Search results for "Surviving" in Home Design Ideas

Artsy + Airy Open Concept Living - Working with an open concept space can have its advantages...spaces often appear larger, lots of natural sunlight, great for entertaining. However, often times, the caviot is that you have to commit to a concept and keep it cohesive throughout, which can present some challenges when it comes to design. Collectively, the entry, dining, living and kitchen were all open to the centered stairwell that somewhat divided the spaces. Creating a color palette that could work throughout the main floor was simple once the window treatment fabric was discovered and locked down. Golds, purples and accent of turquoise in the chairs the homeowner already owned, creating an interesting color way the moment you entered through the front door. Infusing texture with the citron sea grass-grass cloth wall covering, consistent with the fireplace/TV combo, creating one focal point in each space is key to your survival with an open floor plan. [if you would like 4 Simple tips on creating one focal point with a fireplace and TV click here!] A great layout and spacial plan will create an even flow between spaces, creating a space within a space. Create small interesting and beautifully styled spaces to inspire conversation and invite guests in. Here are our favorite project images!

Materials
Ipe Hardwood, Marine Grade Birch, Brazilian Walnut
Dimensions
Height: 34 Inches; Width: 49 Inches; Depth: 15 Inches
Description
Modern, Contemporary luxury in a sleek stylish and modern design brings a beautiful style to any outdoor entertainment space. This outdoor TV cabinet it rated for both very cold and very hot environments, complete protection from mold, mildew or insects and with a fire rating identical to that of concrete you can be sure this piece of furniture will stand the test of time.
The sustainably sourced Ipe hardwood (also known as Brazilian Walnut) is hard, robust and durable. It's naturally weatherproof and survives equally well in hot or humid climates as it does in rain, frost, wind, ice or snow. It is guaranteed to not mildew or mold. In fact in tests performed by the USGA Ipe can be buried underground for over 50 years without rotting.
The simple and modern design is taken to the next level by the introduction of a Nexus TV lift system which allows your TV cabinet to be wirelessly opened by the touch of a button. The TV lift system comes with a 10-year warranty. With the addition of the 360 degree swivel option the TV can be viewed from any angle.
Comes with:
- American-made TV Lift system w/ 10 Year Warranty
- Fully waterproofed interior, power distribution box
- Front panel is fully removable for safe maintenance
- Universal TV Mount
- HDMI cable

Joseph Eichler developed his moderately priced houses for the mass-market starting in 1949. His homes were designed using affordable materials and simple construction techniques. Nearly 70 years later these homes are in need of updating and remodeling an Eichler home today can become an imposing and costly project if you’re not careful. For this project the clients, who had undergone several previous house renovations, were determined to stick with an established budget from the beginning. Klopf Architecture helped them modernize their Eichler with a premium appearance on a reasonable budget.
The clients challenged the Klopf team to create a design that had a high-end feel and nicely done while adhering to their budget. That meant not all of the initial project scope could be built. Like many other Eichler homes, the original floor plan did not meet the family’s needs leaving them feeling disconnected from one room to another. While an early goal was to expand the house into a carport and create a larger garage, it did not survive the contractor pricing phase of the project.
The goals that did survive through to the end of the project included blurring some of the boundaries and opening up some of the spaces, making them more functional and creating a smoother flow in the house. The Klopf team joined the former separate kitchen and formal living room into one large space and shift the dining room where it is now connected to the kitchen. Klopf swapped the family room to the front alongside the living room, so the spaces feel more cohesive and are now better suited for family activities. The functional layout of the master bathroom was changed to include a large, curbless shower.
Installing a complete IKEA kitchen including cabinets, countertops, appliances, light fixtures, and furnishings was key to staying within budget. Bath fixtures in this house are also exclusively IKEA. Klopf Architecture has designed many homes using IKEA products, which are quite compatible offering an affordable, contemporary take on Eichler homes. The clients saved additional money from the simplicity and availability of IKEA products and by orchestrating the orders and purchases themselves. Following each construction meeting, the clients would make a run to IKEA and purchase items, pick up needed spare parts, and bring them back right away to stay ahead of the contractor’s schedule and minimize the chance of delays and bottlenecks.
Klopf balanced material selections by retaining some of the original woodwork and simply refinishing the mahogany paneling. They were able to retain the original windows and sliding doors which were still in good shape, avoiding some of the most costly replacement expenses. Additionally interior doors were simply refinished and the exterior siding cleaned up and repainted. Formerly dark interiors are now illuminated with new slimmer semi-recessed lighting eliminating the need for costly roof work.
Attention to design details allowed the Klopf team to ensure the house ended up with a high quality feel. Key visual elements were strictly aligned and Klopf worked with the clients to select a unified materials palette throughout the spaces so the house flows seamlessly together. Aligning the tile layout with the trusses and keeping it level with the concrete slab outside allowed them to achieve a level of quality that may otherwise be missed.
The clients were able to keep their budget on track by determining clear goals and making critical decisions upfront, choosing materials and furnishings wisely, working with the right design and construction teams in place and to a large part, their willingness to participate throughout the process. In the end the clients were much happier with their reconfigured Eichler home and Klopf Architecture managed to keep their remodeling costs to about $325/sf – a good amount below the average Bay Area Eichler remodel.
Project Team: John Klopf, Angela Todorova, Sherry Tan
Contractor: Keycon Construction
Structural Engineer: Sezen & Moon
Photography: Sabrina Huang
Year Completed: 2020
Find the right local pro for your project

Joseph Eichler developed his moderately priced houses for the mass-market starting in 1949. His homes were designed using affordable materials and simple construction techniques. Nearly 70 years later these homes are in need of updating and remodeling an Eichler home today can become an imposing and costly project if you’re not careful. For this project the clients, who had undergone several previous house renovations, were determined to stick with an established budget from the beginning. Klopf Architecture helped them modernize their Eichler with a premium appearance on a reasonable budget.
The clients challenged the Klopf team to create a design that had a high-end feel and nicely done while adhering to their budget. That meant not all of the initial project scope could be built. Like many other Eichler homes, the original floor plan did not meet the family’s needs leaving them feeling disconnected from one room to another. While an early goal was to expand the house into a carport and create a larger garage, it did not survive the contractor pricing phase of the project.
The goals that did survive through to the end of the project included blurring some of the boundaries and opening up some of the spaces, making them more functional and creating a smoother flow in the house. The Klopf team joined the former separate kitchen and formal living room into one large space and shift the dining room where it is now connected to the kitchen. Klopf swapped the family room to the front alongside the living room, so the spaces feel more cohesive and are now better suited for family activities. The functional layout of the master bathroom was changed to include a large, curbless shower.
Installing a complete IKEA kitchen including cabinets, countertops, appliances, light fixtures, and furnishings was key to staying within budget. Bath fixtures in this house are also exclusively IKEA. Klopf Architecture has designed many homes using IKEA products, which are quite compatible offering an affordable, contemporary take on Eichler homes. The clients saved additional money from the simplicity and availability of IKEA products and by orchestrating the orders and purchases themselves. Following each construction meeting, the clients would make a run to IKEA and purchase items, pick up needed spare parts, and bring them back right away to stay ahead of the contractor’s schedule and minimize the chance of delays and bottlenecks.
Klopf balanced material selections by retaining some of the original woodwork and simply refinishing the mahogany paneling. They were able to retain the original windows and sliding doors which were still in good shape, avoiding some of the most costly replacement expenses. Additionally interior doors were simply refinished and the exterior siding cleaned up and repainted. Formerly dark interiors are now illuminated with new slimmer semi-recessed lighting eliminating the need for costly roof work.
Attention to design details allowed the Klopf team to ensure the house ended up with a high quality feel. Key visual elements were strictly aligned and Klopf worked with the clients to select a unified materials palette throughout the spaces so the house flows seamlessly together. Aligning the tile layout with the trusses and keeping it level with the concrete slab outside allowed them to achieve a level of quality that may otherwise be missed.
The clients were able to keep their budget on track by determining clear goals and making critical decisions upfront, choosing materials and furnishings wisely, working with the right design and construction teams in place and to a large part, their willingness to participate throughout the process. In the end the clients were much happier with their reconfigured Eichler home and Klopf Architecture managed to keep their remodeling costs to about $325/sf – a good amount below the average Bay Area Eichler remodel.
Project Team: John Klopf, Angela Todorova, Sherry Tan
Contractor: Keycon Construction
Structural Engineer: Sezen & Moon
Photography: Sabrina Huang
Year Completed: 2020

Materials
Ipe Hardwood, Marine Grade Birch, Brazilian Walnut
Dimensions
Height: 34 Inches; Width: 49 Inches; Depth: 15 Inches
Description
Modern, Contemporary luxury in a sleek stylish and modern design brings a beautiful style to any outdoor entertainment space. This outdoor TV cabinet it rated for both very cold and very hot environments, complete protection from mold, mildew or insects and with a fire rating identical to that of concrete you can be sure this piece of furniture will stand the test of time.
The sustainably sourced Ipe hardwood (also known as Brazilian Walnut) is hard, robust and durable. It's naturally weatherproof and survives equally well in hot or humid climates as it does in rain, frost, wind, ice or snow. It is guaranteed to not mildew or mold. In fact in tests performed by the USGA Ipe can be buried underground for over 50 years without rotting.
The simple and modern design is taken to the next level by the introduction of a Nexus TV lift system which allows your TV cabinet to be wirelessly opened by the touch of a button. The TV lift system comes with a 10-year warranty. With the addition of the 360 degree swivel option the TV can be viewed from any angle.
Comes with:
- American-made TV Lift system w/ 10 Year Warranty
- Fully waterproofed interior, power distribution box
- Front panel is fully removable for safe maintenance
- Universal TV Mount
- HDMI cable

An IdealMow meadow of hardy Carex pansa fills much of the expansive backyard. It maintains its lush color year round, despite needing only 20 percent of the water needed by the turf grass that once filled the space. A bevy of California native sages and other blooms wraps the meadow, softening the Spanish tile-topped garden wall.

Tuscan Formal Garden
Inspiration for a mid-sized mediterranean shade courtyard brick formal garden in New York.
Inspiration for a mid-sized mediterranean shade courtyard brick formal garden in New York.

Drifts of yellow and white daffodils create a cheerful spring border, as the white flowers of our native Amelanchier tree come into bloom.
Austin Ganim Landscape Design, LLC

Set in Montana's tranquil Shields River Valley, the Shilo Ranch Compound is a collection of structures that were specifically built on a relatively smaller scale, to maximize efficiency. The main house has two bedrooms, a living area, dining and kitchen, bath and adjacent greenhouse, while two guest homes within the compound can sleep a total of 12 friends and family. There's also a common gathering hall, for dinners, games, and time together. The overall feel here is of sophisticated simplicity, with plaster walls, concrete and wood floors, and weathered boards for exteriors. The placement of each building was considered closely when envisioning how people would move through the property, based on anticipated needs and interests. Sustainability and consumption was also taken into consideration, as evidenced by the photovoltaic panels on roof of the garage, and the capability to shut down any of the compound's buildings when not in use.

Trees and shrubs are a big part of our local environment. Some are intended to bear fruit, while others are there simply for aesthetics. Of course, some trees are planted to help conserve the environment, and some started to grow on their own. Regardless, there are many facts about trees that you may not know. Five Star Tree Services has put together a list of a few of those facts that you may find surprising!
Trees Live Longer Than Anything Else
Of all living things, trees can survive the longest on this earth. Some species of trees can survive for several thousands of years. For example, the baobab tree can thrive for thousands of years after it has reached maturity.
Trees Have a Godly Connection
There are many religions in the world, and in some, it is a common belief that certain trees are homes to the gods. Many of these older traditions and beliefs are currently less prevalent, but there has always been a strong connection between trees and deities.
Cottonwood Seeds Stay Airborne for Days
Most trees reproduce via seeds. While most tree seeds fall to the ground, or are carried off by animals, the cottonwood tree seed flies through the air for days before landing.
Trees Promote Rainfall
Mature trees take moisture from the ground and release it into the atmosphere. This then triggers precipitation. The result is more rain in the area where trees are abundant. The best way to prevent or derail desertification is by planting trees in an area.
There are Tree Genders
This may seem like a sound bite for likes and shares, but some trees have gendered scientific classifications. There are both male and female trees. One great example is the pine tree. The female trees produce seeds in the pine cones, while the male trees shed pollen from their cones to fertilize the female cones. The wind makes the magic happen, which results in a bevy of baby pine cone trees.
The Rings Show Its Age
Very few methods exist for pinning down the age of a tree. Carbon dating is a complex method of ageing a tree, but you can also count the rings on a cut tree to determine its age. We don’t suggest you cut down a tree just to count the rings, though!
Certain Tree Parts Grow Seasonally
Unlike people, trees grow in separated sections. The trunk will grow in the summer, while the foliage will thrive in the spring. The roots tend to spread during the fall and winter when the rest of the tree is dormant.
Trees Have Their Own Self-Defense Methods
If a tree is invaded by insects, it will flood its leaves with phenolics chemicals. This is a compound that discourages insects from eating their foliage. The tree also sends off signals to other trees about the attack so that they can prepare their defenses as well.
How We Can Help
Here at Five Star Tree Services, we’re passionate about what we do. Our team provides high-quality and affordable tree care and maintenance, including pruning and tree removal services in Toronto. If you require help with the trees on your property or have any questions for our experts, give us a call at (416) 990-3355.

Materials
Ipe Hardwood, Marine Grade Birch, Brazilian Walnut
Dimensions
Height: 34 Inches; Width: 49 Inches; Depth: 15 Inches
Description
Modern, Contemporary luxury in a sleek stylish and modern design brings a beautiful style to any outdoor entertainment space. This outdoor TV cabinet it rated for both very cold and very hot environments, complete protection from mold, mildew or insects and with a fire rating identical to that of concrete you can be sure this piece of furniture will stand the test of time.
The sustainably sourced Ipe hardwood (also known as Brazilian Walnut) is hard, robust and durable. It's naturally weatherproof and survives equally well in hot or humid climates as it does in rain, frost, wind, ice or snow. It is guaranteed to not mildew or mold. In fact in tests performed by the USGA Ipe can be buried underground for over 50 years without rotting.
The simple and modern design is taken to the next level by the introduction of a Nexus TV lift system which allows your TV cabinet to be wirelessly opened by the touch of a button. The TV lift system comes with a 10-year warranty. With the addition of the 360 degree swivel option the TV can be viewed from any angle.
Comes with:
- American-made TV Lift system w/ 10 Year Warranty
- Fully waterproofed interior, power distribution box
- Front panel is fully removable for safe maintenance
- Universal TV Mount
- HDMI cable

Artsy + Airy Open Concept Living - Working with an open concept space can have its advantages...spaces often appear larger, lots of natural sunlight, great for entertaining. However, often times, the caviot is that you have to commit to a concept and keep it cohesive throughout, which can present some challenges when it comes to design. Collectively, the entry, dining, living and kitchen were all open to the centered stairwell that somewhat divided the spaces. Creating a color palette that could work throughout the main floor was simple once the window treatment fabric was discovered and locked down. Golds, purples and accent of turquoise in the chairs the homeowner already owned, creating an interesting color way the moment you entered through the front door. Infusing texture with the citron sea grass-grass cloth wall covering, consistent with the fireplace/TV combo, creating one focal point in each space is key to your survival with an open floor plan. [if you would like 4 Simple tips on creating one focal point with a fireplace and TV click here!] A great layout and spacial plan will create an even flow between spaces, creating a space within a space. Create small interesting and beautifully styled spaces to inspire conversation and invite guests in. Here are our favorite project images!

Artsy + Airy Open Concept Living - Working with an open concept space can have its advantages...spaces often appear larger, lots of natural sunlight, great for entertaining. However, often times, the caviot is that you have to commit to a concept and keep it cohesive throughout, which can present some challenges when it comes to design. Collectively, the entry, dining, living and kitchen were all open to the centered stairwell that somewhat divided the spaces. Creating a color palette that could work throughout the main floor was simple once the window treatment fabric was discovered and locked down. Golds, purples and accent of turquoise in the chairs the homeowner already owned, creating an interesting color way the moment you entered through the front door. Infusing texture with the citron sea grass-grass cloth wall covering, consistent with the fireplace/TV combo, creating one focal point in each space is key to your survival with an open floor plan. [if you would like 4 Simple tips on creating one focal point with a fireplace and TV click here!] A great layout and spacial plan will create an even flow between spaces, creating a space within a space. Create small interesting and beautifully styled spaces to inspire conversation and invite guests in. Here are our favorite project images!

Formerly the workshop of mid-century artisans, this manufacturing building in NYC's SoHo neighborhood was transformed into an 11,000 sf townhouse. The home features a full level spa, two-story living room, six bedrooms, eleven bathrooms, and rooftop addition with pool.
Neighboring buildings were underpinned to lower the cellar to accommodate the spa which features dry stacked stone walls that blend into the swimming pool and hot tub and are featured throughout the entire level. The architect’s vision was to have visual recognition that the space was below ground. Thinking about the striations of the earth beneath its surface, he was inspired by the Therme Baths and Spa in Zurich where all the walls are clad with narrow strips of Vals quartzite. After seeing a rendering, the stone supplier advised that only certain stones could survive constant submersion in pool water and the stone should not have the cleft face he had originally imagined due to bacteria issues. Honed, Super Grey granite with white veining was used – the slabs cut into long 3” wide strips installed at random lengths to accentuate the concept of layering as found in the Earth.
The kitchen was designed to feel more like a furnished room to integrate with the family room. The architect addressed this through materials and the design of the over-sized island. The countertop is the only veined stone in the kitchen – a beautiful single slab of Super White marble. The island is clad in mirror-polished stainless steel, transforming it into a beautiful piece of furniture that blends into the space.
A two-story living room with 22' ceilings created a problem of comfortable scale. The key was the fireplace – the strongest vertical element in the room. By using horizontal vein-cut slabs of light-colored Driftwood marble, the scale of the space instantly became more intimate.

Storms are nature’s way of cleaning out the atmosphere and showing off her awesome power. As essential as this process may be, it can also cause tree damage. If your trees suffer damage during a storm, there are a few things you should do to set things back to their proper order, such as hire a tree removal service. Before you start cleaning up the mess, however, take a look at our suggestions to ensure you are doing what’s best for your trees and your property.
Check the Damage
Before you do anything, you should take the time to check the damage on your property and to the trees themselves. Sometimes broken branches and fallen leaves can hide serious damage that may require special attention. Check to ensure that there is no damage to your property, home, cars, and electrical lines. Next, after you confirm that there is no immediate danger, you can start assessing the tree itself. If you find serious damage to your trees such as splitting, leaning, or even burns from a lightning strike, it is best to call in professionals for help. If the tree is leaning on your home or vehicle, it is also a good idea to have a professional tree care service move forward with the cleanup.
Clean Up Minor Damage and Debris
After the storm has calmed down, and you have assessed the fallout, you can start your yard cleanup. Stick to cleaning up small branches and twigs in addition to leaves and other debris. Avoid large branches, any trees that may be leaning or heavily damaged. Even if your tree is upright, but showing signs of damage you should steer clear until the professionals can assess the situation. Pay close attention to any branches or trees that may be leaning near overhead power lines and also avoid damaged trees that are planted near underground utilities such as gas or power mains.
Call the Professionals at Five Star Tree Services
Anytime a storm damages your landscape, plants, or trees, a professional team of arborists can help. Not only are they trained in the proper methods of cleaning up storm debris in a safe manner, but they can also help decide the best course of action to save or remove your damaged trees. As tree care professionals, every team from Five Star Tree Services will arrive with the proper equipment needed to get the job done safely.
Five Star is fully certified and will also work with your insurance company to assess the damage and coordinate extended cleanup services if needed. For trees that are damaged but still have a chance of surviving, our experienced arborists will create a customized treatment plant and pruning plant to give your tree the best chance of survival. If other treatments are needed, we will also support your tree during its recovery until it is back to its healthy state. For more information regarding our storm tree services in Richmond Hill or our regular tree care services, give us a call at (416) 990-3355 today.

Artsy + Airy Open Concept Living - Working with an open concept space can have its advantages...spaces often appear larger, lots of natural sunlight, great for entertaining. However, often times, the caviot is that you have to commit to a concept and keep it cohesive throughout, which can present some challenges when it comes to design. Collectively, the entry, dining, living and kitchen were all open to the centered stairwell that somewhat divided the spaces. Creating a color palette that could work throughout the main floor was simple once the window treatment fabric was discovered and locked down. Golds, purples and accent of turquoise in the chairs the homeowner already owned, creating an interesting color way the moment you entered through the front door. Infusing texture with the citron sea grass-grass cloth wall covering, consistent with the fireplace/TV combo, creating one focal point in each space is key to your survival with an open floor plan. [if you would like 4 Simple tips on creating one focal point with a fireplace and TV click here!] A great layout and spacial plan will create an even flow between spaces, creating a space within a space. Create small interesting and beautifully styled spaces to inspire conversation and invite guests in. Here are our favorite project images!

Challenge
This 2001 riverfront home was purchased by the owners in 2015 and immediately renovated. Progressive Design Build was hired at that time to remodel the interior, with tentative plans to remodel their outdoor living space as a second phase design/build remodel. True to their word, after completing the interior remodel, this young family turned to Progressive Design Build in 2017 to address known zoning regulations and restrictions in their backyard and build an outdoor living space that was fit for entertaining and everyday use.
The homeowners wanted a pool and spa, outdoor living room, kitchen, fireplace and covered patio. They also wanted to stay true to their home’s Old Florida style architecture while also adding a Jamaican influence to the ceiling detail, which held sentimental value to the homeowners who honeymooned in Jamaica.
Solution
To tackle the known zoning regulations and restrictions in the backyard, the homeowners researched and applied for a variance. With the variance in hand, Progressive Design Build sat down with the homeowners to review several design options. These options included:
Option 1) Modifications to the original pool design, changing it to be longer and narrower and comply with an existing drainage easement
Option 2) Two different layouts of the outdoor living area
Option 3) Two different height elevations and options for the fire pit area
Option 4) A proposed breezeway connecting the new area with the existing home
After reviewing the options, the homeowners chose the design that placed the pool on the backside of the house and the outdoor living area on the west side of the home (Option 1).
It was important to build a patio structure that could sustain a hurricane (a Southwest Florida necessity), and provide substantial sun protection. The new covered area was supported by structural columns and designed as an open-air porch (with no screens) to allow for an unimpeded view of the Caloosahatchee River. The open porch design also made the area feel larger, and the roof extension was built with substantial strength to survive severe weather conditions.
The pool and spa were connected to the adjoining patio area, designed to flow seamlessly into the next. The pool deck was designed intentionally in a 3-color blend of concrete brick with freeform edge detail to mimic the natural river setting. Bringing the outdoors inside, the pool and fire pit were slightly elevated to create a small separation of space.
Result
All of the desirable amenities of a screened porch were built into an open porch, including electrical outlets, a ceiling fan/light kit, TV, audio speakers, and a fireplace. The outdoor living area was finished off with additional storage for cushions, ample lighting, an outdoor dining area, a smoker, a grill, a double-side burner, an under cabinet refrigerator, a major ventilation system, and water supply plumbing that delivers hot and cold water to the sinks.
Because the porch is under a roof, we had the option to use classy woods that would give the structure a natural look and feel. We chose a dark cypress ceiling with a gloss finish, replicating the same detail that the homeowners experienced in Jamaica. This created a deep visceral and emotional reaction from the homeowners to their new backyard.
The family now spends more time outdoors enjoying the sights, sounds and smells of nature. Their professional lives allow them to take a trip to paradise right in their backyard—stealing moments that reflect on the past, but are also enjoyed in the present.

Joseph Eichler developed his moderately priced houses for the mass-market starting in 1949. His homes were designed using affordable materials and simple construction techniques. Nearly 70 years later these homes are in need of updating and remodeling an Eichler home today can become an imposing and costly project if you’re not careful. For this project the clients, who had undergone several previous house renovations, were determined to stick with an established budget from the beginning. Klopf Architecture helped them modernize their Eichler with a premium appearance on a reasonable budget.
The clients challenged the Klopf team to create a design that had a high-end feel and nicely done while adhering to their budget. That meant not all of the initial project scope could be built. Like many other Eichler homes, the original floor plan did not meet the family’s needs leaving them feeling disconnected from one room to another. While an early goal was to expand the house into a carport and create a larger garage, it did not survive the contractor pricing phase of the project.
The goals that did survive through to the end of the project included blurring some of the boundaries and opening up some of the spaces, making them more functional and creating a smoother flow in the house. The Klopf team joined the former separate kitchen and formal living room into one large space and shift the dining room where it is now connected to the kitchen. Klopf swapped the family room to the front alongside the living room, so the spaces feel more cohesive and are now better suited for family activities. The functional layout of the master bathroom was changed to include a large, curbless shower.
Installing a complete IKEA kitchen including cabinets, countertops, appliances, light fixtures, and furnishings was key to staying within budget. Bath fixtures in this house are also exclusively IKEA. Klopf Architecture has designed many homes using IKEA products, which are quite compatible offering an affordable, contemporary take on Eichler homes. The clients saved additional money from the simplicity and availability of IKEA products and by orchestrating the orders and purchases themselves. Following each construction meeting, the clients would make a run to IKEA and purchase items, pick up needed spare parts, and bring them back right away to stay ahead of the contractor’s schedule and minimize the chance of delays and bottlenecks.
Klopf balanced material selections by retaining some of the original woodwork and simply refinishing the mahogany paneling. They were able to retain the original windows and sliding doors which were still in good shape, avoiding some of the most costly replacement expenses. Additionally interior doors were simply refinished and the exterior siding cleaned up and repainted. Formerly dark interiors are now illuminated with new slimmer semi-recessed lighting eliminating the need for costly roof work.
Attention to design details allowed the Klopf team to ensure the house ended up with a high quality feel. Key visual elements were strictly aligned and Klopf worked with the clients to select a unified materials palette throughout the spaces so the house flows seamlessly together. Aligning the tile layout with the trusses and keeping it level with the concrete slab outside allowed them to achieve a level of quality that may otherwise be missed.
The clients were able to keep their budget on track by determining clear goals and making critical decisions upfront, choosing materials and furnishings wisely, working with the right design and construction teams in place and to a large part, their willingness to participate throughout the process. In the end the clients were much happier with their reconfigured Eichler home and Klopf Architecture managed to keep their remodeling costs to about $325/sf – a good amount below the average Bay Area Eichler remodel.
Project Team: John Klopf, Angela Todorova, Sherry Tan
Contractor: Keycon Construction
Structural Engineer: Sezen & Moon
Photography: Sabrina Huang
Year Completed: 2020
39

