Eichler Paint Colors: A Guide to Mid-Century Modern Paint and Stains
At the Boyenga Team, we frequently receive questions about how to approach painting and staining Eichler homes. Here’s an in-depth look at choosing paint colors, honoring the design philosophy of these mid-century homes, and capturing Eichler’s classic yet timeless look.
The Eichler Paint Color Palette
Eichler homes were originally designed with a subtle, earthy color palette. The traditional palette used natural, muted colors—grays, browns, rusts, greens, and ochres—to blend harmoniously with California’s landscape. Although color options have expanded significantly since the 1950s, sticking to earthy tones often maintains the character and architectural integrity of an Eichler.
For those aiming for authenticity, many of Eichler’s original colors have been matched to modern paint swatches and are available through resources like the Eichler Network. These tones, complemented by occasional accents of brighter colors, help capture the mid-century spirit without overshadowing the home’s structural beauty.
Key Principles of Eichler’s Design Aesthetic
The architects behind Eichler homes embraced several core principles:
Bringing the Outdoors In: Floor-to-ceiling windows, atriums, and open layouts foster a feeling of living without walls.
Private Sanctuary: Eichler homes focus inward, often with limited windows on the street-facing side, creating a personal retreat where homeowners enjoy their surroundings without external distractions.
With these principles in mind, Eichler colors should be chosen to enhance the indoor-outdoor flow and respect the natural setting of the home.
Visualizing Your Eichler Paint Scheme
When choosing paint for an Eichler, think of it in three primary elements:
Body: This includes the main walls, posts, window frames, and door trim. Consistency in color throughout these elements helps create a cohesive look.
Beams: The beam color extends continuously from exterior to interior and back, emphasizing Eichler’s hallmark indoor-outdoor integration.
Accent Door: The front door offers an opportunity for a unique, bold color that stands out but doesn’t overpower the overall scheme.
Trim and Detail Work in an Eichler
Trim is a subtle yet important feature in Eichler homes. Typically, trim is painted to blend in rather than stand out, maintaining clean, unbroken visual lines. For example:
Ceiling trim should match the ceiling color to blend seamlessly.
Glass stops and window trim should match the body color to avoid drawing attention and to sustain the illusion of open space.
Ceiling and Beam Colors
Ceilings in Eichler homes were often tongue-and-groove planks stained a light bleach color to keep the space airy. Many homeowners choose white ceilings to enhance brightness, allowing natural light to reflect and increase the feeling of openness. Beams were originally white as well, helping them blend into the ceiling and further accentuating the connection between interior and exterior spaces.
Tips for Choosing Colors: Earthy Tones and Mid-Century Accents
The mid-century era introduced vibrant accents alongside earthy palettes, including shades like turquoise, rust, and deep greens. Accents in entryways or feature walls can add a touch of classic mid-century style without overwhelming the space. Consider selecting accent tones that contrast subtly with the primary body color to maintain a balanced aesthetic.
Staining and Maintaining Eichler Wood Siding
Many Eichler homes feature wood siding, which can be stained in rich, natural hues. Over time, sun exposure and weathering can dull these finishes. Cabot Stain was a popular choice in the 1950s, and many original shades have been reinterpreted for contemporary use. For a low-maintenance look, darker stains or sealants with UV protection can extend the life and vibrancy of the wood.
Practical Tips for Painting Eichler Exteriors
Test Samples: Apply large color swatches on different walls to see how the shades look in varying natural light throughout the day.
Consider Texture: Mid-century designs work best with matte or satin finishes, which add depth without glare. Avoid glossy finishes, as they can detract from Eichler’s subtle elegance.
Foundation Accent: A small detail often overlooked is the narrow concrete foundation visible along the base of the home. Painting this area a dark gray or black can add definition and create a polished look.
Collaborating with a Paint Specialist
Selecting the right colors can be challenging, especially for homeowners who want to honor the architectural heritage of their Eichler while adding personal touches. A paint specialist with Eichler experience can provide valuable insight, helping you achieve a cohesive look that aligns with Eichler’s mid-century ethos. The Boyenga Team has partnered with many Eichler homeowners to help with color selection and offers references for reputable specialists in Eichler renovations.
The Right Paint Color for you
Choosing the right paint colors for an Eichler home is about more than aesthetics—it’s about preserving the architectural legacy while creating a welcoming, personalized space. From classic earthy tones to carefully selected accents, Eichler’s paint schemes celebrate a balance of design and nature. Whether you’re refreshing the exterior, updating interiors, or choosing complementary landscaping, the Boyenga Team is here to help you every step of the way as trusted Eichler experts and Eichler neighborhood specialists. For more tips, color guides, or to start your Eichler journey, reach out to us at SiliconValleyEichlers.com.