Nestled in the hills of Orinda, California, this 1951 residence is one of only seven extant homes, now known as “The Magnificent Seven”, designed by architect Olof Dahlstrand, a protégé of Frank Lloyd Wright. With its low-slung rooflines, natural materials, and deep integration with the sloping landscape, the home is a pristine example of mid-century modern design inspired by Wright’s organic principles. Over the years, prior homeowners have emphasized preservation, ensuring that the house remained relatively untouched. Each owner has respected the original architecture and stayed true to Dahlstrand’s intent. When a family of five—two college-aged sons and a middle school-aged daughter—acquired the property, they were captivated by its history, legacy of care, and architectural significance. While they appreciated Dahlstrand’s original vision, they also recognized the need to adapt the home for contemporary living while preserving its design integrity. The remodel was conceived as a thoughtful response to the past—an effort to bring the house into the 21st century without compromising its soul. The primary mandate was to maintain architectural continuity while improving the functionality, comfort, and livability for a modern family. The design team—architects and contractor alike—worked with a shared reverence for the original architecture, allowing that mindset to guide even the most technical or pragmatic decisions. A key objective was to increase natural light in the kitchen—a departure from Wrightian principles of enclosed, intimate cooking spaces—while maintaining the home’s architectural language. The kitchen was reconfigured to foster a stronger connection to adjacent living spaces while retaining the underlying concept of spatial separation. One of the most transformative architectural changes was the removal of a ridge beam that was originally planned to remain visible through the kitchen. During construction, the team collaborated on a better solution: a wide-flanged steel beam concealed within the roof envelope. This subtle move preserved the clean lines and ceiling continuity, a modern update carried out with utmost respect for the existing framework. The home’s original powder room, previously accessible only through the kitchen, was relocated for better flow and privacy. A new powder room was carved out of former kitchen cabinetry—a narrow, interior space that could have felt dark and enclosed. To avoid this, the design extended the line of original transom windows into the new powder room and added a skylight above the vanity. The result is a bright and airy space that feels consistent with the rest of the home. Other updates included the installation of new solid-core interior doors with veneers carefully matched to the original mahogany, enhancing the continuity of the interiors. Even smaller decisions, such as placing the door knobs at 42 inches high, mirrored the original proportions. Every choice reflected a shared belief between the architect, contractor, and client: that new work should serve the integrity of the old. The home’s extensive interior redwood millwork and paneling was meticulously restored. Where new materials were introduced—such as the replacement redwood soffit paneling—the contractor took pains to find finish nails that matched the original, rather than using modern equivalents. This level of craftsmanship and collaboration defined the project. It extended even to the detailing of a blind door to the new powder room, which had to disappear into the existing redwood board-and-batten wall. It was a team effort: the owner found a suitable handle, the architects devised the custom in-swing mechanism, and the contractor executed it so the door aligned precisely with the battens. Throughout, the homeowners were deeply engaged in the design process. One, a meticulous design enthusiast, focused on aesthetic integrity and historic detail. The other brought a practical and function-driven perspective, ensuring that new fixtures and materials would be durable and require minimal maintenance. While the home’s location posed no major site challenges, sustainability was a key concern. The team upgraded the roof insulation, installed solar panels with battery storage, and added ductless mini-split cooling systems. Lighting was another area where modern technology was woven into a historic framework: new square LED fixtures echo the original custom perimeter soffit lights, maintaining the design language while offering advanced performance. A planned expansion of a bedroom into suite with a bathroom had to be shelved due to budget constraints and the high cost of below-grade foundation work. Still, the team focused their efforts on making the most of the existing footprint, resolving constraints through design ingenuity rather than adding square footage. This renovation represents a collaborative achievement in preserving and evolving a historically significant home. Every decision was shaped by a shared ethos among clients, architects, and contractor: to maintain the home’s architectural soul while updating it for contemporary life. The result is a timeless modernist residence that continues Olof Dahlstrand’s legacy, remaining grounded in nature, craftsmanship, and human-scale design. Klopf Architecture Team: John Klopf, AIA, Klara Kevane, Fernanda Bernardes
Interior Architectural Design: Klopf Architecture
Structural Engineer: Daniel Bastiao
Contractor: Don Larwood, Larwood Construction Photography: Mariko Reed Year Completed: 2022

Nestled in the hills of Orinda, California, this 1951 residence is one of only seven extant homes, now known as “The Magnificent Seven”, designed by architect Olof Dahlstrand, a protégé of Frank Lloyd Wright. With its low-slung rooflines, natural materials, and deep integration with the sloping landscape, the home is a pristine example of mid-century modern design inspired by Wright’s organic principles. Over the years, prior homeowners have emphasized preservation, ensuring that the house remained relatively untouched. Each owner has respected the original architecture and stayed true to Dahlstrand’s intent. When a family of five—two college-aged sons and a middle school-aged daughter—acquired the property, they were captivated by its history, legacy of care, and architectural significance. While they appreciated Dahlstrand’s original vision, they also recognized the need to adapt the home for contemporary living while preserving its design integrity. The remodel was conceived as a thoughtful response to the past—an effort to bring the house into the 21st century without compromising its soul. The primary mandate was to maintain architectural continuity while improving the functionality, comfort, and livability for a modern family. The design team—architects and contractor alike—worked with a shared reverence for the original architecture, allowing that mindset to guide even the most technical or pragmatic decisions. A key objective was to increase natural light in the kitchen—a departure from Wrightian principles of enclosed, intimate cooking spaces—while maintaining the home’s architectural language. The kitchen was reconfigured to foster a stronger connection to adjacent living spaces while retaining the underlying concept of spatial separation. One of the most transformative architectural changes was the removal of a ridge beam that was originally planned to remain visible through the kitchen. During construction, the team collaborated on a better solution: a wide-flanged steel beam concealed within the roof envelope. This subtle move preserved the clean lines and ceiling continuity, a modern update carried out with utmost respect for the existing framework. The home’s original powder room, previously accessible only through the kitchen, was relocated for better flow and privacy. A new powder room was carved out of former kitchen cabinetry—a narrow, interior space that could have felt dark and enclosed. To avoid this, the design extended the line of original transom windows into the new powder room and added a skylight above the vanity. The result is a bright and airy space that feels consistent with the rest of the home. Other updates included the installation of new solid-core interior doors with veneers carefully matched to the original mahogany, enhancing the continuity of the interiors. Even smaller decisions, such as placing the door knobs at 42 inches high, mirrored the original proportions. Every choice reflected a shared belief between the architect, contractor, and client: that new work should serve the integrity of the old. The home’s extensive interior redwood millwork and paneling was meticulously restored. Where new materials were introduced—such as the replacement redwood soffit paneling—the contractor took pains to find finish nails that matched the original, rather than using modern equivalents. This level of craftsmanship and collaboration defined the project. It extended even to the detailing of a blind door to the new powder room, which had to disappear into the existing redwood board-and-batten wall. It was a team effort: the owner found a suitable handle, the architects devised the custom in-swing mechanism, and the contractor executed it so the door aligned precisely with the battens. Throughout, the homeowners were deeply engaged in the design process. One, a meticulous design enthusiast, focused on aesthetic integrity and historic detail. The other brought a practical and function-driven perspective, ensuring that new fixtures and materials would be durable and require minimal maintenance. While the home’s location posed no major site challenges, sustainability was a key concern. The team upgraded the roof insulation, installed solar panels with battery storage, and added ductless mini-split cooling systems. Lighting was another area where modern technology was woven into a historic framework: new square LED fixtures echo the original custom perimeter soffit lights, maintaining the design language while offering advanced performance. A planned expansion of a bedroom into suite with a bathroom had to be shelved due to budget constraints and the high cost of below-grade foundation work. Still, the team focused their efforts on making the most of the existing footprint, resolving constraints through design ingenuity rather than adding square footage. This renovation represents a collaborative achievement in preserving and evolving a historically significant home. Every decision was shaped by a shared ethos among clients, architects, and contractor: to maintain the home’s architectural soul while updating it for contemporary life. The result is a timeless modernist residence that continues Olof Dahlstrand’s legacy, remaining grounded in nature, craftsmanship, and human-scale design. Klopf Architecture Team: John Klopf, AIA, Klara Kevane, Fernanda Bernardes
Interior Architectural Design: Klopf Architecture
Structural Engineer: Daniel Bastiao
Contractor: Don Larwood, Larwood Construction Photography: Mariko Reed Year Completed: 2022

These clients debated moving from their dated 1979 house but decided to remodel since they loved their neighborhood and location of their home. We did a whole house interior and exterior remodel for them and they are so happy with their decision. The homeowners felt that reading floorplans was not so easy, so they loved our ability to provide 3D renderings and our personal touches and suggestions from our in-house designers. The general layout of the home stayed the same with a few minor changes. We took the 38 year old home down to the studs and transformed it completely. The only thing that remains unchanged is the address. The popcorn texture was removed from the ceiling, removed all soffits, replaced all cabinets, flooring and countertops throughout the home. The wet bar was removed from the living room opening the space. The kitchen layout remained the same, but the cook surface was moved. Unneeded space was removed from the laundry room, giving them a larger pantry. The master suite remained the same but additional lighting was added for reading. We made major improvements in the master bath by adding a rain shower, more storage and a bench to their new shower and gave them a larger bathtub. All new cedar siding was replaced on the exterior of the home and a fresh coat of paint makes this 1979 home look brand new! Design/Remodel by Hatfield Builders & Remodelers | Photography by Versatile Imaging

These clients debated moving from their dated 1979 house but decided to remodel since they loved their neighborhood and location of their home. We did a whole house interior and exterior remodel for them and they are so happy with their decision. The homeowners felt that reading floorplans was not so easy, so they loved our ability to provide 3D renderings and our personal touches and suggestions from our in-house designers. The general layout of the home stayed the same with a few minor changes. We took the 38 year old home down to the studs and transformed it completely. The only thing that remains unchanged is the address. The popcorn texture was removed from the ceiling, removed all soffits, replaced all cabinets, flooring and countertops throughout the home. The wet bar was removed from the living room opening the space. The kitchen layout remained the same, but the cook surface was moved. Unneeded space was removed from the laundry room, giving them a larger pantry. The master suite remained the same but additional lighting was added for reading. We made major improvements in the master bath by adding a rain shower, more storage and a bench to their new shower and gave them a larger bathtub. All new cedar siding was replaced on the exterior of the home and a fresh coat of paint makes this 1979 home look brand new! Design/Remodel by Hatfield Builders & Remodelers | Photography by Versatile Imaging

These clients debated moving from their dated 1979 house but decided to remodel since they loved their neighborhood and location of their home. We did a whole house interior and exterior remodel for them and they are so happy with their decision. The homeowners felt that reading floorplans was not so easy, so they loved our ability to provide 3D renderings and our personal touches and suggestions from our in-house designers. The general layout of the home stayed the same with a few minor changes. We took the 38 year old home down to the studs and transformed it completely. The only thing that remains unchanged is the address. The popcorn texture was removed from the ceiling, removed all soffits, replaced all cabinets, flooring and countertops throughout the home. The wet bar was removed from the living room opening the space. The kitchen layout remained the same, but the cook surface was moved. Unneeded space was removed from the laundry room, giving them a larger pantry. The master suite remained the same but additional lighting was added for reading. We made major improvements in the master bath by adding a rain shower, more storage and a bench to their new shower and gave them a larger bathtub. All new cedar siding was replaced on the exterior of the home and a fresh coat of paint makes this 1979 home look brand new! Design/Remodel by Hatfield Builders & Remodelers | Photography by Versatile Imaging

Michael Jacobs
Example of a classic bathroom design in St Louis

These clients debated moving from their dated 1979 house but decided to remodel since they loved their neighborhood and location of their home. We did a whole house interior and exterior remodel for them and they are so happy with their decision. The homeowners felt that reading floorplans was not so easy, so they loved our ability to provide 3D renderings and our personal touches and suggestions from our in-house designers. The general layout of the home stayed the same with a few minor changes. We took the 38 year old home down to the studs and transformed it completely. The only thing that remains unchanged is the address. The popcorn texture was removed from the ceiling, removed all soffits, replaced all cabinets, flooring and countertops throughout the home. The wet bar was removed from the living room opening the space. The kitchen layout remained the same, but the cook surface was moved. Unneeded space was removed from the laundry room, giving them a larger pantry. The master suite remained the same but additional lighting was added for reading. We made major improvements in the master bath by adding a rain shower, more storage and a bench to their new shower and gave them a larger bathtub. All new cedar siding was replaced on the exterior of the home and a fresh coat of paint makes this 1979 home look brand new! Design/Remodel by Hatfield Builders & Remodelers | Photography by Versatile Imaging

These clients debated moving from their dated 1979 house but decided to remodel since they loved their neighborhood and location of their home. We did a whole house interior and exterior remodel for them and they are so happy with their decision. The homeowners felt that reading floorplans was not so easy, so they loved our ability to provide 3D renderings and our personal touches and suggestions from our in-house designers. The general layout of the home stayed the same with a few minor changes. We took the 38 year old home down to the studs and transformed it completely. The only thing that remains unchanged is the address. The popcorn texture was removed from the ceiling, removed all soffits, replaced all cabinets, flooring and countertops throughout the home. The wet bar was removed from the living room opening the space. The kitchen layout remained the same, but the cook surface was moved. Unneeded space was removed from the laundry room, giving them a larger pantry. The master suite remained the same but additional lighting was added for reading. We made major improvements in the master bath by adding a rain shower, more storage and a bench to their new shower and gave them a larger bathtub. All new cedar siding was replaced on the exterior of the home and a fresh coat of paint makes this 1979 home look brand new! Design/Remodel by Hatfield Builders & Remodelers | Photography by Versatile Imaging

Nestled in the hills of Orinda, California, this 1951 residence is one of only seven extant homes, now known as “The Magnificent Seven”, designed by architect Olof Dahlstrand, a protégé of Frank Lloyd Wright. With its low-slung rooflines, natural materials, and deep integration with the sloping landscape, the home is a pristine example of mid-century modern design inspired by Wright’s organic principles. Over the years, prior homeowners have emphasized preservation, ensuring that the house remained relatively untouched. Each owner has respected the original architecture and stayed true to Dahlstrand’s intent. When a family of five—two college-aged sons and a middle school-aged daughter—acquired the property, they were captivated by its history, legacy of care, and architectural significance. While they appreciated Dahlstrand’s original vision, they also recognized the need to adapt the home for contemporary living while preserving its design integrity. The remodel was conceived as a thoughtful response to the past—an effort to bring the house into the 21st century without compromising its soul. The primary mandate was to maintain architectural continuity while improving the functionality, comfort, and livability for a modern family. The design team—architects and contractor alike—worked with a shared reverence for the original architecture, allowing that mindset to guide even the most technical or pragmatic decisions. A key objective was to increase natural light in the kitchen—a departure from Wrightian principles of enclosed, intimate cooking spaces—while maintaining the home’s architectural language. The kitchen was reconfigured to foster a stronger connection to adjacent living spaces while retaining the underlying concept of spatial separation. One of the most transformative architectural changes was the removal of a ridge beam that was originally planned to remain visible through the kitchen. During construction, the team collaborated on a better solution: a wide-flanged steel beam concealed within the roof envelope. This subtle move preserved the clean lines and ceiling continuity, a modern update carried out with utmost respect for the existing framework. The home’s original powder room, previously accessible only through the kitchen, was relocated for better flow and privacy. A new powder room was carved out of former kitchen cabinetry—a narrow, interior space that could have felt dark and enclosed. To avoid this, the design extended the line of original transom windows into the new powder room and added a skylight above the vanity. The result is a bright and airy space that feels consistent with the rest of the home. Other updates included the installation of new solid-core interior doors with veneers carefully matched to the original mahogany, enhancing the continuity of the interiors. Even smaller decisions, such as placing the door knobs at 42 inches high, mirrored the original proportions. Every choice reflected a shared belief between the architect, contractor, and client: that new work should serve the integrity of the old. The home’s extensive interior redwood millwork and paneling was meticulously restored. Where new materials were introduced—such as the replacement redwood soffit paneling—the contractor took pains to find finish nails that matched the original, rather than using modern equivalents. This level of craftsmanship and collaboration defined the project. It extended even to the detailing of a blind door to the new powder room, which had to disappear into the existing redwood board-and-batten wall. It was a team effort: the owner found a suitable handle, the architects devised the custom in-swing mechanism, and the contractor executed it so the door aligned precisely with the battens. Throughout, the homeowners were deeply engaged in the design process. One, a meticulous design enthusiast, focused on aesthetic integrity and historic detail. The other brought a practical and function-driven perspective, ensuring that new fixtures and materials would be durable and require minimal maintenance. While the home’s location posed no major site challenges, sustainability was a key concern. The team upgraded the roof insulation, installed solar panels with battery storage, and added ductless mini-split cooling systems. Lighting was another area where modern technology was woven into a historic framework: new square LED fixtures echo the original custom perimeter soffit lights, maintaining the design language while offering advanced performance. A planned expansion of a bedroom into suite with a bathroom had to be shelved due to budget constraints and the high cost of below-grade foundation work. Still, the team focused their efforts on making the most of the existing footprint, resolving constraints through design ingenuity rather than adding square footage. This renovation represents a collaborative achievement in preserving and evolving a historically significant home. Every decision was shaped by a shared ethos among clients, architects, and contractor: to maintain the home’s architectural soul while updating it for contemporary life. The result is a timeless modernist residence that continues Olof Dahlstrand’s legacy, remaining grounded in nature, craftsmanship, and human-scale design. Klopf Architecture Team: John Klopf, AIA, Klara Kevane, Fernanda Bernardes
Interior Architectural Design: Klopf Architecture
Structural Engineer: Daniel Bastiao
Contractor: Don Larwood, Larwood Construction Photography: Mariko Reed Year Completed: 2022

Transitional kitchen photo in Columbus

Inspiration for a timeless home design remodel in Raleigh

1 Remodel St Louis Construction & Remodel STL
Example of an urban home design design in St Louis

Inspiration for a timeless kitchen remodel in Raleigh

1 Remodel St Louis Construction & Remodel STL
Example of an urban home design design in St Louis

Scandi-crafted Home Interiors in Dynasty Court Tucked away atop of the Victoria Peak behind Hong Kong's unrelenting hustle and bustle, the residences found along Old Peak Road have been known to offer an oasis just within reach of the city. Set at the western point of Hong Kong Island, this panoramic neighbourhood boasts beautiful views over the town, hiking trails galore, and some of the city's priciest homes. Given its regarded status, it's of little surprise that those who live atop of The Peak chose to renovate rather than relocate as the years go by. Having worked with Clifton, ten years prior, the homeowner of the Dynasty Court Residence believed it to be time for his 1,794sq.ft three-bedroom apartment to be given a complete and total facelift. Built back in the '90s, the residence had been updated once before through Clifton's services, but with a new chapter of retirement drawing nearer, the desire for a modern touch presented itself once again – this time with inspiration from Scandinavian interiors. Given the instructions to keep the prior design of architectural and office feel but update everything, CLDW took on the role of refurbisher to their repeat client, this time however with a more curved and coloured approach than the boxey one before it. With the brief of out with the old, in with the new underway, Clifton and his team set out to deploy a modern feel to the apartment with updates to everything from the floors, walls, doors and even the appliances – prioritizing functionality and simplicity. As the kitchen had been left out of the past retouch, this time around with retirement underway in was more important to give the couple a contemporary space to explore their culinary skills. Rounded chairs and tables complement the more square-like feel of the room, with washed grey tiles and soft tan cabinets. Meanwhile, the living room and dining room were under the instructions to be void of paintings and wall decorations – with the exception of the past CD changer – as the focal point of the rooms was to remain the spectacular view which looks down upon Hong Kong's Central district all the way to the Kowloon harbourside. Again, curvey furniture can be seen among the interiors, with rounded sofas, chairs and even the coffee table. The furniture – much like the interiors – remains minimalist, as the homeowners require little to no storage space, a rare thing indeed for Hong Kong. Inside the master bedroom, the updated lighting remains concealed within the walls as another finely executed play on curves from Clifton, which ensures minimalism. Over to the guest bedroom/study, more brown tones can be seen for an Earthy feel for guests, and the Mrs of the house to do her exercises. With Scandinavian design and minimalism being one of the most popular trends of modern interior design, it takes a true professional to understand its principals of warm and natural palettes, while not too overpowering and bright. Ever present in the Dynasty Court home is the maximization of natural light, which gives it an airy environment a house at the Peak most certainly deserves.

Example of a minimalist home design design in Toronto

Scandi-crafted Home Interiors in Dynasty Court Tucked away atop of the Victoria Peak behind Hong Kong's unrelenting hustle and bustle, the residences found along Old Peak Road have been known to offer an oasis just within reach of the city. Set at the western point of Hong Kong Island, this panoramic neighbourhood boasts beautiful views over the town, hiking trails galore, and some of the city's priciest homes. Given its regarded status, it's of little surprise that those who live atop of The Peak chose to renovate rather than relocate as the years go by. Having worked with Clifton, ten years prior, the homeowner of the Dynasty Court Residence believed it to be time for his 1,794sq.ft three-bedroom apartment to be given a complete and total facelift. Built back in the '90s, the residence had been updated once before through Clifton's services, but with a new chapter of retirement drawing nearer, the desire for a modern touch presented itself once again – this time with inspiration from Scandinavian interiors. Given the instructions to keep the prior design of architectural and office feel but update everything, CLDW took on the role of refurbisher to their repeat client, this time however with a more curved and coloured approach than the boxey one before it. With the brief of out with the old, in with the new underway, Clifton and his team set out to deploy a modern feel to the apartment with updates to everything from the floors, walls, doors and even the appliances – prioritizing functionality and simplicity. As the kitchen had been left out of the past retouch, this time around with retirement underway in was more important to give the couple a contemporary space to explore their culinary skills. Rounded chairs and tables complement the more square-like feel of the room, with washed grey tiles and soft tan cabinets. Meanwhile, the living room and dining room were under the instructions to be void of paintings and wall decorations – with the exception of the past CD changer – as the focal point of the rooms was to remain the spectacular view which looks down upon Hong Kong's Central district all the way to the Kowloon harbourside. Again, curvey furniture can be seen among the interiors, with rounded sofas, chairs and even the coffee table. The furniture – much like the interiors – remains minimalist, as the homeowners require little to no storage space, a rare thing indeed for Hong Kong. Inside the master bedroom, the updated lighting remains concealed within the walls as another finely executed play on curves from Clifton, which ensures minimalism. Over to the guest bedroom/study, more brown tones can be seen for an Earthy feel for guests, and the Mrs of the house to do her exercises. With Scandinavian design and minimalism being one of the most popular trends of modern interior design, it takes a true professional to understand its principals of warm and natural palettes, while not too overpowering and bright. Ever present in the Dynasty Court home is the maximization of natural light, which gives it an airy environment a house at the Peak most certainly deserves.