Preserving Mid-Century Modern Heritage: A Guide to Eichler Homes in Sunnyvale

Introduction: The Unique Eichler Design Philosophy

Eichler homes, emblematic of mid-century modern architecture, offer unique challenges and opportunities in preservation and renovation. This guide explains the importance of specialized guidelines for Eichler homes in Sunnyvale, detailing their intent, applicability, and scenarios requiring design review. These guidelines aim to maintain the integrity of Eichler's vision, ensuring renovations and new constructions enhance the community's architectural heritage.

Eichler Homes: A Blend of Challenges and Characteristics

Eichler homes are renowned for their distinctive characteristics, such as open floor plans, post-and-beam construction, and extensive use of glass. However, preserving these features while meeting modern living standards presents special challenges. This section outlines the architectural significance of Eichler homes and the importance of retaining their unique appeal.

Design Guidelines: Ensuring Eichler's Legacy

General Guidelines

The foundation of preserving Eichler homes lies in adhering to general guidelines that prioritize the original architectural principles. These include maintaining the iconic flat or low-pitched roofs and emphasizing indoor-outdoor connectivity.

Planning for Additions and Improvements

Ground Floor Addition: Strategies for expanding living space without compromising the home's historic facade.

Second Floor Addition: Considerations for adding a second story in a way that respects the neighborhood's character.

Atrium Cover: Guidelines for enclosing atriums, balancing modern needs with architectural integrity.

Exterior Improvements: Recommendations for updating exteriors, including materials and design elements that align with Eichler aesthetics.

HVAC Improvements: Modernizing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems without detracting from the home's design.

Planning for a New House: Constructing a new home in the Eichler style, ensuring it complements the existing community fabric.

Appendices: Maps and Heritage Resource Districts

The guide includes valuable resources such as maps of Eichler neighborhoods in Sunnyvale and information on Heritage Resource Districts, aiding homeowners in navigating the specifics of their property's location and its historical significance.

Attached is a link to “Sunnyvale Eichler Design Guidelines - The Boyenga Team” pdf, which provides an informational overview of the Eichler Design Guidelines for Sunnyvale. It emphasizes the importance of these guidelines in preserving the architectural integrity and heritage of Eichler homes, ensuring that renovations and new constructions respect the unique design philosophy that Joseph Eichler introduced to the American residential landscape.