Palo Alto Home Renovation and Expansion
When a young family in Palo Alto purchased their first home, they saw potential but knew it needed to meet their daily needs. They wanted more space for their growing son, a home that reflected their style, and interiors that felt clean, warm, and highly functional. At the same time, the design had to navigate Palo Alto’s planning approvals and building permit process efficiently
Client
Sato Residence
Year
2025
The Challenge
The homeowners’ single-story home offered charm but limited living space and functionality. They sought a redesign and enlargement that would
Add functional living areas without overwhelming the neighborhood
Maintain a single-story layout for accessibility and smooth flow
Integrate wood accents inside and out to create warmth within a clean, minimalist aesthetic
Move efficiently through Palo Alto’s planning approval and building permit process
Like many Palo Alto homeowners, they were concerned about city review delays, design restrictions, and keeping the project aligned with their family lifestyle throughout.
The Result
The renovated single-story home now offers expanded, light-filled living spaces, flexible rooms for family life, and a cohesive design that balances clean modern interiors with the warmth of wood accents.
From the street, the home blends naturally into the Palo Alto neighborhood while clearly reflecting the family’s taste for simplicity and efficiency. Inside, the family enjoys a functional, inviting environment designed to support everyday life and long-term growth.
From planning approval to the final interior touches, having a team who knows the rules and your goals means fewer surprises, more clarity, and a home you actually love living in every day.
Designing a home in Palo Alto isn’t just about style - it’s about making every square foot work for your life while keeping the city happy. When you get it right from the start, the whole process feels effortless.
Designing Homes That Work in Palo Alto
Prestin Ravid Architects specializes in renovations, additions, and new homes throughout Palo Alto and the greater South Bay and Peninsula. Our designs focus on practical, high-quality solutions that balance clean, efficient aesthetics with the realities of zoning, permitting, and construction.
For homeowners seeking a home that is both functional and beautiful, our approach ensures a clear process, fewer surprises, and a result you’ll love living in every day.