A growing family of five purchased their first home in Daly City's Westlake neighborhood. After a significant flood damaged the lower level, EJL Atelier was engaged to convert an unpermitted family room into a new primary bedroom suite.

The clients wanted the design to reflect their Japanese heritage while creating a stronger connection between the home and the backyard. A custom built-in seating platform adjacent to new French doors creates a transitional space between the interior and landscape, inspired by the traditional Japanese concept of the engawa.

Given the compact footprint, every square foot was carefully considered. The bathroom was designed with a separate toilet room and bathing area, allowing it to function both as a private primary bathroom and as a guest bathroom when entertaining. Natural materials, warm wood tones, and simple detailing were used throughout to create a calm and restorative retreat.

The completed suite transforms a previously underutilized space into a light-filled sanctuary that supports the needs of a growing family while strengthening the connection between home, garden, and daily life.