Eichler Homes BlogRecently posted or modified blog posts in the category - Mid-Century + Modern Architecturehttps://www.eichlerforsale.com/blog/Copyright EichlerForSale.com2023-10-23T12:57:37-07:00tag:eichlerforsale.com,2012-09-20:30932The Visionary Architects Behind Midcentury Modern Eichler Homes<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1335/image/eichler_architects.jpg" width="1498" height="948" alt="eichler architects" title="architects involved in designing eichler homes" />
The midcentury modern movement has left an indelible mark on the architectural landscape of America. Among the icons of this era, Eichler Homes stand out as masterpieces of post-war design. The minds behind these gems were a group of forward-thinking architects, backed by a developer with a clear vision for modern living for the masses. In this blog post, we'll highlight the architects behind Eichler Homes and also highlight some of the guiding principles behind their timeless designs.
Joseph Eichler: The Visionary Developer
Before delving into the architects, it's essential to highlight the man who provided them with the canvas to paint their architectural masterpieces—<a href="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/joseph-eichler/" title="joseph eichler">Joseph Eichler.</a> Inspired by the modernist principles he experienced in a Frank Lloyd Wright-designed home, Eichler sought to bring contemporary design to the masses. His vision was simple yet transformative: to provide affordable, stylish, and modern homes for the average American family.
Eichler Architects and their Architectural Firms
Architects involved in the design of Eichler Homes included A. Quincy Jones and Frederick Emmon (Jones + Emmons), Robert Anshen and Steven Allen (Anshen + Allen), Claude Oakland and Raphael Soriano:
A. Quincy Jones & Frederick Emmons - Jones & Emmons
A. Quincy Jones and Frederick Emmons were the first architectural minds engaged by Eichler. The duo from the architectural firm Jones & Emmons brought a modernist aesthetic and design integrity to the Eichler projects. Their clean lines, open floor plans, and integration of indoor-outdoor living set the stage for the Eichler design ethos.
ROBERT ANSHEN and STEVEN ALLEN - ANSHEN + ALLEN
Perhaps the most recognized among the Eichler architects, Robert Anshen and Steven Allen of Anshen + Allen significantly influenced the Eichler design language. Their homes were characterized by innovative use of materials, post and beam construction, and large expanses of glass connecting inhabitants with nature.
CLAUDE OAKLAND - Claude Oakland Architect
After working for Anshen + Allen, Claude Oakland started his own firm and continued the Eichler legacy with his designs. Oakland added his distinct touches, refining and evolving the design principles already established. His Eichlers often incorporated atriums, providing a private oasis of outdoor space within the home.
RAPHAEL SORIANO - Raphael Soriano Architect
In 1953, architect Raphael Soriano relocated to the San Francisco Bay Area. Here, he collaborated with Joseph Eichler, designing housing that aligned with Eichler's modernist vision. During this period, Soriano also began to innovate, experimenting with the use of metal (specifically modular prefabricated steel and aluminum) in residential construction.
Guiding Principles Behind Eichler Designs
While Joseph Eichler utilzied a variety of architects to bring his vision to life, they all shared the same guilding principles:
Open Floor Plans: Central to the Eichler design was the idea of an open floor plan. Walls were minimized to ensure a flowing, connected space that catered to a more relaxed, post-war American lifestyle.
Indoor-Outdoor Integration: One of the standout features of Eichler Homes is the seamless blend of indoor and outdoor spaces. Large glass walls, sliding doors, and strategically placed gardens, atriums, courtyards and patios created a continuity that made nature an integral part of the living experience.
Post and Beam Construction: Instead of traditional walls bearing the load of the structure, Eichler homes utilized post and beam construction. This allowed for expansive glass walls and a more flexible internal space.
Affordability without Compromise: Eichler's vision was to bring modern design to the average American. Thus, the architects had to ensure that their designs, while innovative, remained cost-effective. They often employed innovative construction techniques and materials to maintain affordability without compromising on design quality.
Privacy with Connection: While Eichler homes are known for their large glass expanses, privacy was a crucial factor. The homes were designed to offer private retreats, often through enclosed atriums or courtyards, while still allowing homeowners to feel connected to their surroundings.
A Community Approach: Eichler didn't just build homes; he built communities. The architects had to ensure that individual houses, while distinct, came together cohesively to form a harmonious neighborhood. Shared amenities, pathways, and communal spaces were all integral to the Eichler vision.
Importantly Eichler Homes are more than just structures; they are a testament to a vision, a time, and the brilliant architects who brought them to life. While their aesthetics are firmly rooted in the mid-20th century, the principles they champion—openness, connection with nature, and community—are timeless. The legacy of the architects and their designs will undoubtedly continue to inspire and resonate with generations to come.2023-10-22T19:00:22-07:002023-10-23T12:57:37-07:00Barry Adelmanntag:eichlerforsale.com,2012-09-20:43884106 Wilson Lane, Concord - Just Listed<img src="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/uploads/agent-6/Twilights_06.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" class="img_box_center" />
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Mid-Century Modernized Eichler
Just in time for Spring, here’s the Eichler you’ve been waiting for perfectly blending the best of mid-century & modern living!
4106 Wilson Lane is a pristine, highly-desired atrium model Eichler home located in the Rancho Del Diablo community of Concord. This 4 bedroom, 2 bath, 1,795 SF living/7,280 SF lot (per tax records) Eichler has all of the famous hallmarks of mid-century character like post and beam architecture, globe lights, floor-ceiling glass, in-floor radiant heating, but also has been majorly updated with modern amenities and design.
Imagine a high-tech, smart-home lifestyle with the ability to set the heat and lighting on your spa, ignite the fireplace, and adjust the interior mini-split A/C units, all with a remote control! Also, the center of your home is an open-sky atrium enclosed by upgraded dual pane floor to ceiling glass with views into your perfectly curated living and entertaining areas that seamlessly transition out to the newer in-ground pool & built in spa. The private low-maintenance gardens are drought-tolerant and there’s space for an organic garden and easy al fresco dining & gatherings. Your own indoor/outdoor paradise!
Pristine & Turnkey
Throughout the home, there’s a wonderful mix of classic Eichler and modern design. Using the original footprint, the kitchen is updated with modern cabinetry, stone counters, stainless appliances, and a large island with great storage, seating space, and a major Eichler upgrade: gas range! The baths have stylish newer vanities and plumbing fixtures with cool vintage tilework, skylights in the master and the classic Eichler side door in the second bath for cleaning up before entering the house from the pool. There’s ample storage in the two-car garage and a bonus hobby/laundry room off the kitchen with side yard access. What a great floor plan!
California Spa Lifestyle Daily
Simply put, this is one special Eichler with major components efficiently modernized ready for relaxing and enjoying the Bay Area’s best weather with warm clear days and starry sky evenings.
If you desire a neighborhood with close nit, active homeowners, great pride of ownership, and sunny weather, this is the charming Eichler community for you. It’s conveniently located to shopping, restaurants, groceries, and a variety of outdoor activities like hiking trails, golf and fishing. BART, freeways, and public transit are also nearby within close proximity.
Visit 4106Wilson.com or contact Ken Fox @ 510.999.0923 for more information.2017-03-16T11:34:00-07:002020-09-07T17:18:33-07:00Ken Fox, Eichler for Saletag:eichlerforsale.com,2012-09-20:4355Sold! A Piece Of California’s Architectural Gold<img src="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/uploads/shared/images/Volcano House.jpg" alt="" width="381" height="254" class="img_box_center" />
California has a reputation for some pretty wild and wacky architectural trends, many of which were noted by the late, great Huell Howser in his <a href="http://www.calgold.com" target="_blank">California’s Gold</a> TV series. In filming California’s Gold, Howser traveled the length and breadth of the Golden State taking note of places, events, and people that captured his interest. One of his early road trips took him along the famed Route 66 to <a href="http://www.calgold.com/roadtrip/Default.asp?Series=100&Show=427" target="_blank">Newberry Springs</a> where he didn’t find the buffalo, pistachios, or ostriches he was expecting – but he did find a home that is one of those only-in-California kind of places.
When the home on Silver Valley Road came up for sale last month, it captured my interest, not only because it had once been owned by Huell Howser, but because the Volcano House is a quintessential piece of far-out Mid-Century Modern architecture. Set atop the cinder cone of an extinct volcano, the geodesic-style home was designed by architect Harold Bissner Jr. and constructed in 1970. One of its stunning features is a 360º observation deck offering sweeping views of the Mojave Desert. Howser purchased the home in 2003 and years later donated it to Chapman University. This September Chapman University put the home up for sale and within a few weeks the Volcano House sold for a reputed $100k over asking. The lucky buyers have not only purchased an architectural piece of Mid-Century Modern history, but are also owners of a piece of Huell Howser’s California’s Gold.2015-10-16T13:28:00-07:002019-03-04T06:20:57-07:00Marin Modern Teamtag:eichlerforsale.com,2012-09-20:4346Second Story Remodel For Santa Clara Mackay Home<img src="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/uploads/shared/images/Second Story Patio Home Addition.jpg" alt="" width="440" height="289" class="img_box_center" />
The <a href="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/blog/2014-07/">controversy</a> regarding home renovations in Eichler neighborhoods that keeps resurfacing in Palo Alto looks like it might have wandered south to a Mackay neighborhood in Santa Clara. More specifically, the ongoing debate revolving around whether a second story addition to an Eichler is appropriate has recently become an issue in a <a href="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/mackay-homes/">Mackay</a> community in Santa Clara.
With low pitched rooflines, post-and-beam construction and large expanses of windows, Mackay homes are very similar to Eichler homes; and, in fact, during the 1950s John Mackay was one of Joseph Eichlers biggest competitors, building homes in <a href="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/mountain-view-eichlers/">Mountain View</a>, Palo Alto, and <a href="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/santa-clara-eichlers/">Santa Clara</a>. Like many Eichler neighborhoods, residents in Mackay enclaves want to insure that the MCM aesthetic is maintained and that two-story additions don’t overwhelm the neighborhood or intrude on the privacy of adjoining properties.
Last month Mackay homeowners in Maywood got the go-ahead from the City of Santa Clara to add a 69 sq. ft. ground floor addition to their home as well as a new 863 sq. ft. second story. The proposal wasn’t without opposition, as neighbors and MCM advocates expressed concern about preserving the character of the neighborhood and maintaining privacy for the surrounding single story Mackay “Patio Homes”. In approving the plan, the City required a few changes that included lowering ceiling heights to keep the home in scale with the other homes in the neighborhood and eliminating balconies to help preserve the privacy of neighboring homes.
Kudos to the City of Santa Clara for being proactive and creating guidelines that help define neighborhood compatibility. It has issued <a href="http://santaclaraca.gov/home/showdocument?id=12171" target="_blank">Residential Design Guidelines</a> that is easy to read and understand and specifically addresses the considerations involved for Mackay and Eichler homes. Actually, regardless of what city you live in, Santa Clara’s guidelines are good food for thought for any Mackay or Eichler homeowner considering a remodel!2015-09-09T14:35:00-07:002019-03-06T03:26:59-07:00Marin Modern Teamtag:eichlerforsale.com,2012-09-20:4340Colorado's "Eichlers"<img src="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/uploads/shared/images/Cadence-SFairfax-4.jpg" alt="" width="415" height="276" class="img_box_center" />
While the only “real” Eichler homes (with the exception of the 3 <a href="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/new-york-eichlers/">New York Eichlers</a>) are in California, a developer in Denver put his own spin on Eichler’s Mid-Century, California Modern style with two 1950s subdivisions that could transport you to a California Eichler neighborhood.
Built in the 1950s, Krisana Park and Lynwood are southeast Denver neighborhoods that are virtual treasure troves of Eichler inspired Mid-Century homes. With low-pitched roofs, open floor plans, courtyards, post-and-beam construction and walls of glass that merge inside with outdoors, the 175 homes in Krisana Park and 80 Lynwood homes resemble bona fide Eichlers in just about every detail.
Dubbed as Denver’s “Best Mod 50’s Neighborhood”, Krisana Park was built in the mid-1950s by developer H.B. Wolff, who worked in collaboration with a design/architect/landscape team to create what he advertised as Denver’s first “properly planned” subdivision, building homes that were very similar to those being built in California by Joseph Eichler. The Krisana Park “Eichlers” came in four floor plans. Later in the ‘50s, Wolff expanded his Mid-Century vision into nearby Lynwood (often called Krisana Park’s “sister neighborhood”) with 80 more Mid-Century homes that broadened the original concept to include slightly larger homes, as well as introducing an A-Frame model.
One of these Denver "Eichler" homes is included on the <a href="http://modernhometours.com/event/2015-denver-modern-home-tour/" target="_blank">Denver Modern Home & Garden Tour</a> on Saturday, August 22, 2015. What a terrific opportunity to check out California Modern – Denver style!2015-08-16T05:30:00-07:002019-03-07T11:02:58-07:00Marin Modern Teamtag:eichlerforsale.com,2012-09-20:4316Eichler Remodel Is Best Of 2015<img src="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/uploads/agent-1/19.jpg" alt="" width="402" height="269" class="img_box_center" />
Fine Homebuilding magazine just released the 2015 issue of HOUSES Awards. From entries throughout North America, editors of Fine Homebuilding chose an Eichler home as Best Remodel for 2015!
With a new lease on life created by San Francisco architect John Klopf, this 5-bedroom Eichler, located in <a href="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/burlingame-eichlers/">Burlingame CA</a>, has found the sweet spot between Eichler’s Mid-Century style and 21st Century necessities. Klopf restored, reconfigured, and brightened existing spaces and brought modern technology into the home, creating the best of two worlds: a classic, MCM atrium Eichler that is well designed for today’s busy lifestyle.
To see photos of this beautifully updated Eichler home visit <a href="http://www.klopfarchitecture.com/work/eichlerremodel" target="_blank">Klopf Architecture</a> and <a href="http://www.finehomebuilding.com/item/103750/best-remodel-2015-modernism-for-the-masses" target="_blank">Fine Homebuilding</a>.
Photo: Charles Miller / Fine Homebuilding2015-05-04T15:40:00-07:002019-03-07T11:21:12-07:00Marin Modern Teamtag:eichlerforsale.com,2012-09-20:4314New Life For The Eichler Summit At 999 Green Street<img src="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/uploads/shared/images/russianhill (1 of 1).jpg" alt="" width="443" height="257" class="img_box_center" />
Recently the lobby of a San Francisco condominium building underwent a major facelift, transforming it from a tired space with fussy style into a sleek reception area that celebrates the building’s origins. What makes this noteworthy to Eichler lovers is that the building is the iconic Eichler Summit at 999 Green Street.
Built by Joseph Eichler in the mid 1960s, <a href="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/russian-hill-eichler/">The Summit</a> is a 32-story luxury condominium high-rise that sits atop the prestigious Russian Hill in <a href="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/san-francisco-eichlers/">San Francisco</a>. Many homes at 999 Green Street are multi-million dollar properties with unparalleled views of the Bay and San Francisco cityscape. While residents have kept up with the times, and units reflect the luxury and contemporary style that goes with the address and the views, the public space had become dated.
After 7 months of construction, the new Eichler Summit lobby is finished. Designer David Oldroyd of <a href="http://odada.net/" target="_blank">ODADA</a> created the modern design that merges the Mid-Century intentions of the space with 21st Century style. The result is a clean, contemporary space (that comes complete with a 24-hour staff) worthy of being called an Eichler.2015-04-24T09:28:00-07:002019-03-03T11:12:15-07:00Marin Modern Teamtag:eichlerforsale.com,2012-09-20:4300Mid-Century Architecture For The 21st Century<img src="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/images/twin-palms-ex-1017-fi3_750.jpg" alt="" width="496" height="248" class="img_box_center" />
It seems that Mid-Century Modern architecture is making a nostalgic comeback if a couple of recent construction projects are any indicator. Just outside of Phoenix, Shea Homes Arizona is currently building and selling six new MCM design models that emphasize the Mid-Century aesthetic of clean lines and indoor/outdoor living coupled with 21st Century amenities that include secret rooms, separate loft areas, and even an option for a detached casita that can serve as a studio, office, or guest quarters.
A little closer to home, Palm Springs Modern Homes has a brand new development in the works that will feature 18 single-family Modernist homes with Mid-Century lines and sensibilities. Dubbed <a href="http://www.18twinpalms.com/index.html" target="_blank">18@TwinPalms</a>, the homes will feature Eichleresque details that include an open floor plan, indoor/outdoor style, and clerestory windows. This classic MCM attitude is updated with wiring for all of today’s necessities, automated blinds, modern energy efficiency, and even wiring for a car charging station.
Palm Springs, as I mentioned in a previous blog, is also home to the hottest new development in the Eichler world – the first ever <a href="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/blog/palm-springs-eichler-sold/" target="_self">Desert Eichler</a>, which made its debut last week during Palm Springs Modernism Week. The developer, KUD Development has plans for more Eichler homes, which will be constructed using authentic, licensed plans created by Claude Oakland and Anshen+Allen.
It is exciting to watch the best of the 1950s and ‘60s being brought into contemporary times. As they say, “good design is timeless”.
Photo: <a href="http://www.18twinpalms.com/index.html" target="_blank">18@TwinPalms</a>2015-03-02T09:30:00-07:002019-03-07T11:56:42-07:00Marin Modern Teamtag:eichlerforsale.com,2012-09-20:4290Another One Bites The Dust<img src="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/images/winter15_gavello_crop_j_320.jpg" alt="" width="320" height="198" />
I was saddened to read Dave Weinstein’s most recent <a href="http://www.eichlernetwork.com/blog/dave-weinstein/%E2%80%98house-floating-roof%E2%80%99-flattened" target="_blank">Eichler Network blog</a> detailing the loss of an amazing, one of a kind home in Atherton CA. Dubbed “the house with a floating roof” by the San Francisco Chronicle, the Atherton home was designed for developer Elmer Gavello by two of Joseph Eichler’s favorite architects, Bob Anshen and Steve Allen.
Built in 1957, the Gavello house had a unique star shaped roof, sleek lines, high ceilings, and lots of glass giving the home a spacious open feeling – in the best tradition of the Mid-Century California Modern style. Apparently homeowners today find that the Mid-Century design doesn’t meet their modern needs, and the sale of the Gavello house proves the old real estate axiom, location – location - location. The home was purchased as a teardown for $14.75 M.
While I am sorry to see so many of our Mid-Century architectural works are falling by the wayside, I am encouraged when I read of successful attempts at preservation. There are many groups dedicated to keeping Mid-Century Modernism alive. While it may be too late to save the Gavello house, it isn’t too late to sit up and take notice about what is going on in our own neighborhoods.
Photo from Eichler Network Article <a href="http://eichlernetwork.com/article/melting-mystique?page=0,2" target="_blank">Melting the Mystique</a>2015-01-16T09:30:00-07:002019-03-07T10:17:52-07:00Marin Modern Teamtag:eichlerforsale.com,2012-09-20:4287Historic Landmark Controversy Over Mid-Century Home In Austin<img src="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/images/3805_red_river_c_557.jpg" alt="" width="442" height="337" class="img_box_center" />One of the strategies suggested for preserving the character of Mid-Century and other older neighborhoods is to gain a spot on the historic registry or convince the city to create an overlay zone. Several Eichler communities, namely Green Meadow and Green Gables in <a href="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/palo-alto-eichlers/" target="_self">Palo Alto</a>, have been successful in gaining historic recognition. City designated overlay zones or guidelines protect others, including Palo Alto’s Triple El Eichler neighborhood, several Eichler communities in <a href="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/sunnyvale-eichlers/" target="_self">Sunnyvale</a>, and Balboa Highlands in <a href="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/granada-hills-eichlers/" target="_self">Granada Hills</a>. While these designations and ordinances are usually welcome by most homeowners, (not only do they help protect the character of the neighborhood, but they also often bring a break in property taxes) not everyone is necessarily on board. A recent decision to designate historic status to a Mid-Century, International Style Streamline Moderne home in Austin, Texas has raised some controversy – and could end up being a groundbreaking case.
Austin is a city that loves its MCM architecture – and it is well known for Stenger homes, often described as being the <a href="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/blog/eichlers-of-austin/" target="_self">“Eichlers” Of Austin</a>. In this case, however, the city has granted historic standing to a home against the homeowner’s wishes, which is proving to be problematic. The issue is that the homeowner wants to demolish the home, claiming that rehabilitation of the home would be too costly. The city of Austin disagrees, stating that the home is in a prominent location and architecturally significant. Attorneys for the homeowner claim that the city’s decision constitutes “an uncompensated taking” of the property and that the historic designation will impose financial hardship for the homeowner.
Although the decision has been made by the city, the homeowner isn’t taking it lying down. This promises to be an epic showdown and may well end up being a test case between private property rights and government’s zoning ordinances. I’m not sure what the answer is. I do believe that a woman’s home is her castle – but I also believe in maintaining design integrity. I imagine, as is true in most compromise, that the solution lies somewhere in the middle.2015-01-06T11:11:00-07:002019-03-02T10:04:34-07:00Marin Modern Teamtag:eichlerforsale.com,2012-09-20:4234Joseph Eichler Or Roger Lee?<img src="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/images/roger_lee_640_01.jpg" alt="" width="480" height="319" class="img_box_center" />When you see a low-slung, Modernist home with exposed post-and-beam construction, concrete slabs with radiant floor heat, and walls of glass opening to the outside, it might be an Eichler. Then again, maybe it isn’t. Although we associate the easy, open plan, indoor/outdoor style with Joseph Eichler, Roger Lee was another Mid-Century builder/architect who shared Eichler’s affinity for well-designed homes built for middle class people.
Like Eichler, Roger Lee built spec homes during the building boom after WWII. Eichler and Lee shared the modernist tradition and the notion that homes should be affordable, stylish, and functional. While Joseph Eichler built thousands of homes, however, Roger Lee built on a much smaller scale, designing 100+ homes in Northern California, Nevada, and Hawaii, several of which were featured in national publications – including Sunset Magazine. In addition to private homes, Lee also designed a number of apartment complexes as well as several Lake Tahoe condo developments.
If you are an Eichler enthusiast, I’m sure that you will appreciate the very similar Lee aesthetic. Roger Lee homes seldom come on the market, but with a little patience you may get lucky. Most of his homes, including a series of “Universal Homes” in Kensington, were built in the East Bay, with a few more in Marin, and Napa. If we can assist you in purchasing or selling a home in the Bay Area, whether it be an Eichler, Lee, or other style – contact us at <a href="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/contact/" target="_self">Eichler For Sale</a>, or any of our sister residential real estate companies: <a href="http://www.eastbaymodern.com/" target="_blank">East Bay Modern</a>, <a href="http://www.marinmodern.com/" target="_blank">Marin Modern</a>, <a href="http://www.winecountrymodern.com/" target="_blank">Wine Country Modern</a>, or <a href="http://www.sanfranciscomodern.com/" target="_blank">San Francisco Modern</a>.2014-06-24T06:00:00-07:002019-03-07T01:53:28-07:00Marin Modern Teamtag:eichlerforsale.com,2012-09-20:4225Joseph Eichler's Style Is Alive And Well In Canada<img src="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/images/canada_eichler_1000.jpg" alt="" width="532" height="355" class="img_box_center" /><br />
It never ceases to amaze me at how far Eichler style has migrated. While we associate Eichler’s open floor plans and indoor/outdoor living with our temperate climates here in California, where Joseph Eichler built 11,000+ homes in the <a href="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/san-francisco-bay-area-eichlers/" target="_self">San Francisco Bay Area</a>, SoCal, and Sacramento – as well as three in New York; every once in a while an Eichler style home in a pretty far-flung place pops into my peripheral vision. I have found homes described as Eichler-like in several US communities, including <a href="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/blog/eichlers-of-austin/" target="_self">Austin TX</a>, and as far away as the UK.
This morning I stumbled across an Eichler-design home for sale in Canada and thought that, for curiosity’s sake, you might like to <a href="http://www.cecileguilbault.com/listings/?detail=470" target="_blank">take a look</a>. Located in Peachland, British Columbia, this home is reminiscent of an Eichler with exposed beam ceilings, expansive windows, in-floor heating, and a relatively open floor plan. While it doesn’t seem quite as sleek and contemporary as an authentic Eichler, it is obvious that the design was influenced by Joseph Eichler’s homes.
Joseph Eichler’s homes have certainly stood the test of time. They are as popular now (perhaps even more so) as they were 60+ years ago when Eichler’s vision began. They have evolved from his first simple, affordable tract homes of the early 1950s into iconic homes that have inspired designers and builders around the world. You know what they say, “Imitation is the truest form of flattery.”2014-05-19T07:08:00-07:002019-03-06T02:30:25-07:00Marin Modern Teamtag:eichlerforsale.com,2012-09-20:4219Joseph Eichler's Vision Created A Lifestyle<img src="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/images/bazett1_800.jpg" alt="" width="494" height="299" class="img_box_center" /><br />
Inspiration is an interesting thing and it can come from anywhere; a chance comment by a friend, a piece of music, or something read about in a book. Joseph Eichler’s inspiration, which created a lifestyle for thousands of Californians, came from his experience as a tenant living in a Frank Lloyd Wright designed house called the Bazett House.
Built in 1939 for Sidney Bazett, the Usonian Bazett House in <a href="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/hillsborough-eichlers/" target="_self">Hillsborough CA</a> was home to Eichler during the early 1940s until new owners, Betty and Louis Frank, moved in in 1945. It was the memory of his time in this home, with its open floor plan, use of natural materials, and light filled spaces that inspired the milk and egg salesman from California to share his love of this style of architecture by producing more than 11,000 homes in the Bay Area, <a href="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/sacramento-eichlers/" target="_self">Sacramento</a>, and Southern California – and, incidentally, helping to create the easy indoor-outdoor style that has come to be known as California Modern.
In 1951, six years after moving from the Bazett House – and just two years after building his first housing tract, the memory was still alive for Joseph Eichler, and he built himself a Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired home, designed by architects Anshen + Allen, in <a href="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/atherton-eichlers/" target="_self">Atherton</a>, a small affluent town in San Mateo County. The Eichlers lived in their Atherton home until they moved into another Eichler built home (an apartment in the <a href="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/russian-hill-eichler/" target="_self">Summit</a> on San Francisco’s Russian Hill) in 1965.
As were his own home and the thousands of tract homes that Joseph Eichler built in his career as a developer, the Bazett House was designed as a low-slung, single-story, three-bedroom home with radiant floor heating and a free-flowing floor plan that provided easy access to the outside. Unlike Frank Lloyd Wright’s homes, however, most of Eichler’s were mass-produced, bringing modern architecture to middle-class America. The design has stood the test of time and is as popular (and sometimes controversial…) as it was when the Eichler homes were first built.
Photo: <a href="http://www.utahstyleanddesign.com/blog/2012/08/03/photo-friday-frank-lloyd-wrights-bazett/" target="_blank">Bazett House Interior from Utah Style</a>2014-04-25T06:30:00-07:002019-03-05T10:00:02-07:00Marin Modern Teamtag:eichlerforsale.com,2012-09-20:4215Reinventing The Eichler<img src="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/images/klopf-architecture-cupertino-net-zero-energy-house-2_728.jpg" alt="" width="536" height="359" class="img_box_center" />Tradition has it that the only home that can be considered an Eichler is a home actually built by the great Mid-Century builder Joseph Eichler. While I’m in agreement with that notion, I’m interested to see that there is a movement afoot to build some brand-new Eichlers that embrace the contemporary, California Modern design aesthetic while bringing it firmly into the 21st Century.
At the forefront of these reimagined Eichler-style homes is SoCal based KUD Properties, which is the exclusive builder of Desert Eichler Homes in the mecca of modernism, Palm Springs. If all goes as planned, an entire neighborhood of Palm Springs Eichler reproductions may well join its original SoCal Eichler brethren where 1960s vintage Eichler tracts can be found in <a href="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/thousand-oaks-eichlers/" target="_self">Thousand Oaks</a>, <a href="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/granada-hills-eichlers/" target="_self">Granada Hills</a>, and the city of <a href="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/orange-ca-eichlers/" target="_self">Orange</a>.
Northern California is putting its foot in the door with the Eichler-influenced trend as well. Inspired by Eichler, Simpatico Homes is a modular-home company in Emeryville CA that has earned a reputation for its sleek, environmentally responsible pre-fab homes. Across the Bay, in <a href="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/cupertino-eichlers/" target="_self">Cupertino</a> (where there is a community of 225 Eichler homes), Klopf Architecture has a contemporary take on traditional Eichler homes with its Net Zero Energy House. The Klopf designed home features the openness of an Eichler (complete with an atrium) coupled with state-of-the-art construction that allows it to score well with the Build It Green program.
While the jury is still out with regard to whether we should call a home an Eichler if it was built by anyone but Joseph Eichler, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery and it is gratifying to see that Eichler’s vision remains alive and well 65 years after he built his first homes in <a href="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/sunnyvale-eichlers/" target="_self">Sunnyvale CA</a>.
Photo: <a href="http://www.klopfarchitecture.com/work/net-zero" target="_blank">Klopf Architecture</a>2014-04-15T07:00:00-07:002019-03-03T07:58:08-07:00Marin Modern Teamtag:eichlerforsale.com,2012-09-20:4210"Eichlers" Of Austin<img src="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/images/bradylane_460.jpg" alt="" width="460" height="251" class="img_box_center" /><br />
Arthur Dallas (A.D.) Stenger is to Austin, Texas what Joseph Eichler is to California. Both were developer/builders who brought iconic, affordable Mid-Century design to their hometowns during the post World War II housing boom. Just as Joseph Eichler defined California Modern architecture, A.D. Stenger brought Mid-Century Modern to Austin.
Recognizing the need to supply affordable housing for returning war veterans, Stenger began purchasing land and building his homes, one-by-one, in several Austin neighborhoods in the 1940s. Originally, Stenger’s homes were priced with an average of $20,000. Today, just as Eichler’s homes are in CA, Stenger homes are in demand by MCM enthusiasts and price points often hover in the $400K to $500K range – with a few remodels even fetching higher price points.
Often described as the “Eichlers of Austin”, Stenger homes have more than a little in common with California’s Eichler homes. Stengers are sleek, streamlined homes that celebrate the merging of outside and indoors with walls of windows and natural stonework. Just as the CA Modern Eichler homes, Austin’s Mid-Century Modern Stenger homes feature open floor plans, exposed wood beams, vaulted ceilings, clerestory windows, and low-pitched rooflines.
California has its Eichlers and Austin TX has its Stengers. To learn more about Eichler homes, my website Eichler For Sale has tons of information from random blogs to precise <a href="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/san-francisco-bay-area-eichlers/" target="_self">Eichler neighborhood</a> information. To check out Austin’s Stenger homes, a couple of good starting points are <a href="http://www.modernaustin.com/category/architecture/mid-century-modern/ad-stenger/" target="_blank">ModernAustin</a> and <a href="http://curbed.com/archives/2014/01/31/reinventing-austins-midmod-butterfly-house.php" target="_blank">Austin's Mid-Mod Darling</a>.
Photo: <a href="http://www.webberstudio.com/currentdirection/bradylane.html" target="_blank">Webber + Studio</a>, Austin TX2014-03-28T07:30:00-07:002019-03-07T03:38:52-07:00Marin Modern Teamtag:eichlerforsale.com,2012-09-20:4206The Best Of The 2014 Kitchen & Bath Show<img src="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/images/kitchen09_250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /><br />
It’s all over for this year, but by all accounts the annual Kitchen & Bath Industry Show was a raging success. I am blown away by some of the innovative products that were offered and would like to share a few with you. Since our Eichler homes all share an open floor plan, the kitchen is often a fairly public space and keeping it modern looking and up-to-date is an aesthetic decision as well as a functional one. With that in mind, I thought you might be interested in some of the latest kitchen trends as exhibited in the 2014 KBIS.
Dacor walked away with top honors, winning Best In Show for its <a href="http://www.dacor.com/Our-Products/Wall-Ovens/Discovery-iQ-Double-Wall-Ovens.aspx" target="_blank">Discovery iQ 30” Wall Oven</a>, and I can see why. With its stainless steel finish and sleek styling it is a show-stopper. The iQ wall oven features wireless technology and even has its own app. Another Dacor presentation, for the wine connoisseurs among us, was the Wine Station that not only dispenses wine with the touch of a finger, but keeps wines fresh for up to 60 days – although no opened bottle of wine in my household lasts that long…
Viking hit a few home runs as well with its French-Door Double Oven, Professional Range, and <a href="http://www.vikingrange.com/consumer/category/products/cooking/cooktops#subcategory-child-cat-cat12430056" target="_blank">Professional Cooktops</a>. Another top pick was Viking’s Professional Built-In Refrigeration that can be customized to blend in seamlessly with your cabinetry.
While natural stone has long been a kitchen counter favorite, engineered/manufactured stone has become a modern classic. Three favorites at this year’s kitchen & bath show were <a href="http://vicostone.com/" target="_blank">Vicostone</a>, Caesarstone and <a href="http://www.silestoneusa.com/colors/series/ocean-series/" target="_blank">Silestone</a>, which have become staples in today’s kitchens. And, speaking of countertops, Warmly Yours has come up with <a href="http://www.warmlyyours.com/en-US/countertop-heating" target="_blank">radiant countertop heaters</a>. You’ve got to love it!
Less glamorous, but with a functionality that is irresistible, is the award-winning <a href="http://glideware.com/" target="_blank">Glideware</a> that organizes your cupboards and pantry with an amazing hanging system that puts your pots and pans at your fingertips. I’m putting this on my wish list.
Next year’s Kitchen & Bath Industry Show isn't until January (2015) – which seems long a long way off. I must admit that I may be tempted to go see what the latest and greatest innovations are. Las Vegas sounds like a fun field trip for lots of reasons! In the meantime, you can check out some of Eichler For Sale’s kitchen renovation ideas on our <a href="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/eichler-kitchen-remodel/" target="_self">Eichler Kitchen Ideas Gallery</a>.
Oh – one last thing… Are you tired of countertops cluttered with cords and chargers for phones, iPads, and other electronic devices? JTech Solutions rolled out its patent pending <a href="http://www.dockingdrawer.com/" target="_blank">Docking Drawer</a>, which can be fitted into a kitchen drawer – totally eliminating the unsightliness of our charging devices.2014-03-17T07:30:00-07:002019-03-06T05:04:45-07:00Marin Modern Teamtag:eichlerforsale.com,2012-09-20:4202Eichlers of New York<img src="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/images/new_york_eichler_with_snow_320.jpg" alt="" width="320" height="212" /><br />
Fifty-two years ago, in 1962, Joseph Eichler did something unexpected. He returned to his East Coast roots and purchased 140 wooded acres in Rockland County, New York, just 45 minutes north of New York City, with the intention of developing a 216-home subdivision of modernistic homes. Although the project was not successful, the three homes he did build are legendary as they are the only real Eichler homes ever built outside of California.
The three New York Eichler homes are located in Chestnut Ridge, a small village located within the larger city of Ramapo. The three homes were designed by two of Eichler’s top firms, Claude Oakland & Associates and Jones & Emmons. Two of the New York Eichlers have atriums and the third is a courtyard design. All have the flat roofs (although one has a central gable) that are typical of most Eichler homes – but not necessarily practical in New York’s snow!
Although Eichler’s vision of expanding to the East Coast was never fully realized, it is good to know that his vision still lives, even if in a small way, outside of California. The next time I venture to the East Coast, I plan to make a pilgrimage to Chestnut Ridge to see these three very special Eichlers with my own eyes.2014-02-27T09:16:00-07:002019-03-05T12:55:44-07:00Marin Modern Teamtag:eichlerforsale.com,2012-09-20:4200Eichlers: Love Them Or Hate Them, These MCM Homes Are Here To Stay<img src="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/images/landscape069_1920.jpg" alt="" width="629" height="353" class="img_box_center" />
It seems like when it comes to Eichlers, there is no middle ground. People either love them or hate them. Me? Well, obviously I’m an Eichler lover. I love the openness of them. I love the floor to ceiling windows that blur the edges between outside and in. I love the clean, simple lines. And I love the radiant floor heating that greets my bare feet on chilly mornings.
Much as I love Eichlers, though, I can’t ignore the haters. They claim that Eichlers are over-hyped. They point out that most Eichlers were mass-produced. They don’t like the windowless facades that face the street. They say that Eichlers, in their original incarnation, are not energy efficient; that they’re poorly insulated, lack attic and crawl space, and that the electrical wiring is substandard.
It’s a free country, and they are entitled to their opinions. And you know what? They're right about many things. Flat roofs can leak. Walls of glass create privacy issues. The minimalist design of an Eichler means less storage. I’m thinking, though, that falling in love with a home or style is a little bit like falling in love with your soul mate; it isn’t a one-size-fits-all world. You adjust and accommodate.
The reality is that any older home, whether it is an Eichler or other Mid-Century home, is going to need occasional updates, upgrades, and some TLC. Back in the day, building codes were different – and gas and electricity were cheap. Today energy is expensive and most, if not all, older homes (that includes Eichlers and non-Eichlers) need to be brought up-to-date.
Two of the biggest complaints I hear is that Eichlers can be difficult to heat and cool and new technology places huge electrical demands that Eichlers weren’t designed to bear. Don’t despair. It can be managed. Fortunately for us Eichler lovers, the Bay Area has a number of service providers who understand the sometimes special needs of Eichlers and can help bring our beloved homes up to speed. From making the characteristic flat roofs of Eichler homes water-tight and energy efficient to upgrading mid-century electrical systems, or finding an architect or contractor for larger projects, you’ll find guidance and a complete <a href="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/directory/" target="_self">vendor directory</a> in the Remodel section of our Eichler For Sale website.
We also have an extensive <a href="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/eichler-remodeling-ideas/" target="_self">photo gallery</a> full of ideas for remodeling projects, large and small, that will help you personalize your home while maintaining that quintessential California lifestyle that is so much a part of what we love about our Eichler homes. So, go ahead and love your Eichler; enjoy its minimal modernistic style, its light filled spaces, and the open floor plans. An Eichler home is more than the sum of its parts. While living in an Eichler isn't for everyone, it works for me - and for hundreds of other Eichler lovers throughout California.2014-02-25T08:00:00-07:002019-03-03T04:30:56-07:00Marin Modern Teamtag:eichlerforsale.com,2012-09-20:4201Mid-Century Modern In Sacramento – 62 Eichlers + Lots of Strengs<img src="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/images/eichler-st_560.jpg" alt="" width="795" height="420" class="img_box_center" /><br />
If you are looking for a Mid-Century Modern field trip, might I suggest heading to Sacramento and taking a look at the fine collection of Eichler and Streng homes that the area has to offer?
Sacramento was Joseph Eichler’s first venture outside of the Bay Area. Built in the mid-1950s, South Land Park Hills was originally slated to be a neighborhood of 143 Eichler homes, although only 62 were actually built. The <a title="sacramento eichlers" href="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/sacramento-eichlers/">Sacramento Eichlers</a> can be found on South Land Park Drive, Fordham Way, and Oakridge Way. Ironically, there are no Eichlers to be found on nearby Eichler Street!
It would be a pity to take the drive to the Capital City and not check out some of the other Mid-Century Modern homes that Sacramento has to offer. Eichler wasn’t the only developer attracted to the Central Valley. The Streng Brothers were also busy building in the area during the 1960s and ‘70s. Working primarily with architect Carter Sparks, Jim and Bill Streng worked in the California Modern style that Eichler had popularized, giving their homes a very Eichleresque look. Streng homes can be found in several neighborhoods including Wilhaggin, where the first Streng atrium models were built. The 150 Streng homes in Wilhaggin can be found along American River Drive, Crondall Drive, and North River Way. Other Streng tracts are located in South Natomas (River City Commons) just west of Truxel Road; Evergreen Commons in the Arden Arcade area of Sacramento; and Shelfield Oaks in nearby Carmichael.
If you find yourself with time left after your Sacramento home tour, you might want to stop by Davis on your way home. Streng Brothers also built several hundred modern homes in Davis – but that’s another story for another day. Me, I think I’ll opt for a nice lunch by the river and plan on another field trip to take in the Davis Mid-Century Mod homes.<br /><br />Related Links<a href="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/sacramento-eichlers/" target="_blank">Sacramento Eichler homes for sale</a>2014-02-21T08:00:00-07:002019-03-04T12:42:20-07:00Marin Modern Teamtag:eichlerforsale.com,2012-09-20:4196Watch For Our Upcoming Eichler Listings<img src="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/images/san_rafael_listing_montecillo_interior_767.jpg" alt="" width="252" height="195" /> <img src="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/images/san_rafael_listing_montecillo_rd_767.jpg" alt="" width="266" height="195" /><br />
I was excited to see all the Bay Area Eichler listings that we have on our website were spotlighted on Curbed National. It is reassuring to know that we’re doing our job and getting those listings out to you in a timely manner!
Seeing there are only 16 Eichlers in all of California that are for sale right now (actually, make that 14, since two of the Bay Area Eichlers featured on Curbed are in contract) illustrates the concept of supply and demand: High popularity + Limited supply = Strong pricing. That being said, there are some well-priced Eichler homes out there. Take a look at our <a href="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/listing/21400107-620-montecillo-rd-san-rafael-ca-94903/" target="_self">San Rafael listing</a> that comes complete with a pool – and a recently reduced price point!
I’m excited that we have five, count ‘em 5, Eichler listings coming up; three in the East Bay and two more in Marin. One of these homes has been featured in Atomic Magazine. I don’t expect these listings to last long once they hit the market – so tune into our <a href="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/eichler-homes-for-sale/" target="_self">listings page</a> or sign up for our Eichler Listings Alerts to stay in the loop.
If you are thinking about selling your Eichler, now could be a great time to get a jump on the competition. For those of you who are looking to buy the Eichler home of your dreams, keep an eye on our listings or <a href="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/contact/" target="_self">contact me</a> and I’ll keep an eye out for you!2014-02-03T08:15:00-07:002019-03-05T06:27:00-07:00Marin Modern Teamtag:eichlerforsale.com,2012-09-20:4194Preserving Mid-Century Architecture: Keeping The Mid-Century Vibe Alive<img src="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/images/cupertino_7_of_1_700.jpg" alt="" width="605" height="435" class="img_box_center" />
As I mentioned earlier this week, it seems that the issue of preserving our Mid-Century architecture is becoming a growing concern. The challenge is in keeping the spirit of Mid-Century design alive when remodeling and maintaining the character of Mid-Century neighborhoods – all while acknowledging the time honored notion that “my home is my castle.” It can be somewhat of a controversial issue and finding a starting point for the homeowner who wants to keep that Mid-Century neighborhood vibe alive and well can be a dilemma. There is no one "right way" to approach the issue, but here are some thoughts, along with a few resources that might help point you in the right direction.
Respect thy neighbor! There needs to be a consensus among the neighbors. Bringing the neighborhood together is an important first step in any effort to set “rules” for renovations or remodels. Not everyone is going to agree on what is appropriate – and admittedly, not everyone sees the issue of losing our Mid-Century identification as a problem. People are entitled to their opinions, but it helps to have open dialogue. Block parties and BBQs, an active community website, newsletters, and regular neighborhood meetings are good ways to help neighbors get to know one-another, create a sense of unity and, hopefully, get everyone on the same page - or at least reading the same book!
Know what might already be in place. Many neighborhoods have architectural review committees and/or CC&Rs. Many Mid-Century neighborhoods have committees and CC&Rs that have fallen through the cracks. Check out the deed to your property, there might be a long forgotten committee or CC&Rs already in place. Several communities, including the Lucas Valley Eichler development in San Rafael, River City Commons in Sacramento (Streng homes), and Fairgrove in Cupertino, have strong committee support and/or have developed handbooks for residents.
Don’t overlook city/county ordinances. Check your city or county for any zoning restrictions that may be on the books but aren’t being enforced. Many areas have restrictions (often called overlay zones) about what can and can’t be done in specific neighborhoods. Triple El, an Eichler tract in Palo Alto, is protected by a single story overlay and several Eichler neighborhoods in Sunnyvale come under the purview of Sunnyvale’s Eichler Design Guidelines. If there aren’t any such directives in your area, you may – with community support – be able to encourage your local agency to create a new ordinance.
Look into historical status. This isn’t for the faint of heart, as it is a long arduous process, but gaining status as a national or local historic district brings pride of community and a certain amount of leverage in maintaining the integrity of the neighborhood. Green Gables and Greenmeadow, Eichler communities in Palo Alto, CA are both on the National Register of Historic Places.
There are a number of resources out there for help in preserving the integrity of your Mid-Century neighborhood. For starters you can check out the<a href="https://www.laconservancy.org/" target="_blank"> Los Angeles Conservancy</a> and <a href="http://www.palmsprings-ca.gov/index.aspx?page=79" target="_blank">Palm Springs Office of Neighborhood Involvement</a>. These are SoCal based, but certainly have advice that can benefit all of us. If you are looking into obtaining historic status, the <a href="http://ohp.parks.ca.gov/" target="_blank">Office of Historic Preservation</a>, <a href="http://www.preserveamerica.gov/index.html" target="_blank">Preserve America</a>, and <a href="http://www.preservationnation.org/" target="_blank">National Trust for Historic Preservation</a> are good starting points. Your most important resource, however, is probably in your own backyard. Talk to your neighbors and visit your local planning department.2014-01-30T06:00:00-07:002019-03-07T10:35:13-07:00Marin Modern Teamtag:eichlerforsale.com,2012-09-20:4191Forgotten Modernism - A Study In Mid-Century ArchitectureSan Francisco architect-turned-artist Michael Murphy is one of my favorites and is fast becoming one of the Bay Area’s Mid-Century Modern treasures. Best known for his widely acclaimed Forgotten Modernism series, Murphy’s work celebrates Mid-Century and contemporary architecture; but also goes beyond and interprets some of San Francisco’s traditional architectural gems with a modernistic point of view.
Always stylized, Murphy’s artwork includes San Francisco neighborhoods… <img src="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/images/michael_murphy_north_beach.jpg" alt="" width="224" height="279" /> <img src="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/images/michael_murphy_japantown.jpg" alt="" width="240" height="300" />
…and Eichlers, including Eichler Summit at 999 Green Street in San Francisco.
<img src="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/images/michael_murphy_eichler_400_01.jpg" alt="" width="240" height="301" /> <img src="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/images/michael_murphy_russian_hill_301.jpg" alt="" width="241" height="301" /><br />
Some of the City’s traditional architecture is also given a nod and a modernistic twist.
<img src="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/images/michael_murphy_haas_lilienthal_house_400.jpg" alt="" width="210" height="315" /> <img src="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/images/michael_murphy_painted_ladies.jpg" alt="" width="240" height="300" />
The Forgotten Modernism series has recently expanded to include Los Angeles and Palm Springs. <img src="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/images/michael_murphy_this-is-the-city-no-1tn.jpg" alt="" width="211" height="261" /> <img src="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/images/michael_murphy_this-year-palm-springstn.jpg" alt="" width="210" height="266" />
To see more of Michael Murphy’s work depicting the City by the Bay and beyond, visit his website <a href="http://www.supersonicmodern.com/" target="_blank">Supersonic Modern</a>.2014-01-20T12:19:00-07:002019-03-04T08:12:14-07:00Marin Modern Teamtag:eichlerforsale.com,2012-09-20:4190What Is An Eichler?<img src="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/images/livingroom_320.jpg" alt="" width="496" height="283" class="img_box_center" />
A couple of years ago the Mid-Century Modern world was set abuzz when Walter Isaacson’s biography of Steve Jobs revealed that Jobs grew up in an Eichler home in Mountain View, California. As it turns out, the home that Jobs credited with giving him an appreciation for the aesthetics of simple design was actually a Mackay Home. Many of the Mackay homes looked like Eichlers and were designed by Eichler’s architects, Anshen + Allen but construction details differed. So – what, exactly, is an Eichler home?
First and foremost – only a home built by Joseph Eichler is an Eichler. Joseph Eichler built more than 11,000 homes during his 20+ years as a builder. Most of them can be found in the San Francisco Bay Area, with another 600 in southern California, 60 in Sacramento, and 3 in New York. Although design evolved through the years, Eichler homes have several unique features in common that help to define Eichler’s work.
Post-and-beam construction: Although it is one of the simplest construction principles, exposed post-and-beam was considered cutting edge for mid-century builders.
Concrete slabs with radiant floor heating: Most other builders used conventional foundations and forced-air heating.
Glass, lots of glass: Most Eichlers feature walls of glass that play a prominent role in Joseph Eichler’s vision of blurring the division between inside and out.
Open floor plan: Although the sleeping quarters are separate and more private, the public areas in an Eichler home have few walls which adds a feeling of spaciousness to modestly sized homes.
Simple façade: Eichler homes have a very plain front exterior with few (or no) windows opening to the street. Rooflines are low-pitched, with the exception of the A-frame models that couple a sharply pitched roof with a low-slung flat roof.
Atriums: Not all Eichlers have an atrium and not all homes with an atrium are Eichlers; but Eichler is credited with using the atrium as a clever marketing tool. Today Eichlers with these open interior spaces are in great demand.
Occasionally an Eichler look-alike will be put on the market as an Eichler. It is usually an honest mistake, but if you are in the market for an authentic Eichler home, do your homework. A good starting place is to research communities and identify where Eichler homes are located using the extensive <a href="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/san-francisco-bay-area-eichlers/" target="_self">information we have on our website</a>. Please don’t hesitate to <a href="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/contact/" target="_self">contact me</a> if you have any questions regarding buying or selling an Eichler home.
P.S. Steve Jobs’ partner Steve Wozniak did grow up in an Eichler, which he describes as “… my favorite home ever.”2014-01-17T14:34:00-07:002019-03-07T08:49:32-07:00Marin Modern Teamtag:eichlerforsale.com,2012-09-20:4183Bringing Frank Lloyd Wright Into The 21st Century<img src="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/images/marincountyciviccenter_378.jpg" alt="" width="308" height="206" /><br />
As an Eichler homeowner, I appreciate the challenges of bringing mid-century construction and sensibilities into the 21st century, while remaining true to the spirit and intent of the original structure. As such, I’m especially interested in the changes that are in the works for the Frank Lloyd Wright designed Marin County Civic Center. Meetings there are about to become a lot more interesting and user-friendly. In a project beginning this month and planned to be completed by February, the Board of Supervisors’ chambers in the historic Civic Center are receiving their first major upgrade since the Center opened in 1962.
New speakers, microphones, lighting, flat-screen monitors, and high-definition cameras will be installed, along with an assistive listening system for the hearing impaired. To ensure that the new features wouldn’t compromise the integrity and character of the original Frank Lloyd Wright design, the Frank Lloyd Wright Civic Center Conservancy reviewed the plans before work began.
It will be exciting to watch the progress at the Civic Center and interesting to see how modern technology integrates with the organic sensibilities of Frank Lloyd Wright’s work.
P.S. If the efforts of the planners and designers at the Civic Center awaken the remodeling urge in your spirit, feel free to check out our <a href="https://www.eichlerforsale.com/eichler-remodeling-ideas/" target="_self">Eichler remodeling photo gallery</a> for some additional inspiration.2013-12-23T16:14:00-07:002019-03-07T06:41:40-07:00Marin Modern Team