Despite being located on top of a hillside with views of Mount Diablo, the original house on this Orinda site did not take advantage of its bounty.

“While it had an interesting plan organization, it suffered from very low ceilings and eaves (6’-4”) that effectively blocked almost all views and created dark and uninviting interior spaces,” say the architects at Swatt | Miers Architects, who were responsible for the transformation. They took the house down to the foundation and created a new home on the footprint, weaving in lots of glass to better access the outstanding views and natural light.

Before: The Exterior

After: The Exterior

Before: The Entry

After: The Entry

Before: The Front Stairs

After: The Front Stairs

Before: Living and Dining Room

After: The Living and Dining Room

Shop the Look

Before: Kitchen and Family Room

After: The Kitchen and Family Room

More Before & After:

A Michigan Couple Turn a School Bus Into an Adventure Mobile

A Traditional Facade Hides a Dream Home With Emerald Green Accents

An Architect Couple Expand a Coveted Eichler For a Growing Family

Project Credits:

Architecture: Swatt | Miers Architects / @swattmiers

Builder: W.B. Elmer

Structural Engineer: Yu Structural Engineering

Landscape Design: Huettl Landscape Architecture

Interior Design: Swatt | Miers Architects

Cabinetry: Rivendell Woodworks

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Before & After: A Stuffy Bay Area Midcentury Opens Up to Light and Hillside Views