Mid Century Modern Remodeling in Marlen Grove – Ralph Haver Homes Reimagined
Rediscovering the Magic of Marlen Grove
Marlen Grove is more than a neighborhood—it’s a landmark in Phoenix’s architectural history. Built in the early 1950s by iconic Arizona architect Ralph Haver, this tight-knit enclave north of Indian School Road still feels like a well-kept design secret. The homes here speak to a distinct mid-century aesthetic: honest materials, clean lines, and purpose-driven simplicity.
At Homework Remodels, we’ve made it our mission to help homeowners in Marlen Grove modernize with intention. Through our specialized Mid-Century Modernization process, we restore, renovate, and reimagine Haver-designed homes with deep respect for their past—and smart updates for the future.
Ralph Haver’s Lasting Legacy in Marlen Grove
Ralph Haver was a visionary who brought modernism to the masses. His designs favored accessibility, livability, and understated elegance—principles that still resonate with today’s homeowners. In Marlen Grove, Haver homes display:
- Low-pitched gable roofs with extended eaves for desert shade
- Post-and-beam construction allowing for open interiors
- Sandblasted block or slump stone exteriors
- Clerestory and corner windows for filtered natural light
- Integrated carports and covered entries
- Simple layouts that promote efficient living
These homes were groundbreaking when built—and remain highly sought-after by homeowners who appreciate form, function, and architectural continuity. But as lifestyles and technologies have changed, most Marlen Grove homes need thoughtful upgrades to meet current expectations.
Why Mid-Century Modernization Matters
We coined the term Mid-Century Modernization to describe our approach to remodeling homes like those in Marlen Grove. Unlike standard renovations, this process balances preservation with purposeful progress.
“Mid-Century Modernizing is about honoring the past while building for the next generation—preserving the architectural soul of the home while elevating comfort, function, and flow.”
Common goals include:
- Opening floorplans to improve interaction and light
- Creating larger kitchens for modern appliances and social use
- Adding or expanding bathrooms with better storage and accessibility
- Upgrading building systems (HVAC, plumbing, electrical) for safety and performance
- Improving energy efficiency with new windows, insulation, and ventilation
- Building sensitive additions that extend space while maintaining curb appeal and rooflines
With every Marlen Grove remodel, we ask: How can we preserve the charm and authenticity while making the home better suited for the way you live today?
Featured Remodel: HGTV & Modern Phoenix Recognition
One of our proudest remodels in Marlen Grove earned national recognition on HGTV’s “Bang for Your Buck” and was highlighted by ModernPhoenix.net, the region’s most respected authority on mid-century architecture.
This home featured:
- A carefully reimagined kitchen, opened to adjacent living areas
- Custom walnut cabinetry with flat fronts and soft-close hardware
- Period-appropriate finishes, from backsplash to flooring
- Preserved tongue-and-groove ceilings and exposed beams
- Thoughtful upgrades that enhanced livability without losing style
▶️ View Our HGTV-Featured Marlen Grove Remodel »
This project embodies our remodeling philosophy: respect the architecture, solve the problems, and create a home that lives beautifully for years to come.
Our Design-Build Approach
Remodeling a mid-century modern home is a delicate dance. You’re not just improving a structure—you’re conserving its story.
That’s why we use a design-build process tailored to historic and architecturally significant homes. With Homework Remodels, you’ll never feel caught between a designer’s vision and a builder’s execution—we handle both in-house, under one roof.
Benefits include:
- One team accountable from concept to completion
- Seamless communication and fewer handoffs
- A clear process that balances budget, vision, and logistics
- Specialized knowledge of Haver framing, materials, and structural methods
▶️ Learn About Our Process ›
Our Remodeling Services in Marlen Grove
- Kitchen Remodeling
Many Haver kitchens were compact and enclosed, designed for a time when the kitchen was a behind-the-scenes space. Today’s homeowners want kitchens that are social, open, and functional.
Our kitchen remodels include:
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- Open-concept layouts with engineered wall removal
- Custom slab cabinetry in MCM-friendly wood tones
- Islands with waterfall edges and built-in seating
- Quartz, terrazzo-look, or butcher block countertops
- Integrated lighting to accent ceilings, beams, and prep areas
- Mid-century inspired hardware and fixtures
▶️ Explore Kitchen Remodeling ›
- Bathroom Renovations
Original bathrooms in Marlen Grove were minimal and often lacked proper lighting or ventilation. We design elegant solutions that fit both the space and the style.
Features include:
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- Floating vanities with integrated lighting
- Large format tile in geometric or terrazzo patterns
- Walk-in curbless showers with frameless glass
- Natural light enhancements like skylights or clerestory additions
- Universal design upgrades for long-term comfort
▶️ Explore Bathroom Remodeling ›
- Open Concept Layouts & Structural Updates
Many homeowners seek to open up their Haver homes without compromising architectural elements like beams or ceiling features. We specialize in:
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- Removing load-bearing walls with engineered beam solutions
- Exposing original roof framing or matching it where needed
- Improving sightlines from kitchen to living spaces
- Zoning rooms naturally with lighting, flooring, or cabinetry
- Maintaining flow to outdoor patios and backyards
▶️ Learn About Open Concept Remodeling ›
▶️ Removing Load-Bearing Walls ›
- Casitas & ADUs
Marlen Grove lots are often large enough to support discreet additions that blend into the home’s original massing. These include:
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- Detached studios, guest houses, or casitas
- ADUs for family members, caregivers, or rentals
- Office or gym space with consistent materials and scale
- Conversions of existing carports or garages into livable space
▶️ Explore Casita & Guest House Additions ›
Why Marlen Grove Homeowners Choose Us
- 🏆 National and local recognition (HGTV, NARI, Modern Phoenix)
- 📍 Deep roots in Phoenix’s historic neighborhoods
- 🛠️ NARI Master Certified Remodeler & Universal Design Certified Professional
- 🤝 Transparent communication and preservation-first ethics
- 🧠 In-house team that understands Haver homes inside and out
▶️ Why Choose Homework Remodels ›
▶️ See Client Reviews ›
Start Your Mid-Century Modernization in Marlen Grove
Whether you want to rework your floorplan, open your kitchen, expand your bathroom, or build a new casita, we’re here to help. You bring the vision—we’ll bring the craftsmanship and care.