Edgewood Eichler Home Neighborhood: A Mid-Century Modern Icon in Palo Alto
The Edgewood Eichler neighborhood in Palo Alto is one of the most historically and architecturally significant Eichler communities in the Bay Area. Developed between 1955 and 1956, this enclave of 63 Eichler homes represents the evolution of Joseph Eichler’s vision, offering larger floor plans, modernist aesthetics, and a strong sense of community.
Designed by Anshen + Allen, one of Eichler’s most trusted architectural firms, the homes in Edgewood reflect the clean lines, post-and-beam construction, and seamless indoor-outdoor transitions that define Eichler design. Situated near Edgewood Plaza, Embarcadero Road, and Highway 101, this neighborhood offers the perfect blend of historic charm and modern convenience.
This blog explores the history, architecture, and enduring appeal of Edgewood Eichler homes, showcasing why this Palo Alto neighborhood remains one of the most sought-after Eichler communities in Silicon Valley.
The History of Edgewood Eichler Homes
Joseph Eichler was one of the first developers to introduce mid-century modern homes to Palo Alto, starting with the Green Gables Eichler neighborhood in 1950. His first Eichler development in Green Gables consisted of 63 homes, built with compact floor plans averaging 1,100 square feet, featuring three bedrooms, one bath, and either a single-car garage or carport.
By the mid-1950s, Eichler expanded his vision with larger homes in what is now known as Edgewood, located on Wildwood Lane, Channing Avenue, Sandalwood Court, and Edgewood Drive. These newer Eichlers, built between 1955 and 1956, featured more spacious floor plans averaging 1,700 square feet, with four bedrooms, two bathrooms, and either a carport or single-car garage.
While the original 1950 Green Gables Eichlers are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Edgewood Eichlers are not officially included. However, they remain a beloved part of Eichler’s legacy, with many residents committed to preserving their authentic mid-century modern charm.
Architectural Features of Edgewood Eichler Homes
The Edgewood Eichler homes, designed by Anshen + Allen, embody some of Eichler’s most refined design principles, offering homeowners expansive living spaces, abundant natural light, and a connection to nature.
Signature Eichler Features in Edgewood:
Post-and-beam construction eliminates the need for interior load-bearing walls, creating open and airy living spaces.
Floor-to-ceiling glass windows seamlessly connect the indoors with private atriums, patios, and backyards.
Open floor plans maximize space and flexibility, allowing free-flowing transitions between the kitchen, living, and dining areas.
Atriums and courtyards in many homes bring in natural light and fresh air while maintaining privacy.
Radiant floor heating provides consistent and energy-efficient warmth, eliminating the need for visible heating units.
Flat or low-sloped rooflines enhance the horizontal aesthetic, blending the homes into the surrounding landscape.
Mahogany paneling and natural materials add warmth and texture, reinforcing Eichler’s commitment to organic materials.
The Edgewood Eichlers represent a significant evolution from Eichler’s earlier Green Gables models, offering larger living spaces, enhanced natural light, and a greater emphasis on seamless indoor-outdoor living.
Edgewood Plaza: The Only Shopping Center Built by Joseph Eichler
One of the most unique aspects of Edgewood Eichlers is their proximity to Edgewood Plaza, the only shopping center ever built by Joseph Eichler. Designed to complement the modernist homes in the neighborhood, Edgewood Plaza originally served as a community gathering space, reinforcing Eichler’s belief in walkable neighborhoods and shared public spaces.
Today, Edgewood Plaza remains a vibrant local hub, featuring:
An award-winning grocery store
Coffee shops and local eateries
Boutique stores and essential services
The plaza’s mid-century modern design continues to reflect Eichler’s architectural philosophy, making it an integral part of the Edgewood living experience.
Community Life in Edgewood: A Neighborhood Built for Connection
Beyond its architectural significance, Edgewood fosters a close-knit community atmosphere, where neighbors engage in local events, preservation efforts, and social gatherings.
Annual neighborhood traditions include:
Block parties and potlucks bringing together new and longtime residents.
Eichler home tours and preservation initiatives showcasing restored and well-maintained Eichler properties.
Family-friendly events celebrating the intergenerational spirit of Edgewood, where both young families and retirees coexist.
With its pedestrian-friendly streets, wide sidewalks, and mature trees, Edgewood remains a safe, walkable, and inviting community.
Why Edgewood is One of Palo Alto’s Most Sought-After Neighborhoods
Edgewood is a prime example of how Eichler’s homes have remained relevant in today’s housing market. This highly desirable Eichler community offers:
A Prime Edgewood Palo Alto Location
Edgewood’s central location provides quick access to:
Stanford University
Downtown Palo Alto’s shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions
Major Silicon Valley tech hubs, including Tesla, HP, and Google
Highway 101 and Embarcadero Road, ensuring easy commutes
Palo Alto Top-Ranked Schools
Edgewood residents benefit from Palo Alto’s top-ranked public school district, with access to:
Duveneck Elementary School
Frank S. Greene Jr. Middle School
Palo Alto High School
Additionally, the area is home to prestigious private schools, making it a top choice for families prioritizing education.
Real Estate Trends and Preservation in Edgewood
Edgewood remains one of Palo Alto’s most desirable Eichler communities, with limited availability and high demand for its well-preserved mid-century homes.
Homes with original Eichler features command premium prices, as buyers increasingly seek authentic mid-century modern properties.
Many homeowners have invested in sustainability upgrades, such as solar panels, energy-efficient windows, and drought-tolerant landscaping, aligning with Palo Alto’s environmental initiatives.
Edgewood’s single-story overlay has protected the neighborhood’s architectural integrity, preventing incompatible renovations or multi-story additions.
The Boyenga Team: Eichler Luxury Home Experts in Edgewood
For those looking to buy, sell, or restore an Eichler home in Edgewood, partnering with real estate professionals who specialize in Eichler architecture and luxury homes is crucial.
Eric and Janelle Boyenga of the Boyenga Team at Compass are recognized Eichler experts, offering:
Eichler-specific real estate services, navigating Palo Alto’s competitive market to match buyers with their ideal Eichler home.
Luxury home preparation and staging, showcasing the architectural beauty of Eichler homes to maximize value.
Architectural restoration and renovation guidance, helping homeowners preserve original Eichler features while integrating modern updates.
For expert guidance on Eichler properties in Edgewood, visit SiliconValleyEichlers.com and BayAreaEichlerHomes.com.
The Timeless Appeal of Edgewood Eichlers
Edgewood remains a cherished Eichler community, offering architectural significance, community warmth, and unparalleled convenience. As Palo Alto continues to evolve, Edgewood stands as a lasting example of Eichler’s commitment to modernist design and community-driven living.