This charming walk-in closet for guest rooms or secondary spaces features elegant custom white built-in shelving and cabinetry that maximizes every inch in a cozy sloped ceiling attic layout. Open cubbies provide perfect shoe or bag storage while sturdy hanging rods with supportive brackets offer ample clothing space along the walls and corner configuration. The soft walls create a welcoming warm atmosphere complemented by light oak hardwood flooring that adds natural warmth and durability. Thoughtful details include gold finished hooks for accessories a small vanity style countertop and recessed lighting that brightens the space evenly. This organized efficient design blends timeless style with practical function inspiring homeowners to create inviting guest closets that feel luxurious and well planned. Ideal for boosting guest room appeal and showcasing smart storage solutions that impress visitors.

Mudrooms are practical entryway spaces that serve as a buffer between the outdoors and the main living areas of a home. Typically located near the front or back door, mudrooms are designed to keep the mess of the outside world at bay. These spaces often feature built-in storage for coats, shoes, and accessories, helping to maintain a tidy and organized home. Durable flooring materials, such as tile or easy-to-clean surfaces, are common in mudrooms to withstand dirt and moisture. Additionally, mudrooms may include benches or cubbies for convenient seating and storage of bags or backpacks. With hooks for hanging outerwear and perhaps a small sink for quick cleanups, mudrooms efficiently balance functionality with the demands of an active household, providing an essential transitional space in the home.

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

Designed by our own Jenna Markham. This luxurious walk-in maximizes every inch of space, providing a beautiful, practical and efficient work space with plenty of room to show off clothes, shoes, bags, and accessories. Could you ask for more?

This thoughtfully designed mudroom blends style, durability, and everyday function, creating a welcoming transition space perfect for busy family living. The patterned tile flooring becomes an instant focal point—its bold, intricate design adds personality while offering durability and easy maintenance in a high-traffic area. A custom built-in bench with open cubbies keeps shoes, bags, and daily essentials neatly organized, while the white paneled wall with matte black hooks provides ample space for coats and backpacks. Warm wood cabinetry introduces natural texture and contrast, offering both upper and lower storage alongside a convenient utility sink with a dark stone countertop—ideal for rinsing boots, cleaning up after outdoor activities, or managing household tasks. The glass door floods the room with light and connects directly to the outdoors, enhancing visibility and making the space feel open and bright. This mudroom balances beauty and function, combining practical storage solutions, easy-clean materials, and stylish finishes to create an efficient everyday entry point that stays organized while elevating the home's overall aesthetic.

This old farmhouse (ca. late 18th century) has undergone many renovations over the years. Spring Creek Design added its stamp in 2008, with a small mudroom addition and a complete interior renovation. The addition encompasses a 1st floor mudroom with extensive cabinetry and closetry. Upon entering the space from the driveway, cabinet and countertop space is provided to accommodate incoming grocery bags. Next in line are a series of “lockers” and cubbies - just right for coats, hats and book bags. Further inside is a wrap-around window seat with cedar shoe racks beneath. A stainless steel dog feeding station rounds out the amenities - all built atop a natural Vermont slate floor. On the lower level, the addition features a full bathroom and a “Dude Pod” - a compact work and play space for the resident code monkey. Outfitted with a stand-up desk and an electronic drum kit, one needs only emerge for Mountain Dew refills and familial visits. Within the existing space, we added an ensuite bathroom for the third floor bedroom. The second floor bathroom and first floor powder room were also gutted and remodeled. The master bedroom was extensively remodeled - given a vaulted ceiling and a wall of floor-to-roof built-ins accessed with a rolling ladder. An extensive, multi-level deck and screen house was added to provide outdoor living space, with secure, dry storage below. Design Criteria: - Update house with a high sustainability standard. - Provide bathroom for daughters’ third floor bedroom. - Update remaining bathrooms - Update cramped, low ceilinged master bedroom - Provide mudroom/entryway solutions. - Provide a window seating space with good visibility of back and side yards – to keep an eye on the kids at play. - Replace old deck with a updated deck/screen porch combination. - Update sitting room with a wood stove and mantle. Special Features: - Insulated Concrete Forms used for Dude Pod foundation. - Soy-based spray foam insulation used in the addition and master bedroom. - Paperstone countertops in mudroom. - Zero-VOC paints and finishes used throughout the project. - All decking and trim for the deck/screen porch is made from 100% recycled HDPE (milk jugs, soda, water bottles) - High efficiency combination washer/dryer.

This charming walk-in closet for guest rooms or secondary spaces features elegant custom white built-in shelving and cabinetry that maximizes every inch in a cozy sloped ceiling attic layout. Open cubbies provide perfect shoe or bag storage while sturdy hanging rods with supportive brackets offer ample clothing space along the walls and corner configuration. The soft walls create a welcoming warm atmosphere complemented by light oak hardwood flooring that adds natural warmth and durability. Thoughtful details include gold finished hooks for accessories a small vanity style countertop and recessed lighting that brightens the space evenly. This organized efficient design blends timeless style with practical function inspiring homeowners to create inviting guest closets that feel luxurious and well planned. Ideal for boosting guest room appeal and showcasing smart storage solutions that impress visitors.

This women's walk-in closet by Tailored Living of Northern Va is highly customized to provide tremendous function and traditional beauty throughout the space. The antique white closet maximizes every inch of the features a 5 drawer hutch with routed square rasied panel drawer fronts, birch dove-tailed boxes, soft-close glides, and velvet jewelery tray inserts. Glass doors and shelves, and lighting make it easier to find items and to beautifully display them. Shoes are stored and shown off using tilted shoe shelves with metal shoe fences. Pants are efficiently stored using a slide-out pants rack. Other accessories include valet rods, sliding belt rack, and tilt-out hamper with split laundry bags. In addition, this system has custom-hole boring to minimize the visibility of holes, and crown and base molding.

Essential kitchen products are more easily accessible with transFORM’s custom designed pantries. Your favorite foods are neatly stored in this pantry that features pull-out cabinets, pull-out chrome racks and solid woven wicker baskets. Items like fruits and bagged goods are stored in pull-out chrome racks to help make items more visible. In addition, making inventory of items like hand towel and cleaning products are easier when replacement is needed. Wicker baskets provide a great storage place for small items like coffee, dog treats and cutting boards. transFORM designed a variety of shelf depths for this pantry to accommodate an assortment of items and create an engaging appearance. Shallow and tapered shelves allow boxed goods and sparkling wines to be neatly placed and visible on the top shelves. The staging and display area creates a convenient place to serve small food items, stage snacks and flip through recipe books. Tins and jars are easier to locate and arrange with this pantry’s seamless sliding pull-out organizers. The deep vertical storage trays organize canned goods and provide simple reach-in access to a large collection of spices. Ideally designed to increase storage, this pantry makes planning and preparing meals quick and easy to accommodate your busy lifestyle. This deluxe pantry from transFORM is just an example of the custom designs we produce at transFORM everyday. If you have a smaller or larger space, transFORM will create a unique design customized to your home and your lifestyle.

The "secret ingredient" in organic container gardens: worm castings with live worms. Red compost worms convert organic nutrients in potting soils into plant-available form, and the last chamber of the worm gut is loaded with beneficial bacteria and fungi that boost plant immunity, cycle nutrients, and increase the water-holding capacity of the potting soil. Photo by Steve Masley.

The MyBag is the hottest, trendiest and most charismatic bathroom washbasin you could ever own! This insanely unique, super functional and adorably stylish bathroom washbasin, is an artist and travelers dream come true! Show off your artistic and wanderlust side with this dynamic washbasin in your bathroom. The Aquatica MyBag Full Composition Washbasin Set will take your bathroom on an 'adventure' though complex, bold and absolutely innovative design, where you'll not only experience a washbasin that's amazingly efficient to use but, also create a focal point for your bathroom's unique look! This wanderlust inspired washbasin is composed of a ceramic inner washbasin piece which sits inside of a basin suitcase, which also includes a mirror set on the inner part of the suitcase, plus, this suitcase can actually close.

This charming walk-in closet for guest rooms or secondary spaces features elegant custom white built-in shelving and cabinetry that maximizes every inch in a cozy sloped ceiling attic layout. Open cubbies provide perfect shoe or bag storage while sturdy hanging rods with supportive brackets offer ample clothing space along the walls and corner configuration. The soft walls create a welcoming warm atmosphere complemented by light oak hardwood flooring that adds natural warmth and durability. Thoughtful details include gold finished hooks for accessories a small vanity style countertop and recessed lighting that brightens the space evenly. This organized efficient design blends timeless style with practical function inspiring homeowners to create inviting guest closets that feel luxurious and well planned. Ideal for boosting guest room appeal and showcasing smart storage solutions that impress visitors.

From builder standard to designer upgrade. A recent project of ours in Harrison NY had us taking an adequate builder designed kitchen to something much more special. The original layout led to traffic jams while entertaining and valuable storage was lost due to the fact that the cabinets did not go to the ceiling. The new design moves the refrigerator out of the traffic pattern that often lead to gridlock in previous years as well as providing ample storage for trays and baking sheets in the slim pantry. Grillwork doors allow for airflow from the air-conditioning vents, while still allowing for cabinets to the ceiling. A professional grade range replaces the old smaller model, with a heavy-duty hood to assure complete ventilation no matter what the cook creates. The microwave moves farther down the work triangle to assure that the heating of a cup of coffee or bag of popcorn need never interfere with the chef again. Equally of value is the island mini-frig not just to chill the occasional bottle of wine, but to keep the kids sodas out the main refrigerator. And then there is the desk/ command central area. The formerly blank wall where no piece of furniture seemed to fit, because of the radiator, has become an efficient home office. With room for two people to work, grown-ups can search Food Network for recipes while the kids do their homework – problem area solved!

This old farmhouse (ca. late 18th century) has undergone many renovations over the years. Spring Creek Design added its stamp in 2008, with a small mudroom addition and a complete interior renovation. The addition encompasses a 1st floor mudroom with extensive cabinetry and closetry. Upon entering the space from the driveway, cabinet and countertop space is provided to accommodate incoming grocery bags. Next in line are a series of “lockers” and cubbies - just right for coats, hats and book bags. Further inside is a wrap-around window seat with cedar shoe racks beneath. A stainless steel dog feeding station rounds out the amenities - all built atop a natural Vermont slate floor. On the lower level, the addition features a full bathroom and a “Dude Pod” - a compact work and play space for the resident code monkey. Outfitted with a stand-up desk and an electronic drum kit, one needs only emerge for Mountain Dew refills and familial visits. Within the existing space, we added an ensuite bathroom for the third floor bedroom. The second floor bathroom and first floor powder room were also gutted and remodeled. The master bedroom was extensively remodeled - given a vaulted ceiling and a wall of floor-to-roof built-ins accessed with a rolling ladder. An extensive, multi-level deck and screen house was added to provide outdoor living space, with secure, dry storage below. Design Criteria: - Update house with a high sustainability standard. - Provide bathroom for daughters’ third floor bedroom. - Update remaining bathrooms - Update cramped, low ceilinged master bedroom - Provide mudroom/entryway solutions. - Provide a window seating space with good visibility of back and side yards – to keep an eye on the kids at play. - Replace old deck with a updated deck/screen porch combination. - Update sitting room with a wood stove and mantle. Special Features: - Insulated Concrete Forms used for Dude Pod foundation. - Soy-based spray foam insulation used in the addition and master bedroom. - Paperstone countertops in mudroom. - Zero-VOC paints and finishes used throughout the project. - All decking and trim for the deck/screen porch is made from 100% recycled HDPE (milk jugs, soda, water bottles) - High efficiency combination washer/dryer.

This old farmhouse (ca. late 18th century) has undergone many renovations over the years. Spring Creek Design added its stamp in 2008, with a small mudroom addition and a complete interior renovation. The addition encompasses a 1st floor mudroom with extensive cabinetry and closetry. Upon entering the space from the driveway, cabinet and countertop space is provided to accommodate incoming grocery bags. Next in line are a series of “lockers” and cubbies - just right for coats, hats and book bags. Further inside is a wrap-around window seat with cedar shoe racks beneath. A stainless steel dog feeding station rounds out the amenities - all built atop a natural Vermont slate floor. On the lower level, the addition features a full bathroom and a “Dude Pod” - a compact work and play space for the resident code monkey. Outfitted with a stand-up desk and an electronic drum kit, one needs only emerge for Mountain Dew refills and familial visits. Within the existing space, we added an ensuite bathroom for the third floor bedroom. The second floor bathroom and first floor powder room were also gutted and remodeled. The master bedroom was extensively remodeled - given a vaulted ceiling and a wall of floor-to-roof built-ins accessed with a rolling ladder. An extensive, multi-level deck and screen house was added to provide outdoor living space, with secure, dry storage below. Design Criteria: - Update house with a high sustainability standard. - Provide bathroom for daughters’ third floor bedroom. - Update remaining bathrooms - Update cramped, low ceilinged master bedroom - Provide mudroom/entryway solutions. - Provide a window seating space with good visibility of back and side yards – to keep an eye on the kids at play. - Replace old deck with a updated deck/screen porch combination. - Update sitting room with a wood stove and mantle. Special Features: - Insulated Concrete Forms used for Dude Pod foundation. - Soy-based spray foam insulation used in the addition and master bedroom. - Paperstone countertops in mudroom. - Zero-VOC paints and finishes used throughout the project. - All decking and trim for the deck/screen porch is made from 100% recycled HDPE (milk jugs, soda, water bottles) - High efficiency combination washer/dryer.

The Cupboard: Our Pantry tips apply to cupboards, too. Group like items together, and don’t store anything in your food space that doesn’t need to be there – it just makes it more cluttered. If you have opened boxes of cereal or bags of chips, be sure to properly seal them and keep them toward the front to avoid food waste.

This charming walk-in closet for guest rooms or secondary spaces features elegant custom white built-in shelving and cabinetry that maximizes every inch in a cozy sloped ceiling attic layout. Open cubbies provide perfect shoe or bag storage while sturdy hanging rods with supportive brackets offer ample clothing space along the walls and corner configuration. The soft walls create a welcoming warm atmosphere complemented by light oak hardwood flooring that adds natural warmth and durability. Thoughtful details include gold finished hooks for accessories a small vanity style countertop and recessed lighting that brightens the space evenly. This organized efficient design blends timeless style with practical function inspiring homeowners to create inviting guest closets that feel luxurious and well planned. Ideal for boosting guest room appeal and showcasing smart storage solutions that impress visitors.

After hats now hang neatly on wall hooks while bins and bags sit tidily on the top shelf. Clothes are organized by color and type across two hanging rods, transforming this narrow reach in closet into an efficient, easy to use space.

This old farmhouse (ca. late 18th century) has undergone many renovations over the years. Spring Creek Design added its stamp in 2008, with a small mudroom addition and a complete interior renovation. The addition encompasses a 1st floor mudroom with extensive cabinetry and closetry. Upon entering the space from the driveway, cabinet and countertop space is provided to accommodate incoming grocery bags. Next in line are a series of “lockers” and cubbies - just right for coats, hats and book bags. Further inside is a wrap-around window seat with cedar shoe racks beneath. A stainless steel dog feeding station rounds out the amenities - all built atop a natural Vermont slate floor. On the lower level, the addition features a full bathroom and a “Dude Pod” - a compact work and play space for the resident code monkey. Outfitted with a stand-up desk and an electronic drum kit, one needs only emerge for Mountain Dew refills and familial visits. Within the existing space, we added an ensuite bathroom for the third floor bedroom. The second floor bathroom and first floor powder room were also gutted and remodeled. The master bedroom was extensively remodeled - given a vaulted ceiling and a wall of floor-to-roof built-ins accessed with a rolling ladder. An extensive, multi-level deck and screen house was added to provide outdoor living space, with secure, dry storage below. Design Criteria: - Update house with a high sustainability standard. - Provide bathroom for daughters’ third floor bedroom. - Update remaining bathrooms - Update cramped, low ceilinged master bedroom - Provide mudroom/entryway solutions. - Provide a window seating space with good visibility of back and side yards – to keep an eye on the kids at play. - Replace old deck with a updated deck/screen porch combination. - Update sitting room with a wood stove and mantle. Special Features: - Insulated Concrete Forms used for Dude Pod foundation. - Soy-based spray foam insulation used in the addition and master bedroom. - Paperstone countertops in mudroom. - Zero-VOC paints and finishes used throughout the project. - All decking and trim for the deck/screen porch is made from 100% recycled HDPE (milk jugs, soda, water bottles) - High efficiency combination washer/dryer.