Design with Purpose: How Loczi Design Helped Transform Lives in San Rafael
At Loczi Design, we believe great interiors do more than look beautiful—they tell stories, restore dignity, and create belonging. That’s why when Make It Home reached out to help furnish apartments for Eden Housing’s transformative San Rafael project, we didn’t hesitate. This wasn’t just a design challenge; it was a chance to change lives.
The Project
Eden Housing took a vacant office building in San Rafael—thoughtfully redesigned by VMWP Architects as part of their adaptive reuse initiative—and reimagined it as 42 apartment homes for individuals rebuilding their lives after tragedy. Partnering with Make It Home (a nonprofit that upcycles furniture for meaningful causes), the goal was to create more than just housing—they wanted true homes. When the call went out to Bay Area interior designers, we knew we had to be part of it.
Our Role: Designing with Heart
We adopted two units—a studio and a one-bedroom—with one goal: To make the residents feel safe and warm. But most importantly, give them hope. After a site walkthrough, we stopped at Make It Home’s warehouse where we sifted through donated furniture, hunting for pieces that whispered “welcome home.” A plush armchair here (I really had to fight for that one), a bistro dining table there—each selection was intentional. We layered in soft textiles, warm lighting, and subtle artwork, because everyone deserves a space that feels like a hug at the end of a long day.
Installation Day: Where Magic Happened
On installation day, our team (Catrina, Diana, Erik, and Eva) worked like a well-oiled machine—assembling, styling, and stepping back to admire the magic. The blank-walled units slowly bloomed into homes. One of my favorite moments? Watching the afternoon light flood through the windows (kudos to VMWP’s thoughtful redesign) and land on the living room sofa we’d styled, imagining someone unwinding there after a long day. (Cue all the feels.)
The Real Impact
The best part came later: hearing from our partners, who said the new homes gave the residents hope. Goal accomplished! That’s the power of design—from the architectural bones to the final furnishings, every detail matters! I can’t stress that enough, and this project reminded us why we do what we do. As designers, we’re not just arranging furniture; we’re helping write someone’s next chapter.
How You Can Help
Want to get involved? Here’s how:
Donate gently used furniture to Make It Home.
Volunteer or support Eden Housing.
Designers/Architects: Let’s team up on the next project—because change happens when we work together.
Say YES when asked!
Final Thoughts
Huge thanks to Make It Home, Eden Housing, and VMWP Architects for letting us be part of this journey. We’re already dreaming up ways to do more. Because at Loczi Design, we’ll always say “yes” to projects that blend creativity with compassion.
