Search results for "Modern technologies" in Home Design Ideas

Please see this Award Winning project in the October 2014 issue of New York Cottages & Gardens Magazine: NYC&G
http://www.cottages-gardens.com/New-York-Cottages-Gardens/October-2014/NYCG-Innovation-in-Design-Winners-Kitchen-Design/
It was also featured in a Houzz Tour:
Houzz Tour: Loving the Old and New in an 1880s Brooklyn Row House
http://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/29691278/list/houzz-tour-loving-the-old-and-new-in-an-1880s-brooklyn-row-house
Photo Credit: Hulya Kolabas

Kitchen - large country l-shaped dark wood floor and brown floor kitchen idea in Columbus with a farmhouse sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, white backsplash, subway tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, an island, white countertops and quartz countertops

Built by Cornerstone Construction Services
Interior Design by Garrison Hullinger Interior Design
Photography by Blackstone Edge Studios
Large elegant u-shaped medium tone wood floor and brown floor eat-in kitchen photo in Portland with a farmhouse sink, recessed-panel cabinets, quartz countertops, subway tile backsplash, paneled appliances, an island, gray backsplash and gray cabinets
Large elegant u-shaped medium tone wood floor and brown floor eat-in kitchen photo in Portland with a farmhouse sink, recessed-panel cabinets, quartz countertops, subway tile backsplash, paneled appliances, an island, gray backsplash and gray cabinets
Find the right local pro for your project

©2012 stockstudiophotography.com
Built by Moore Construction, Inc.
Example of a large arts and crafts brown three-story wood exterior home design in Burlington with a hip roof
Example of a large arts and crafts brown three-story wood exterior home design in Burlington with a hip roof

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

This modern farmhouse located outside of Spokane, Washington, creates a prominent focal point among the landscape of rolling plains. The composition of the home is dominated by three steep gable rooflines linked together by a central spine. This unique design evokes a sense of expansion and contraction from one space to the next. Vertical cedar siding, poured concrete, and zinc gray metal elements clad the modern farmhouse, which, combined with a shop that has the aesthetic of a weathered barn, creates a sense of modernity that remains rooted to the surrounding environment.
The Glo double pane A5 Series windows and doors were selected for the project because of their sleek, modern aesthetic and advanced thermal technology over traditional aluminum windows. High performance spacers, low iron glass, larger continuous thermal breaks, and multiple air seals allows the A5 Series to deliver high performance values and cost effective durability while remaining a sophisticated and stylish design choice. Strategically placed operable windows paired with large expanses of fixed picture windows provide natural ventilation and a visual connection to the outdoors.

Shop the Look, See the Photo Tour here: https://www.studio-mcgee.com/studioblog/2016/4/4/modern-mountain-home-tour
Watch the Webisode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JtwvqrNPjhU
Travis J Photography

Sponsored
Sunbury, OH
J.Holderby - Renovations
Franklin County's Leading General Contractors - 2X Best of Houzz!

Plastpro's new Modern Door collection combines sleek contemporary design with technologically advanced construction. Plastpro has dedicated new molds and styles to achieve the modern look that is so sought after today. The molded grooving adds a elegant and contemporary feature like no other fiberglass door on the market. Furthermore, Plastpro's Modern Doors showcase flush glazed profiles which create a TRUE modern look without unsightly screw holes.

Eat-in kitchen - mid-sized modern l-shaped ceramic tile eat-in kitchen idea in New York with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, white cabinets, quartz countertops, white backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

Founded in 1975 by Gianni Tonin, the Italian modern furniture company Tonin Casa has long been viewed by European designers as one of the best interior design firms in the business, but it is only within the last five years that the company expanded their market outside Italy. As an authorized dealer of Tonin Casa contemporary furnishings, room service 360° is able to offer an extensive line of Tonin Casa designs.
Tonin Casa furniture features a wide range of distinctive styles to ensure the right selection for any contemporary home. The room service 360° collection includes a broad array of chairs, nightstands, consoles, television stands, dining tables, coffee tables and mirrors. Quality materials, including an extensive use of tempered glass, mark Tonin Casa furnishings with style and sophistication.
Tonin Casa modern furniture combines style and function by merging modern technology with the Italian tradition of innovative style and quality craftsmanship. Each piece complements homes styled in the modern style, yet each piece offers visual style on its own as well, with imaginative designs that are sure to add a note of distinction to any contemporary home.

Invisible speakers, Lighting design and control, shading control
Example of a mid-sized trendy l-shaped slate floor eat-in kitchen design in Orange County with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, light wood cabinets, quartz countertops, gray backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island
Example of a mid-sized trendy l-shaped slate floor eat-in kitchen design in Orange County with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, light wood cabinets, quartz countertops, gray backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

Founded in 1975 by Gianni Tonin, the Italian modern furniture company Tonin Casa has long been viewed by European designers as one of the best interior design firms in the business, but it is only within the last five years that the company expanded their market outside Italy. As an authorized dealer of Tonin Casa contemporary furnishings, room service 360° is able to offer an extensive line of Tonin Casa designs.
Tonin Casa furniture features a wide range of distinctive styles to ensure the right selection for any contemporary home. The room service 360° collection includes a broad array of chairs, nightstands, consoles, television stands, dining tables, coffee tables and mirrors. Quality materials, including an extensive use of tempered glass, mark Tonin Casa furnishings with style and sophistication.
Tonin Casa modern furniture combines style and function by merging modern technology with the Italian tradition of innovative style and quality craftsmanship. Each piece complements homes styled in the modern style, yet each piece offers visual style on its own as well, with imaginative designs that are sure to add a note of distinction to any contemporary home.

Sponsored
Westerville, OH
Custom Home Works
Franklin County's Award-Winning Design, Build and Remodeling Expert

Open concept kitchen - mid-sized modern galley medium tone wood floor open concept kitchen idea in New York with a single-bowl sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, marble countertops, white backsplash, stainless steel appliances and a peninsula

Example of a large trendy master marble floor and gray floor alcove shower design in Detroit with recessed-panel cabinets, white cabinets, white walls, an undermount sink, quartz countertops and black countertops

This modern farmhouse located outside of Spokane, Washington, creates a prominent focal point among the landscape of rolling plains. The composition of the home is dominated by three steep gable rooflines linked together by a central spine. This unique design evokes a sense of expansion and contraction from one space to the next. Vertical cedar siding, poured concrete, and zinc gray metal elements clad the modern farmhouse, which, combined with a shop that has the aesthetic of a weathered barn, creates a sense of modernity that remains rooted to the surrounding environment.
The Glo double pane A5 Series windows and doors were selected for the project because of their sleek, modern aesthetic and advanced thermal technology over traditional aluminum windows. High performance spacers, low iron glass, larger continuous thermal breaks, and multiple air seals allows the A5 Series to deliver high performance values and cost effective durability while remaining a sophisticated and stylish design choice. Strategically placed operable windows paired with large expanses of fixed picture windows provide natural ventilation and a visual connection to the outdoors.

Don Z Renovation — California Modern Hillside Retreat
Perched on a hillside lot with sweeping views of the downtown Los Angeles skyline, this full exterior renovation transforms a traditional two-story home into a clean, contemporary California Modern retreat. The redesign features a durable standing-seam tin roof, crisp white stucco walls, and sleek black vinyl window trim that frames the home's expansive glass sliders and picture windows — bringing in natural light while creating striking contrast against the light exterior palette.
A custom wood pergola anchors the entry sequence, leading guests through a permeable paver walkway to the front door, while the rear of the home opens onto an indoor-outdoor living space with oversized glass doors, a covered patio, and a sparkling pool positioned to take full advantage of the downtown LA views beyond. Landscaping was kept intentionally minimal and drought-conscious, letting the architecture and the skyline views take center stage.
Beyond the exterior refresh, the home was fully upgraded into a smart home, integrating automated lighting, climate control, security, and entertainment systems that can be managed remotely — pairing timeless California Modern design with the convenience and efficiency of modern technology.
Highlights:
Standing-seam tin roof
Black vinyl window trim
Hillside lot with downtown LA skyline views
Minimal, drought-tolerant landscaping
Custom wood pergola and paver entry
Indoor-outdoor living with pool
Full smart home integration (lighting, climate, security, entertainment)

Sponsored
Sunbury, OH
J.Holderby - Renovations
Franklin County's Leading General Contractors - 2X Best of Houzz!

CONCEPT: Create an upscale kitchen including mid-century elements and modern technology.
SOLUTION: A half wall replaced a tall partition allowing visibility from the entry to outdoors. The ceiling was raised; a flush mounted remote-controlled hood permits unobstructed views. The trapezoid shaped island enables flow from dining and outdoors as well as provides seating. Cabinets are practical yet stylish and efficient; they include trash/recycle and even compost bins. Drawers are universally accessible allowing for “aging in place”. The client can set infinite lighting scenarios through “Smart” lighting technology connected to Google Home. Bold blue color is paired with rich wood tones creating a calm yet sophisticated feel. This 1960’s home now boasts an attractive mid-century kitchen with functional cabinetry and innovative technology.

Jessica Klewicki Glynn
Example of a transitional kitchen design in Miami with white cabinets, yellow backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island
Example of a transitional kitchen design in Miami with white cabinets, yellow backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

Our design for this kitchen takes inspiration from the Georgian period with panelled cabinetry mirroring the original shutters and pared back brass hardware. Unobtrusive contemporary luxury is included throughout, designed to maintain clean classic lines but with the ease of modern technology.
The full run of cabinetry takes a symmetrical shape with beautiful inset bevelled glass above a Kohler sink with Perrin & Rowe and Quooker taps. The large island has a beautiful white Quartzite worktop with a Miele induction hob and oven with a flush surface mounted extractor fan. The island doubles as a breakfast bar to one side for sociable entertaining and casual dining and there is a dual temperature wine cooler. Two large freestanding ‘Larders’ line each side of the fireplace, one conceals all the dry goods, herbs and spices. The other stores crockery and has an internal stone shelf with space for smaller appliances, easily fulfilling the family’s storage requirements.
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