California Modern Enhancements,
Danville, CA (San Francisco Bay Area)
Architecture & Interior Design
Design Vision
Nestled in the wooded hills of a charming northern California town, this house was originally built in 1965 by renowned San Francisco Bay Area developer Joseph Eichler, known for his iconic mid-century modern homes. Spanning 1.3 acres, the property features an ornamental landscape design inspired by the Japanese Tea Gardens of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park, complete with an authentic Japanese Tea House. Towering redwoods, mountain views, and a meandering footpath create a serene setting that blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings. The new owners were dedicated to preserving the home’s architectural integrity as they looked to improve its approach and add a thoughtfully designed covered outdoor kitchen and entertainment area adjacent to the pool.
Welcoming Front Entry
The refreshed entry sequence of this notable home seamlessly blends modern elegance with respectful nods to its roots. The exterior color scheme has been invigorated, shifting from brown and tan earth tones to a crisp white accented with warm grey trim, creating a striking contrast that enhances the home’s architectural details. The reimagined approach opens up the once solid entry wall, replacing it with horizontal slats that introduce a technique of transparency, allowing natural light to flow into the courtyard while maintaining privacy. An old water feature was repurposed into a large planter, adding lush texture and color. The new water feature draws the eye with colorful tiles, serving as a captivating focal point visible from both the driveway and the entry courtyard. Linear lighting beneath the stair treads subtly illuminates the pathway, guiding visitors gracefully from the driveway to the front entry. The addition of a new front door and thoughtfully designed landscaping around the courtyard completes the transformation, offering a welcoming and sophisticated introduction to this storied home.
Outdoor Space Crafted for Entertaining
Designed for outdoor living and entertainment, the new Pool Pavilion carefully balances aesthetic appeal and structural integrity. Given California’s seismic activity, this project demanded strict adherence to regional building codes and requirements. Collaborating closely with local builders and engineers, we navigated the complexities of constructing a Pavilion that captures the essence of outdoor entertaining and withstands the unique challenges of the region.
The newly designed Pavilion is positioned adjacent to the pool and offers shade and protection from the elements. The new structure’s design provides visual definition between the swimming and entertaining zones. Taking cues from the existing columns, beams, and the combination of flat and gabled rooflines of the house, the Pavilion extends the home’s horizontal fascia, echoing the clean lines and open spaces in a complementary design. Horizontal slats allow airflow, while skylights pierce the ceiling, providing a balance of sunlight and shade.
This project exemplifies how thoughtful design and engineering come together to create a beautiful, functional space that honors both the landscape and the architectural heritage of California. The result is an ideal setting for gatherings, paying homage to Eichler’s legacy of seamlessly integrating indoor and outdoor spaces.
This house has a Zen-like quality that effortlessly brings the outdoors in. We love to entertain and welcome our guests at the new front entry or relax in the pavilion for a serene experience that we enjoy nearly every day.
Images courtesy of Bayview Painting and Luke George Photography
