JAWA Case Studies
We’re always happy to speak in more detail about any of the projects in our portfolio and can connect prospective clients with past and current homeowners who can share their experience working with JAWA Builders. Our team takes pride in delivering thoughtful design, careful execution, and a collaborative process that keeps clients informed and supported from start to finish.
Below you’ll find details and before and after photos from three projects featured on our portfolio map: Steiner 2, Pierce 1, and Tahoe. Each project reflects a different type of renovation, from targeted functional upgrades to broader transformations that breathe new life into a home while supporting the way our clients want to live in their spaces.
Scroll down to learn more.
Steiner 2 - “Phase One” Renovation
Neighborhood: Cow Hollow
Project Elements: Bedroom, Kitchen, Garage
Architect: Takami Group
About the Project:
This Cow Hollow renovation was all about tailoring a home to suit a couple’s lifestyle and aesthetics. While the home had good bones, they felt the existing lighting and kitchen layout wasn’t functional or stylish. We kept updates simple but impactful. The kitchen gained a peninsula, improving function and flow. New cabinet hardware, lighting, and a full appliance suite gave the kitchen a fresh, cohesive look and improved usability.
Upstairs, we tackled a massive 500-square-foot space. We thoughtfully divided it into a cozy nursery and a guest bedroom, adding an operable skylight for natural light and a unique touch.
The couple’s goldendoodle also needed attention. We integrated a dog wash station in the garage, along with a new washer and dryer setup, making pet care and laundry more efficient. The result is a home that not only functions better for the couple but feels uniquely theirs.
See more before / after photos below!
AFTER - Steiner 2 Kitchen Peninsula
BEFORE - Steiner 2 Kitchen Peninsula
AFTER - Steiner 2 Kitchen
BEFORE - Steiner 2 Kitchen
AFTER - Steiner 2 Nursery Addition
AFTER - Steiner 2 Nursery Addition
BEFORE - Steiner 2 Nursery Addition
AFTER - Steiner 2 Garage
Pierce 1 - Expanding Function and Comfort
Neighborhood: Marina
Project Elements: Bedroom, Bathroom, Kitchen
Architect: Takami Group
About the Project:
Located in San Francisco’s Marina neighborhood, this residential renovation focused on improving both functionality and livability through a thoughtful reconfiguration of the home’s layout. The project centered on upgrades to the bedroom suite, kitchen, and bathrooms.
A key priority was adding a full bathroom while expanding and modernizing the kitchen. Through a careful redesign of the floor plan, the team was able to unlock underutilized space and create a layout that better supports daily living and entertaining. The new configuration also allowed for the creation of a true primary en suite, giving the homeowner a more private and comfortable retreat within the home.
Beyond structural improvements, the project included a collaborative finish selection process. Together with the homeowner, we refreshed the existing powder bath and bathroom with updated materials and fixtures that complemented the home’s overall aesthetic while elevating durability and function.
The success of the renovation led to an unexpected next chapter. When the remaining unit in the building became available, the homeowner purchased it and again enlisted JAWA to assist with design upgrades. The new work included improvements to both the unit and its affiliated in-law space, enabling the property to be successfully rented and generate income while longer term plans for expansion and redevelopment take shape.
See more before / after photos below!
AFTER - Pierce 1 Kitchen
AFTER - Pierce 1 Kitchen
AFTER - Pierce 1 Kitchen
BEFORE - Pierce 1 Kitchen
BEFORE - Pierce 1 Kitchen
AFTER - Pierce 1 Primary Bath
BEFORE - Pierce 1 Primary Bath
AFTER - Pierce 1 Guest Bath
BEFORE - Pierce 1 Guest Bath
Tahoe - 1948 Update
Neighborhood: Lake Tahoe
Project Elements: Kitchen, Primary Suite, Bathrooms
About the Project:
This Lake Tahoe cabin renovation began with a thoughtful approach: live in the home first, then decide what larger investments might come later. The family purchased the property knowing it had great character. Originally built in 1948, the cabin had only been remodeled once since then and still reflected many of its original finishes and systems.
Before pursuing a major redevelopment, the owners wanted to refresh the home so they could comfortably spend time there and better understand how they wanted to use the space long term. We started with a series of essential maintenance improvements, including replacing the aging wood burning stove, painting every room, installing new flooring throughout the home, and reinforcing doors and windows to improve durability and energy performance in the mountain climate.
Alongside these foundational updates, we completed more substantial renovations in the kitchen, bathrooms, and primary suite, bringing new life to the home while preserving its relaxed cabin character.
The result is a warm, refreshed mountain retreat that works beautifully for the family today. When they are not enjoying the home themselves, the cabin is also available for rent and has become a welcoming getaway for happy vacationers visiting Lake Tahoe.
See more before / after photos below!
AFTER - Tahoe Kitchen
BEFORE - Tahoe Kitchen
AFTER - Tahoe Dining
BEFORE - Tahoe Dining
AFTER - Tahoe Bath
BEFORE - Tahoe Bath
AFTER - Tahoe Primary
BEFORE - Tahoe Primary