Mid-sized minimalist backyard concrete and custom-shaped lap pool photo

Set in a quiet neighborhood and framed by mature trees, this residence presented a unique opportunity: to thoughtfully evolve a custom mid-century modern home into a space that supports the everyday rhythms of a growing family. With a deep respect for the home’s original architecture, Klopf Architecture reimagined the house to better meet the needs of its owners—introducing functional improvements while preserving the spirit and character of its mid-century roots. The clients approached Klopf Architecture with a clear vision: refresh their home while seamlessly integrating new programmatic elements. Key goals included clarifying and enhancing the entry sequence; connecting the detached garage to the main house with a practical yet architecturally intentional intervention; adding functional spaces such as a mudroom and laundry room; expanding and remodeling the primary suite’s bathroom and closet; and creating a more engaging outdoor space that capitalized on the site’s impressive views, featuring a fire pit and outdoor kitchen. As a couple with distinct yet complementary perspectives—one focused on modern functionality and technology, and the other dedicated to preserving the home’s architectural integrity—their collaboration with Klopf Architecture resulted in a solution that harmonized both ideals. Their shared commitment to improving the livability of their home led to a design dialogue rooted in balance. This dynamic partnership shaped the direction of the renovation, ensuring that every decision honored the spirit of the original home while aligning with the practical needs of their growing family. Designing within the constraints of the sloped site posed one of the project’s central challenges. The detached garage sat at a higher elevation than the main house, requiring a solution that ensured architectural and geometric compatibility between the two structures. Rather than create a purely utilitarian link, Klopf Architecture introduced an intentional connection that contributes to the overall architectural language. A notable pinch point in the plan—where differing geometries converged—was treated as a hinge point, turning a potentially awkward juncture into an architectural feature. This area now functions as both a transition and a moment of design interest that unifies the overall plan. The design also addressed the underutilized outdoor area, which was located in a shadowed portion of the site with geometrical limitations. A new connection to the rear deck was created in this same area, making the outdoor space more useful and inviting. Klopf Architecture introduced carefully positioned openings and spatial improvements that forged a strong visual and functional connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. The outdoor area now reads as a deliberate extension of the home, embracing natural light and emphasizing the dramatic views. Working through multiple design iterations, Klopf Architecture crafted a solution that preserved the architectural language of the original home while supporting the functional needs of modern life. The garage-to-house connection became more than a passage—it evolved into an architectural moment of transition. A new mudroom and laundry space enhanced convenience without compromising the clean lines of the design. The primary suite was expanded to create a private, serene retreat. The reimagined backyard, complete with fire pit and kitchen, now plays a vital role in the family’s daily routine and social life. Outcomes and Lasting Impact The result is a home that balances heritage with contemporary design, technical precision with design sensibility. The redesign not only met the clients’ initial goals but also exceeded expectations in its ability to seamlessly blend past and present, function and beauty, making the outdoor kitchen a favorite gathering place. Beyond aesthetics, the renovation has significantly improved daily life for the family. The newly integrated garage connection has streamlined routines, providing a seamless transition between arriving home, storing belongings, and entering the main living spaces. The expanded primary suite offers a retreat-like atmosphere, creating a private space to unwind at the end of the day. The redesigned outdoor areas have also become an extension of their lifestyle—whether it's casual family dinners around the fire pit, entertaining friends in the outdoor kitchen, or simply enjoying the view from the reimagined backyard. Through a thoughtful and strategic approach, the house has been successfully evolved into a home that remains true to its mid-century modern roots while enhancing livability, functionality, and the overall quality of life for the modern-day owners. Klopf Architecture Team: Geoffrey Campen, Fernanda Bernardes Architectural Interior Design: Klopf Architecture Structural Engineer: Base Design Inc. Contractor: Golden Snail Builders Photography: Mariko Reed Year Completed:2022

Example of a 1960s living room design in Seattle

Anne Matheis Photography
Example of a mountain style basement design in St Louis

How about a family gallery in your entry? Pick up your keys and your bag – along with a smile – as you head out the door. This is a mix of old family photos and summer prints, EasyGallery's changeability means you can switch things up any time. A fresh look to greet every season!

Inspiration for a coastal bathroom remodel in Los Angeles

Floating concrete deck and steps create a rooftop garden where initially there was only a parapet roof. This deck holds over 100 people at a time. Succulents provide color, texture and year-around interest. Low water low maintenance, high impact entertaining garden.

Floating concrete deck and steps create a rooftop garden where initially there was only a parapet roof. This deck holds over 100 people at a time.
Example of a small 1950s rooftop rooftop metal railing deck container garden design in Phoenix with no cover

This 3D Render came together after discussions on how to build the cedar deck around the existing landscaping and terrain. The unique deck shape came from this initial consideration. The two levels came from the client's desire to separate the dining experience from the lounge experience.

This 3D Render came together after discussions on how to build the cedar deck around the existing landscaping and terrain. The unique deck shape came from this initial consideration. The two levels came from the client's desire to separate the dining experience from the lounge experience.

This 3D Render came together after discussions on how to build the cedar deck around the existing landscaping and terrain. The unique deck shape came from this initial consideration. The two levels came from the client's desire to separate the dining experience from the lounge experience.

This 3D Render came together after discussions on how to build the cedar deck around the existing landscaping and terrain. The unique deck shape came from this initial consideration. The two levels came from the client's desire to separate the dining experience from the lounge experience.

This 3D Render came together after discussions on how to build the cedar deck around the existing landscaping and terrain. The unique deck shape came from this initial consideration. The two levels came from the client's desire to separate the dining experience from the lounge experience.

We’re thrilled to share our latest completed project — a stunning outdoor living space featuring a large patio, custom deck, and outdoor kitchen! This project was 11 months in the making, starting from the initial design phase, detailed construction cost estimating, permitting and approvals, all the way through to a 4-month construction timeline. Our client came to us with a strong vision — one that included unique curved elements throughout. Though we hadn’t executed curved designs like these before, we embraced the challenge head-on and delivered! Some of the standout features include: • Intricately crafted stone walls and stairs and a stamped concrete patio • Custom made curved aluminum railings • Composite decking paired with a metal underdeck system and integrated hidden drainage • A custom cedar roof structure over the outdoor kitchen • Vinyl wrapped columns and custom made arches • Thoughtfully placed accent and task lighting that brings the space to life in the evenings The result is nothing short of beautiful, and we’re incredibly proud to have both designed and built this one-of-a-kind outdoor living area.

Bliss Garden Design
Photo of a coastal landscaping in Seattle.

Our clients wanted to create a backyard area to hang out and entertain with some privacy and protection from the elements. The initial vision was to simply build a large roof over one side of the existing deck while providing a little privacy. It was important to them to carefully integrate the new covered deck roofline into the existing home so that it looked it was there from day one. We had our partners at Draw Design help us with the initial drawings. As work progressed, the scope of the project morphed into something more significant. Check out the outdoor built-in barbecue and seating area complete with custom cabinets, granite countertops, and beautiful outdoor gas fireplace. Stone pillars and black metal capping completed the look giving the structure a mountain resort feel. Extensive use of red cedar finished off the high ceilings and privacy screen. Landscaping and a new hot tub were added afterwards. The end result is truly jaw-dropping!

Our clients wanted to create a backyard area to hang out and entertain with some privacy and protection from the elements. The initial vision was to simply build a large roof over one side of the existing deck while providing a little privacy. It was important to them to carefully integrate the new covered deck roofline into the existing home so that it looked it was there from day one. We had our partners at Draw Design help us with the initial drawings. As work progressed, the scope of the project morphed into something more significant. Check out the outdoor built-in barbecue and seating area complete with custom cabinets, granite countertops, and beautiful outdoor gas fireplace. Stone pillars and black metal capping completed the look giving the structure a mountain resort feel. Extensive use of red cedar finished off the high ceilings and privacy screen. Landscaping and a new hot tub were added afterwards. The end result is truly jaw-dropping!

St. Enodoc golf club is famous for its panoramic views, perfect lawns and luxury days out. In between the Cornish rain showers this team of Camel Glass installers managed to install the MEGAgrip frameless glass balustrade to the newly refurbished roof terrace at St Enodoc golf club. A strong glass outdoor safety barrier providing shelter from the wind to people outdoors enjoying the view of the sea and watching the golf. The customers wanted a commercial grade frameless glass balustrade with no handrails, instead of the traditional style of galvanized railing. MEGAgrip was used in this situation due to its force loading capability and ability to hold Centryglas ensuring it’s safe to use at this height and location. This MEGAgrip safety screen posed some challenges for Andrew, John and John, the installers, the heavy glass needed to be taken high in the air to reach the scaffolding platform. Using a telehandler they managed, to lift the glass safely into position. However, there was another challenge waiting, the initial installation of steel was slightly misshapen, meaning the original fitters had to return to rectify the problem and therefore delayed the glass balustrade completion. Even so, the MEGAgrip installation was completed successfully and fulfilled the customer brief. Now, the balcony is a very enjoyable spot to sit and watch the golfers on the course.

Ever heard some say “It has good bones?” Well, no one had ever said that about this house; it needed a major overhaul - “A TOTAL GUT.” It’s saving grace was: 1. It’s enthusiastic new homeowners. 2. The expansive and gorgeous views of Okanagan Lake. 
 We were asked to assist our clients with big-picture-planning for their newest investment property. Upon initial walk through of the home, it was immediately evident there were many previous ‘bandaid-type’ updates that it had gone through over the years. This house was in prime need of an overhaul inside and out: - multiple dropped Ceilings with layers of Plumbing add ons - wall to wall Carpet -a tired Bathtub directly inside the Master Bedroom - a “dreaded” Corner Kitchen Sink -multiple add ons involving three confusing front entry doors Discovering what was previously done and the quandary of why these things were done is always so interesting to discover and can be very overwhelming for clients. A big part of what we love most about Design is helping to propose new ideas to revitalize and improve all that has come before. It is one of the most challenging and rewarding parts of our work. Our Renovation Strategy began in Layout Design for optimizing Interior & Exterior flow, moving into Concept & Style Planning, Millwork and Finish Selections. We then created an ordered implementation sequence which would allow the homeowners to live on one floor while the other was being renovated Later they would move to the finished floor and renovate the remaining areas. Once complete, the home quickly sold and we look forwards to assisting these happy investors on their next endeavour.