- Project: San Francisco Eichler Remodel
- Architect: Klopf Architecture
- Location: United States
- Year: 2013
- Photography: Mariko Reed
In San Francisco’s Diamond Heights neighborhood, Klopf Architecture has meticulously renovated a 1962 Eichler-designed home into a light-filled, elegant residence that merges historic respect with modern sensibilities. The clients—two professionals with a deep appreciation for the Eichler legacy—sought to transform the house into a refined, minimalist space that celebrates openness, warmth, and material richness.
Preserving Eichler DNA with a Modern Edge
With a clear vision of honoring the home’s architectural lineage, the owners and design team focused on retaining key Eichler elements—most notably the mahogany paneling, expansive walls of glass, and openness to the central courtyard. These original features were enhanced rather than replaced, maintaining the Eichler spirit while upgrading for modern living.
At the same time, elements such as exterior shingles, the cramped galley kitchen, and the oversized brick chimney were removed to allow for spatial openness and flow. Reworking the second floor, Klopf combined two smaller bedrooms into a generous master suite, added a walk-through dressing area, and reconfigured layout obstacles into functionally elegant design solutions.
Architectural Clarity and Flow
The home’s central concept is seamless movement—both visually and spatially. With cabinetry running from the kitchen through the family room, a waterfall island, and 2” taller counters, the spaces feel connected and expansive. The elimination of a fourth bedroom, together with a repurposed mechanical closet and flue removal, allowed for critical gains in openness without altering the structure’s footprint.
Interior features were handcrafted by Benchmarc Woodworking, including floating credenzas in the bathrooms and living areas, and a wall of cabinetry in white and mahogany. These custom pieces enhance the architectural language and align with the clients’ minimal, gallery-like aesthetic.
Material Palette: Mahogany, Zinc, and Stone
Klopf drew inspiration from original Eichler architect Claude Oakland, replacing unsightly shingles with smooth plaster and vertical Kayu Batu siding. This natural wood continues into the interior dining area and master closet, reinforcing the inside-outside dialogue.
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Mahogany paneling, original and reclaimed
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Vertical Kayu Batu siding, clear-sealed for a warm, durable finish
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Zinc panels in the courtyard, extending into the home through large glass windows
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Italian gray floor tiles, evoking Eichler’s classic concrete floors, paired with radiant heating
These materials express the owners’ appreciation for modern commercial finishes while softening the experience with warmth and texture.
Custom Features and Architectural Surprises
As a tribute to one owner’s late father—who worked in commercial building materials—custom zinc wall panels and handrails by Product and Design Metal Work were integrated as design highlights. Upon entry, visitors are greeted by a two-story courtyard wall in zinc, visually continuous across the glazed façade into the home’s core, offering a tactile and visual surprise that sets the tone for the interior experience.
Fleetwood doors and windows in dark bronze anodized aluminum further contribute to the commercial-modern aesthetic, framing views while maintaining thermal performance.
The San Francisco Eichler Remodel by Klopf Architecture is a thoughtful reinterpretation of mid-century modernism—bold in its restraint, respectful of its roots, and rich with carefully executed materiality. Designed with vision, restraint, and craftsmanship, the result is a home that celebrates light, life, and the enduring spirit of Eichler design.
