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The electric range and stove hood are both by Wolf, with a Subzero refrigerator and Cove dishwasher. The Franke sink has a DornBracht faucet and Muuto pendant overhead. The island light is by Lambert & Fils.

Architect William E. Meyer designed the 1937 home, which has recently been updated with white oak floors, fresh tile, and floor-to-ceiling sliders.

BEFORE: A cramped workspace in the kitchen.

Floor Plan of Redwood Residence by Cover Architecture

The 1954 home was expanded before the City of Long Beach barred upper-level expansions in the Rancho Estates tract.

Floor Plan of Theresa Passive House by Forge Craft Architecture and Design

“We use one of the walls in the great room as a screen for the projector. There are no screens in the house,” says Nathaniel. “There is a TV in the primary bedroom but it's hidden away in a credenza. I just find those things to be a distraction, but they are enjoyable when it's the right time.”

Madison points out that the pod concept would make it easy to add an extension if necessary. “We see it as a house that can grow with us—and that we can pay for as we go along.”

Townhouse Renovation in Cobble Hill floor plan

Karen White, David MacNaughtan, and their sons, Griffin and Finlay, hang out on the front deck, which lines up next to the neighbors' porch.