Search results for "Engineering impacts" in Home Design Ideas

Example of a classic light wood floor and beige floor eat-in kitchen design in Kansas City with a farmhouse sink, white cabinets, white backsplash, subway tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, an island, gray countertops and shaker cabinets

The shower showcases minimalist design with maximum impact, featuring a frameless glass enclosure, a river rock floor for grounding texture, and smooth marble-look tile on the walls for clean sophistication. A simple wooden bench introduces warmth and function, paired with inset shelving that keeps essentials within easy reach. Thoughtfully lit and beautifully finished, this shower is a true blend of comfort and modern style.

Re-using all existing locations, we were able to completely transform this hall bathroom. The new design is clean, modern, and minimal, with white walls & cabinets, mixed metal finishes and blue penny tiles. This room proves that simple can be impactful and
beautiful.
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From Mid-Century Classic to the Present
An iconic design updated with comfort, function, and flow for today.
A Remodel That Balances Past and Present
What started as a desire to update a classic Eichler soon became an exploration of how Mid-Century Modern design can successfully evolve for today. The client, a tech professional with a passion for scuba diving and underwater photography, wanted a home that would both honor its original character and feel tailored to his daily life. A lifelong technology enthusiast, he still owns the very first Mac desktop he saved up for as a teenager working at Radio Shack, a detail that underscores his appreciation for design that melds function and form.
Honoring Separation While Expanding Possibility
Unlike many contemporary remodels where walls are opened up to create expansive living spaces, this project took a more restrained approach. The client valued the defined rooms of the original plan and wanted to preserve as much wall space as possible for displaying his large-format underwater photography. The emphasis was not on dramatic spatial reinvention, but on thoughtful refinements. Klopf Architecture shaped a gallery-like backdrop while also expanding the primary suite, modernizing materials and fixtures throughout the home, and improving the functionality and layout of the kitchen. The finished home feels at once timeless and renewed, an Eichler that continues to inspire while fully supporting the lifestyle of its present-day owner.
A major turning point came mid-design. The original project brief had not included an addition, but as the reconfiguration of the primary bedroom and bath unfolded, it became clear that an expansion was the best approach to achieve the client’s vision of a more spacious suite. Fortunately, the adjustment came at a stage when revisions were still manageable and was integrated seamlessly, showing how thoughtful course corrections can strengthen a project rather than hinder it.
Navigating Challenges With Precision
The design development included multiple conceptual rounds, balancing preservation with subtle expansion. During construction, an existing post previously thought to be load-bearing turned out not to be. The structural engineer was able to pivot quickly, and both the post and the cross beam that had been intended to replace it could be omitted, allowing the original rhythm of the Eichler beam bays to be preserved.
Sustainability was not just a checklist item, but a way to align the home with the client’s values of simplicity, efficiency, and long-term functionality. R-38 roof insulation reduced energy usage, solar panels with battery storage provided independence and resilience, and passive comfort strategies eliminated the need forenergy-intensive air conditioning. An electric vehicle charger and an on-demand hot water recirculation system (with call buttons as opposed to having constant circulation) add to the home’s long-term efficiency factors. Together, these moves created a home that is quieter, more comfortable, and better equipped for the future, qualities that supported the client’s pragmatic approach to design and living lightly.
Details That Respect the Eichler DNA
The remodel carries forward the Eichler’s original spirit while introducing new layers of modern livability. Originally, the house was approached along a deep, narrow walk, with the garage on one side and the house on the other, leaving the front door tucked far back within this chasm-like space. By pulling the entry forward, the design reshaped the arrival experience, creating a clearer threshold and a natural drop-off zone for bags, shoes, and keys. This shift also made room for a custom bench at the entry that extends seamlessly through the glass sidelight. The bench and drop-off zone now work together as a single, integrated sequence that supports everyday living while offering a tactile reminder of Eichler’s philosophy of connectedness.
At the client’s request, Klopf reintroduced a classic Eichler gesture by extending the exterior siding into the entry and living room. The detail reinforces a sense of indoor/outdoor continuity while providing a subtle architectural surface that allows the client’s photography to take visual precedence.
The signature concrete masonry wall at the front was reconstructed using blocks sourced to match the originals, now strengthened with rebar for seismic resilience while maintaining a private outdoor courtyard, visually extending the kitchen outward. A decorative trellis element, a detail borrowed from a neighboring Eichler, restores a familiar mid-century modern architectural motif. At the courtyard entry door, a custom etched glass sidelight with an ocean-themed design featuring kelp and jellyfish serves as a subtle homage to the client’s passion for deep-sea diving.
Landscaping became an integral part of the overall transformation. The homeowner engaged landscape architect Randi Johnsen of Third Nature Studio to shape a series of calm, inviting outdoor rooms that read as a natural extension of the interiors. While technically outside of the core construction scope, the landscape design proved central to achieving a sense of completeness and connectedness across the property. Such whole-property considerations often emerge as design ideas take shape, underscoring the importance of flexibility in planning and budgeting, as well as close collaboration among the design team starting early in the process.
The Value of Evolving Scope
As with many custom residential projects, the scope evolved during the design process. What began as a targeted remodel grew to include a new/expanded primary suite, a rebuilt CMU patio wall for strength and longevity, and a solar panel array and battery storage for energy resilience and carbon-reduction. Each thoughtful decision represented a conscious investment in the home’s performance and character, rather than a cost overrun.
The result was a project delivered on schedule, tailored precisely to the client’s lifestyle, and positioned to add long-term value both functionally and aesthetically. By embracing scope evolution as an opportunity rather than a challenge, and relying on good design paired with transparent communication, this remodel demonstrates how Eichler homes can be adapted for contemporary living without erasing their DNA.
Klopf Architecture project team: John Klopf, AIA, and Klara Kevane, Elise Webb and Nicholas LaNasa.
Contractor: Golden Cove Construction
Landscape Design: Third Nature Studio
Structural Engineer: Daniel Bastiao Design
Photography: ©2025 Mariko Reed
Year Completed: 2024
Location: Sunnyvale, CA

The appliance package is the Signature Kitchen Suite by LG is a full line of precision built-in appliances with integrated column refrigeration and other leading-edge technology. SKS embraces a new generation of forward-thinking cooks, combining their passion for food with their appreciation of innovation. They affectionately refer to this generation as “Technicureans” who demand high-quality, technologically smart appliances with the flexibility to prepare food in the best possible way.

Walk on sunshine with Skyline Floorscapes' Ivory White Oak. This smooth operator of floors adds charm to any room. Its delightfully light tones will have you whistling while you work, play, or relax at home.
This amazing reclaimed wood style is a perfect environmentally-friendly statement for a modern space, or it will match the design of an older house with its vintage style. The ivory color will brighten up any room.
This engineered wood is extremely strong with nine layers and a 3mm wear layer of White Oak on top. The wood is handscraped, adding to the lived-in quality of the wood. This will make it look like it has been in your home all along.
Each piece is 7.5-in. wide by 71-in. long by 5/8-in. thick in size. It comes with a 35-year finish warranty and a lifetime structural warranty.
This is a real wood engineered flooring product made from white oak. It has a beautiful ivory color with hand scraped, reclaimed planks that are finished in oil. The planks have a tongue & groove construction that can be floated, glued or nailed down.

We introduce to you one of our newer services we are providing here at Kitchen Design Concepts: spaces that just need a little reviving! As of recent, we are taking on projects that are in need of minimal updating, as in, spaces that don’t need a full-on remodel. Yes, you heard right! If your space has good bones, you like the layout of your kitchen, and you just need a few cosmetic changes, then today’s feature is for you! Recently, we updated a space where we did just this! The kitchen was in need of a little love, some fresh paint, and new finishes. And if we’re being honest here, the result looks almost as if the kitchen had a full-on remodel! To learn more about this space and how we did our magic, continue reading below:
The Before and After
First, see what an impact new finishes can make! The “before” image shows a kitchen with outdated finishes such as the tile countertops, backsplash, and cabinetry finish. The “after” image, is a kitchen that looks almost as if its brand new, the image speaks for itself!
Cabinetry
With the wooden cabinetry in this kitchen already having great bones, all we needed to do was our refinishing process that involved removing door and drawer fronts, sanding, priming, and painting. The main color of the cabinetry is white (Sherwin Williams Pure White 7005) and as an accent, we applied a deep navy blue that really pops in this space (Sherwin Willaims Naval 6244). As a special design element, we incorporated a natural wooden band across the hood which is subtle but adds an element of surprise.
Countertops
The original countertops in this space were a 12×12 tile with cracks and discolored grout from all the wear and tear. To replace the countertops, we installed a clean and crisp quartz that is not only durable but easy to maintain (no grout here!). The 3cm countertops are a Cambria quartz in a grey-tone color (Carrick).
Backsplash
Keeping things simple, yet classic, we installed a 3×6 subway tile from Interceramic. The crisp white pairs well with all the other finishes of the space and really brighten the space up! To spice things up, we paired the white tile with a contrasting grout color (Cape Grey) that matches the countertop. This is a simple method to add interest to your white backsplash!
Fixtures and Fittings
For the fixtures and fittings of the kitchen, we wanted pieces that made a statement. That’s why we selected this industrial style faucet from Brizo! The faucet is a Brizo LITZE™ PULL-DOWN FAUCET WITH ARC SPOUT AND INDUSTRIAL HANDLE (63044LF-BLGL). The matte black paired with the luxe gold elements really make a statement! To match the gold elements of the faucet, we installed cabinetry hardware from Topknobs in the same gold finish. The hardware is a Channing pull TK743HB. Lastly, the large single bowl sink (who doesn’t want a large sink?!) is a great functional touch to the kitchen. The sink is a Blanco Precision 16″ R10 super single with 16″ Drainer in stainless steel (516216).

This project is a whole home remodel that is being completed in 2 phases. The first phase included this bathroom remodel. The whole home will maintain the Mid Century styling. The cabinets are stained in Alder Wood. The countertop is Ceasarstone in Pure White. The shower features Kohler Purist Fixtures in Vibrant Modern Brushed Gold finish. The flooring is Large Hexagon Tile from Dal Tile. The decorative tile is Wayfair “Illica” ceramic. The lighting is Mid-Century pendent lights. The vanity is custom made with traditional mid-century tapered legs. The next phase of the project will be added once it is completed.
Read the article here: https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/82478496

Mid-sized transitional master blue tile and ceramic tile white floor, porcelain tile and double-sink alcove shower photo in Chicago with light wood cabinets, white walls, white countertops, shaker cabinets, an undermount sink, quartz countertops, a hinged shower door and a built-in vanity

We love a kitchen transformation because it really impacts a family's lives! This bright and airy kitchen was dark and dated and in desperate need of an upgrade to accommodate a busy family. What used to be a 70s glass block wall is now the dramatic stone backsplash and a new rich blue island brings color and lots of extra storage to the space. We used beautiful custom counter stools to make the island a gathering or work-from-home spot, while the built-in banquette provides a comfortable setting for breakfast. There's a built-in coffee station with a metal mesh panel near the beverage center. We mixed soft brushed brass and matte black metal finishes for the hardware and plumbing.

Scott DuBose Photography
Example of a mid-sized transitional u-shaped medium tone wood floor and brown floor kitchen design in San Francisco with quartz countertops, white backsplash, stainless steel appliances, no island, white countertops, a double-bowl sink, shaker cabinets and gray cabinets
Example of a mid-sized transitional u-shaped medium tone wood floor and brown floor kitchen design in San Francisco with quartz countertops, white backsplash, stainless steel appliances, no island, white countertops, a double-bowl sink, shaker cabinets and gray cabinets

Inspiration for a mid-sized transitional master blue tile and ceramic tile white floor, porcelain tile and double-sink alcove shower remodel in Chicago with shaker cabinets, light wood cabinets, an undermount sink, quartz countertops, a hinged shower door and white countertops

A guest bath transformation in Bothell featuring a unique modern coastal aesthetic complete with a floral patterned tile flooring and a bold Moroccan-inspired green shower surround.

The original kitchen, although generous in size, was out of touch with our clients personal style. When a plumbing mishap caused significant damage to the space, the homeowners seized the opportunity to create the culinary workspace of their dreams.
At the top of their wish list was a well designed kitchen, both aesthetically and functionally. State of the art appliances were selected based on the client's functional requirements and the optimal layout was tailored to family dinners and occasional entertaining. At the heart of the existing kitchen was a large and highly utilized island, keeping this was a high priority. An unused audio cabinet with outdated components was removed to create a much needed dry bar. The large refrigerator, and beverage fridge drawers were concealed behind custom made cabinetry panels and were positioned adjacent to the family seating area for easy access. Attributes such as spice storage, silver dividers and a tall pantry storage ensured everything had its place.
Sherwin Williams, indigo batik (as seen on the island) was carried through the home allowing a visual connection throughout the home while the bright white perimeter cabinets created lightness and dramatic contrast. Brass hardware and decorative lighting gave the space a hint of understated glamour while pulling the warm tones found in the lattice of veining in the cambria quartz countertop.
It is hard not to notice, however, the dramatic impact of the large ceramic, three dimensional, hexagon tiles that highlight the range wall. Companion subway tiles created continuity throughout the expansive kitchen, adorning the backsplash through the rest of the space.

Mid-sized transitional l-shaped open concept kitchen photo in Charlotte with a farmhouse sink, recessed-panel cabinets, beige cabinets, quartz countertops, black backsplash, quartz backsplash, white appliances, an island and black countertops

Open concept kitchen - mid-sized transitional l-shaped open concept kitchen idea in Charlotte with a farmhouse sink, recessed-panel cabinets, beige cabinets, quartz countertops, black backsplash, quartz backsplash, white appliances, an island and black countertops

Open concept kitchen - mid-sized transitional l-shaped open concept kitchen idea in Charlotte with a farmhouse sink, recessed-panel cabinets, beige cabinets, quartz countertops, black backsplash, quartz backsplash, white appliances, an island and black countertops

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Mid-sized transitional l-shaped open concept kitchen photo in Charlotte with a farmhouse sink, recessed-panel cabinets, beige cabinets, quartz countertops, black backsplash, quartz backsplash, white appliances, an island and black countertops

This family-friendly kitchen renovation blends high-impact color with thoughtful functionality. Custom cabinetry in a rich, heritage green pairs with warm wood accents and a crisp quartz countertop island, perfect for casual breakfasts or homework sessions. The playful mix of open shelving, vintage-inspired tile, and brass fixtures adds character without sacrificing function. Designed with busy professionals in mind, this space is both elevated and approachable proof that high design can still feel like home.

Example of a mid-sized transitional l-shaped open concept kitchen design in Charlotte with a farmhouse sink, recessed-panel cabinets, beige cabinets, quartz countertops, black backsplash, quartz backsplash, white appliances, an island and black countertops
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