Introduction
The Eichler home is a classic mid-century modern style originating in California in the 1940s-1960s. Developer Joseph Eichler was inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright’s Usonian homes and wanted to make modernist design accessible to middle-class families. Eichlers feature an open floor plan, walls of glass opening to the outdoors, flat or low-sloped A-frame roofs, and sleek post-and-beam construction.
While the homes’ minimalist style was radical for the time, their kitchens were fairly standard. Now, Eichler owners are renovating the once-functional spaces into lighter, brighter cookspaces reflecting contemporary sensibilities. Preserving an Eichler’s character while upgrading for modern life is a balancing act. Owners want to honor the architecture while gaining more beauty and function.
We’ll explore an Eichler kitchen renovation in San Rafael, California. The homeowners restored original details while losing the dark look of the 1969 kitchen. Lighter cabinets, updated appliances, and a peninsula create a fresh, open feel suited to casual California living. This kitchen respects the Eichler aesthetic while better serving a young family’s needs.
Understanding the Eichler Kitchen
To renovate an Eichler kitchen thoughtfully, it helps to understand the original design. Here are some key features of vintage Eichler kitchens:
- Compact layouts: Eichler kitchens were modestly sized, averaging 8 feet x 10 feet. The kitchen was not the focal point of entertaining.
- Dark color schemes: Heavy wood cabinets in walnut or mahogany were standard. Counters and backsplashes were often dark brick, tile, or rock.
- Minimal storage: Base cabinets had just a few drawers and doors. Upper cabinets were shallow and sparse. Pantries were uncommon.
- One small sink: Eichlers had a single sink, usually stainless steel or porcelain enamel.
- ** Limited counter space:** Counters were not expansive, limiting food prep.
- Modest appliances: Kitchens featured basic electric ranges, refrigerators, and occasionally dishwashers.
- Indoor/outdoor connection: Glass doors opened to the patio, blurring indoor and outdoor living.
While practical for the postwar era, these kitchens lack features expected today like spacious workflows, storage, and updated appliances. But they have enduring mid-century appeal. The goal is upgrading function while preserving Eichler style.
Researching the Project
Homeowners should thoroughly research options before renovating an Eichler kitchen. Key steps include:
Study Original Features
- Note distinctive elements like wood paneled cabinets, brick or tile counters, and glass doors. Decide which to preserve.
Assess Usage Needs
- Consider how you use the kitchen now and how you want to in the future. This guides layout and storage changes.
Set a Budget
- Eichler kitchen overhauls can range from $30,000 to $100,000 or more. Set realistic spending parameters.
Explore Design Ideas
- Look at books, websites, or Houzz for inspiration on renovated Eichler kitchens. Identify styles you like.
Interview Contractors
- Talk to kitchen designers and contractors experienced with Eichlers. Ensure they understand the architecture.
Choose Materials Carefully
- Select materials that feel true to an Eichler like warm wood cabinetry or eco-friendly countertops.
Doing this upfront research results in a remodel true to the home’s spirit. It helps set priorities and a cohesive vision.
Designing an Updated Layout
One of the biggest Eichler kitchen challenges is poor layouts. Key upgrades to create better flow include:
Open Up Walls
- Removing walls around the kitchen visually expands the space. This benefits small Eichler kitchens.
Create Zones
- Design zones for prep, cooking, cleaning, dining. Ensure ample counters and storage for each.
Add a Peninsular Island
- A peninsula adds seating, storage and counters without eating floor space. It facilitates movement.
Improve Sink and Appliance Areas
- Have at least 28 inches around sinks and appliances. Add landings for counters next to appliances.
Install More Cabinets
- Use all possible wall space for floor-to-ceiling storage. Add drawers and specialty pull-outs.
Add Pantries
- Well-designed pantries hold food supplies and small appliances to remove kitchen clutter.
Widen Doorways
- Removing walls often allows enlarging doorways. This improves work triangles.
With an optimal layout, the kitchen becomes more spacious and seamlessly fits cooking, cleaning and casual dining.
Selecting Features That Balance Old and New
Here are some ways to blend original Eichler style with contemporary updates during renovations:
Use Transitional Cabinetry
- Mid-century modern cabinets with clean lines provide warmth without heavy traditional elements. Shaker or slab styles work well.
Choose Eco-Friendly Counters
- Green options like bamboo or Paperstone feel modern but have organic texture reminiscent of Eichler brick orconcrete counters.
Install Open Shelving
- Floating open shelves continue the Eichler indoor/outdoor connection. They display pretty dishes while saving upper cabinet space.
Backlight Cabinets
- Lit cabinets create a focal point reminiscent of Eichler clerestory windows. Lighting makes the space feel airier.
Use Pops of Color
- While Eichlers were muted, bold backsplashes or appliance colors add liveliness more suited to contemporary tastes.
Add Skylights
- Skylights carry over the expansive feel and natural light of Eichler homes. Opt for flat or gently sloped styles.
Choose Warm Finishes
- Eichler-appropriate finishes like natural wood or concrete echo mid-century roots in a fresh way.
Feature Connection to Nature
- Frame views of outdoor spaces. Use indoor/outdoor flooring materials. Add a green wall or indoor herb garden.
The right balance of nostalgic Eichler elements mixed with cleaner, brighter, contemporary features creates a comfortable, family-friendly kitchen perfect for modern living.
San Rafael Eichler Kitchen Renovation
This light-filled San Rafael Eichler kitchen renovation exemplifies how to update the space stylishly while honoring the home’s mid-century roots.
Original Details
The 1969 kitchen was in good structural condition with signature details intact, including wood paneled cabinetry, a brick backsplash, and atrium doors. The owners wanted to restore and highlight these elements while improving function.
Layout Changes
Strategic layout changes transformed the cramped galley into an open, indoor/outdoor great room:
- Removed walls enclosing the kitchen for sightlines to backyard.
- Added peninsula with seating and storage, delineating kitchen and dining zones.
- Gained counter space and storage with floor-to-ceiling cabinets.
- Installed a large farmhouse sink under window.
- Added sliding glass doors for access to side patio.
Design Choices
Thoughtful finishes bridged past and present:
- Salvaged original wood from one wall for cabinet fronts, preserving character.
- Paired wood cabinets with sleek white quartz counters and backsplash tile.
- Incorporated open shelving for dishes instead of upper cabinets.
- Used bamboo flooring for indoor/outdoor flow.
- Added a colorful retro range and coordinating metal hood.
- Installed recessed and undercabinet lighting.
Result
The remodeled kitchen suits a modern family, functions beautifully, and continues the Eichler spirit. It’s now the home’s brightest, airiest space filled with natural light – the heart of the home.
This project shows that renovating an Eichler kitchen to today’s standards doesn’t mean losing mid-century patina. The right changes make this iconic kitchen ideal for contemporary living.
Common Questions about Renovating Eichler Kitchens
If you are considering an Eichler kitchen remodel, here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
How much do Eichler kitchen renovations cost?
Costs vary widely based on scope from around $30,000 for cosmetic upgrades like lighting and sink to $120,000 for knocking down walls and full cabinetry replacement. Budget $50-100 per square foot.
Should I try to restore or replace original cabinets?
Old cabinets are not usually salvageable. Replacing lets you gain storage and customize look. But repurposing wood as this project did preserves character.
How can I add more storage?
Use all available wall space with floor-to-ceiling shelving and cabinets. Add specialty pull-outs in lower cabinets and pantries. An island provides more storage.
What are the best materials to keep an Eichler kitchen’s character?
Warm woods, concrete or stone counters, glass tile, and eco-friendly materials work well. Keep lines clean but avoid stark white and metal for a contemporary feel.
How can I make my small Eichler kitchen feel bigger?
Removing walls, adding a peninsula, large mirrors, open shelving, pendant lights, and glass cabinet doors maximize space. So do lighter colors and durability finishes.
Should I aim for a fully open floor plan?
It depends on your needs. Many preserve at least partial walls to allow separation from living areas while opening sightlines. But you can knock down walls fully for a great room.
How do I find an architect experienced with renovating Eichlers?
Look for recommendations from other Eichler owners, the Eichler Network, or local home tours. You want someone well-versed in mid-century homes.
Where can I find inspiration for remodeling an Eichler kitchen?
Houzz, Dwell, and the Eichler Network showcase nicely renovated Eichler kitchens. Retro Renovation and Darryl Carter offer ideas for mixing eras.
What are the best lighting strategies?
Recessed ceiling lights give overall illumination. Undercabinet lights boost task lighting. Pendants over islands add style. Indirect lighting casts a calming glow.
How can I add color and texture?
Colorful or patterned backsplash tile, bright appliances like retro SMEG ranges, and eco-friendly textured counters let you introduce varied hues and materials.
Final Thoughts
Renovating an Eichler kitchen while staying true to its mid-century roots takes careful planning and inspired design choices. Study how original Eichler kitchens functioned. Evaluate your family’s needs today. Research ideas but also speak to experts. Get creative mixing old and new elements like warm woods with sleek glass backsplashes or concrete counters with pops of chartreuse. Take time to find the right balance between preserving patina and gaining modern convenience so this iconic kitchen endures for future generations. With the right approach, you can have a light-filled, highly functional kitchen that respects your Eichler home’s spirit.
