Discovering the Rare Eichler Duplexes in Redwood City

Unveiling a Hidden Gem: Eichler’s Early Career Ventures

After more than a decade of exploring Eichler homes, it’s easy to think you’ve seen it all. But the Eichler neighborhoods in Redwood City offer a refreshing surprise. Among these discoveries is the lesser-known fact that Joe Eichler, a renowned figure in modernist housing, ventured into building duplex homes early in his career. Contrary to his usual practice, these duplexes were constructed as rental properties, not for sale.

The Aesthetic Charm of Eichler’s Duplexes

Located in a secluded cul-de-sac on Roble Avenue in Redwood City, these Eichler duplexes stand out for their aesthetic appeal. Built in 1956, they represent a time when the surrounding area was dotted with modest single-story houses from the 1940s and ’50s. These low-gabled homes maintain their architectural allure and are in great condition. The design includes paired carports and distinct front and utility doors for each unit, encompassing ten dwelling units across five buildings.
Real estate agents recognize the value of these Eichler homes and market them accordingly. Interestingly, these duplexes are a unique venture in Eichler’s portfolio, as he didn’t pursue duplex construction again in his later projects.

Eichler’s Rental Experiment

These duplexes also stand out as Eichler’s initial foray into rental properties. Advertisements in the 1956 San Mateo Times clearly stated, “Deluxe Eichler Duplexes for lease.” Potential tenants were directed to contact Al Eichler, Joe’s brother and a sales representative for Eichler Homes.

Embracing the Eichler Charm in a Duplex Format

The duplex Eichler homes in Redwood City offer a unique blend of the classic Eichler style with the practicalities of a duplex layout. These homes, characterized by their mid-century modern design, retain all the hallmarks of Joseph Eichler’s vision: post-and-beam construction, open floor plans, and expansive glass walls that bring the outdoors in. The duplex format, however, adds an element of versatility, appealing to a range of homeowners from first-time buyers to those seeking investment opportunities or multi-generational living solutions.

A Community Rich in Architectural Heritage

Redwood City, known for its diverse and vibrant community, is also a treasure trove of architectural history, with the Eichler duplexes standing as a testament to innovative mid-century design. These homes are more than just structures; they represent a slice of Californian history, embodying the post-war era’s optimism and the move towards modern, affordable housing. The Eichler neighborhoods in Redwood City are characterized by their communal spirit, where residents share a deep appreciation for the architectural integrity and history of their homes.

Architectural Features and Modern Adaptations

The Eichler duplexes in Redwood City are notable for their flat or low-sloping A-framed roofs, clean lines, and simple façades, unadorned with flashy embellishments. Inside, the homes boast open spaces that flow seamlessly from indoors to outdoors, creating a living environment that is both spacious and integrated with nature. While many of these duplexes remain true to their original design, a number have been tastefully updated to meet modern standards of energy efficiency and comfort, without sacrificing their mid-century charm.

The Allure of Indoor-Outdoor Living

One of the most appealing aspects of the Eichler duplexes is their emphasis on indoor-outdoor living. Large glass windows and sliding doors open up to private courtyards and gardens, blurring the lines between inside and outside spaces. These homes were designed to bring in ample natural light and to encourage a lifestyle that embraces the mild Californian climate, making them particularly attractive in today’s market where home has become more central to our lives.

Preservation and Community Efforts

In Redwood City, the preservation of Eichler homes has been a community effort. Many residents are actively involved in maintaining the mid-century modern character of their neighborhoods. There are guidelines and resources available for those looking to renovate or upgrade their Eichler homes, ensuring that any modifications are in harmony with the original design principles. This collective effort has helped maintain the distinctive charm and character of the Eichler duplexes, making them a coveted real estate choice in the Bay Area.

Greenmeadow: Eichler’s Compact Housing Effort

Eichler’s duplexes on Roble Avenue were an effort to cater to entry-level markets with compact homes under 1,000 square feet. This approach also aimed to maximize land use efficiency, a pressing concern for Eichler amid rising land costs. This mindset is evident in his subsequent projects, like the Greenmeadow Apartments in Palo Alto, which focused on producing compact housing units on smaller plots.

The Evolution of Eichler’s Designs

Over the years, Eichler’s focus shifted from duplexes to townhouses, row houses, and eventually to mid-rise and high-rise towers. This evolution reflects his continuous effort to address various market segments, from entry-level to luxury housing. Notable examples include the Geneva Towers and Central Towers in San Francisco, catering to different market segments.
The Legacy and Influence of Eichler Homes
While managing rentals was not a primary aspect of Eichler Homes’ business model, the duplexes on Roble Avenue remain a significant part of his legacy. This influence is seen in modern builders like the Streng Brothers of Sacramento, who were inspired by Eichler’s designs and built numerous ‘halfplexes’ in their communities, contributing to diverse and affordable housing options.

Conclusion

The Eichler duplexes in Redwood City offer a unique glimpse into Joe Eichler’s early experiments with housing types and his efforts to address a variety of housing needs. While these duplexes were a deviation from his typical projects, they underscore his innovative spirit and lasting impact on modernist residential architecture.