Example of a transitional bedroom design in San Francisco

The front upper level deck was rebuilt with Ipe wood and stainless steel cable railing, allowing for full enjoyment of the surrounding greenery. Ipe wood vertical siding complements the deck and the unique A-frame shape.

Mid-sized farmhouse exterior home idea in San Francisco

The classics never go out of style, as is the case with this custom new build that was interior designed from the blueprint stages with enduring longevity in mind. An eye for scale is key with these expansive spaces calling for proper proportions, intentional details, liveable luxe materials and a melding of functional design with timeless aesthetics. The result is cozy, welcoming and balanced grandeur. | Photography Joshua Caldwell

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

Inspiration for a huge transitional formal and open concept medium tone wood floor and brown floor living room remodel in Calgary with gray walls, a standard fireplace, a stone fireplace and no tv

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Example of a trendy medium tone wood floor hallway design in Phoenix with brown walls

modern bathroom complete with a his and her vanity with backlit mirrors and a walk in shower.
Bathroom - large contemporary master white tile and porcelain tile porcelain tile, white floor and single-sink bathroom idea in Los Angeles with flat-panel cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, a one-piece toilet, white walls, an undermount sink, quartz countertops, a hinged shower door, white countertops and a floating vanity

Home office - modern home office idea in San Francisco

Inspiration for a craftsman deck remodel in San Diego

Transitional l-shaped medium tone wood floor and brown floor kitchen photo in Minneapolis with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, white backsplash, paneled appliances, two islands and white countertops

A Fresh Take on Timeless — Sage Green Kitchen Remodel | Raleigh, NC This kitchen transformation proves that a well-designed remodel can completely redefine how a home feels to live in. The homeowners wanted a space that was both functional and elevated — a kitchen that worked hard without sacrificing beauty. The design centers around custom sage green cabinetry with raised panel detailing, extending floor-to-ceiling with a full-height pantry wall that maximizes every inch of storage. Brushed brass hardware ties the palette together, lending warmth against the cooler green tones. The island features a dramatic waterfall edge in Calacatta-style quartz with gold veining — a material that recurs throughout the perimeter counters, creating a cohesive, luxurious feel. A handcrafted zellige-inspired subway tile backsplash adds subtle texture, while a statement brass saucer pendant anchors the dining area and a pair of matte black pendants with brass interiors flank the sink window. Warm hardwood floors ground the space and complement the natural wood accents used in the styling. The remodel also included a custom mudroom nook — designed and built as part of the same seamless scope — with a floating white oak bench, open cubbies, and matte black hooks. Every detail was intentional. Every finish was chosen with longevity in mind.

Bright and warm colors blend in this Asian themed living room to bring the space to life. A rosewood day bed and ancestor portrait are centered as the focal point. The tiered floor lamp and oblong shaped Tibetan armoire provide even more character.

Example of a large transitional master dark wood floor and brown floor bedroom design in Salt Lake City with gray walls, a standard fireplace and a stone fireplace

Dining room - contemporary gray floor dining room idea in Orange County with gray walls

Dimension: 97"L X 16"D X 73.5"H The fusion of rustic and contemporary styling embodied in our Traver Rosewood Wall Unit TV Console Entertainment Center offers a fresh approach to relaxed sophistication. Whether used in your office, media room, den, or living room, this solid wood wall entertainment center is crafted for longevity, made entirely out of rosewood which is known for its interesting grain characteristics. The design features clean lines and a dramatic collaboration of open shelving and closed drawer storage. The finish is warmly toned, coupled with sleek black hardware. A central area for housing your flat screen television sits center stage, surrounded by a plethora of display and organizational possibilities. Fill up these spaces with your decorative vases, apothecary jars, travel books, kissing balls, potted plants, or media collections. The six total drawers maintain a tidy place to tuck your A/V gear and other etceteras out of sight. Together, these options create the perfect marriage of storage and beauty. Founded atop solid wood feet, this rosewood entertainment system of both open and closed shelving is a stunning representation of the art of quality craftsmanship. The handmade construction is exquisite, lending heirloom longevity and timeless practicality. This solid build is enhanced by the fluid flow of grains and knots that create a distinct natural motif that draws the eye throughout the piece for total visual pleasure. Special Features: • 100% Handcrafted • Constructed from solid rosewood materials • 2 large drawers • 4 small drawers • Open shelf bridges the top • 3 smaller media-minded cubbies with built-in grommets for cords • 6 larger open shelves offering decorative and storage possibilities Note: Real wood is a product of nature, and as such, no two pieces are alike. Variations in solid wood grain patterns are to be expected and make each furniture uniquely beautiful, just like us humans.

This new construction design was centered around a functional workspace for the cook! We designed prep/clean stations, cooking station and baking station to support the way the kitchen is used. Durable, timeless materials were used to ensure longevity. Classic white kitchen will not date and provide a neutral backdrop for all seasons of the year.

Alcove shower - transitional 3/4 gray floor alcove shower idea in Other with raised-panel cabinets, white cabinets, a two-piece toilet, beige walls, an undermount sink, a hinged shower door and gray countertops

"We used stain-resistant fabrics on all the sofas as well as the recovered dining room chairs (which was actually an outdoor fabric for extra longevity)."- Elizabeth Mercer Interior Desing by mercer INTERIOR Photography by Emily Gilbert Photo