Search results for "Precedent" in Home Design Ideas

Interior Design: Vision Interiors by Visbeen
Builder: Mosaic Properties
Photographer: Mike Buck Photography
This three-story live/work building accommodates a business and a private residence. The front showroom and reception area features a stair with a custom handrail and veneer brick wall. Moving through the main hall you will find a coffee bar and conference room that precedes a workroom with dark green cabinetry, masonry fireplace, and oversized pub-height work tables. The residence can be accessed on all levels and maintains privacy through the stairwell and elevator shaft. The second level is home to a design studio, private office and large conference room that opens up to a deep balcony with retractable screens. On the residence side, above the garage is a flex space, which is used as a guest apartment for out of town guests and includes a murphy bed, kitchenette and access to a private bath. The third level is the private residence. At the front you will find a balcony, living room with linear fireplace, dining room with banquette seating and kitchen with a custom island and pullout table. Private spaces include a full bathroom and kids room featuring train car inspired bunks and ample storage. The master suite is tucked away to the rear and features dual bathroom vanities, dressing space, a drop down TV in the bedroom ceiling and a closet wall that opens up to an 8x12, his and hers closet. The lower level is part of the private residence and features a home gym and recreation spaces.

This Park Avenue apartment is designed to feel fresh, updated, lively, and important. Much importance was given to lighting and finish materials to provide a well illuminated but neutral clean background for the furniture and art to take precedence. Gallery flfoor large slabs in diamond pattern with metal inserts for definition, give contrast to the rectangular chandeliers, and enhancing the axis that points to the Dinning Room at the end.

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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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 Park Avenue apartment is designed to feel fresh, updated, lively, and important. Much importance was given to lighting and finish materials to provide a well illuminated but neutral clean background for the furniture and art to take precedence. Gallery flfoor large slabs in diamond pattern with metal inserts for definition, give contrast to the rectangular chandeliers, and enhancing the axis that points to the Dinning Room at the end.

W38 D14 H32 in. If a really unique small console is what you need for that important space, this Greek Key Console might just fill the bill. The steel shaped pedestal is finished in a striking aged gold and is contrasted with a honed Carrera marble top with a wonderfully aged feel. Sherrill CTH

When thinking of historic Saratoga, modern styling isn’t always the first thing to come to mind. Not for these clients…their home features sharp architectural details and oversized views of the lake. Prior to jumping into the kitchen project with Designer Justina Auer & Project Manager Steve Shanholtz, phase one included freshening up and adding a stacked laundry unit to an upstairs bathroom. Removing the laundry closet from the makeshift pantry area set the precedent for a more functional Butler’s Pantry which now includes a wet bar for beverages enjoyed in the morning or evening, a speed oven with warming drawer and tons of pantry storage. Like a domino effect, the Butler’s Pantry freed up the possibilities in the kitchen. The overall layout of the kitchen did not change, but tweaks were made to make it more functional to entertain and cook. Lead Carpenter Vinny Augustine executed the vision impeccably. Both the main & island sinks increased in size to allow two chefs to work in the space, while moving the fridge down created a large gadget & appliance garage storage. Rift Cut Oak cabinets painted white with Walnut shelves pop against the full height Blackbrook Cambria Quartz backsplash. The island features full depth storage on both sides, with seating at a table placed next to the best view in the house. Who said Black & White had to be boring?
Designer: Justina Auer
Project: Manager Steve Shanholtz
Lead Carpenter: Vinny Augustine
Cabinets: Teddwood - Luxury
Counters: Cambria Blackbrook

This new home is inspired by the Colonial architecture found in the region. Situated on a stunning site bordering wooded conservation land with towering oak and beech trees, the connection to nature is of paramount importance. While the main body of the house adheres to historical precedent, the rear of the house and the various wings open up to the surrounding landscape with multi-purpose spaces and monumental windows. A geothermal system provides the hot water, heating and cooling.

My clients had always been inspired by the grand Tudor Revival homes of the early 20th century and commissioned Hull Historical to recreate the authentic custom millwork, paneling and doors for their new Tudor Revival home. Our inspiration came from 2 great English homes, Stan Hywett, a great Tudor Revival home in Ohio, built for the founder of Goodyear Tires. Also, the Woodbine Mansion, built in 1911 for the son of the Pabst Brewing Company. We were fortunate to purchase three rooms of architectural millwork from the woodbine home, which was originally fabricated by the Huber Company of New York. Upon completion of this project, the architectural salvage comprised 15% of the final quantity of paneling installed. The remainder was custom fabricated by Hull Historical at our shop in Fort Worth, TX and installed at the clients home.
The commission, based on historic precedent, constituted antique paneling on the main floor, beamed ceilings and all the doors in the home. The new paneling, including the kitchen cabinetry is made from a combination of new quarter-sawn white oak and antique white oak salvaged from old barns and buildings. All the oak was fumed in an ammonia-filled chamber to produce a cocoa color and deep feel giving the millwork rough character and a timeless look that my client loved.
The millwork also served to give the home a hierarchy, with simple paneling combined with board and batten doors downstairs, then more ornate paneling, with carvings on the main floor. Additionally, the main floor features mostly 8 and 10 panel doors. All woodwork was hand-pegged with oak pegs. Some of the paneling features a unique Mason’s Miter, a historic joinery technique inspired from stone work.
For more information on residential renovation and new construction projects by Hull Historical, visit http://brenthullcompanies.com/residential.html

Interior Design: Vision Interiors by Visbeen
Builder: Mosaic Properties
Photographer: Mike Buck Photography
This three-story live/work building accommodates a business and a private residence. The front showroom and reception area features a stair with a custom handrail and veneer brick wall. Moving through the main hall you will find a coffee bar and conference room that precedes a workroom with dark green cabinetry, masonry fireplace, and oversized pub-height work tables. The residence can be accessed on all levels and maintains privacy through the stairwell and elevator shaft. The second level is home to a design studio, private office and large conference room that opens up to a deep balcony with retractable screens. On the residence side, above the garage is a flex space, which is used as a guest apartment for out of town guests and includes a murphy bed, kitchenette and access to a private bath. The third level is the private residence. At the front you will find a balcony, living room with linear fireplace, dining room with banquette seating and kitchen with a custom island and pullout table. Private spaces include a full bathroom and kids room featuring train car inspired bunks and ample storage. The master suite is tucked away to the rear and features dual bathroom vanities, dressing space, a drop down TV in the bedroom ceiling and a closet wall that opens up to an 8x12, his and hers closet. The lower level is part of the private residence and features a home gym and recreation spaces.

Large dust storm (haboob) sweeping into the Phoenix area during monsoon season.
Photo of a landscaping in Phoenix.
Photo of a landscaping in Phoenix.

This new home is inspired by the Colonial architecture found in the region. Situated on a stunning site bordering wooded conservation land with towering oak and beech trees, the connection to nature is of paramount importance. While the main body of the house adheres to historical precedent, the rear of the house and the various wings open up to the surrounding landscape with multi-purpose spaces and monumental windows. A geothermal system provides the hot water, heating and cooling.

NOT ALL WORKS SHOWN ARE CONSTRUCTED BY MD+C. THESE ARE SAMPLE IMAGES TO SHOW POSSIBILITIES AND INSPIRE!
Pool - pool idea in Dallas
Pool - pool idea in Dallas

NOT ALL WORKS SHOWN ARE CONSTRUCTED BY MD+C. THESE ARE SAMPLE IMAGES TO SHOW POSSIBILITIES AND INSPIRE!
Example of an exterior home design in Dallas
Example of an exterior home design in Dallas

Contrasting the linearity of the bathroom, these 12"x12" One Avenue tiles coincide with the circulation throughout the space. Additionally, by going with large non-ornamented tiles, they help lock in other elements within the bathroom without taking precedence over them.

Example of a mid-sized classic master carpeted and beige floor bedroom design in Other with multicolored walls

NOT ALL WORKS SHOWN ARE CONSTRUCTED BY MD+C. THESE ARE SAMPLE IMAGES TO SHOW POSSIBILITIES AND INSPIRE!
Example of a deck design in Dallas
Example of a deck design in Dallas
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