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

Basement - transitional basement idea in New York

This kitchen and bar area is anchored by exposed reclaimed wood timbers running across the ceiling and down into supporting posts, creating a warm, rustic architectural framework for the space. Reclaimed wood flooring in a light, wide plank continues into the adjoining dining area, tying the whole open concept layout together. Every piece of reclaimed wood that comes through Manomin Resawn Timbers is salvaged from structures built during the 19th and early 20th centuries, an era when North American old growth hardwoods produced timbers strong enough to frame farms, barns, and factories that still stand today. Through denailing, kiln drying, and precision milling, we bring that antique material back to life for a new generation of homes. Whether you are a homebuilder, a home remodeling contractor, or a homeowner planning a kitchen renovation with exposed beam ceilings, Manomin Resawn Timbers has reclaimed wood timbers and flooring to fit your design. Visit our showroom in Hugo, MN or reach out to us with a call or a message to discover the antique charm of reclaimed wood.

The salvage wood look on the porcelain plank tile covers the entire floor of this basement family room. The wine barrel was a creative way to dress up the support post. La Grange Park, Illinois

Design ideas for a landscaping in San Diego.

Eat-in kitchen - mid-sized craftsman light wood floor eat-in kitchen idea in Boston with a farmhouse sink, white cabinets, granite countertops, multicolored backsplash, white appliances and no island

Front porch support post, hand carved in 350 year old reclaimed teak from old farmhouses on the island of Java. Style is Norwegian Karveskurd or chip carving, inspired from an old mangleboard on display in the National Museum in Oslo. Check out the 8-page feature article in the August issue of Mountain Living magazine: http://www.mountainliving.com/Homes/A-Handcrafted-and-Historic-Sierra-Nevada-Cabin/ URL www.flickr.com/photos/zakopaneinthesierras/

Small cottage open concept light wood floor and brown floor family room photo in Denver with white walls

Robert Nehrebecky AIA, Re:New Architecture
Example of a classic detached garage design in DC Metro

This outdated Mid Century ranch built in late 1950’s was in serious need of an update. Our clients wanted a fresh contemporary feel that was simple in design and reflected the original Mid Century feel of the home. The new frosted Plexiglas railing allows the now open staircase and modern pendant to become part of the small dining area. White painted cabinetry with slab doors and minimal pulls add a lighter component and balance out the dark walnut cabinetry. The (3) built-in charging drawers, Legrand retractable outlets and a single door hood that opens with a light touch add a "cool" functional vibe to the space., Gray quartz countertops and a rectilinear white tile backsplash add serenity and tie in the stainless appliances giving the kitchen a modern feel. A wood waterfall countertop detail on the back of the island adds interest to the space and is anchored by the unique handblown wave glass pendants in a soft grey color. The new exposed support is both dramatic and functional in that it hides a support post in open bookcase cabinet. Wendi Nordeck Photography

This outdated Mid Century ranch built in late 1950’s was in serious need of an update. Our clients wanted a fresh contemporary feel that was simple in design and reflected the original Mid Century feel of the home. The new frosted Plexiglas railing allows the now open staircase and modern pendant to become part of the small dining area. White painted cabinetry with slab doors and minimal pulls add a lighter component and balance out the dark walnut cabinetry. The (3) built-in charging drawers, Legrand retractable outlets and a single door hood that opens with a light touch add a "cool" functional vibe to the space., Gray quartz countertops and a rectilinear white tile backsplash add serenity and tie in the stainless appliances giving the kitchen a modern feel. A wood waterfall countertop detail on the back of the island adds interest to the space and is anchored by the unique handblown wave glass pendants in a soft grey color. The new exposed support is both dramatic and functional in that it hides a support post in open bookcase cabinet. Wendi Nordeck Photography

Transitional living room photo in Chicago

A kitchen remodel started with a big challenge. The homeowner wanted a more open usable space. The kitchen was cramped, dark and didn’t accommodate two people. The result is a beautiful kitchen that took clever space planning. There was a supporting wall in the way of their dreams of an open kitchen. The space was split into two small rooms. For various reasons putting in a supporting beam was not an option. This was a “make it work” challenge. The layout was key to making this kitchen function and also feel open. The wall was removed between the split rooms, but it was necessary to leave a post in place so frankly the ceiling wouldn’t collapse. Many scenarios were considered before the final plan went forward. The supporting post was united into the design. Between the post and the wall, an open cabinet was incorporated. The open shelves are perfect for displaying and quick access for the chef’s cookbooks.

A kitchen remodel started with a big challenge. The homeowner wanted a more open usable space. The kitchen was cramped, dark and didn’t accommodate two people. The result is a beautiful kitchen that took clever space planning. There was a supporting wall in the way of their dreams of an open kitchen. The space was split into two small rooms. For various reasons putting in a supporting beam was not an option. This was a “make it work” challenge. The layout was key to making this kitchen function and also feel open. The wall was removed between the split rooms, but it was necessary to leave a post in place so frankly the ceiling wouldn’t collapse. Many scenarios were considered before the final plan went forward. The supporting post was united into the design. Between the post and the wall, an open cabinet was incorporated. The open shelves are perfect for displaying and quick access for the chef’s cookbooks.

A kitchen remodel started with a big challenge. The homeowner wanted a more open usable space. The kitchen was cramped, dark and didn’t accommodate two people. The result is a beautiful kitchen that took clever space planning. There was a supporting wall in the way of their dreams of an open kitchen. The space was split into two small rooms. For various reasons putting in a supporting beam was not an option. This was a “make it work” challenge. The layout was key to making this kitchen function and also feel open. The wall was removed between the split rooms, but it was necessary to leave a post in place so frankly the ceiling wouldn’t collapse. Many scenarios were considered before the final plan went forward. The supporting post was united into the design. Between the post and the wall, an open cabinet was incorporated. The open shelves are perfect for displaying and quick access for the chef’s cookbooks.

A kitchen remodel started with a big challenge. The homeowner wanted a more open usable space. The kitchen was cramped, dark and didn’t accommodate two people. The result is a beautiful kitchen that took clever space planning. There was a supporting wall in the way of their dreams of an open kitchen. The space was split into two small rooms. For various reasons putting in a supporting beam was not an option. This was a “make it work” challenge. The layout was key to making this kitchen function and also feel open. The wall was removed between the split rooms, but it was necessary to leave a post in place so frankly the ceiling wouldn’t collapse. Many scenarios were considered before the final plan went forward. The supporting post was united into the design. Between the post and the wall, an open cabinet was incorporated. The open shelves are perfect for displaying and quick access for the chef’s cookbooks.

A kitchen remodel started with a big challenge. The homeowner wanted a more open usable space. The kitchen was cramped, dark and didn’t accommodate two people. The result is a beautiful kitchen that took clever space planning. There was a supporting wall in the way of their dreams of an open kitchen. The space was split into two small rooms. For various reasons putting in a supporting beam was not an option. This was a “make it work” challenge. The layout was key to making this kitchen function and also feel open. The wall was removed between the split rooms, but it was necessary to leave a post in place so frankly the ceiling wouldn’t collapse. Many scenarios were considered before the final plan went forward. The supporting post was united into the design. Between the post and the wall, an open cabinet was incorporated. The open shelves are perfect for displaying and quick access for the chef’s cookbooks.

A kitchen remodel started with a big challenge. The homeowner wanted a more open usable space. The kitchen was cramped, dark and didn’t accommodate two people. The result is a beautiful kitchen that took clever space planning. There was a supporting wall in the way of their dreams of an open kitchen. The space was split into two small rooms. For various reasons putting in a supporting beam was not an option. This was a “make it work” challenge. The layout was key to making this kitchen function and also feel open. The wall was removed between the split rooms, but it was necessary to leave a post in place so frankly the ceiling wouldn’t collapse. Many scenarios were considered before the final plan went forward. The supporting post was united into the design. Between the post and the wall, an open cabinet was incorporated. The open shelves are perfect for displaying and quick access for the chef’s cookbooks.

Custom built in bunk beds accommodate many children while providing space needed. OK Real Estate Photography
Kids' bedroom - contemporary gender-neutral concrete floor and gray floor kids' bedroom idea in Oklahoma City with gray walls