Why Were Eichler Homes Popular?

Question: Why Were Eichler Homes Popular?

Answer: Minimalist, Modern, Distinctive Style

If you are a modernist who identifies with clean lines, minimal ornamentation, and bright, open plan living, then you may already be a big fan of Eichler homes. For those who are wondering why Eichler homes were so popular, Flegel’s Construction Co. offers some insights.

Eichler Homes: The Epitome of Mid-Century Modern Style Homes

Eichler homes were modern, affordable homes that changed the reigning architectural ideology in the 1950s and 60s. With over 11,000 residences built all over Los Angeles and the San Francisco Bay Area, these homes got their name from the primary architect, Joseph Eichler.

Here are some of the key features that made Eichler homes popular:

• Fresh, modern, budget friendly style: Most homes at that time were compact brick houses, with small windows and asphalt shingles. In contrast, Eichler homes introduced indoor-outdoor living by featuring huge windows, open-air foyers and open concept layouts. However, the modern, innovative design style remained budget friendly and affordable, making it very popular with the suburban middle class.

• Bringing the outside in: One of the key philosophies behind Eichler homes was to bring the outside in, while retaining an optimum sense of privacy. So, you may find floor-to-ceiling windows (glass walls) looking out on private outdoor areas at the rear of these homes. While most houses did not have any front facing windows, some featured small, discreet, frosted glass ones.

• Distinctive exteriors: Eichler homes are all about post-and-beam construction and flat or low-sloping A-framed roofs featuring vertical 2-inch pattern wood siding. The simple, minimalistic façades and clean geometric lines gave these structures very distinctive exteriors, making them easily recognizable as Eichler homes.

• Community living: Eichler’s vision went far beyond building standalone homes. He designed entire Eichler communities, integrating sidewalks, parks, community centers, and other community living features that many homebuyers seek even today.

A visionary, Joseph Eichler’s modern aesthetics continue to be inspirational and desirable in the 21^st century. Both homeowners and potential buyers consider these homes to be architectural gems. After all, who wouldn’t want to own a bright, airy home that offers an intimate connection with the surrounding landscape without compromising privacy?

Bay Area’s Top Renovation Contractor for Your Eichler Home Upgrades

As the Bay Area’s top renovation contractors, Flegel’s Construction Co. specializes in repairing and remodeling Eichler homes. From updating living spaces and building gourmet kitchens, to adding rooms and improving roofing or insulation, we cater to a range of requirements for making Eichler homes more energy efficient, functional and luxurious. Our creative designers and skilled craftsmen can modernize your home without detracting from its characteristic charm. We also ensure that our designs and construction are fully compliant with the Eichler home guidelines.

Our team has successfully completed many Eichler home renovation projects across the Bay Area, including in Mountain View, Palo Alto, Cupertino, Campbell, and San Jose, CA.

Looking to upgrade your Eichler home? Exploring the possibility of buying and renovating an old Eichler property? Speak to the remodeling experts at Flegel’s Construction today. Contact us online.