A 20th century, post-war real estate developer that was specifically known for developing homes and residential communities with a distinct Mid-Century modern style, Joseph Leopold Eichler completely re-shaped the Bay Area real estate market between 1949 and 1966, which is when his company built over 11,000 homes in 9 different communities all throughout northern California. Years later, his influence is still felt all throughout the Golden State and Eichler homes for sale in Marin County truly are some of the most sought-after properties you’ll find anywhere on the market.
Simply put, Eichler homes are unique examples of Modernist architecture, which over time, started to be recognized as having a “California Modern” style. Most Eichler homes feature spacious open layouts, floor-to-ceiling windows, and followed a post-and-beam construction method. Outside, exterior designs include flat and/or low-sloping A-framed roof lines, not to mention clean geometric lines all over the home.
Given northern California has such a picturesque landscape, Eichler-designed homes seemed to be a perfect fit for Marin County given the entire concept behind his style was to “bring the outside in” using lots of glass, skylights, and various glass transoms that overlooked a patio, garden, swimming pool, or private outdoor space of sorts. Another trademark you’ll find common throughout most Eichler homes is that very few windows were front- or street-facing. Contrary to most homes, which seem to all have large windows looking out into the front yard or passing street or roadway, the front of Eichler houses were instead equipped with smaller ceiling-level windows or other compact windows with frosted glass as a way to still maintain some privacy for each eventual home owner.
There’s no doubt Eichler homes are predominately found in northern California. In Marin County, the majority of Eichler Homes are concentrated in San Rafael including the neighborhoods of Lucas Valley, Marinwood and Terra Linda; there are also small Eichler developments in Mill Valley as well as San Anselmo.
Large Eichler tracts and developments can also be found in San Francisco and the East Bay communities of Walnut Creek, Concord, Oakland, and Castro Valley. The San Francisco Peninsula also has a nice mix of Eichler homes as well, especially around San Mateo, Redwood City, Palo Alto, and parts of San Jose. Parts of southern California also has a small Eichler presence, specifically in the Thousand Oaks, Granada Hills, Orange Springs, and Palm Springs developments.
As one of the primary figures who brought Mid-Centry modern design elements away from custom homes and large corporate development and over to the general public, Joseph Eichler has garnered quite a following over the years, and after only one quick look at just some of his work, it’s easy to see why so many buyers seek out any and all Eichler homes for sale here in beautiful Marin County.
For additional information regarding these special homes, we would encourage you to visit the Eichler Homes website.
