Inspiration
This project is a proposed renovation for a historic home in Sunnyvale, CA designed by Joseph Eichler. The scope of the project included a full interior renovation of the home, along with furniture and finish selection. Inspiration for the home came from the natural landscape of northern California. The textured trunks of redwood trees, the soaring cliffs of Yosemite, the rugged shores of Point Lobos, and the subtle shapes and coloring of ferns, mushrooms, and river stones. Further inspiration came from the Rodin Sculpture Garden at Stanford University about 20 minutes from the home. The elegance of bronze and marble, the beauty of the human form, and the drama of light and shadow provided ample direction of how to create a sense of unfussy luxury within the space.
Floor Plan
Although the footprint of the home is small, space is used extremely well and the house feels large to those within it. The reworking of the kitchen makes the space even more functional and connected. Furniture layouts were intended to encourage casual living, and relaxed entertaining. Material selection underscores the homes link to nature.
Kitchen - View 1
The goal for the kitchen was to create a functional and modern space that still had ties to the mid-century history of the home. The original kitchen was cramped and dark, with few views to the outdoors. An important part of the kitchen renovation was to open up the floor plan continuing the theme of connection to nature that is seen throughout the rest of the house.
Kitchen - View 2
Two-toned cabinetry featuring walnut and white lacquered wood connect the kitchen to its mid-century past while the reeding on the cabinets provides a textural element. The marble backsplash from Il Granito is a stunning focal point and the open shelves create a sense of casual spontaneity. The Mini Endless pendants by Jason Miller add some shine to the space matched in the feet of the Block B-A stools by Giannis Topizopoulos. Because of its balance of function and style, casualness and luxury, this kitchen is the ideal place for working and entertaining.
Kitchen - Plan
The layout for the kitchen allows for ease of use, and is designed to function for entertaining. The cooktop is built into the island so that the owners can socialize while preparing food. The island is the perfect place for serving meals, an ideal gathering spot for friends and family.
Dining Room
The dining room features materials and furnishings that tie back to the natural themes seen throughout the rest of the house. Rough-hewn slate tile provides texture, while walnut Costes chairs designed by Philippe Starck add warmth. The white Panton Chair and Saarinen table not only give a nod to the home’s mid-century heritage, they also mimic the forms of mushrooms that grow on the floors of the redwood forests. The tile mosaic on the fireplace, mobile chandelier, and charcoal sketches on the gallery wall, give the space a sense of artistry.
Dining Room - Finishes
Living Room
The living room combines bold, modern shapes with natural materials and textures to create a striking contrast. A bold chandelier from Lambert et Fils mimics the vertical lines of the reeded walnut cabinetry and echoes the rounded forms seen in the graphic art and furniture. Smart use of space was important in this small living area so built-in cabinetry was designed to provide ample storage while many pieces serve dual functions. A vintage chair by Gerald Summers, for example, not only offers additional seating, but also acts as a sculptural element. The asymmetric layout gives a casual, unfussy vibe that invites people to stop and stay awhile.
Living Room - Finishes
Master Bed - View 1
The master bedroom features a moodier, more feminine feel than the rest of the home. Dark walls, rich velvets, and marbles give the space a sense of drama while the light walnut sideboard and pottery lighten the space. The space is small but distinct areas are differentiated into three vignettes: the sitting corner, the bed/sleep area, and the vanity area.
Master Bed - View 2
Master Bed - Finishes
Master Bath
Luxurious materials give the master bath a spa-like feel. The burgundy marble and a vintage blush chandelier, along with curving sconces and a rounded basin sink give the space a more feminine feel compared to the rest of the house. Linear cabinetry and tile keeps the room sophisticated.
Master Bath - Finishes
Kid's Room
This gender-neutral bedroom is designed to encourage creativity and play. The jungle wallpaper, bold patterned rug, and mix of greens and yellows create a sense of adventure and fun. Mid Century furnishings are in keeping with the style of the home.
Kid's Room - Finishes