San Mateo Highlands: A Mid-Century Modern Icon
An Architectural Gem in San Mateo
Nestled in the coastal hills of southwest San Mateo, the San Mateo Highlands is one of the most architecturally unique neighborhoods on the peninsula. Featuring a collection of over 900 homes designed by the famed developer Joseph Eichler in the 1960s, this neighborhood represents the pinnacle of mid-century modern design. With its innovative layouts, seamless integration with nature, and strong sense of community, the Highlands has become a landmark for architectural enthusiasts and homeowners alike.
A Historical Perspective on the San Mateo Highlands
Joseph Eichler’s vision for the San Mateo Highlands was ambitious, blending modernist architectural principles with functional suburban living. The development, spanning from 1955 to 1965, brought together some of Eichler’s most talented collaborators, including architects Jones & Emmons, Claude Oakland, Anshen + Allen, and Pietro Belluschi.
The neighborhood also features two particularly notable homes:
The X-100 Steel Frame Home: Designed by Jones & Emmons, this experimental home showcases the possibilities of industrial materials in residential design. Built as an exhibition house, it attracted attention for its innovative use of steel.
The Life House: Created in collaboration with Pietro Belluschi and Jones & Emmons, this home was commissioned by Life Magazine as part of a feature on affordable housing. It remains a symbol of Eichler’s forward-thinking approach to design and functionality.
Architectural Features of the San Mateo Highlands
Innovative Rooflines
The homes in the Highlands exhibit a variety of roof designs, including flat, low-gabled, and shed roof models. These designs add architectural depth while maintaining the clean, minimalist lines characteristic of mid-century modern style.
Post-and-Beam Construction
Eichler’s signature post-and-beam construction eliminates the need for load-bearing interior walls, enabling open floor plans that emphasize light and space.
Expansive Glass and Atriums
Floor-to-ceiling windows and central atriums are hallmarks of these homes. Glass walls bring natural light indoors, creating a seamless transition between living spaces and the surrounding environment.
Functional Layouts
The homes feature wide-open floorplans with large family and great rooms connected to eat-in kitchens. While bedrooms are modest in size, master suites often open to spacious rear yards, enhancing the indoor-outdoor connection.
Two-Story Eichler Homes
Unique among Eichler developments, the Highlands includes several two-story designs, catering to larger families and those seeking additional living space.
Community and Lifestyle in the Highlands
Recreational Amenities
The Highlands Recreation Center serves as the community’s hub, offering a swimming pool, tennis courts, a fitness center, and organized recreational programs. Its central location fosters interaction among residents and encourages an active lifestyle.
Proximity to Nature
Many homes back up to green open spaces near the Crystal Springs Reservoir and the scenic corridors of Highway 280. This integration with nature provides stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere.
Connectivity
The Highlands is ideally situated for commuters, with easy access to Highways 280 and 92. Residents can reach downtown San Francisco in about 25 minutes and Silicon Valley’s Sand Hill Road in under 20 minutes, making it a prime location for professionals.
Educational Excellence in the Highlands
Highlands Elementary School
Highlands Elementary School is one of the defining features of the San Mateo Highlands, consistently ranked among the top elementary schools in the district. Known for its rigorous academic programs, the school emphasizes a balanced education that integrates STEM subjects, the arts, and social development. Situated conveniently within the neighborhood, Highlands Elementary fosters a sense of community among students and parents alike. The school’s proximity makes it a preferred choice for families seeking an enriching yet accessible educational environment. Programs like after-school enrichment activities and a focus on environmental stewardship align perfectly with the neighborhood’s values of inclusivity and connection to nature.
Borel Middle School
Borel Middle School serves as the next step for students in the Highlands, providing a comprehensive curriculum that prepares them for the academic and social demands of high school. Located a short drive from the neighborhood, Borel is known for its diverse elective options, including music, technology, and language arts, which allow students to explore their interests and develop new skills. With dedicated teachers and a strong parent-teacher association, the school offers numerous extracurricular programs, including sports teams, academic clubs, and community service opportunities. Its emphasis on critical thinking and collaboration ensures that students transition smoothly into high school while building a foundation for lifelong learning.
Aragon High School
Aragon High School is a prestigious institution renowned for its academic excellence and extracurricular opportunities, attracting students from across San Mateo. For Highlands residents, Aragon offers a well-rounded high school experience, with Advanced Placement courses, competitive athletic programs, and award-winning performing arts groups. The school’s commitment to fostering innovation is reflected in its state-of-the-art facilities, which include a modern library and technology labs. Aragon’s robust student leadership programs and extensive college counseling services help students achieve their post-secondary goals, making it a highly regarded option for families in the San Mateo Highlands. Its vibrant community and emphasis on academic rigor align seamlessly with the neighborhood’s values.
Highlands Elementary School, located within the neighborhood, consistently ranks among the top elementary schools in San Mateo, adding to the area’s appeal for families.
Real Estate Insights and Preservation
Rising Home Values
Recent sales in the Highlands reflect the enduring popularity of Eichler homes, with properties frequently closing between $1.8 million and $2 million, and some exceeding $3 million. The neighborhood’s architectural significance and community amenities contribute to its strong market performance.
Challenges in Preservation
Maintaining the original features of Eichler homes, such as radiant heating and single-pane windows, can be costly. However, many homeowners embrace these challenges to preserve the integrity of their mid-century modern properties.
Opportunities for Modernization
Sustainable upgrades, including energy-efficient windows, solar panels, and drought-resistant landscaping, offer ways to modernize these homes while staying true to Eichler’s vision.
About San Mateo Highlands
Eichler Homes Built: Approximately 900
Years Built: 1955-1965
Architects: Jones & Emmons, Claude Oakland, Anshen + Allen, Pietro Belluschi
Key Features: Two-story models, X-100 Steel Frame Home, Life House, post-and-beam construction, expansive glass walls
Location: Lexington Avenue, Yorktown Road, Bunker Hill Drive, Monticello Road, Ticonderoga Drive, and surrounding cul-de-sacs
How the Boyenga Team Supports Eichler Homeowners
Eric and Janelle Boyenga, renowned Eichler specialists and luxury real estate experts at Compass, offer tailored services to guide Eichler homebuyers and sellers through every step of their journey. Their extensive expertise ensures clients receive unparalleled representation in navigating the competitive Eichler market.
For Sellers:
Targeted Marketing: The Boyenga Team utilizes cutting-edge marketing strategies to highlight the architectural significance of Eichler homes, attracting discerning buyers who appreciate mid-century modern design.
Comprehensive Preparation: From staging consultations to providing resources for preservation-friendly repairs, the team helps sellers present their homes in the best light.
Extensive Network: With a strong network of Eichler enthusiasts and industry connections, they maximize visibility for listed properties.
For Buyers:
In-Depth Knowledge: The Boyenga Team provides buyers with detailed insights into the history, design, and value of Eichler homes, empowering them to make informed decisions.
Customized Guidance: They identify homes that match buyers’ preferences while advising on preservation opportunities and modern upgrades.
Negotiation Expertise: Their skilled negotiation ensures buyers secure their dream Eichler home at a competitive price.
With their deep appreciation for mid-century modern architecture, Eric and Janelle Boyenga are dedicated to preserving the legacy of Eichler homes while providing exceptional service to their clients.
The Highlands a Timeless Legacy
The San Mateo Highlands remains one of the most architecturally significant neighborhoods on the San Francisco Peninsula. With its innovative designs, strong sense of community, and connection to nature, the Highlands exemplifies Joseph Eichler’s vision of modern suburban living. Preserving this neighborhood ensures that its unique character and architectural heritage continue to inspire future generations.