A Complete Transformation: From Dated Ranch to Modern California Living

Tradehaus reimagined a tired mid-century ranch home in Los Gatos, CA. The homeowners wanted to preserve the charm of their property while modernizing every detail, inside and out. This project became a complete gut renovation, delivering a bright, functional, and timeless home perfectly tailored to California family living.

The Challenge

• Outdated finishes: green carpeting, linoleum flooring, and heavy wood accents.

• Poor layout: closed-off rooms with minimal natural flow between spaces.

• Lack of curb appeal: worn and uninspiring façade and landscaping.

• Client goal: maximize natural light, open the floor plan, and create a cohesive style blending modern design with everyday functionality.

The Approach

Every remodel as an opportunity to merge design intent with construction expertise. For this project, we executed a top-to-bottom transformation:

Interior Upgrades

• Layout & Flow: Expanded from 1,980 to 3,000 sq. ft., adding a fourth bedroom and third full bathroom.

• Flooring: Installed wide-plank oak throughout for warmth and continuity.

• Kitchen: Designed a chef's kitchen featuring a marble waterfall island, custom wood cabinetry, brass hardware, and professional-grade appliances.

• Living Room: Added architectural arches, custom built-ins, and a reimagined fireplace wall as a focal point.

• Lighting: Upgraded to recessed and statement fixtures that balance function with ambiance.

• Finishes: Layered natural materials and neutral tones for a timeless palette.

Exterior Transformation

• Facade: Updated with smooth stucco, modern black windows, and a custom arched wood entry door.

• Landscaping: Invested $100k in drought-tolerant, low-maintenance xeriscaping in both front and back yards.

• Curb Appeal: Elevated the home's presence with a symmetrical front walkway and terraced garden beds.

The Results

We achieved a light-filled, open-concept home blending modern Mediterranean inspiration with California comfort.

Key highlights include:

• A showpiece kitchen with a functional island perfect for family and entertaining.

• A living room with character — vaulted ceilings, custom arches, and built-in shelving.

• An inviting exterior that feels fresh, elegant, and welcoming.

[Before & After Gallery]

• Entryway: green carpet → wide-plank wood floors & clean lines.

• Kitchen: dated linoleum → marble island, custom cabinetry, and modern lighting.

• Living Room: low ceilings → vaulted ceiling with recessed lighting and architectural arches.

• Exterior: old ranch → modern, arched entry with high-contrast finishes and landscaping.

The Financial Impact

This remodel was not just about aesthetics — it was a strategic investment in the property's long-term value:

• Purchase Price (2020): $2.3 million

• Remodel Investment: $850k interior + $100k landscaping = $950k total

• Market Value (2025): ~$4.5 million

• Built-in Equity: +$1.25 million increase in property value

This project demonstrates how renovation can unlock wealth:

• At 70% Loan-to-Value (LTV), the homeowners could borrow up to $3.15 million against the home.

• A Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) could make $2 million available for future investments, business ventures, or other needs.