Community Center

Community Center Eichler Homes in Palo Alto

The Community Center Eichler tract located in North Palo Alto represents the final chapter in Joseph Eichler’s extraordinary residential legacy. Built between 1973 and 1974, this small enclave—spanning Greenwood Avenue (between Melville and Harriet), Harriet Street, and portions of Harker and Parkinson Avenues—offers a rare glimpse into the culmination of Eichler’s mid-century vision. Steps from Lucie Stern Community Center, Rinconada Park, and the Children’s Library, the area blends architectural sophistication with the vibrant lifestyle that defines Palo Alto’s most beloved neighborhoods.

Despite its modest size—about 32 Eichler homes—the Community Center tract stands out for its refined scale, tree-lined serenity, and proximity to downtown Palo Alto, making it one of the most desirable pockets for those who value both modernist design and walkable convenience. The neighborhood’s harmonious mix of architectural styles gives it an eclectic charm, while its Eichlers—larger, later-era models—deliver the unmistakable warmth and openness that made Joseph Eichler’s homes icons of California modern living.

A Vision Rooted in Modernism

The Community Center Eichlers mark one of the final developments completed by Joseph Eichler before his passing, reflecting a matured interpretation of his original modernist ideals. Designed in collaboration with Claude Oakland & Associates, these homes are spacious, light-filled, and architecturally evolved, representing the pinnacle of Eichler’s pursuit of functional artistry.

• Years Built: 1973–1974

• Number of Homes: Approximately 32

• Architect: Claude Oakland

• Square Footage: Typically 2,000–2,400 sq ft

• Bedrooms: Most feature 4+ bedrooms

• Signature Features:

  • Post-and-beam construction

  • Floor-to-ceiling glass and clerestory windows

  • Private atriums and lush rear courtyards

  • Open-concept kitchens and family rooms

  • Original radiant-heat flooring

These late-period Eichlers embody a more sophisticated palette of design elements—cleaner lines, higher ceilings, and increased natural light—balancing modern simplicity with family-friendly scale. The nearby semi-custom Eichler on Guinda Street, also designed by Claude Oakland, is reputed to be the last home Eichler personally built, a symbolic bookend to a revolutionary architectural movement.

A Lasting Legacy in Palo Alto Real Estate

The Community Center Eichlers remain among Palo Alto’s most sought-after addresses for buyers who appreciate authentic mid-century modern architecture with generous interior volumes and prime walkability. Their rarity—just over thirty homes—means listings are infrequent, often generating competitive interest when one comes to market.

• Typical Price Range: $4M–$6M+ (depending on condition, lot size, and updates)

• Market Appeal: Premium demand for authenticity and location near top schools

• Buyer Profile: Design-minded homeowners, tech professionals, and architecture collectors

• Investment Value: Limited supply and enduring demand sustain strong appreciation

Eichler homes in this enclave command a distinct architectural premium, especially those maintaining original features like mahogany paneling or globe lighting. Yet thoughtfully modernized versions—with sensitive upgrades to glazing, insulation, and radiant systems—often achieve record-setting prices. The blend of historic significance, location prestige, and enduring livability keeps Community Center Eichlers firmly at the center of Palo Alto’s luxury modern home market.

Your Eichler Experts in Silicon Valley

As founding partners at Compass and recognized Eichler specialists, the Boyenga Team has guided countless buyers and sellers through Silicon Valley’s architectural real estate landscape. With deep expertise spanning Palo Alto, Sunnyvale, and the broader Bay Area, we understand not just the market dynamics—but the emotional and design value that defines every Eichler home.

Whether you’re searching for your dream mid-century modern retreat or preparing to list a treasured property, trust the Boyenga Team to bring unparalleled marketing strategy, historical insight, and Next-Gen Agent innovation to your transaction.