Struckman, architect, modernized historic home in San Rafael, CA
Architect Cord Struckmann considered the original design intent, as well as contemporary aesthetics and durability, before remodeling his home with Italian tile
Perched high on the hillside of San Rafael, CA, Case Study House #26 was the first of its kind in the San Francisco Bay area. Designed by architect Beverley David Thorne in 1963, it was an experimental project to build a steel-framed house on a steeply sloping site and to demonstrate how to construct it without tearing up the natural terrain in the way usually required by conventional building. In 2015, the historic home was purchased by architect, Cord Struckmann, who undertook a thoughtful remodel that included replacing the floor finishes in the common areas. He ultimately decided large-format tiles would fit the style of the house, while providing sustainability.
“Previously covered with carpet and vinyl tile, the project required the careful selection of a durable material that could also maintain the home’s design integrity,” he said. “This led to the selection of the Concrete line, [by Italian tile manufacturer Gigacer], which matched the mid-century modern aesthetic of the house. The minimalist large-format tiles provide the appropriate background to the modernist interiors, unifying the common areas and elevating the role of the floor in the space.”