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.

Start Your Project

Project Challenges

  • Maintaining Architectural Integrity: All changes had to stay true to the original Eichler design aesthetic.

  • Material Sourcing: Matching modern materials to mid-century textures and tones.

  • Minimal Disruption: The project had to proceed efficiently with minimal intrusion into the structural system.

Objectives

  • To preserve and celebrate the original architecture, including exposed beams, open ceiling lines, and indoor-outdoor flow.

  • To modernize finishes, cabinetry, lighting, and fixtures without losing the home’s classic charm.

  • To work seamlessly alongside Klopf Architecture and deliver high-level construction within the design framework.

Results

  • Preserved Eichler Identity: All design choices supported the home’s iconic look and feel.

  • Contemporary Comfort: Smart upgrades brought the home up to modern standards in comfort and convenience.

  • Client Satisfaction: Delivered a beautiful, livable space that aligned perfectly with the client’s vision and architectural intent.

Solutions & Strategy

  • Living Space Refresh:

    • Preserved original ceiling lines and beams.

    • Replaced aging paneling with updated wall finishes in neutral tones.

    • Installed new LED lighting and fixtures chosen to complement the mid-century theme.

  • Kitchen Modernization:

    • Custom flat-panel cabinetry in warm wood tones.

    • Sleek quartz countertops with a low-profile backsplash.

    • Upgraded appliances integrated cleanly into the cabinetry layout.

  • Bathroom Improvements:

    • Installed floating vanities, full-wall mirrors, and frameless glass showers.

    • Selected minimalist fixtures with a matte finish to maintain clean lines.

  • Indoor-Outdoor Continuity:

    • Retained and repaired original sliders and clerestory windows.

    • Updated landscaping and rear patio surface to improve the visual connection with interior spaces.

“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.”