At Post and Beam Reimagined, we had the joy of transforming a charming 1954 mid-century modern house and breathing new life into it for a young couple who relocated from the East Coast. They purchased this well-loved, one-owner gem and wanted to preserve its iconic architecture while elevating the space for modern living and elegant entertaining. They needed a thoughtful refresh that honored the past but embraced the present and all the possibilities for their future together.

The Challenge: No Time Capsules, Thank You Very Much

What does it take to respectfully remodel a post and beam architecture home, known for its iconic style, but without restricting our clients to living in a time capsule? How do we celebrate its original architecture but transform it into a space that blends sophistication, practicality, and elegance for both entertaining and everyday living?  These were the driving questions as we approached the design of this home. When our wonderful clients acquired their home, they embraced the layout and bones of the house but knew they desired a mid-century modern remodel that wouldn’t restrict their style, especially in terms of decor and furniture.

The scope of the project included:

• Designing and renovating the living room, family room, dining room, primary suite, guest bedroom, and entry 
• A kitchen refresh, including backsplash, hardware, a Sub-Zero refrigerator , and a wine fridge 
• A light remodel in the private wings of the home, including light fixtures, hardware, and hardwood flooring 
• Every bathroom received a facelift with new mirrors, lighting, and hardware
• Design and furnishing of a nursery for a little one on the way! 

As part of our extended team, we partnered with Nuvision Construction, based here in California. Tomio specializes in mid-century modern architecture and post and beam construction homes, such as Eichlers. There are specific challenges that arise with these period builds, and it’s critical to work with an experienced and knowledgeable contractor. For example, in homes like the one we were working on, the ceiling IS the roof; there is no attic. So when we wanted to install a new light fixture in the dining room, it wasn’t as simple as drilling a new hole and running a few wires. It required punching through the roof and then having it resealed. These homes are Tomio’s specialty, and he never missed a beat. His team was such a valuable part of the construction process. 

Like many young professionals, our clients needed their home to serve multiple purposes. We were determined to create a space that married form and function, making their mid-century modern home a welcoming place for elegant entertaining and the joyful chaos of family life.

The Answer: Art You Can Live In 

As first-time homeowners, they came to us with a blank slate. We were excited not only to explore their design aesthetic but to walk alongside them in discovering what would truly transform this space into their home: one that reflects their personality, supports their lifestyle, and invites everyday joy. 

They were drawn to a soft, inviting contemporary aesthetic, think tailored yet low-maintenance furnishings, cool jewel-toned hues, and just the right amount of edge. We embraced the clean lines and hard angles of the Eichler-style home and softened the overall feel with furnishings that brought warmth, movement, and a touch of playfulness. In the living room, a sculptural brass coffee table with a dramatic wood base commands attention, while rounded light fixtures and graceful curves weave through the home, adding both function and artistry in equal measure.

Our clients came from a family with a deep appreciation for art, and they were excited to begin their own collection. We partnered with a few of my favorite galleries, all of whom were excited to work with us. As we started the sourcing process, our clients were consistently drawn to abstracts with lots of color. In a home where many of the design elements were intentionally quiet, this created an opportunity to add a sense of vibrancy through art. 

While each artwork could absolutely stand on its own, it was vital that it worked in harmony with the room it was intended for. We asked ourselves if the piece was helping us achieve the design concept for each space.

The Results: Tailored and Luxurious 

Post and beam homes, like the famous Eichlers, are known for their open-concept plans and connection to the outdoors. To distinguish spaces from one another and create strong lines, we played with symmetry and axes (that’s plural for axis, not a tool for chopping firewood, for those of you paying attention) and defined spaces with lighting and furniture. We sourced sculptural fixtures and tailored profiles to bring these spaces into the modern age. 

Personally, my favorite space in the post and beam renovation was the guest bedroom. I was able to introduce a warmer color palette with gentle apricot colors. Inspired by their guests, particularly our client’s mother, we worked with the lovely light and gorgeous views to create a soft and elegant space where every visitor feels at home. 
At the end of this two-year-long mid-century modern remodel (thank you, clients, for enduring COVID restrictions and long lead times), we brought the couple’s vision of a tailored and luxurious aesthetic to life. Now, thanks to the Eichler-style home renovation, their home will wow guests when they entertain and be equally comfortable on nights at home around the fireplace. Showstopping beauty and flawless functionality expertly blend together to hold and host every moment.