Mid-century transformation

Originally built in the 1960s, the challenge for this project was how to update a mid-century modern house without sacrificing its charm. Situated on a 1.3-acre site perched on a plateau above Coachella Valley, the rugged, inhospitable Santa Rosa Mountains rise immediately from the back yard; bighorn sheep can often be seen wandering on the rocks above. The 6,357-square-foot house sits roughly in the middle of the property; entry is off the driveway and through a private courtyard.The client's goals were to create an open and light filled home that maximized views of the Coachella Valley below and the Santa Rosa mountains to the south and west. They also wanted to create a fluid connection between the primary indoor rooms and the outdo... More

Empty-nester clients hoped to transform this dated, 1950’s mid-century split level, into an open, highly functional home well suited for large family gatherings, without modifying the existing 2600 finished square footage. A new dynamic entry, playing off the existing roof planes, awakened a tired exterior. The dated, enclosed kitchen became a bright, sleek, modern galley, with large windows that open onto a new outdoor dining deck, and built-in breakfast nook. The interior entry was given more definition and drama, and serves as the linking element between all the levels of the home. The former living room was opened into the entry and stairs to become a generous modern dining room where clean lines, and white polished floor tiles were use... More