Modern Architecture

Joseph Eichler was a California developer with a very particular, social vision. As millions of soldiers returned home from World War II, Joseph was determined to create a better living environment for the common man. He envisioned modern homes that incorporated various architecturally distinct elements that would appeal to the average family- and an average family income. When Eichler homes were first on the market, their average sale price was $12,000.

Eichler Homes, built over 11,000 homes in Northern California and three communities in Southern California, along with 3 homes in Chestnut Ridge NY. These homes came to be known as “Eichlers” and changed the California lifestyle.

The essence of the Eichler design was inspired by Joseph’s two year stay in a home designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. He wanted to bring some of similar features from that home, such as indoor-outdoor living, to the middle class. He wanted to build homes with that open, flowing, modern style of architecture.

In 1949, Joseph founded Eichler Homes, Inc. He first hired the Bay Area architecture firm of Anshen and Allen to create these affordable modern homes. The firm came up with houses that had an open plan, post and beam construction, whole walls of glass, and radiant heating. These were features you might have found in an expensive, custom-built home at the time, but certainly not in a house built for the masses. At the time, this would have been an insane concept to most developers, who would not have seen the sense and profit in hiring architects to design tract housing. But Eichler had ideas on how to make his vision a reality. Read more…

When you visit Cape Cod, there is no doubt that you are witnessing a unique style of architecture rooted in colonial times when simplicity and functionality where at their best. There are many characteristics of the Cape Cod architecture style that permeate still in todays modern versions. However, the style has evolved tremendously showcasing more detail and larger living spaces. Here is a list of ten commonly found architectural features found in part of the revival of the modern Cape Cod architecture style:

1. Cedar shake shingles are perhaps the most defining feature of a modern cape cod style home. Although traditionally they could be found with clapboard or brick, cedar shakes have emerged as the most popular modern choice. Visit Cape Cod today and you’ll see it everywhere.

2. Traditional Cape Cod homes tend to be small in size, however, more modern versions are definitely modest in size and sometimes can be relatively sizeable compared to the past. This is of course historically how they were built being minimal and affordable. Nowadays, the style is kept alive, but the modern twist of size, functionality, and added detail are important additions.

3. Steep roofs with narrow eaves were used to combat the harsh weather. This is true even in todays modern styles and was part of the minimalist concept that contributes to the plain and simple look. This detail has kept constant and is an important element that defines the style and gives it a unique look. Read more…