Search results for "Flow management" in Home Design Ideas

Right off the kitchen is a butler’s pantry. The dark blue raised panel cabinets with satin gold pulls and the white quartz counter correspond with the kitchen. We used mirrors for the backsplash and on the upper cabinets. And, of course, no beverage center is complete with a wine refrigerator!
Sleek and contemporary, this beautiful home is located in Villanova, PA. Blue, white and gold are the palette of this transitional design. With custom touches and an emphasis on flow and an open floor plan, the renovation included the kitchen, family room, butler’s pantry, mudroom, two powder rooms and floors.
Rudloff Custom Builders has won Best of Houzz for Customer Service in 2014, 2015 2016, 2017 and 2019. We also were voted Best of Design in 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 which only 2% of professionals receive. Rudloff Custom Builders has been featured on Houzz in their Kitchen of the Week, What to Know About Using Reclaimed Wood in the Kitchen as well as included in their Bathroom WorkBook article. We are a full service, certified remodeling company that covers all of the Philadelphia suburban area. This business, like most others, developed from a friendship of young entrepreneurs who wanted to make a difference in their clients’ lives, one household at a time. This relationship between partners is much more than a friendship. Edward and Stephen Rudloff are brothers who have renovated and built custom homes together paying close attention to detail. They are carpenters by trade and understand concept and execution. Rudloff Custom Builders will provide services for you with the highest level of professionalism, quality, detail, punctuality and craftsmanship, every step of the way along our journey together.
Specializing in residential construction allows us to connect with our clients early in the design phase to ensure that every detail is captured as you imagined. One stop shopping is essentially what you will receive with Rudloff Custom Builders from design of your project to the construction of your dreams, executed by on-site project managers and skilled craftsmen. Our concept: envision our client’s ideas and make them a reality. Our mission: CREATING LIFETIME RELATIONSHIPS BUILT ON TRUST AND INTEGRITY.
Photo Credit: Linda McManus Images

Jennifer and Dan have lived in their Deer Park Illinois home for 15 years, slowly making minor fixes like painting and decorating; but they had a new plan for their kitchen the entire time. An awkwardly placed garage door, and an island cooktop with a terrible downdraft made a full-scale kitchen remodel an absolute must. Jennifer had many ideas in mind and wanted to work with a company that could provide high-end work, while partnering with a designer that would tailor the kitchen to her ideas.
She was intrigued by the phrase “Common Sense Remodeling” in Advance Design’s feature she discovered while perusing an issue of the community’s Quintessential Barrington Magazine. Doing further research on the company’s website, as she looked through project profiles and read about Advance Design’s “Common Sense Remodeling” philosophy, she promptly scheduled an appointment to see if the people and ideas she read about were truly who they said they were. The more she read, the more she knew that the “Common Sense” approach to remodeling they described was exactly the type of company she was looking for.
The partnership was sealed after an initial consultation with Owner Todd Jurs and Project Designer Michelle Lecinski. They displayed a combination of friendliness, professionalism and respect that was unmatched by any of the other companies Jennifer talked to. She knew that with Advance Design, she would be able to retain the vision that she had in mind with high-quality craftsmanship.
“I reached out to Advance Design because of the ‘Common Sense Remodeling’ tagline,” Jennifer said. “That’s what lingered for me”. “Advance Design was the most respectful- of the house and of my design ideas, and the most professional of the handful of companies that looked at my project”.
Soon after the meeting Jennifer began working with Michelle on the project design. They quickly developed chemistry. Jennifer loved how Michelle researched and located every detail that Jennifer wanted for the kitchen. Between the two of them, every concept and idea was worked through and perfected. “Jennifer had definite ideas about what she wanted the new kitchen to look like, she just didn’t know how to bring it all together. We worked together really well to make her ideas into the practical reality necessary for a well-functioning kitchen, with the look and feel that she had envisioned”, says Michelle.
“Michelle was wonderful in using the CAD system she would show me new drawings every time we changed the layout while working through the design,” Jennifer said. “She was a really wonderful partner in execution, she made sure everything happened quickly and easily.”
The finished design drew out elements of Jennifer’s style and personality. The pair call the look “sophisticated farmhouse” to describe the kitchen renovation to family and friends. The result was a beautifully crafted, authentic-feeling space that satisfied Jennifer’s dreams 15 years in the making. The whole project consisted of a kitchen remodel, mudroom upgrade with powder room, and garage entry relocation. “The projects I personally like the best, are the ones that put the client’s dreams on display,” Project Designer Michelle said. “And this is one of those projects.”
The main focal point of the kitchen is custom zinc and brass ventilation hood with a vintage sheen, which was hand made to order by a small company in Indiana named Vogler Metalworking. “It’s like sculpture, a true work of art”, says Jennifer. Your eye is immediately drawn towards this elegant yet practical hood that eliminated the home’s downdraft problem and added a striking conversation piece at the same time. The carpenters had to use special gloves when transporting and installing it, so they didn’t smudge it with fingerprints. The beautiful hood centers proudly over the stunning black enamel and brass LaCornue Range. “I had a friend who had a LaCornue range and after learning how easy it was to cook perfect meals, I was convinced I wanted to have one”, says Jennifer. This unique, breathtaking combination anchors the entire kitchen and is apparent immediately as you walk into the great room the surrounds the space.
DuraSupreme Crestwood cabinets with a Kendall Panel add function and sophistication. A custom gray paint color paired with a storm blue was developed so that the new kitchen looked like it belonged to the existing space. Unlacquered brass faucets and hardware were important to Jennifer because she wanted the living finishes to age over time. Remarkable brass diamond mesh cabinet door inserts imported from the UK continue to add this one-of-a-kind kitchen renovation; giving it a “you won’t see this everywhere” quality. The use of old railcar flooring for the coffee bar countertop and reclaimed oak for the open shelving gives an authenticity to the space uncommon in kitchens today.
Jennifer and Michelle fell in love with the Limestone Grey Stone while they were investigating unique island countertop ideas. They liked the fact that the limestone as a living finish will age and change over time. Calcutta Miel Quartz countertops made for an excellent pairing around the perimeter, as it’s durable and perfect for cooking preparations. A textured white subway tile backsplash that runs to the ceiling keeps your eye moving towards the open shelving, and to the main focal point of the stunning range hood combination.
“The kitchen functions beautifully, and it’s gorgeous,” beams Jennifer as she gestures with both hands while smiling ear to ear. “The most important thing was I wanted a kitchen that had a wonderful flow, cooked beautiful meals and was a great gathering place for family and friends, and this space does that perfectly! Beauty wise, it turned out exactly how I had envisioned. I felt the function part was the hardest part, and that was nailed”!
Relocating the garage entry to the new mudroom was a huge priority and has finally separated the family’s arriving home functions from their kitchen. Now coats and shoes and bags have their own area for dropping once members arrive home. Matching gray DuraSupreme cabinetry helped create gorgeous, purposeful lockers for the family. A reclaimed vintage sink and custom wall paper were added to the tiny powder room to beautify the once previously only functional space. Advance Design was even able to create a custom space for their dog to sleep while the family is away.
“It was unbelievable that a project of this size was completed in such a short time, and I think that’s because of the large amount of planning and preparation that went into it,” Jennifer marveled, “When we started, we were ready, and everything was prepared”.
When it came to execution, Project Manager Justin Davis and his crew were quick, accessible, and organized. Projects like this kitchen are typically completed in as little as 8-10 weeks. Jennifer’s kitchen however despite the relocation of some challenging HVAC in a soffit and moving of an exterior door was completed remarkably fast in part because the team was working with an existing tile floor that ran throughout the first floor that the client really loved.
“You get to know these people really well because they’re living in your house while you’re living in your house. They were so fast and really good, it didn’t take as long as even planned” reported Jennifer. “I would text Justin and he always responded almost immediately. I got to know all the guys who were working in our house and they were all wonderful people”.
Details in a customized kitchen like this one require skill and care from the people who install it. “All the guys on the job were skilled at what the did. I wanted small details like little feet to look like furniture, that is where their carpentry skill came in to make these all perfect”, said Jennifer. “The tile guys were wonderful. They even let me determine how I wanted the texture with the grout to appear for a salt and pepper look; now that is a very skilled trade person making it custom”.
In Jennifer’s interview, she continued to reference Advance Design’s “Common Sense Remodeling”, so I took a minute to ask her exactly what that phrase meant to her and how it played out in her experience with her project and the Advance Design team. Here is what she said: “I was intrigued about Common Sense Remodeling and in my head that there would be clear costs and prices, great communication between the design team, the execution team and me”, said Jennifer. They did deliver on that, it was so clear about the cost breakdown, what I could expect from everyone who came to my house, and everything that we had ordered. That to me is the Common Sense”!
It’s great to see a client take literally our assertion that a well-planned remodeling project is simply “Common Sense”! She anticipated each step of the way would be clear, concise, and predictable, all the while protecting the outcome due to the careful upfront planning. “Advance Design delivered on their ‘Common Sense Remodeling’ promise,” Jennifer said. “From the design team, to the execution team - everything was straight forward like I imagined. The project turned out exactly how I envisioned, I enjoyed this process and absolutely would recommend Advance Design Studio to anyone.”

The inviting breakfast bar, perfectly positioned as the focal point of this setting, is complemented by a discreetly integrated pantry and nearby counters and cabinets, all tucked away while remaining just within reach, blending more naturally with the galley layout of this modern kitchen design. This clever arrangement ensures that everything you need, from morning snacks to gourmet essentials, is always close at hand without interrupting the natural flow.
Start your day in a space where convenience reigns, making even the earliest hours feel effortlessly manageable. The easy accessibility of the pantry to the breakfast bar further simplifies your morning routine, letting you glide from preparation to relaxation with ease. As sunlight streams in and the kitchen’s calm ambiance sets the tone, every detail works in concert to chase away gloom and invite brightness, no matter the weather outside.
This kitchen becomes both sanctuary and stage, a place where inspired organization brings renewed energy to every morning, and the promise of convenience makes every day a little brighter, right from the start.
Find the right local pro for your project

Based on one of our most popular floor plans, the Charleston II by Schumacher Homes offers expanded square footage, clever storage solutions, and effortless daily functionality. At the heart of the home is a chef-inspired custom kitchen featuring expansive counter space, a large center island for gathering, and double-stacked kitchen cabinets for maximized storage. For seamless hosting, a connected messy kitchen and giant walk-in pantry keep prep, clutter, and dishes out of sight from the main living area.
A dedicated pocket office provides the ideal flex space to work, organize, or manage daily tasks before leading into the private owner's retreat. Here, you'll find a primary bedroom with dual walk-in closets and a spa-inspired owner's bath complete with a sleek glass shower and a luxurious soaking tub. On the opposite side of the home, additional bedrooms provide private, comfortable spaces for family or guests.
Designed with thoughtful layout flow and premium custom details, the Charleston II by Schumacher Homes delivers a harmonious balance of luxury, practicality, and modern living.

1916 Craftsman located in Queen Anne Seattle. Project scope included lighting and furnishings for front porch, living room, dining room, kitchen, sitting area, primary suite, bedroom, baby nursery and home office.

Based on one of our most popular floor plans, the Charleston II by Schumacher Homes offers expanded square footage, clever storage solutions, and effortless daily functionality. At the heart of the home is a chef-inspired custom kitchen featuring expansive counter space, a large center island for gathering, and double-stacked kitchen cabinets for maximized storage. For seamless hosting, a connected messy kitchen and giant walk-in pantry keep prep, clutter, and dishes out of sight from the main living area.
A dedicated pocket office provides the ideal flex space to work, organize, or manage daily tasks before leading into the private owner's retreat. Here, you'll find a primary bedroom with dual walk-in closets and a spa-inspired owner's bath complete with a sleek glass shower and a luxurious soaking tub. On the opposite side of the home, additional bedrooms provide private, comfortable spaces for family or guests.
Designed with thoughtful layout flow and premium custom details, the Charleston II by Schumacher Homes delivers a harmonious balance of luxury, practicality, and modern living.

They always loved their house – its shape and size, and the piece of land it sits on; but the interior left a lot to be desired. In fact, they hated it. They wanted it to be aesthetically more pleasing and to have much more function and flow.
These homeowners challenged Lagois to make it the home of their dreams, and that’s exactly what happened. One of the homeowners loves to cook, but the kitchen was dark. The space was difficult and frustrating. The new kitchen is bigger, brighter, and more functional. It now has all the prep space he needs and the task lighting he always wanted.
They also love their new spa bathroom, which is beautiful and warm and exactly what they had in mind. One of the homeowners describes himself as fussy and impatient, and at first he had been anxious about the whole prospect of renovation. He said afterwards that the team made him feel comfortable, listened to, and unconcerned.
One factor that made them so at ease with choosing Lagois was the “in house” aspect of their services. The person who designed their home, the one who did the drawings, and the person who managed the construction are all Lagois employees. The homeowners liked knowing those critical functions weren’t outsourced.
Another thing they love about their home is the finishes that are exactly to their taste. The homeowners are delighted with the new interior of their home. It is now something they love – both outside and inside.

They always loved their house – its shape and size, and the piece of land it sits on; but the interior left a lot to be desired. In fact, they hated it. They wanted it to be aesthetically more pleasing and to have much more function and flow.
These homeowners challenged Lagois to make it the home of their dreams, and that’s exactly what happened. One of the homeowners loves to cook, but the kitchen was dark. The space was difficult and frustrating. The new kitchen is bigger, brighter, and more functional. It now has all the prep space he needs and the task lighting he always wanted.
They also love their new spa bathroom, which is beautiful and warm and exactly what they had in mind. One of the homeowners describes himself as fussy and impatient, and at first he had been anxious about the whole prospect of renovation. He said afterwards that the team made him feel comfortable, listened to, and unconcerned.
One factor that made them so at ease with choosing Lagois was the “in house” aspect of their services. The person who designed their home, the one who did the drawings, and the person who managed the construction are all Lagois employees. The homeowners liked knowing those critical functions weren’t outsourced.
Another thing they love about their home is the finishes that are exactly to their taste. The homeowners are delighted with the new interior of their home. It is now something they love – both outside and inside.

For this Nashville renovation, the clients wanted to transform their house into a permanent residence, so we completed an extensive remodel. The project included adding a full second story, featuring a spacious living room, two bedrooms, and two luxurious bathrooms with modern bathroom design elements. We also revamped the screened porch, updated the kitchen with a gas stove, custom cabinetry, and a pot filler, and installed a skylight to enhance natural light. The lower floor now boasts an open-concept layout that seamlessly flows into a converted mudroom, formerly a garage. Additionally, we added a new custom-built garage adjacent to the space.
As trusted Nashville general contractors, we specialize in renovation, custom construction, and high-end home design. From modern kitchens with clean lines and custom millwork to eco-friendly design solutions, our team delivers quality craftsmanship and exceptional project management for every project.
Photography: TNhometour.com

They always loved their house – its shape and size, and the piece of land it sits on; but the interior left a lot to be desired. In fact, they hated it. They wanted it to be aesthetically more pleasing and to have much more function and flow.
These homeowners challenged Lagois to make it the home of their dreams, and that’s exactly what happened. One of the homeowners loves to cook, but the kitchen was dark. The space was difficult and frustrating. The new kitchen is bigger, brighter, and more functional. It now has all the prep space he needs and the task lighting he always wanted.
They also love their new spa bathroom, which is beautiful and warm and exactly what they had in mind. One of the homeowners describes himself as fussy and impatient, and at first he had been anxious about the whole prospect of renovation. He said afterwards that the team made him feel comfortable, listened to, and unconcerned.
One factor that made them so at ease with choosing Lagois was the “in house” aspect of their services. The person who designed their home, the one who did the drawings, and the person who managed the construction are all Lagois employees. The homeowners liked knowing those critical functions weren’t outsourced.
Another thing they love about their home is the finishes that are exactly to their taste. The homeowners are delighted with the new interior of their home. It is now something they love – both outside and inside.

For this Nashville renovation, the clients wanted to transform their house into a permanent residence, so we completed an extensive remodel. The project included adding a full second story, featuring a spacious living room, two bedrooms, and two luxurious bathrooms with modern bathroom design elements. We also revamped the screened porch, updated the kitchen with a gas stove, custom cabinetry, and a pot filler, and installed a skylight to enhance natural light. The lower floor now boasts an open-concept layout that seamlessly flows into a converted mudroom, formerly a garage. Additionally, we added a new custom-built garage adjacent to the space.
As trusted Nashville general contractors, we specialize in renovation, custom construction, and high-end home design. From modern kitchens with clean lines and custom millwork to eco-friendly design solutions, our team delivers quality craftsmanship and exceptional project management for every project.
Photography: TNhometour.com

Envision a sleek modern home in Wheat Ridge that turns an old site into a family dream. Modern Contemporary blends open living with smart features, using quality materials to create a space that's both stylish and practical in Denver's heart.
Our clients wanted a home for modern family life, near shops, Sloan’s Lake, and easy drives. Key wishes: solar for green energy, a rooftop deck with mountain sights, and big doors that open rooms to the outdoors.
A worn-out old house blocked the vision, so we removed it to build fresh. This opened up the lot for a design that's efficient and fits today's needs, turning challenges into a better way to live.
The concept focuses on clean, flowing lines – stone bases with sloped roofs, steel railings, and a kitchen that's simple yet elegant. Glass walls slide away to connect inside with a shaded deck, making everything feel expansive.
We applied modern builds for strength and style, with solar panels cutting energy use and costs. It's made to last, blending beauty with real-world toughness.
Spacious and open, with four bedrooms and baths for comfort. The main floor links living, kitchen, and deck seamlessly, while upstairs adds more outdoor space for views and relaxation.
Since 2015, this home has been a family favorite, mixing sustainability, convenience, and charm. It's a place that enhances daily joy, with thoughtful design that feels right at home in Colorado.

They always loved their house – its shape and size, and the piece of land it sits on; but the interior left a lot to be desired. In fact, they hated it. They wanted it to be aesthetically more pleasing and to have much more function and flow.
These homeowners challenged Lagois to make it the home of their dreams, and that’s exactly what happened. One of the homeowners loves to cook, but the kitchen was dark. The space was difficult and frustrating. The new kitchen is bigger, brighter, and more functional. It now has all the prep space he needs and the task lighting he always wanted.
They also love their new spa bathroom, which is beautiful and warm and exactly what they had in mind. One of the homeowners describes himself as fussy and impatient, and at first he had been anxious about the whole prospect of renovation. He said afterwards that the team made him feel comfortable, listened to, and unconcerned.
One factor that made them so at ease with choosing Lagois was the “in house” aspect of their services. The person who designed their home, the one who did the drawings, and the person who managed the construction are all Lagois employees. The homeowners liked knowing those critical functions weren’t outsourced.
Another thing they love about their home is the finishes that are exactly to their taste. The homeowners are delighted with the new interior of their home. It is now something they love – both outside and inside.

Based on one of our most popular floor plans, the Charleston II by Schumacher Homes offers expanded square footage, clever storage solutions, and effortless daily functionality. At the heart of the home is a chef-inspired custom kitchen featuring expansive counter space, a large center island for gathering, and double-stacked kitchen cabinets for maximized storage. For seamless hosting, a connected messy kitchen and giant walk-in pantry keep prep, clutter, and dishes out of sight from the main living area.
A dedicated pocket office provides the ideal flex space to work, organize, or manage daily tasks before leading into the private owner's retreat. Here, you'll find a primary bedroom with dual walk-in closets and a spa-inspired owner's bath complete with a sleek glass shower and a luxurious soaking tub. On the opposite side of the home, additional bedrooms provide private, comfortable spaces for family or guests.
Designed with thoughtful layout flow and premium custom details, the Charleston II by Schumacher Homes delivers a harmonious balance of luxury, practicality, and modern living.

Drawing inspiration from artist Josef Albers, Oh Joy! managed to create a guest bathroom that’s a work of art itself. 4x4 glossy Glass Tile in Snowy Owl, Warbler, Kingfisher, and Magpie are arranged in an abstract striped and color-blocked pattern with a polka-dot floor of custom Handpainted Fallow Tile flowing from the shower throughout this one-of-a-kind bathroom guests won’t soon forget.
DESIGN
Project M Plus
PHOTOS
Bethany Nauert
INSTALLER
Build Boswell
Glass and Handpainted Shown:
4x4 glossy Glass Tile in Snowy Owl, Warbler, Kingfisher, and Magpie
Handpainted Fallow Tile in a custom motif

For this Nashville renovation, the clients wanted to transform their house into a permanent residence, so we completed an extensive remodel. The project included adding a full second story, featuring a spacious living room, two bedrooms, and two luxurious bathrooms with modern bathroom design elements. We also revamped the screened porch, updated the kitchen with a gas stove, custom cabinetry, and a pot filler, and installed a skylight to enhance natural light. The lower floor now boasts an open-concept layout that seamlessly flows into a converted mudroom, formerly a garage. Additionally, we added a new custom-built garage adjacent to the space.
As trusted Nashville general contractors, we specialize in renovation, custom construction, and high-end home design. From modern kitchens with clean lines and custom millwork to eco-friendly design solutions, our team delivers quality craftsmanship and exceptional project management for every project.
Photography: TNhometour.com

Based on one of our most popular floor plans, the Charleston II by Schumacher Homes offers expanded square footage, clever storage solutions, and effortless daily functionality. At the heart of the home is a chef-inspired custom kitchen featuring expansive counter space, a large center island for gathering, and double-stacked kitchen cabinets for maximized storage. For seamless hosting, a connected messy kitchen and giant walk-in pantry keep prep, clutter, and dishes out of sight from the main living area.
A dedicated pocket office provides the ideal flex space to work, organize, or manage daily tasks before leading into the private owner's retreat. Here, you'll find a primary bedroom with dual walk-in closets and a spa-inspired owner's bath complete with a sleek glass shower and a luxurious soaking tub. On the opposite side of the home, additional bedrooms provide private, comfortable spaces for family or guests.
Designed with thoughtful layout flow and premium custom details, the Charleston II by Schumacher Homes delivers a harmonious balance of luxury, practicality, and modern living.

For this Nashville renovation, the clients wanted to transform their house into a permanent residence, so we completed an extensive remodel. The project included adding a full second story, featuring a spacious living room, two bedrooms, and two luxurious bathrooms with modern bathroom design elements. We also revamped the screened porch, updated the kitchen with a gas stove, custom cabinetry, and a pot filler, and installed a skylight to enhance natural light. The lower floor now boasts an open-concept layout that seamlessly flows into a converted mudroom, formerly a garage. Additionally, we added a new custom-built garage adjacent to the space.
As trusted Nashville general contractors, we specialize in renovation, custom construction, and high-end home design. From modern kitchens with clean lines and custom millwork to eco-friendly design solutions, our team delivers quality craftsmanship and exceptional project management for every project.
Photography: TNhometour.com

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