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Eichler Remodeling Contractors in Palo Alto, CA

Palo Alto, CA | GMJ Construction

Renovate your Palo Alto Eichler around the details that make it home: exposed beams, open living spaces and a connection to the outdoors. GMJ Construction coordinates kitchens, bathrooms, whole-home updates and additions with a property-specific construction plan.

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  • Carlson Cir kitchen

    Carlson Cir kitchen in Palo Alto with white cabinetry, a dark island and wood flooring

  • Carlson Cir bathroom

    Carlson Cir bathroom in Palo Alto with a wood vanity, illuminated mirror and white tiled shower

  • El Cajon Way in progress

    El Cajon Way renovation in progress in Palo Alto, showing kitchen cabinetry and exposed beams
Discuss your home, your priorities and a project-specific construction scope.
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Eichler remodeling shaped around your Palo Alto home

A successful Eichler renovation does more than replace finishes. It resolves the rooms that no longer work while keeping the proportions, light and materials that give the house its character. GMJ Construction works with Palo Alto homeowners on focused room remodels and coordinated whole-home renovations, from the initial scope through construction and final walkthrough.

Start with what you want to change: a kitchen cut off from the living area, a bathroom without enough storage, aging interior finishes, or a need for more space. We can discuss which improvements fit within the existing footprint and which require design coordination, engineering or an addition. Review our broader Eichler remodeling services for the full range of work.

Remodeling services in Palo Alto

Kitchens and connected living spaces

Plan cabinetry, appliance locations, task lighting and circulation together. Flat-panel cabinetry and carefully placed storage can support the architecture without blocking glazing or overwhelming a low roofline. Changes to walls, beams or openings need to be evaluated before the layout is finalized. Explore Palo Alto kitchen remodeling.

Bathrooms and interior upgrades

Update showers, vanities, lighting and ventilation as a coordinated scope. Bathroom planning must account for existing plumbing, available floor depth and the relationship between wet areas and adjacent rooms. Flooring and finish transitions also matter when several spaces share one continuous slab. See our Palo Alto bathroom remodeling services and Eichler flooring options.

Whole-home renovations and additions

A whole-home scope lets you coordinate electrical work, heating and cooling, windows, interior finishes and room layouts before opening walls. If the existing footprint cannot meet your needs, a Palo Alto Eichler addition requires a separate feasibility review of the site, structure and approval path. An addition is not assumed to be possible simply because space appears available in the yard.

What needs special attention in an Eichler?

  • Post-and-beam structure: confirm the role of framing and connections before removing walls or widening openings.
  • Slab and radiant heating: where in-slab heating is present, investigate its condition and routing before plumbing relocations or floor work.
  • Roof and ceiling details: coordinate lighting, ventilation and mechanical routes with exposed decking and limited concealed space.
  • Glass, privacy and daylight: consider how cabinetry, partitions and new rooms affect the existing indoor-outdoor relationship.
  • Existing materials: determine whether testing or specialist handling is needed before disturbing suspect materials; appearance alone does not establish what a material contains.

Palo Alto design and permit planning

The City’s Eichler Neighborhood Design Guidelines are a useful starting point for exterior changes and additions. Before designing outward or upward, confirm the property’s zoning, any applicable single-story overlay and historic status. The requirements for one Palo Alto Eichler may not be the same as those for another.

We build the construction scope around the approved plans and required inspections. Check Palo Alto’s building permit application guidance with your project team to establish the current submittal requirements. Permit review and approval remain with the City; no project should be scheduled on an assumed approval date.

Our remodeling process

  1. Consultation and priorities: discuss your address, existing conditions, rooms involved, budget goals and any plans already prepared.
  2. Site assessment and scope: identify access, systems, structural questions and the decisions needed to develop an estimate.
  3. Design and approvals: coordinate with the designer, architect and engineer as needed, then establish the permit and inspection requirements.
  4. Selections and construction planning: confirm materials, allowances, procurement, protection of retained finishes and whether the home can remain occupied.
  5. Construction and turnover: coordinate trades and inspections, review changes in writing, and complete the walkthrough and remaining punch-list work.

Palo Alto Eichler project examples

Carlson Cir: a coordinated interior and exterior renovation

GMJ’s Carlson Cir project in Palo Alto includes a redesigned kitchen, bathroom updates and coordinated interior finishes. The project illustrates how contemporary cabinetry and fixtures can sit within an Eichler’s open-plan layout.

Carlson Cir kitchen renovation in Palo Alto: white cabinetry, a dark island and wood flooring.
Carlson Cir kitchen renovation in Palo Alto: white cabinetry, a dark island and wood flooring.

El Cajon Way: remodeling with an addition

The El Cajon Way project in Palo Alto combines a primary-suite addition with interior and building-system upgrades. Its project gallery includes construction-stage photographs, useful for understanding the work behind the finished rooms.

Budget, schedule and the first conversation

Cost depends on the work involved, not the city name alone. Structural changes, slab work, cabinetry, glazing, equipment, finish selections and concealed conditions can all change the scope. A room refresh and a whole-home renovation need different estimates and schedules. Share existing drawings and your must-have priorities so we can discuss allowances, exclusions and what needs further investigation.

GMJ serves Palo Alto and nearby Peninsula communities. For a property in a neighboring jurisdiction, we confirm the reviewing authority from the address rather than assuming Palo Alto rules apply. You can also browse GMJ projects across the Bay Area.

Palo Alto Eichler remodeling FAQs

Can you modernize an Eichler without losing its original character?

Yes, that is a central design goal. Begin by identifying the beams, ceiling decking, glazing, floor continuity and room relationships you want to retain. Then evaluate new layouts and materials against those priorities rather than treating every existing detail as something to replace.

Do all Palo Alto Eichler remodels have the same restrictions?

No. Scope, zoning, overlays and historic status can affect review. An interior update is different from an exterior addition. Confirm the requirements for your address with the City’s planning and building staff before relying on another homeowner’s permit experience.

Can GMJ work with my architect or designer?

Yes. Bring the plans and consultant information to the consultation. We can review the proposed construction scope, discuss buildability and coordinate questions with your design team before pricing or construction decisions are finalized.

Do I need to replace the original radiant heating?

Not automatically. Its condition, the proposed work and your comfort goals determine the options. Where the system remains, its location must be considered before slab penetrations or plumbing changes. Replacement should be a deliberate scope decision, not an assumption.

Can we live in the home during remodeling?

That depends on safe access, the rooms affected, utility interruptions and the extent of demolition. A limited room remodel may be phased differently from a whole-home project. Discuss occupancy and any temporary kitchen or bathroom needs before the construction plan is agreed.

What should I send for a remodeling estimate?

Send the property address, photographs, a list of the rooms and changes you have in mind, any existing plans, and your budget and timing priorities. Explain which original features you want to preserve. An early conversation can identify what still needs design or investigation before a detailed estimate.

Discuss your Palo Alto Eichler renovation

Tell us what works in your home, what does not, and what you want the renovation to achieve. Request a project consultation or visit our contact page to share your plans with GMJ Construction.

GMJ ConstructionExcellentGMJ Construction5.0★★★★★ Based on 38 reviews fromSee all reviews review us onJay HuhJay Huh ★★★★★ I'd like to start with a heartfelt thank you to Uriel, Joseph, Memo, Omar, Jaime, Lionel, and everyone on the team who worked on our home remodeling.After purchasing a 73-year-old Eichler home in Palo Alto, we chose GMJ to do the remodeling, and we are so happy with our decision.The house was very old, close to its original state when it was built in 1953, so we had to do a lot of work. As part of the kitchen and bathroom remodeling, we had to redo the wiring, plumbing, flooring, and painting everywhere. The GMJ team did everything right. We passed every single inspection with no correction comments from start to finish. We are so happy with the result. Everyone who has visited our house has asked who did the work, and I've already shared GMJ's contact info with many of my friends and neighbors.The project was done during the winter, when we expected some rainy days. Eichler homes don't have attic space, so running wires needs to be done over the roof, which requires at least two weeks without rain - otherwise we would have had to set up expensive scaffolding around the house. There was a tight window without rain in December. The team brought two full team of crews, finished everything on time, and the roofer (subcontracted) was able to close the roof before the next heavy rain.Memo and Uriel care deeply about the quality and final finishes of the whole house. They fixed or replaced some sub-optimal work that my subcontractor did. For example, Memo replaced the cheap wood frame that the garage door installer I hired had used with a proper high-quality frame. When the roof had a leak, Uriel came and covered it for us, which protected our house until the roofer came back two weeks later to fix it properly.When the project started, they provided four to six months as the estimated timeline, and it was finished in 5.5 months after the permit was issued. Delays are extremely common in construction, and given the scope of the work, it's quite amazing that they were able to meet the timeline they promised.We had a few communication gaps at the beginning of the project and once in the middle due to a scope change. Memo stepped up and proactively resolved the issues in a timely manner so that we could move on without further problems.I highly recommend the GMJ team for your project, especially if you have an Eichler home in the Bay Area. They know what they are doing. And they care.Jay H.Jay H. ★★★★★ I'd like to start with a heartfelt thank you to Uriel, Joseph, Memo, Omar, Jaime, Lionel, and everyone on the team who worked on our home remodeling.After...Gail OshimaGail Oshima ★★★★★ We hired GMJ Construction for a complete Eichler home renovation including the kitchen and bathrooms. Joseph was our project manager, and we worked closely with Memo and Uriel throughout the entire process. From day one, they handled everything from A to Z. Their knowledge of Eichler homes and mid century modern construction is outstanding. They understood the structure and the open layout that are unique to Eichler homes. The timeline was very well managed, and the workmanship was excellent. The crew was skilled, professional and respectful. We live in the San Mateo Highlands neighborhood which has many Eichler homes. We would absolutely recommend GMJ Construction to any neighbor looking to remodel an Eichler kitchen, bathroom or complete Eichler home renovation.Gail O.Gail O. ★★★★★ GMJ Construction completed a full Eichler home renovation for us, and we could not be happier with the results. Joseph, along with Memo and Uriel, guided us...Tejas BahulkarTejas Bahulkar ★★★★★ We recently worked with GMJ Construction on a complete Eichler home renovation, including a full remodel, a room addition, and a junior ADU, and we are beyond thrilled with the results. Joseph, Memo, and Uriel were amazing throughout the entire process professional, attentive, and committed to making sure everything came out exactly as planned.All of our bathrooms were fully renovated, the kitchen was transformed, and every detail followed the architectural plans and design perfectly. As owners of an Eichler home, it was important for us to find experienced Eichler general contractors, and GMJ Construction exceeded our expectations. They modernized our home while preserving the unique mid-century Eichler style.We highly recommend Joseph, Memo, Uriel, and the entire GMJ team to anyone in Sunnyvale, Palo Alto, San Mateo, or San Jose looking for trusted contractors for a kitchen remodel, room addition, complete home renovation, or ADU project.Thank you for turning our vision into a reality!Gaurav MalhotraGaurav Malhotra ★★★★★ We recently completed a full renovation of our Eichler home in Palo Alto with GMJ Construction, and we couldn’t be happier with the results. From the very beginning, Memo and Uriel were incredibly professional, responsive, and clearly experienced with the unique details and challenges that come with remodeling an Eichler. Our project involved a complete reconfiguration of the layout, a full kitchen remodel, bathroom renovations, new flooring throughout the house, fresh interior and exterior paint, and even some major structural changes. What really stood out to us was how GMJ respected the original mid-century modern Eichler design while still helping us modernize the space for functionality and comfort. They understood the importance of preserving the post-and-beam architecture, the open floor plan, and the indoor-outdoor feel that Eichlers are known for. The kitchen transformation was stunning and truly brought the heart of the home back to life. The bathrooms now feel clean, bright, and thoughtfully designed, and the new floors were installed with care to preserve our radiant heating system. GMJ Construction made the process smooth, and we always felt informed and supported throughout the project. If you’re looking to remodel or renovate your Eichler home in the Bay Area, we highly recommend working with GMJ Construction they really are experts when it comes to Eichler homes and mid-century modern renovations.Fred SchwalbachFred Schwalbach ★★★★★ We had an amazing experience working with GMJ Construction on our Eichler home renovation in Sunnyvale. Joseph, Uriel, and Memo were incredibly knowledgeable about Eichler homes and helped us design and build a stunning new kitchen and bathroom that perfectly blends modern upgrades with the mid-century aesthetic. Their attention to detail and expertise in Eichler construction made all the difference. If you’re looking for a team that truly understands Eichler home design and renovation, GMJ Construction is the best choice!Stephen ScordelisStephen Scordelis ★★★★★ GMJ Construction did a fantastic job remodeling my entire home, and I couldn’t be happier with the outcome. Joseph was instrumental in managing the project, keeping everything on schedule, and making sure all the details were handled properly. He even joined me in selecting materials for my kitchen and bathrooms, ensuring we made the right choices for both style and durability. Memo and the crew were hardworking and professional, always attentive to my requests. The remodel was completed on time and on budget, the final look of my home is absolutely stunning. I highly recommend GMJ Construction to anyone considering a remodel!Jessica L.Jessica L. ★★★★★ My experiences with GMJ Construction and more specifically my project manager, Joseph, were all great!! I had just bought my first home, a condo, and I was...Abby YAbby Y ★★★★★ When hiring a contractor for a job whether it is big or small is not easy specially when you want them to do the work properly with the right price to your satisfaction. We went through different contractors and decided to go with GMJ Construction.Joseph Malka was the project manager assigned to us. We are very happy to have him on board with our project together with Memo, Uriel, Ramin, Ofir, Omar, Sarah, Jaime, and the rest of the crews. They were very professional, easy to communicate, and Joseph always answer our concerns and questions every time he came to check on the work progress even on his busy schedule.The scope of the work includes replacing wood beams, wood sidings, front columns, new front stairs and landing, backyard cement patio and exterior paint.At one point the project was put on hold while waiting for the approval from the City. Joseph tries to keep the project going even with the delayed and the difficulties we encounter. GMJ crews understand and response to our concerns, issues that need to be address and they response in a timely manner until the project was completed. We are very satisfied with the work and its workmanship and the work crews keep the job site clean after they are done.Joseph even gave us recommendation for hvac and roofing company which we decide to work with. They were also very professional and the workmanships was very satisfactory. We greatly appreciate Joseph for the recommendation.So, in conclusion we are very happy with the results and will use them again in our future project and definitely recommend them.Abby Y.Abby Y. ★★★★★ When hiring a contractor for a job whether it is big or small is not easy specially when you want them to do the work properly with the right price to your...chiachinkuchiachinku ★★★★★ When we decided to remodel our whole house, we interviewed total 6 of contractors within 6 months. It was a time consuming and painful process because we didn’t want to make a wrong decision. From the sales presentation to physically visited their ongoing projects, Joseph from GMJ Construction impressed us the most. He explained to us the whole process and the owner, Memo, also provided the technical suggestions in details. We were convinced by their positive attitude and professional knowledge, we decided to hire them to be our contractor.The workers showed up on time, they always cleaned up the job site before they finished the day work. We met with Joseph, Uriel and Memo to review the progress and what to do next whenever we needed.GMJ Construction is very reasonable and flexible when working with us. They valued our feedback about their work, crews always asked me: “Are you happy with our work?” every time when I stopped by the job site. They took every comment we made seriously.Memo and Uriel perfectly managed the whole process, and they even finished the job ahead of the originally estimated time.We appreciate GMJ who kept their promise and provided us a wonderful “brand new” house. Many thanks to Memo, Uriel, Joseph and all crews involved in our project.Picking up a right and good contractor is not easy, sometimes you need some luck. We are happy to have GMJ as our contractor. We are highly recommended GMJ to our friends and whoever needs to do the remodel work.Sherro K.Sherro K. ★★★★★ When we decided to remodel our whole house, we interviewed total 6 of contractors within 6 months. It was a time consuming and painful process because we...Second Nature LimousineSecond Nature Limousine ★★★★★ We've been looking for a contractor from Palo Alto, CA for our bathrooms remodeling project for a while until we chose to go with GMJ Construction.We were very impressed with Joseph, our project manager, from the first meeting. He was very knowledgeable, professional and easy to talk to. We valued a lot the fact the hiring him meant he took care of all from A-Z, he referred us to the right showrooms and the right vendors and made sure we got the best price for the best materials so that we wouldn't have to spend time researching ourselves.We are very happy with how our bathrooms turned out (beautiful!) and couldn't have made a better decision than hiring GMJ Construction to do this project. The whole remodeling process went as smoothly as possible and we managed to stay within our budget. I highly recommend Joseph and will definitely hire him again for future work!Hr KawsarHr Kawsar ★★★★★ We contacted GMJ Construction to get an estimate on some considerable kitchen and bathroom remodeling we wanted to get done. Memo was able to check out the house on relatively short notice and spent a good amount of time walking through the project, giving me his thoughts, and taking measurements. He came off as super experienced and honest, even taking the time to give me his thoughts on other contractors' estimates. His estimate was very detailed and the pricing was fair compared to others in Saratoga.The experience with GMJ and Memo was a memorable and very positive one. We will most definitely be returning customers, as we have more home remodeling projects ahead.Sheyla M.Sheyla M. ★★★★★ I hired GMJ Construction to perform an almost total renovation of our kitchen and I couldn't be happier with the results and the timeline.I began the...Kenneth L.Kenneth L. ★★★★★ Memo and his huge team did a great job remodeling our house when we first bought it in 2020. We need to remodel the entire master bathroom including...js_loader

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Eichler courtyard garden beside floor-to-ceiling windows
Open Eichler bedroom and family space with exposed beams
Eichler bedroom with floor-to-ceiling glass
Eichler home remodeling service image