Modernist Cabin in Los Gatos, CA

I love projects like this one. Taking a space that has dutifully served its purpose for years, reworking the layout of the square footage, introducing interesting textures, fixtures and colors, and essentially breathing new life into it. Such was the goal with this project – transform the client’s dark, woodsy cabin-like kitchen and dining area into a highly functional, beautiful space perfect for both intimate family dinners and large gatherings.

And while we were working on the interior, we gave the exterior an update as well. With some strategic changes to the exterior, we were able to affect the look of the house significantly and give it a fresh update as impactful as the one inside. The result is a modern, calming retreat that reflects the style and personality of its lovely owner while still honoring the original character of the home.

Design Palette

Some of the inspiration materials, colors, and textures I used to design the new spaces.

Exterior

BEFORE

AFTER

After the removal of dark, diagonal wood siding, we freshened up the look with new painted and stained horizontal siding. We added a clean, crisp window trim and a coordinating hip front entry door.

Kitchen/Dining Area

BEFORE

BEFORE

AFTER

Working within the existing building outline and windows, we open up the previously cramped, closed off kitchen turning it into a totally new, usable space that blends seamlessly to the dining room and allows for flexible arrangements for dinner parties, big gatherings, holidays, and intimate or casual dining. Coordinating architectural surfaces with a suite of new furnishings tie the spaces together beautifully.

To maintain the cabin character, the previously low ceilings were vaulted, skylights installed, and matching rafters and custom truss were added. New mantel and stair treatments were added and storage closets were created in wasted spaces. The new kitchen also contains special features like a hidden coffee bar, smoothie station and kitchen desk smartly tucked around the corner.

Color inspiration in the kitchen came from a special Italian tile purchased on the clients’ honeymoon. Bold pops of color in the new space reflect the color tones of the original Italian blue tile and tie in the furniture and lighting fixtures perfectly.

A soothing color palette, unique lighting and accessories, contrasting textures, and mix of mid-century furniture, together create a space that is clean and modern, yet warm and inviting.

The new modern kitchen is filled with gorgeous geometric tiles, calming finishes and beautiful natural light.

A personal desk area for the computer, mail and personal items needed to be tucked away to hide clutter but still conveniently located near the kitchen.

Bathrooms

For the downstairs hillside bathrooms that have no access to natural light, our goal was to lighten them up with smooth and shiny surfaces that reflect the new LED lights and bounce light around the spaces. The renovations transformed what could be considered dark basement bathrooms into beautiful, light-filled spaces with plenty of storage and ventilation.

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Client Testimonial

“Michelle was a true partner during our extensive remodel. She not only helped us form a vision for transforming our home, she was there every step of the way to help us execute. From pulling together a color palette, to lighting, tile and furnishings, Michelle's guidance and creativity allowed us to achieve that vision! I would recommend Michelle without hesitation to anyone who is looking for a creative partner with a great eye, as well as outstanding knowledge of space planning, construction and design.”