M J McCabe-Garden Design
Photo of a traditional landscaping in Bridgeport.

Convenient hair dryer and brush storage at your fingertips.
Inspiration for a large contemporary master brown tile and ceramic tile ceramic tile and gray floor bathroom remodel in Boston with raised-panel cabinets, dark wood cabinets, a one-piece toilet, green walls, an undermount sink and quartz countertops

Paula Boyle Photography
Inspiration for a large transitional master beige tile and stone tile marble floor bathroom remodel in Chicago with recessed-panel cabinets, white cabinets, a one-piece toilet, beige walls, an undermount sink and quartz countertops

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

The Setup This hall bath renovation was for empty nesters whose grandkids frequently visit, making it a priority to update the space for both adult guests and young children. Originally, the bathroom was outdated with a large sheet mirror, heavy oak cabinets, and hexagon tile flooring, giving it a dark, underwhelming look. The goal was to create a fresh, inviting environment that balances elegance with practical features for a multi-generational household. Design objectives: Modernize finishes and materials to update the aesthetic Provide accessible, kid-friendly storage and shower options Artful lighting and maintain a timeless, neutral palette The Remodel Design challenges to be solved: No structural changes – must keep the tub and wall structure Ensure flexibility with storage for both adult and children’s items Retain functionality for easier bath time with young children The Renewed Space Design solutions: Updated Storage – Replaced the dated medicine cabinet with a sleek, mirrored version on the wall, offering accessible storage without sacrificing the streamlined look. The vanity now includes additional storage for essential items, keeping surfaces clutter-free and organized. Neutral Palette with Subtle Details – To give the bathroom a timeless look, we used a soft, monochromatic color scheme throughout. The shower tile, with a subtle sheen and texture, adds depth and interest without overwhelming the space. The floor tile’s pattern brings a sense of movement that’s refined yet durable for a high-traffic bathroom. Flexible Shower Setup – Opted to keep the shower curtain instead of glass doors, allowing easier access for bathing young children. A spacious shower niche was installed to hold essentials, adding functionality for both the homeowner and the grandkids. The result is a timeless hall bath with just the right blend of modern sophistication and family-friendly functionality. The subtle yet striking tile details and upgraded lighting bring elegance to the room, making it the perfect refresh for any guest and a versatile space for all ages.

Mid-sized modern gray two-story mixed siding exterior home idea in Calgary with a mixed material roof

My Kitchen & Bath
Inspiration for a timeless galley porcelain tile and gray floor kitchen remodel in DC Metro with an undermount sink, raised-panel cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, quartzite countertops, multicolored backsplash, stone tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and no island

Example of an eclectic living room design in Other

Inspiration for a mid-sized transitional backyard concrete paver patio remodel in Richmond with a fire pit and a pergola

Bathroom - traditional bathroom idea in DC Metro

Eat-in kitchen - mid-sized contemporary l-shaped light wood floor and beige floor eat-in kitchen idea in San Diego with a farmhouse sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, quartzite countertops, white backsplash, ceramic backsplash, stainless steel appliances, an island and green countertops

We have used a stain over a painted surface to create an "aged" effect to match the exquisite wine collection of the owner. Photo Credits: Ansley Braverman

Design ideas for a mid-sized traditional backyard concrete paver landscaping in Richmond with a fire pit.

This kitchen got a huge transformation by removing the soffits and installing taller cabinets. They went with a flat Richfield door by Bridgewood in maple. The upper cabinets were done in snow while the lower cabinets and the island were done in pewter. We also installed a new Cambria quartz countertop in Seagrove and a winter metal mosaic backsplash. The grey/white combination paired with Cambria’s Seagrove turned this kitchen into a stunner!! The home owners were ecstatic with the outcome.

Photo by Chris Lawson
Entryway - small modern marble floor and beige floor entryway idea in Toronto with white walls and a white front door

Design ideas for a mediterranean landscaping in Charleston.

Jacqueline Binkley
Kitchen - mid-sized transitional kitchen idea in DC Metro

Transitional kitchen photo in Boston

Patio - mid-sized transitional backyard concrete paver patio idea in Richmond with a fire pit and a pergola