Berkeley Hills MCM Remodel by Klopf Architecture: A Modern Mid-Century Retreat in the Treetops

By Klopf Architecture Published: Updated: 3 min read
  • Project: Berkeley Hills MCM Remodel and ADU Addition
  • Architect: Klopf Architecture
  • Location: United States, Berkeley Hills, California
  • Year: 2021
  • Photography: Mariko Reed

Nestled in the scenic heights of Berkeley Hills, California, the Berkeley Hills MCM Remodel by Klopf Architecture is a refined transformation of a mid-century modern residence into a serene treetop retreat. Completed in 2021, the project introduces spatial openness, modern comfort, and a fully accessible Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) designed for multigenerational living.

Elevating Mid-Century Modern for 21st Century Living

The homeowners—deeply appreciative of mid-century architecture—sought to modernize their home while preserving its original character. Klopf Architecture responded with a thoughtful remodel that maintains the essence of the 1960s design while dramatically enhancing its livability.

The home’s formerly compartmentalized layout was reimagined to create a welcoming outdoor living entry and a large glass pivot door that leads into an expansive new great room. This architectural gesture establishes a seamless flow between indoors and out, with panoramic views extending into the surrounding treetops.

Refined Interiors with Rich Material Contrast

Darker-stained ceilings now span across the newly integrated kitchen and great room, forming a unified design plane. These rich tones, along with ebony flooring, create a grounded, masculine atmosphere that lets the home’s natural surroundings and deck views take center stage.

The aesthetic blends cabin-like coziness with modern elegance, making the space feel simultaneously rooted and sophisticated. The interiors are curated to draw attention outward—toward the light, landscape, and elevated deck that embraces the surrounding forest.

Multigenerational Living with a Thoughtful ADU

A standout feature of the renovation is the conversion of a lower-level utility space into a fully functioning ADU designed for the homeowners’ aging parents. With accessibility and privacy in mind, Klopf Architecture designed this addition to feel connected yet self-sufficient.

The ADU’s slim-framed windows and clean detailing mirror those used throughout the upper level, tying the home together visually and stylistically. This synergy ensures that the house functions as a cohesive whole while offering individualized spaces for every generation.

A Home for Work, Play, and Family

With its renewed layout, the home now offers a more functional and adaptive environment where family members can work, relax, and entertain. The balance of preserved mid-century elements and forward-thinking additions makes this project a blueprint for modern multigenerational living rooted in architectural heritage.

Berkeley Hills MCM Remodel by Klopf Architecture: A Modern Mid-Century Retreat in the Treetops
Photography © Mariko Reed
Berkeley Hills MCM Remodel by Klopf Architecture: A Modern Mid-Century Retreat in the Treetops
Photography © Mariko Reed
Berkeley Hills MCM Remodel by Klopf Architecture: A Modern Mid-Century Retreat in the Treetops
Photography © Mariko Reed
Berkeley Hills MCM Remodel by Klopf Architecture: A Modern Mid-Century Retreat in the Treetops
Photography © Mariko Reed
Berkeley Hills MCM Remodel by Klopf Architecture: A Modern Mid-Century Retreat in the Treetops
Photography © Mariko Reed
Berkeley Hills MCM Remodel by Klopf Architecture: A Modern Mid-Century Retreat in the Treetops
Photography © Mariko Reed
Berkeley Hills MCM Remodel by Klopf Architecture: A Modern Mid-Century Retreat in the Treetops
Photography © Mariko Reed
Berkeley Hills MCM Remodel by Klopf Architecture: A Modern Mid-Century Retreat in the Treetops
Photography © Mariko Reed
Berkeley Hills MCM Remodel by Klopf Architecture: A Modern Mid-Century Retreat in the Treetops
Photography © Mariko Reed
Berkeley Hills MCM Remodel by Klopf Architecture: A Modern Mid-Century Retreat in the Treetops
Photography © Mariko Reed
Berkeley Hills MCM Remodel by Klopf Architecture: A Modern Mid-Century Retreat in the Treetops
Photography © Mariko Reed
Berkeley Hills MCM Remodel by Klopf Architecture: A Modern Mid-Century Retreat in the Treetops
Photography © Mariko Reed
Berkeley Hills MCM Remodel by Klopf Architecture: A Modern Mid-Century Retreat in the Treetops
Photography © Mariko Reed
Berkeley Hills MCM Remodel by Klopf Architecture: A Modern Mid-Century Retreat in the Treetops
Photography © Mariko Reed
Berkeley Hills MCM Remodel by Klopf Architecture: A Modern Mid-Century Retreat in the Treetops
Photography © Mariko Reed
Berkeley Hills MCM Remodel by Klopf Architecture: A Modern Mid-Century Retreat in the Treetops
Photography © Mariko Reed
Berkeley Hills MCM Remodel by Klopf Architecture: A Modern Mid-Century Retreat in the Treetops
Photography © Mariko Reed
Berkeley Hills MCM Remodel by Klopf Architecture: A Modern Mid-Century Retreat in the Treetops
Photography © Mariko Reed
Berkeley Hills MCM Remodel by Klopf Architecture: A Modern Mid-Century Retreat in the Treetops
Photography © Mariko Reed
Berkeley Hills MCM Remodel by Klopf Architecture: A Modern Mid-Century Retreat in the Treetops
Photography © Mariko Reed
Berkeley Hills MCM Remodel by Klopf Architecture: A Modern Mid-Century Retreat in the Treetops
Photography © Mariko Reed
Berkeley Hills MCM Remodel by Klopf Architecture: A Modern Mid-Century Retreat in the Treetops
Photography © Mariko Reed
Berkeley Hills MCM Remodel by Klopf Architecture: A Modern Mid-Century Retreat in the Treetops
Photography © Mariko Reed

Klopf Architecture

Klopf Architecture is a San Francisco–based firm founded by John Klopf, specializing in modern residential design with a strong focus on mid-century modern renovations, particularly Eichler homes. Known for its “bringing the outside in” philosophy, the studio emphasizes natural light, clean lines, and seamless indoor-outdoor connections. The firm also integrates sustainable, energy-efficient strategies into every project, often targeting net-zero energy performance. Klopf Architecture is celebrated for its client-focused approach and refined, livable modern spaces.