Fairwood Ave Eichler Renovation
San Jose, CA
The client came to GMJ Construction with a clear goal: refresh their Eichler home while honoring its mid-century roots. With design direction from Klopf Architecture, this renovation aimed to maintain the post-and-beam structure and open-plan flow Eichlers are known for, while updating finishes, surfaces, and fixtures to match the family’s modern lifestyle.
Project Challenges
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Maintaining Architectural Integrity: All changes had to stay true to the original Eichler design aesthetic.
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Material Sourcing: Matching modern materials to mid-century textures and tones.
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Minimal Disruption: The project had to proceed efficiently with minimal intrusion into the structural system.
Objectives
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To preserve and celebrate the original architecture, including exposed beams, open ceiling lines, and indoor-outdoor flow.
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To modernize finishes, cabinetry, lighting, and fixtures without losing the home’s classic charm.
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To work seamlessly alongside Klopf Architecture and deliver high-level construction within the design framework.
Results
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Preserved Eichler Identity: All design choices supported the home’s iconic look and feel.
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Contemporary Comfort: Smart upgrades brought the home up to modern standards in comfort and convenience.
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Client Satisfaction: Delivered a beautiful, livable space that aligned perfectly with the client’s vision and architectural intent.
Solutions & Strategy
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Living Space Refresh:
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Preserved original ceiling lines and beams.
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Replaced aging paneling with updated wall finishes in neutral tones.
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Installed new LED lighting and fixtures chosen to complement the mid-century theme.
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Kitchen Modernization:
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Custom flat-panel cabinetry in warm wood tones.
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Sleek quartz countertops with a low-profile backsplash.
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Upgraded appliances integrated cleanly into the cabinetry layout.
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Bathroom Improvements:
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Installed floating vanities, full-wall mirrors, and frameless glass showers.
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Selected minimalist fixtures with a matte finish to maintain clean lines.
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Indoor-Outdoor Continuity:
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Retained and repaired original sliders and clerestory windows.
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Updated landscaping and rear patio surface to improve the visual connection with interior spaces.
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“We wanted to bring our Eichler into the present without losing its soul — and GMJ Construction nailed it. Their coordination with Klopf was seamless, and the end result is everything we hoped for: clean, functional, and totally in harmony with the original design.”
