Free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   The homeowners of this mid-century Colonial and family of four were frustrated with the layout of their existing kitchen which was a small, narrow peninsula layout but that was adjoining a large space that they could not figure out how to use. Stealing part of the unused space seemed like an easy solution, except that there was an existing transition in floor height which made that a bit tricky. The solution of bringing the floor height up to meet the height of the existing kitchen allowed us to do just that. This solution also offered some challenges. The exterior door had to be raised which resulted in some exterior rework, and the floor transition had to happen somewhere to get out to the garage, so we ended up “pushing” it towards what is now a new mudroom and powder room area. This solution allows for a small but functional and hidden mudroom area and more private powder room situation. Another challenge of the design was the very narrow space. To minimize issues with this, we moved the location of the refrigerator into the newly found space which gave us an L-shaped layout allowing for an island and even some shallow pantry storage. The windows over the kitchen sink were expanded in size and relocated to allow more light into the room. A breakfast table fits perfectly in the area adjacent to the existing French doors and there was even room for a small bar area that helps transition from inside to outside for entertaining. The confusing unused space now makes sense and provides functionality on a daily basis. To help bring some calm to this busy family, a pallet of soft neutrals was chosen -- gray glass tile with a simple metal accent strip, clear modern pendant lights and a neutral color scheme for cabinetry and countertops. For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

Example of a mid-sized classic backyard patio kitchen design with no cover

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

RUSTIC GLAM Time Frame: 5 Weeks // Budget: $16,000 // Design Fee: $1,250 After purchasing a new home in north Upland, this young couple enlisted me to help create a warm, relaxing environment in their living/dining space. They didn’t want anything too fussy or formal. They wanted a comfortable space to entertain, play cards and watch TV. I had a good foundation of dark wood floors and grey walls to work with. Everything else was newly purchased. Instead of a formal dining room, they requested a more relaxed space to hang out with friends. I had a custom L-shaped banquette made in a slate blue velvet and a glamorous statement chandelier installed for a wow factor. The bench came as part of the table set, but I had it reupholstered in the same fabric as the banquette. A ceiling fan and a new entry light were installed to reinforce the rustic vibe. Elegant, yet comfortable furnishings were purchased, custom 2 finger pleat drapes in an oatmeal fabric were hung, and accessories and decor were layered in to create a “lived-in” feeling. Overall, the space is now a great place to relax and hang out with family and friends.

Gorgeous white L-shape kitchen with a large center island. This Parkwood kitchen utilizes space with its cabinets to ceiling and additional cabinet space underneath the island.

Two L-shaped island arranged in a walk thru design, with overhanging counter for seating
Patio - modern patio idea in Sacramento

Two L-shaped island arranged in a walk thru design, with overhanging counter for seating
Patio - modern patio idea in Sacramento

A cottage garden that represents a little slice of heaven! The large lawn area is accompanied by an L-shaped pool, lounge area, and patio. A smaller sitting area on the back porch was designed in a whimsical rustic style, decorated with natural wood furnishings and wicker chairs, surrounded by large potted flowers.

This Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn rooftop garden features custom-made cedar planter boxes on casters, a cedar L-shaped bench sectional with built-in storage under the seats, an outdoor bar, powder-coated metal planters, and metal chairs from Design Within Reach. Lush perennial plantings include maiden grasses, pink anemones, sedum, lavender, arborvitaes, birch trees, and 'Limelight' hydrangeas. All of the planters contain low-voltage up-lighting fixtures and automated drip irrigation. Read more about our projects on my blog, www.amberfreda.com.

Home office - modern home office idea in Chicago

This Multi-Level Transitional Craftsman Home Features Blended Indoor/Outdoor Living, a Split-Bedroom Layout for Privacy in The Master Suite and Boasts Both a Master & Guest Suite on The Main Level!

modern L-shape island with pop-up outlets
Inspiration for a modern backyard patio kitchen remodel in Los Angeles

This remodel went from a tiny story-and-a-half Cape Cod, to a charming full two-story home. The mudroom features a bench with cubbies underneath, and a shelf with hooks for additional storage. The full glass back door provides natural light while opening to the backyard for quick access to the detached garage. The wall color in this room is Benjamin Moore HC-170 Stonington Gray. The cabinets are also Ben Moore, in Simply White OC-117. Space Plans, Building Design, Interior & Exterior Finishes by Anchor Builders. Photography by Alyssa Lee Photography.

These custom breakfast nook cushions add comfort and color to this stunning dining area. The Sunbrella Canvas True Blue really pops against the white banquette, neutral accessories, and darker wood tones. Patio Lane's breakfast nook cushions don't just look good, but they also perform well in high-traffic areas. They are durable for everyday use by families, children, and pets! "Cushions fit perfect and look great on custom made banquette."

These custom breakfast nook cushions add comfort and color to this stunning dining area. The Sunbrella Canvas True Blue really pops against the white banquette, neutral accessories, and darker wood tones. Patio Lane's breakfast nook cushions don't just look good, but they also perform well in high-traffic areas. They are durable for everyday use by families, children, and pets! "Cushions fit perfect and look great on custom made banquette."

L shaped Staircase Framing
Example of a wooden l-shaped staircase design in Orange County with wooden risers

Organic-shaped pool with a beach entry and in-pool granite table & bench! Bluestone coping and quartzite pool patio.
Pool fountain - mid-sized traditional backyard stone and custom-shaped pool fountain idea in New York

Available in leather only. Hamilton combines classic styling with a hand rubbed leather that gives this collection an old world flair. Full front panels arms and shaped front rail are nailed in Antique Brass and the boxed backs and seats are seamed in a picture frame style. The turned legs are in a Heirloom finish. The leather shown only is hand rubbed, customized items will not feature hand rubbed leather.

Welcome to Jagdamba Interiors, for premium L-Shape Modular Kitchens for your dream home. We are proud to offer the best-in-class L-shape Modular Kitchen in Bhilai, which is designed by our experienced craftsmen. Our L-shaped modular kitchens offer a combination of functionality and style; they provide maximum space for storage, ergonomic design, and elegant finishes to suit your style.