New Sacramento historic district recognizes mid-century homes by developer Joseph Eichler
Sacramento (May 21, 2024) - Members of the Sacramento City Council Tuesday designated as a historic district the portion of South Land Park Hills developed in the 1950s by developer Joseph Eichler.
Built between 1955 and 1956, the 49 residential buildings included in the district have maintained their historical significance and continue to thrive as a lively residential community. Eichler’s ranch homes in South Land Park Hills and other California communities filled the demand for quality, affordable housing from returning World War II veterans and their families.
Notable features of the houses include open floor plans and large windows that integrate with backyards — creating an indoor-outdoor living feel. The homes have low-pitched roofs, smooth plywood cladding, and strategically placed windows for privacy. The garages are seamlessly integrated into the overall architectural design, and the landscape features curvilinear street patterns with consistent front yard setbacks.
Joseph Eichler, in collaboration with Moss & Moss developers, completed 60 of these homes in the South Land Park Hills neighborhood. Eichler is remembered for supporting fair housing practices during a time of segregation in the real estate industry. His commitment to nondiscriminatory housing set a precedent for equal access to modern and affordable homes in California.
