To convert the undersized and compartmentalized middle level of their 1950's Castro Valley home into a greatroom suitable for day to day living and large social gatherings, the architect developed a design motif that was indigenous to the area and reflected a historical connection to the homeowners. Since the clients wished for this new greatroom to welcome home their extended family and friends into a spacious and warm gathering area, a California Indian motif called "flying geese" was chosen to symbolically reflect this. This would be used in tile patterns,lamp designs, stucco reliefs, wood trim and cut-outs and stained glass.

The California Indian designs help to make the "new" seem right for its place. The douglas fir wood beam structure is accented by redwood rafter extensions. The two native woods used for the best of their qualities: one for its strength and the other for its durability to the outside elements.

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