Bright, Open, and Family-Friendly: A Fresh Take on an Eichler Classic

This Eichler home in Palo Alto was transformed into a light-filled, family-friendly retreat, blending modern updates with midcentury charm and functionality.

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Text by Klopf Architecture

Located in Palo Alto’s flood zone, this Eichler home underwent a phased renovation thoughtfully redesigned to accommodate a growing family of five, with an emphasis on school proximity and nearby grandparents.

The bedroom wing was completely reconfigured, including a new front addition as a guest suite for grandparents, expanding the house to five bedrooms and three baths. Taller 9-foot ceilings were introduced in some areas, enhancing the overall openness—a lofty goal for an Eichler.

The tranquil courtyard, a favorite spot for the family, was redesigned to allow parents to watch the kids while cooking. The backyard became a relaxing lounging area connected to the living room. Once dark living spaces were modernized by removing a low-hanging beam in the kitchen, adding skylights for natural light, and eliminating the fireplace to create a more functional entertainment space.

Finally, new landscaping reflecting the client’s heritage and some of the home’s architectural elements, creates a harmonious indoor-outdoor flow.

Photos by the Mariko Reed

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