- Project: Burlingame Eichler Remodel
- Architect: Klopf Architecture
- Location: United States, Burlingame, California
- Year: 2017
- Area: 197 m2
- Photography: Mariko Reed
In this thoughtful renovation of a mid-century atrium-style home in Burlingame, Klopf Architecture continues its legacy of revitalizing Eichler residences across California. The aim: to preserve the Eichler essence while introducing brighter, Scandinavian-inspired minimalism—tailored to the homeowners’ vision of light, openness, and detail.
Redesigning with Clarity and Collaboration
Every aspect of the remodel was developed in close collaboration with the owners, who were deeply engaged in the process—from layout refinements to selecting light switches and stainless steel faceplates. Klopf Architecture partnered with Jesse Ososki Art to carry out a detailed, sensitive transformation.
The reconfiguration touched nearly every part of the home: the primary bedroom and bath, the kitchen, the hall bathroom, and laundry zone. The goal was not to replicate the Eichler formula, but to modernize and elevate it with thoughtful updates and clean geometry.
Material Simplicity and Visual Lightness
The owners’ preference for Scandinavian simplicity is visible in every surface. The flooring is a 24”x24” neutral grey porcelain tile, which continues into shower floors and walls—where it shifts in texture and size for function and visual rhythm. The tile creates a calm, continuous backdrop against which cabinetry and finishes subtly shine.
Color is used sparingly yet effectively: Heath Classic Field tile in Modern Blue makes a bold statement in the hall bath vanity backsplash and shampoo niches. Matching pale blue back-painted soda glass graces the kitchen backsplash and reappears at the atrium entry door—lending identity to the project.
The white kitchen cabinetry, Caesarstone Blizzard countertops, and minimalist fixtures enhance the feeling of openness, while warm walnut details at the kitchen bar, bathroom vanities, and window sills provide soft contrast and natural richness.
Preserving and Enhancing Original Eichler Elements
Klopf and the homeowners chose to preserve key Eichler features, including:
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The concrete masonry fireplace
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The tongue-and-groove redwood ceiling decking
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The original luan paneling, which was sanded, cleaned, and re-stained
An existing detail from a prior owner—sliding shoji panels—was retained at bedroom windows and glass doors. To further integrate them, Klopf cut custom grooves into the tile flooring for smooth sliding and visual continuity.
Functional Upgrades with Architectural Integrity
While the renovation involved a complete spatial reorganization, it retained the core values of Eichler design: indoor-outdoor living, visual clarity, and material honesty. Modern fixtures and detailing were chosen with subtle precision, allowing every surface to contribute to the overall aesthetic without overwhelming it.
The Burlingame Eichler Remodel by Klopf Architecture is a refined reinterpretation of a mid-century icon. By preserving what matters and reimagining the rest through a modern, minimalist lens, Klopf delivers a timeless and tranquil home—one that’s deeply personal, highly functional, and effortlessly beautiful.
