Search results for "Unfolding" in Home Design Ideas

The home unfolds around the swimming pool courtyard, while the home’s interior engages the pool from three sides.
Home design - eclectic home design idea in Phoenix
Home design - eclectic home design idea in Phoenix

In the laundry room, functionality met creativity as the client's desire for a multi-purpose space unfolded. The laundry units were strategically moved to the corner of the room, opening up space for a new vision.

The priority for this project was to open up the compartmentalized spaces so that there was better flow and access to all the natural light. Walls were removed and by getting rid of darker finishes/cabinets and some low ceilings the living spaces brightened up. New flooring, paint, cabinets, furniture, and lighting all lend themselves to a fresh approach to living comfortably without sacrificing aesthetics. It was an absolute pleasure to watch this transformation unfold.
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Our journey with this client began with a major interior remodel, focusing on transforming their kitchen and living room into something extraordinary. But as the project unfolded, their vision expanded. Why stop at the interior? Inspired by the stunning changes inside, they decided it was time to elevate the exterior—and incorporate a thoughtful addition—to match the same standard.
This home received a full exterior facelift with durable, low-maintenance materials like Hardi siding, Azek decking, and PVC flat roofing. The goal was to enhance Puget Sound views and create a seamless indoor-outdoor connection.
The west-facing wall, once limited to two small kitchen windows, now features a 12-foot, four-panel sliding door, flooding the space with light and improving access. A rebuilt deck with tempered glass panels and a sleek Clearview railing system enhances openness and visibility.
Inside, the dark, closed-off kitchen became a bright, modern space with extended cabinetry, a minimalist design, and improved flow. Thoughtful updates turned this home into a stunning, open-concept retreat.

This Toronto landscape design transforms a prominent Lawrence Park South heritage home into a private at-home spa and wellness retreat, recognized as a multiple award-winning Toronto landscape, including a National Award of Excellence.
The design unfolds as an intentional sensorial journey, guiding you to a lower-level terrace anchored by a plunge pool, falling water feature, sun deck, fire feature, and outdoor kitchen bar. Each element is carefully positioned to support relaxation, restoration, and effortless entertaining.
Blending the character of Old Toronto with contemporary materials and detailing, this multi-faceted backyard transitions seamlessly from a productive home-office to an inviting entertaining space, and ultimately into a restorative outdoor spa experience. The result is a layered, immersive landscape that supports daily wellness while elevating urban outdoor living.

"About this Home: Welcome to an exquisite transitional home where luxury meets comfort. This meticulously crafted residence boasts a chef's dream kitchen, complete with gleaming stainless steel appliances, perfect for culinary enthusiasts. Step outside to discover an enchanting outdoor entertaining area, where memorable gatherings unfold beneath the starlit sky. Experience the epitome of modern elegance in this captivating sanctuary.
Showcase Builders is a member of the Certified Luxury Builders Network.
Certified Luxury Builders is a network of leading custom home builders and luxury home and condo remodelers who create 5-Star experiences for luxury home and condo owners from New York to Los Angeles and Boston to Naples.
As a Certified Luxury Builder, Showcase Builders is proud to feature photos of select projects from our members around the country to inspire you with design ideas. Please feel free to contact the specific Certified Luxury Builder with any questions or inquiries you may have about their projects. Please visit www.CLBNetwork.com for a directory of CLB members featured on Houzz and their contact information."

The client discovered a large but passed-over property overlooking a beautiful part of Canyon Lake. When we hiked down the overgrown hillside and came to a small clearing with a glimpse of the lake, all of the potential of the site began to unfold, and the client shouted “This is it!”
We designed the house to fit the hillside on three levels, with the main-level rooms opening to loggias that overlook a pool terrace with stunning views of the lake.
The house serves as a retreat for a large family and a place to entertain business associates.
The client provided antique mantels, flooring and other materials that add a patina of well-worn age to the home.

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

A stunning transformation unfolded in the outdoor living space, seamlessly blending elements of beauty and functionality. The pool and spa invite relaxation, while the kitchen and dining area provide a perfect setting for al fresco gatherings. A living space radiates warmth with a strategically placed fire pit, creating a cozy atmosphere. Water features add a touch of serenity, completing this gorgeous remodel that harmoniously integrates various elements for a truly enchanting outdoor experience.

Step into a space that seamlessly blends functional organization, relaxation, and a touch of fun. The renovation journey unfolded with a meticulous focus on the home's architecture, the client's design preferences, and the need for a practical yet stylish family environment.
The primary bathroom takes center stage in promoting relaxation, featuring a spa-like ambiance with soothing colors, heated floors, a beautiful soaking tub, and gentle under-counter lighting creating a tranquil atmosphere. A cleverly integrated cabinet space is also available, providing a discreet storage solution for the less aesthetically pleasing litter box while ensuring easy access for our feline friends.
In the kitchen, attention to detail shines through with a stunning wood-trimmed vent hood and wooden pulls that punctuate the Indigo Blue cabinets, introducing natural elements and a touch of warmth. Ample storage was a crucial requirement for this kitchen. Featuring expansive pull-out drawers, a concealed lazy Susan, impressive spice storage, and a discreet power source for the cordless vacuum, every detail has been considered for optimal functionality.
Connected to the kitchen, you'll discover a dining area designed for versatility. This multipurpose zone seamlessly integrates wine storage, pantry space, a dedicated baking center, cocktail preparation area, and a convenient coffee zone.
The main level's powder room pays homage to the homeowners' roots, boasting a vibrant wallpaper by Chasing Paper that adds a playful touch.
The harmonious blend of aesthetics and functionality continues with an additional mixed-use space that serves as a delightful getaway, complete with outdoor access and ample countertop space for both utility and enjoyment. This home is a testament to the artful fusion of design, comfort, and entertainment.
Interior Design by: Jennifer Gardner Design
Photography by: Emily Keeney

"About this Home: Nestled amidst nature's embrace, this luxury custom home with French Country design beckons with timeless allure. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the residence is crowned by a majestic custom stone fireplace that commands attention, a testament to the artistry ingrained in every corner. Step into the heart of culinary indulgence with an expansive chef's dream kitchen, where the aroma of fine cuisine mingles with the warmth of family gatherings. The epitome of opulence unfolds in the master suite, where a luxurious custom walk-in closet becomes a sanctuary for sartorial splendor. This home is an ode to bespoke elegance, seamlessly blending traditional charm with modern extravagance.
Distinctive Domain is a member of the Certified Luxury Builders Network.
Certified Luxury Builders is a network of leading custom home builders and luxury home and condo remodelers who create 5-Star experiences for luxury home and condo owners from New York to Los Angeles and Boston to Naples.
As a Certified Luxury Builder, Distinctive Domain is proud to feature photos of select projects from our members around the country to inspire you with design ideas. Please feel free to contact the specific Certified Luxury Builder with any questions or inquiries you may have about their projects. Please visit www.CLBNetwork.com for a directory of CLB members featured on Houzz and their contact information."

In the heart of Point Loma, where the sea breeze dances through the streets and the sound of seagulls fills the air, your home stood as a testament to history and potential. Nestled within this coastal community, your house underwent a transformation that breathed new life into its tired bones. The journey began with dreams and blueprints, where you envisioned the perfect space to call home. Collaborating with architects and designers, you crafted plans that honored the neighborhood's character while infusing modern comforts and style. Perhaps you imagined expansive windows framing panoramic ocean views or a seamless indoor-outdoor living space where the line between inside and outside blurred. As the project gained momentum, the house underwent a metamorphosis. Walls were torn down, revealing the raw canvas upon which your vision would unfold. Skilled craftsmen meticulously shaped each detail, from the sturdy frame to the delicate finishes. Perhaps you opted for reclaimed wood flooring to add warmth and character, or custom cabinetry that married form and function seamlessly. Throughout the process, you navigated the challenges and triumphs of renovation, each step bringing you closer to the realization of your dream home. From selecting the perfect shade of paint to choosing fixtures that spoke to your aesthetic, every decision was a brushstroke on the canvas of your life. And finally, the day arrived when the last nail was hammered, the final coat of paint applied, and your home stood ready to welcome you with open arms. As you crossed the threshold, a sense of pride and accomplishment washed over you, knowing that this space was a reflection of your vision and perseverance. Now, as you bask in the comfort of your newly remodeled home, you savor the moments spent with loved ones, the laughter that fills the rooms, and the memories waiting to be made. In the heart of Point Loma, your house stands as more than just a structure—it's a sanctuary, a testament to the beauty of transformation and the power of possibility.

Welcome to the "Roman Elegance Residence," where every step is a journey through sophistication and timeless charm. This landscaping masterpiece unfolds on a small property adorned entirely with exquisite Barkman Concrete roman pavers, creating a seamless tapestry of luxury. The patio, the heart of this residence, showcases sierra grey roman pavers, their subtle hues infusing an air of tranquility. A tasteful border, crafted from charcoal roman pavers, accentuates the patio's edges, adding depth and definition.
Amidst this refined outdoor space lies a cozy seating area, strategically positioned alongside the house. Here, amidst the beauty of the Roman pavers, clients can relish in a private garden bed, creating a tranquil oasis for contemplation. The "Roman Elegance Residence" is more than a landscaping project; it's a testament to the fusion of timeless design and an intimate retreat.

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

LUXURY is an occasional indulgence.. For others it's a WAY OF LIFE! This European Custom Home Builder has an impeccable reputation for innovation & this masterpiece will please the most discerning buyer. Situated on a quiet street in this sought after inner city community and offering a MASSIVE 37.5'x167 ( 5436 sqft) OVERSIZED LOT with a park right outside the front door!! 3800+ sqft of architectural flare, incredible indoor/outdoor entertaining space all the while incorporating functionality. The SOARING foyer with its cosmopolitan fixture is just the start of the sophisticated finishings that are about to unfold. Jaw dropping Chef's kitchen, outstanding millwork, mode counters & backsplash and professional appliance collection. Open dining area and sprawling living room showcasing a chic fireplace and a wall of glass with patio door access the picturesque deck & massive private yard! 10' ceilings, modernistic windows and hardwood throughout create a sleek ambiance. Gorgeous front facade on a treelined street with the park outside the front door. Master retreat is an oasis, picturesque view, double sided fireplace, oversized walk in closet and a spa inspired ensuite - with dual rain shower heads, stand alone tub, heated floors, double vanities and intricate tile work - unwind & indulge yourself. Three bedrooms up PLUS a LOFT/ OFFICE fit for a KING!! Even the kids' washroom has double vanities and heated floors. Lower level is the place where memories will be made with the whole family. Ultimate in entertainment enjoyment! Topped off with heated floors, a gym, a 4th bedroom and a 4th bath! Whether it's the towering exterior, fully finished DOUBLE ATTACHED GARAGE, superior construction or the New Home Warranty - one thing is certain - it must be seen to truly be appreciated. You will see why it will be ENVIED by all. Minutes to the core and literally steps to the park, schools & pathways.

Recently, we embarked on a design project to redesign the entry landscaping with the timeless beauty of a Japanese garden, emphasizing Tsukiyama earth mounding. This technique, which involves sculpting gentle, rolling hills to reflect natural landscapes, brought a new dimension of tranquility and depth to the space.
By integrating a minimalist planting aesthetic and organic, dissolving lines, we achieved a seamless fusion of serenity with modern sophistication. The transformed entryway now greets visitors with unfolding views that perfectly complements the home’s treehouse views into Nichols Arboretum.

"About this Home: Nestled amidst nature's embrace, this luxury custom home with French Country design beckons with timeless allure. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the residence is crowned by a majestic custom stone fireplace that commands attention, a testament to the artistry ingrained in every corner. Step into the heart of culinary indulgence with an expansive chef's dream kitchen, where the aroma of fine cuisine mingles with the warmth of family gatherings. The epitome of opulence unfolds in the master suite, where a luxurious custom walk-in closet becomes a sanctuary for sartorial splendor. This home is an ode to bespoke elegance, seamlessly blending traditional charm with modern extravagance.
CRx Construction is a member of the Certified Luxury Builders Network.
Certified Luxury Builders is a network of leading custom home builders and luxury home and condo remodelers who create 5-Star experiences for luxury home and condo owners from New York to Los Angeles and Boston to Naples.
As a Certified Luxury Builder, CRx Construction is proud to feature photos of select projects from our members around the country to inspire you with design ideas. Please feel free to contact the specific Certified Luxury Builder with any questions or inquiries you may have about their projects. Please visit www.CLBNetwork.com for a directory of CLB members featured on Houzz and their contact information."

As the sun ends its descent, casting a golden hue across the sky, the balcony offers a breathtaking view of the bay. A wooden table set for four awaits, positioned to capture the splendor of the sunset. The gentle breeze carries the scent of the sea, enhancing the serene ambiance. This idyllic setting is perfect for a romantic dinner or an intimate gathering with loved ones, as the tranquil beauty of the bay unfolds before your eyes.

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

As you walk in, the main floor unfolds into a seamless living experience. Walls and columns were expertly removed to reveal a voluminous, open-concept great room. Natural light filters through generous windows, illuminating layers of sophisticated textures and warm neutral tones. The thoughtfully integrated millwork subtly divides the space without disrupting flow, while elegant sconces above the breakfast nook infuse intimacy—creating a serene yet inviting atmosphere.
At the heart of the home sits a striking, oversized kitchen arrangement featuring dual islands: one devoted to food prep, the other to gathering and conversation. The islands are finished in complementary palettes—one light, one dark—mirroring the balance of materials and colors across the open floor plan. This innovative layout fosters community and showcases design depth through thoughtful texture layering, from stone countertops to artisanal hardware.
Swatch’s signature layering approach brings dimension and warmth throughout these interconnected rooms. Subtle pops of earthy hues alongside jewel-tone accents are woven through upholstery, decorative lighting, and artwork. Organic elements like wood flooring and natural stone surfaces reinforce the Modern European aesthetic: clean lines with a lived-in elegance, where each material choice feels intentional and inviting .
Styled to feel luxurious yet approachable, the space features a discussed blend of classic European elegance and contemporary comfort. Plush fabrics—such as velvet cushions and soft linens—contrast simple, modern furniture silhouettes. Freestanding lantern-style pendants and delicate sconces enhance ambiance throughout, while curated décor from different European influences tells a rich, nuanced design story.
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