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Midcentury kitchen design is iconic. It boasts clean lines, great woodgrains and an unrivaled attention to functionality. Here, we break down all the details that went into the renovation of a Joseph Eichler-built home in Northern California. The kitchen had long lost its midcentury charm—replaced by traditional cabinetry and non-period fixtures. Enter Karen Nepacena of Destination Eichler and the rest is history.
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Type of Home: 1962 ranch
Builder / Developer: Joseph Eichler
Background: Prior to the renovation the kitchen was functional, but it had been updated by the previous owners with a more traditional, non-midcentury design aesthetic.
Innovative Idea: A drawer-style microwave installed in the kitchen island keeps the everyday appliance easily accessible without sacrificing the space’s clean lines.
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Design Must Haves:
- Vibrant tile design
- Walnut cabinetry
- Improved functionality and flow
What Makes it Midcentury?
- Original tongue-and-groove ceiling and beams
- Light countertops
- Functional design
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In original Eichler floor plans, a multi purpose room was typically adjacent to the kitchen. Since a previous owner’s addition provides the current homeowners with ample living and dining space, they opted for a built-in bar area.
“While Eichler floor plans didn’t include built-in bars, other Midcentury Modern homes often did feature these dedicated ‘nooks.’ I was inspired by the Palm Springs vibe and wanted to create a unique space for cocktail creation entertaining, as well as added display and storage—hence the inclusion of mirrored glass and floating shelves,” says Karen.
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Sarah Jane Stone
Sarah Jane Stone is a contributor to Atomic Ranch and its former editor. She has a deeply held passion for all things vintage, a weak spot for handmade pottery and loves wearing neutrals for their chic simplicity. She is endlessly restyling her coffee table and, along with her husband, is on a lifelong hunt for the next best cup of...
