With a desire to have a fresh updated living space for their 4,000-square-foot private residence in San Jose, CA, which also met the needs of their family’s evolving lifestyle, the homeowners sought the expertise of Sugimura Finney Architects (SFA), an architecture firm based in Campbell, CA. Completed in 2010, the remodel included an entire renovation and upgrade of the kitchen, family room, entry, master bath and outdoor patio — all within the existing building plan. A mix of materials, including a variety of natural stone and quartz surfacing, were incorporated into the design and contributed to the overall new look of the home.

“The home was no longer in keeping with the family’s lifestyle and was badly in need of a more current design style, technology and energy efficiency,” explained Gene Sugimura, Senior Principal at SFA. “The overall objective was to create more open, inviting spaces, and to provide better interior circulation with increased natural lighting opportunities and energy efficiency. The use of more sustainable and recyclable materials was accomplished by using Caesarstone countertops — made from quartz, which is one of nature’s strongest materials; Bamboo flooring throughout — gracefully tying in all spaces; and the use of natural quarry stone in the new prominent front entry, which was carried into the living room fireplace for more materials continuity.”

In the kitchen, Caesarstone quartz surfacing from Caesarstone Quartz Surfaces in Van Nuys, CA, covers the perimeter countertops as well as a large center island. “Caesarstone was chosen for its durable and non-porous nature,” said Sugimura. “It resists heat and stains as well.”

The sleek look of the quartz countertops — paired with stainless steel appliances and rich wood cabinetry — further add to the contemporary vibe of the kitchen. Additionally, a backsplash consisting of 2- x 2-inch Vetrissimo glass tiles with a mosaic glass tile accent band brings another level of sophistication to the space. The sparkle of the light green-colored glass tiles adds a splash of color and completes the overall look of the room design.

For the remodel of the master bath, two varieties of limestone were chosen. While the walls, floor and shower feature Moca Crème limestone, the vanity top was fabricated from Jerusalem Mink limestone. Both materials were given a honed finish and were sealed.

“The materials were chosen for their great aesthetics and durability,” explained Sugimura. “They also have kept ‘current’ over the years.”

The golden tones of the limestone create a warm and elegant atmosphere in the master bath. Moreover, floor-to-ceiling glass shower walls and a large soaking tub further contribute to the modern and luxurious feel of the space.

According to the architect, the homeowners were actively involved in the selection process. “They reviewed all materials proposed and approved them,” he said. “Displays were also visited for final confirmation, and they selected some of the materials, like windows and stonework.”

In addition to the stonework, the home renovation included reworking the ceiling to provide better insulation under the roof with a more efficient HVAC ducts system throughout the house — allowing for a greater energy-savings environment that retains heat in the winter months and minimizes heat gain in the summer. Also, all newly-installed exterior windows have “duo-pane” insulating systems to maximize energy efficiency, and the new lighting throughout is all low energy consuming.

The total remodel was completed in eight months, and the homeowners couldn’t be more pleased, said Sugimura. “Their reaction has been great,” he said. “[The new design] works well for the family and for entertaining.”            

 

Private Residence

San Jose, CA Architect: Sugimura Finney Architects (SFA), Campbell, CA Quartz Surfacing Manufacturer: Caesarstone Quartz Surfacing, Van Nuys, CA