintenance which I am not familiar with?
For weekly cleaning, oiled floors use a special cleaner which contains an oil and soap mixture. After a period of 12-18 months some oil may evaporate causing the wood grains to appear dry. An additional layer of oil can be reapplied to keep the floor looking fresh. Although oil finished floors require more involvement in periodic maintenance in high traffic areas, this maintenance can be done much easier than the equivalent of an onsite sand and refinish.
WOCA Master Color Oil contains pigment, which provides a single-step hardwood floor staining process. Laying down the stain and the finish in one step.
This product comes 14 different colors, from Black to Extra White, and you can mix them freely to create various color palettes that will meet the demands of any job.
Below are some pictures of the finished job…

Luxury Bathroom Wallpaper Installation in Arvada – Where Rocky Mountain Charm Meets Lasting Quality"
Elevate your bathroom with our 5-star rated wallpaper installation service, designed for Arvada homeowners who demand both beauty and durability. We combine moisture-proof performance with designer aesthetics to create spa-like retreats that stand up to Colorado's climate.
Why Arvada Chooses Our Bathroom Wallpaper Services
✔ Altitude-Adapted Materials – Special vinyl formulations for dry Colorado air
✔ Historic Home Expertise – Perfect for Olde Town Arvada's character
✔ Steam-Resistant Installations – Professional sealing around showers/tubs
✔ Free Mineral Deposit Inspection – Prevents bubbling in hard water areas
Signature Arvada Styles
?️ Mountain Modern – Aspen tree and granite-inspired designs
⚒️ Gold Rush Vintage – Nod to Arvada's mining history
? Spa Sanctuary – Neutral textures with subtle metallic accents
? Prairie Charm – Sunflower and wheat field motifs
Our Premium Service Includes:
✅ In-Home Design Consultation (Free with installation)
✅ 3D Augmented Reality Preview
✅ 72-Hour Post-Installation Check
✅ Colorado's Only 5-Year Moisture 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

The high-fired floor tile suit the unique demands of high performance cars.
Shed photo in Denver
Shed photo in Denver

Framing and the under layer of insulation are added.
Example of a classic home design design in Portland Maine
Example of a classic home design design in Portland Maine
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