Ogawa Fisher Architects

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This home’s garden was envisioned as a central organizing element, with wide, low-slung decks (inspired by the Japanese “engawa,” or elevated walkway)

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This 1940’s ranch felt narrow and disconnected. It now opens to a central courtyard, connecting all rooms to outdoor space.

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To preserve the home’s midcentury character, original tongue-and-groove ceiling and wood beams were revealed and restored.

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Natural light filters through skylights, animating the meticulous board-formed concrete and warm cedar over a custom, central stair.

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A subterranean workshop, complete with car lift, supports hands-on design and creative experimentation at home.

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The renovation of this Redwood City Ranch adds 330 sf to the kitchen and features a vaulted ceiling with skylights.

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An interior courtyard and Japanese garden were the jumping-off point and inspiration for this Mid-Century makeover in Los Altos, CA.

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A restored midcentury façade, refreshed with modern detailing, honors the home’s Eichler roots and family-centered layout.

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A private courtyard and great room merge indoor-outdoor living through layered volumes, warm materials, and ambient light.

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The project responds to evolving needs, focusing on generational living, flexibility, and a vibrant use of color.

Ogawa Fisher Architects designs homes that are timeless and joyful, tailored to the unique needs and aspirations of our remarkable clients. With over two decades of experience in the Bay Area, we bring a modern design sensibility to a range of residential projects, including new, ground-up homes, and a deep expertise in reimagining and modernizing mid-century California ranch homes. This vernacular, deeply rooted in the Peninsula’s architectural landscape, offers generous light and strong connections to the outdoors — qualities we thoughtfully preserve and enhance through renovation when possible.

Our personalized, collaborative process, which includes full architectural and interior design services, means you can wholeheartedly enjoy the experience. Our process begins with listening. We get to know each client’s goals, communication style, and priorities, building a collaborative relationship that supports both creativity and clarity. From first sketches to move-in day, we guide the process with attention to detail and warmth.

We approach each home holistically, considering natural light, indoor-outdoor flow, spatial relationships, and long-term flexibility, while navigating the complexities of site conditions and local approvals. Our work is defined by a clean, modern aesthetic that remains grounded in function, livability, and beauty.

Wherever possible, we integrate green building principles and passive home strategies to ensure our homes are as resilient as they are enduring.

Address:

715 Colorado Avenue Suite D

Palo Alto, CA 94303

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